09/02/2026
School is back in session, and even if you don't have kids, using this time to organize your home can help you reap major benefits in the future. Here are a few areas to update to help you stay on time, on task and on point.
Renovate your entryway: Designate a space for each household member to store shoes, coats and bags to keep messes from spreading throughout the home and keep everyone organized.
Consider how much space each person will need and divide the area accordingly. Bigger kids might need more room for band instruments and textbooks, while little ones might need storage for snow pants and boots.
Make sure hooks, bins and other storage solutions are accessible. For example, are the bins for hats too high for smaller kids to reach? Planning ahead will save you from being the one who puts everything away and will give kids the autonomy to keep their own spaces clean.
Plan for all types of weather by adding draining mats for rain and snow boots, baskets for hats and gloves and other seasonal storage solutions.
Designate workstations: Determine where family members will work, whether that's in a bedroom, at a desk or in a home office.
Prepare each space with the supplies they'll need, such as chargers, markers, rulers and calculators.
Store items in baskets or drawers to keep clutter out of sight. This is especially helpful in communal spaces because supplies can easily be moved when needed.
Keep a command center: Determine a central location where family members can quickly see what's happening in the home.
Hang a family calendar and include other organizational tools, such as chore charts, daily routines, weekly meal plans and activity schedules, so everyone can stay on track.
For families with busy schedules, creating a folder system may help keep papers organized and important documents easily accessible. You could organize folders by family member, task ("to sign," "to turn in" or "to keep") or whatever system works best for your family.
Plan and prepare: Make it easy to clean hands after coming home to help prevent germs from spreading.
-Try placing hand sanitizer by the door or keeping hand spray on a nearby shelf.
-Keep snacks in lower cabinets or on lower shelves so little ones can easily access them, and store favorite foods in clear containers so you can quickly see what you're running low on.
-Stock up on antibacterial wipes for quick cleanups.
-Place clocks or smart devices throughout the home so you can easily communicate between rooms or set alarms and reminders to keep everyone on schedule.
-Label items such as water bottles to avoid confusion during the morning rush.
-Add extra trash bins throughout the home. Even a plastic bag hanging from an empty hook can help corral messes and collect last-minute garbage and is easy to grab and throw in the trash bin on your way out the door.
A little home preparation can save you a lot of time and stress during the morning rush this school year. If your home isn't keeping up with your growing family, or if your kids are past their backpack days and you're ready for something that's a little easier to manage, reach out. I'd love to help you find a home that gives you the space you need.
