Garage Organization

Fall has finally arrived here In East Tennessee and each morning we are greeted with cool, crisp air and falling leaves. Fall’s cooler weather means it is time to tackle some projects that were probably neglected during the hot summer months. One of the most requested services here at Help You Dwell is garage organization.

Garages are unique spaces. Not only are they supposed to house our cars, but they also become the catch all place for other items we have no dedicated space for inside our homes. If your garage is cluttered and disorganized it can be very frustrating, making it difficult to find what you need quickly. If you walk through the garage to get inside your house each day, you know what an eyesore it can be when there’s no order. We love organizing garages and can help you make that space neat and tidy so you can spend more time outside enjoying the wonderful fall weather.

We know that everyone uses their garage for different functions. Uses may include storing equipment for hobbies, sports, luggage, travel gear and seasonal decorations. Some prefer a dedicated space for a home gym and exercise equipment or a drop zone for shoes and bags. We even have clients that use their garage as temporary storage for furniture and home decor items during a renovation or transition.

No matter how you use your garage, when you decide it is time to regain control of the space we recommend a couple of strategies to get your started. The first is the four box method. This method of sorting and organizing will help you purge items you no longer need in your garage, as well as help you determine the use and importance of the Items that you wish to keep.

FOUR BOX METHOD

ZONES

Once you’ve purged and determined the categories of items that need to have a place in your garage, you can sort these into zones, which is our second strategy for helping your organize your space. Keeping like items together makes it easy for you to find what you need. Think about proximity and location for the zones of your garage contents. Items less frequently used may be best stored higher up, while sports equipment or items used more often should be in an area easy to access. There’s no right or wrong place for you to store items, but there are more practical and efficient places if you plan correctly.

It might be helpful to have different zones for members of the family as well. If mom is a master gardener, she definitely needs a zone where she knows her items are kept separate from other outdoor items like bug sprays and lawn care products. And if dad is an amazing woodworker, his tools and items need their own zone so that he doesn’t lose track of where they are. Kids need zones, too! Keep their items like sidewalk chalk, bubbles, balls, and yard toys down low where they are easy to access.

Here are some products we love that can help you with your zones:

• Storage Bins

• Shelving

• Peg Board and Hooks

• Overhead Storage Racks

• Sports Storage Rack

• Bike Storage

After you've organized, you will most likely have Items to get rid of. Consider donating items to an organization like KARM, or you could even have a garage sale. Fall is a great time for garage sales in our region! If you have old paint there are a few guidelines you need to know:

• Residents may take up to 20 gallons of oil-based paint (20 one gallon cans or 4 five gallon buckets full or partially full) or 100 pounds of HHW to the dump per day.

• Here’s a quick guide for disposing of latex paint from the City of Knoxville.

Here at Help You Dwell we are at your service to help you organize and maintain beautiful spaces in your home. We can help create a plan, sort through items, and implement new systems for sustaining organization. We love working in all areas of the home, and garages are no exception! If you’d like our help, please call 865.245.9080 or email info@helpyoudwell.com

We can't wait to help you dwell!

From Chaos to Calm

Americans are busy. Being busy seems to be the new normal. I never thought I'd miss the slow days of quarantine when we played cards around the kitchen table and read books together cuddled up on the couch. Somehow though, here we are, back In the daily grind and I am missing the calm that once seemed like a burden and inconvenience. Recently a friend told me to remember that there is no reward for being the most "busy" and it really resonated with me.

I began to really ponder the ways I could help bring more calm to our chaotic lives. I realized there are some simple habits and changes a family can implement into their routine that will make a difference in how your home feels when you are there. I know that when my home feels calm, my stress levels decrease. Who doesn't need less stress in their life? Here are some tips for you to try:

Family Calendar: Having a visual representation with everyone's schedule will help keep your whole family on the same page (literally). It will ensure that your family will keep their commitments and appointments, and it will keep everyone from asking you about appointments and practice schedules because there will be a calendar everyone can see. It might be helpful to designate a different color for each person in the family as well. Having a family calendar can also help you plan ahead and not over commit to doing things you really don't have time for (especially if you are a person who has a hard time saying NO). This calendar can help others realize that different people in the family might need help sharing the "load" from one week to the other, depending on each person's schedule. Make sure you post the calendar In a place where everyone can see it on a daily basis. Click on the picture to download and print a family calendar.

Meal Plan: Once you have your family calendar filled in, you can easily see which nights are going to be free and which nights are going to be busy. Let's face it, most families don't have time for dinner together around the table every single night, but if you can pre-plan your meals and be prepared for the week ahead, you might find yourself a little less stressed when you hear, "What are we having for dinner tonight?" Having a plan will also help you stay on budget and be focused when you grocery shop. It's also a great idea to keep track of your weekly menus in a 3-ringed binder, folder, or even online in a working document that all can access from their phones or computers. Take time once a week to have a planning session with your family if they are willing to help out with this task. Many times picky-eaters will be better eaters if they’re allowed to share some ideas for what is being served. You can re-use menus every few months so that you're not always having to come up with new meal ideas. Keep track of what your family loved with a star or heart somewhere on the meal planner, and cross out something that they didn't enjoy. This will save you all kinds of time in the future! Click the meal plan picture below for a printable template you can use.

Take 5: Now that you have your family calendar set up and all meals are planned, hopefully you are feeling more organized and less stressed. A habit that I learned growing up and still implement today is taking just five minutes before going to bed each night to tidy up around the house. We fold blankets, straighten up pillows on the couch, make sure the dishwasher is loaded, and lay out any important items we might need for the next day (dance bag, soccer cleats, etc). If you do this, each day you will leave your house with it neat and tidy, and mornings will be less chaotic because everyone has prepped for the day the night before.

Make a Project List: When you sit down and think about all the projects there are to do in your house at any given time, you might feel overwhelmed. If you feel like you don’t know where to start and you’ll never make sense of your space, CONGRATULATIONS! You are totally normal. Make a to-do list of the areas in your home that need to be simplified or organized. Look at that list and know that Help You Dwell is here for you.

We are a company that is committed to listening well and working together to create a space you will enjoy. Our intention is to help free you up to do more of the things you love. We are at your service to create beautiful, organized, and livable spaces where you can reclaim your home and use it the way you’ve always dreamed of. If you, a friend, or family member does not LOVE organizing or simply doesn’t have the time to nest well, reach out to us! We can help create a plan, sort through items, and implement new systems for sustaining organization.

We also offer an extended consult service in person or over video chat (if you aren't local). One of our experienced HYD organizers will visit your home, listen to your needs, and create a customized action plan to bring order to your home, your upcoming move, or an estate transition that will allow you peace and order for many years to come. This entire session includes 1.5 hours. Part of that time is spent in your home, and the remaining time is spent developing your action plan. Call 865.245.9080 or Email info@helpyoudwell.com

We can't wait to help you dwell!

Cuteness Overload: Organizing Baby Clothes

Let me start by saying, I’m no expert. I’m actually new at this. But I’ve learned a few things that have helped me maintain order in our home, my shopping cart, and my brain while welcoming our first little one into our home.

The months leading up to our first little one’s arrival were filled with anticipation, excitement, and lots of nesting. I love to be prepared. So, all the gender neutral baby clothes were washed and folded multiple times. I rearranged the dresser drawers. We waited for Millie’s arrival to find out gender. One fun thing about that surprise is that it prevents well meaning friends and family from buying too many gender specific clothing items. I sorted onesies and outfits by size and season and any other way possible. Because it was fun for me! I realize this isn’t everyone’s jam- but I think I found a sense of calm and peace in preparing our space. If this isn’t how you’re wired, you might consider calling HYD because we have a number of experienced mamas on our team who LOVE doing this sort of thing.

Now that Millie is here - I admit going a little overboard when it comes to all the little girl things (I also blame my mom and friends for this- just kidding, thanks for all the sweet newborn items that we ooh’d and aah’d over for the first few weeks). Floral bubbles, dainty little onesies, hats and accessories - there really is no end to the cuteness.

Photo from Ella the Midwife blog.

• But is it all necessary?

• And how do I begin now to create good habits and boundaries regarding consumerism and spending money?

• Can I sustainably create a collection of intentionally chosen and well cared for items?

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A few things I’ve learned:

Remember, I’m only 3 months in so I am SURE I have a lot more to learn!

BORROW

I have loved getting to dress our little girl in clothing that friends of ours have used before. It feels special and meaningful to watch an outfit carry so many stories and adventures that we all share. There are lots of Facebook groups dedicated to being communally minded and sharing no longer needed items (ask us about these if you’re interested). Start a text with work friends, neighbors, or family members who have kiddos around the same age as your own. You can be a resource to each other instead of spending zillions of dollars at Target. I’ve found that I’ve been more mindful of caring well for borrowed items, in hopes of returning them as good as I received them.

Millie, my mom & I going through a box of hand-me-down little girl clothes from my cousins wife!

BUY USED

It may take a little more time, but the hunt can be fun. There are some great thrift stores, online marketplaces (Poshmark and Kidizen), and consignment shops (The Adorable Child and Once Upon a Child- West Knoxville location and Fountain City Location) overflowing with barely used baby & kid items. Make sure to check the condition of items as best you can before purchasing used. If your little one has sensitive skin or allergies, be sure to ask about what detergent has been used on clothing and whether or not the items are coming from a smoke-free and pet-free home. When shopping at a thrift store, be sure to check the diaper area & neck for stains and make sure buttons, zippers, or snaps work properly. I’m not suggesting to ONLY buy used baby clothing and accessories, but buying EVERYTHING new can be costly. So make a decision about a few special pieces that are important to buy new, and challenge yourself to find the rest previously loved. I’ve found that you can find used baby clothes in GREAT condition due to the nature of how quickly babies grow out of their clothes. Think ahead to what season/time of year your little one will likely be in the next size and search for those items ahead of time.

BE SELECTIVE

Have standards for what you decide to keep (as a keepsake or for future children) and what you purchase. If you find that a particular brand fits your little one best- stick with it. Pay attention to the fit and specific type of buttons, closures, or zippers you like. This makes the middle of the night diaper change just a little more bearable. Buy from stores and brands you can afford, and if there’s something pricy you are on the hunt for- search Poshmark or Kidizen instead of paying full price. You may find yourself attaching certain sentimental value to an outfit- consider printing a photo of your little one in that outfit if keeping it isn’t 100% necessary. Make a conscious decision about how much you will keep by using a designated amount of space or number of boxes/bins. Maybe 1 under the bed bin is the perfect storage piece for you. Maybe 2-3 diaper boxes is what you feel good about. Whatever your limit is - decide and stick to it. Your future self will thank you. Create parameters by using drawer organizers and hangers (we like these & these). If you run out of hangers, you may need to cycle a few clothing items out. If the drawers won’t shut, it’s time to evaluate what you have stuffed inside. We highly recommend file folding baby clothes (excluding nicer items that are hung up) to save space and make all pieces of clothing visible.

Very early days of collecting baby clothes for baby Martin. I highly recommend these drawer organizers!

IN AND OUT

Keep your empty diaper boxes. Use one empty one to fill as your little one grows out of things (that are either taken to a friend with little ones younger than yours, thrift store, or consignment shop). And fill another with items you’ve found, bought, or been loaned to use in the next size up. Be sure to label these to avoid confusion. I recommend keeping them in the bottom of baby’s closet (or maybe in your laundry room or garage if you don’t have space in your baby’s room) for ease of finding what you need and making quick action on what you are letting go of or packing away to store. If you prefer clear storage bins- we recommend these. Whichever box or bin you are decide to use, be sure to clearly label them. Utilizing these hanging clothes size tags can make it simple to see what clothes are too small and what section of clothing will your little one be wearing next.

A FEW PRODUCTS WE RECOMMEND

Velvet Hangers

Hanging Clothes Dividers

Plastic Hangers

Sterilite Totes

*The product links in this post are affiliate links, simply meaning we may receive a small commission from your purchase. Thanks for trusting us!

What are your best baby organizing tips?
We’d love to hear any success stories or tips we can share with our followers.

If you have a friend or family member who does not LOVE organizing or who simply doesn’t have the time to nest the way they would like to- reach out to us! Our team of hardworking and compassionate women is ready to help. We can help create a plan, sort through clothing, and implement new systems for sustaining organization.

Call 865.245.9080 or Email info@helpyoudwell.com

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MORE BLOGS TO ENJOY

HYD Team Home Tours: Kathie + Kayla

One of our favorite things to share on the blog are home tours. We decided to do a little virtual “home tour” with our own team members. So, enjoy these two!

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Kathie

Kathie’s home.

How long have you lived in your home?
- almost 10 years

What does "home" mean to you?
- Cozy and comfortable. A place where anyone can come in, drop their coat or bag, have a seat and be at ease.

How would you describe your style of decorating?
-HA! A total mismash! I’ll say “eclectic” : )

Did your style happen organically or was it a process of figuring out what style means to you? Has your style changed over time? Do you have any favorite stores or shops for furniture or home decor?
- My style definitely happened organically. I like older things; antiques, things from my grandparents or my parents, family photos, jewelry or other meaningful objects. I also like books and candles and bright colors and repurposed furniture. I like what I like and I know it when I see it! I enjoy putting a collection of objects together in a way that pleases my eye and warms my heart.

Kathie’s home.

When people come into your home, what do you hope they feel?
- Haha, I think I already answered that in a question above without meaning too.

Do you have a style or home philosophy?
- If something brings me joy (if I like something), it stays!

Kathie’s home.

Kathie’s home.

How is your home an extension of yourself or of your family?
- I am a very friendly, outgoing person and I love it when people feel comfortable and at home in my space.

Do you have a favorite room in your home? A favorite piece of art or piece of furniture?
- My house is small so the main room includes the entryway, the living room/den and dining room (all in a 12x16 space). It is the hub of our home. You can’t get to a different part of the house without going through this space. I love it! It’s comfortable, “lived in” and casual. There is nothing fancy about my house (except for the vintage crystal chandelier in the tiny kitchen)!

What do you love most about your home?
- The thing I love most about my home is it’s cozy yet energetic feel. It’s not a large home so right away when you walk in, it feels intimate, not vast. It also (pre-Covid) was a gathering place for my teenage kids & their friends so it was always bustling with voices, music, calls for snacks & reactions to the latest teen drama! I loved it all & can’t wait for the time when my small house is busting at the seams with energy & activity!!

How would you describe your relationship to your belongings?
- There is very little in my home that doesn’t have a special memory or meaning. I choose to surround myself with things I enjoy or make me feel love or joy or the warm spirit of the past.

Kathie’s snowy home.

What do you love about working with HYD clients?
- I am always so honored/privileged that someone would allow me into their home; their personal, intimate space. I love reinforcing that with taking care in my work and showing the clients that I respect them/their possessions and appreciate their trust. I also really love packing up a good ol’ china cabinet full of breakables! Putting everything from the cabinet into neatly stacked boxes with everything safely packed inside. :)

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Kayla L

How long have you lived in your home?
- a little over a year

Kayla’s home.

What does "home" mean to you?
- a place of comfort, peace and people close to me

How would you describe your style of decorating?
- a combo of all depending on the room - is that allowed? :/

Did your style happen organically or was it a process of figuring out what style means to you? Has your style changed over time? Do you have any favorite stores or shops for furniture or home decor?
- I'm just relearning my style. I tend to fit into the space I've been given as opposed to renovating. But, with the new home, I have enjoyed making each room my own.

Kayla’s home.

When people come into your home, what do you hope they feel?
- Relaxed/Comfortable

Do you have a style or home philosophy?
- All to feel welcome!

How is your home an extension of yourself or of your family?
- In one way, we are all about family and relationships- so, we love to host. In another way, you can see what is important in my life by what you find in the home as well.

Do you have a favorite room in your home? A favorite piece of art or piece of furniture?
- More so when complete, but it is my art/office/exercise room. There is and will be many things that express who I am and what is important to me in that room.

Kayla’s home

What do you love most about your home?
- Relationships and bringing people together

How would you describe your relationship to your belongings?
- I take good care of all things and several hold memories, so they are treated well. I do, however, try to remain distant from all material things because I know they can all be gone in an instant. Also, I love the idea of simplicity.

What do you love about working with HYD clients?
- I love the relationships with the clients, as well as being invited into their homes/lives for a period of time. On another note, I love to help bring peace into their lives, and just HELP in general in any way.

Kayla’s home— and kitty!

Elfa Closet System to the Rescue!

Does your home suffer the curse of small closets? We are here to tell you that hope is not lost!

Cramped spaces make it harder to access and see what we have and keep it organized. With closets, this can be an even bigger mess because if we can’t access it, that also means it’s harder to put clothes away, which leads to us living out of the laundry basket. But there is a solution out there!

As always, we love a good product that is worth the investment, and Elfa Closets are one of those life-changing products.

Recently, we worked with a client who moved into a one bedroom apartment that only had one, relatively small, walk-in closet. The client was worried about how to access and display her clothes in both a functional and visually appealing way— and would it all fit in the small closet?

We recommended the Elfa System and she decided to give it a try.

Elfa Closet Systems are made to be designed to your needs. You can purchase items individually, or you can design a closet based on your space.

What we love most- is that it’s SUPER user friendly. On their website, click on the “Design Center” tab. This will open up with the start of your closet remodel journey. After putting in a few measurements, and asking a few questions, Elfa will generate a suggested closet model that you can then customize based on your needs.

Do you have more shoes? Add some shoe shelves. Not a lot of shoes, but have plenty to hang? Add an extra row of hanging bars. The design is sleek and customizable in colors too!

Now you might be thinking— that sounds great, but it’s probably hard to install and requires some hard labor.

That’s the absolute best part of this set up— it’s super simple to install and set up! Here’s how it works:

order your customized closet,

it ships to you with everything you need ( with the exception of a drill, and level.)

When you open the boxes, there are instructions with each wall labeled A, B, C, D.

Install the anchor rail

Following the instructions for each wall, install the anchor rail across the length of each wall. Congratulations, the hardest part is over!

hang the vertical anchor bars

Once the anchor rail is in place the vertical bars just wedge into place on the bar can slide to their needed positions on the wall. After that, it’s just a matter of hooking the shelves into the vertical anchor bars, and following the design you created.

Once it’s completed, you have an amazingly accessible closet installed and ready for you to hang your clothes, and shelve your shoes. AND if you ever decide you want to change it up, you can! If you decide you wanted your shoes on the other side of the closet, you can move them! Want to shift everything over, you can!

The client we were working with was beyond pleased with how her new closet turned out, and was amazed that everything fit, it wasn’t cramped, and it looked visually appealing too.

While this system is an investment, it makes life so much easier and keeps us from living out of the laundry basket.

Want to get started planning your dream closet? Click here to get started.