Summer beckons with longer days, balmy nights, and a yearning for carefree living. But amidst the pool parties and barbeques, maintaining a semblance of order in your home can feel like an uphill battle.
Fear not, because style and organization can coexist! Here are 10 tips to keep your haven of calm from succumbing to the joyous chaos of summer.
1. Embrace the “One-Touch Tidy”
This mantra applies to everything from putting swimsuits away after a dip to dealing with incoming mail. Develop the habit of dealing with items immediately, rather than letting them pile up. Invest in stylish baskets or trays near the door for easy drop-off zones.
2. Declutter for Summer Living
As you transition wardrobes, use that momentum to tackle other areas. Donate outgrown beach towels, purge unused grilling tools, and give your linen closet a refresh. A clutter-free space feels instantly more relaxing.
3. Contain the Fun Stuff
Summer brings pool floats, beach toys, and backyard games. Invest in attractive storage ottomans or hanging mesh organizers to keep these essentials corralled and readily accessible. Bonus points for using storage that complements your outdoor décor.
4. Embrace the Multi-Functional
Summer soirees often spill indoors. Opt for furniture that does double duty, like ottomans with hidden storage or nesting tables that can be easily expanded. This keeps your living space flexible and clutter-free, even when the party moves inside.
5. Create a Summer Entertaining Station
Designate a drawer or cabinet to home summer essentials like plates, napkins, and disposable tablecloths. This eliminates last-minute scrambles and ensures you’re always prepared for impromptu gatherings.
6. The Power of the “Seasonal Swap”
As you pack away winter throws and cozy blankets, bring out summery tablecloths and decorative pillows. This keeps your space feeling fresh and avoids visual clutter. Store out-of-season items in labeled bins for easy retrieval next year.
7. Harness the Power of Vertical Space
Feeling short on storage? Utilize walls to your advantage! Installing hanging shelves in the laundry room can add storage space for extra towels or cleaning supplies, while pegboards in the garage can keep gardening tools organized and stylishly displayed.
8. Embrace the Beauty of Baskets
Woven baskets are a summer staple for good reason. They add a touch of natural texture and provide a chic and functional solution for storing anything from magazines and throws to laundry and toys. Choose baskets in various sizes for a layered look.
9. The Art of the Refreshing Scent
Summer is synonymous with fresh scents. Invest in diffusers or scented candles with invigorating citrus or calming lavender notes. A quick spritz of room spray can instantly elevate the mood and mask any lingering barbeque aromas.
10. Schedule “Mini-Declutters”
Carve out 15 minutes a day or a dedicated hour each week for a quick tidy-up. Focus on one specific area, like the entryway or the living room coffee table. This keeps clutter at bay and prevents that overwhelming feeling of a messy house.
Remember, organization shouldn’t feel like a chore. By incorporating stylish solutions and creating easy-to-maintain systems, you can ensure your home remains a haven of calm throughout the vibrant and fun-filled summer season.
