When something in the organizing world is new everyone wants to know my thoughts. I decided when I try something I would review it and let you know my opinion and experience with the product. Remember its just my opinion.
Todays review is on the shoe stacker. Although I found the concept interesting I actual wanted to see the how sturdy they were and in what way I would find these functional for my clients.
First of all I have to say if you really purge the shoes you don’t love, wear or need you may not even need these but that is the clutter clearing expert in me coming out.
My client already owned these when she hired me to organize her closet so I thought it was the perfect time to ask her opinion. She said they weren’t very sturdy and the shoes fell off quite a bit.
There were so many they just screamed clutter. Since she wasn’t happy with them, we agreed not to use them.
I found them to be very wobbly and when we pulled one shoe off the stacker the one next to it fell off.
In my opinion these would work best in a tight space such as a dorm room or in a room that lacked sufficient closet space. I thought they were a bit pricey and would have to love these to buy more than one.
By the way after purging her shoes we actually didn’t need these anymore so there is something to be said for clearing the clutter then buying items to organize.
When people see the before picture of this closet “they ask me so whats the dilemma”. It may look like an “okay” closet but it wasn’t functioning for her and she needed help figuring out why.
Before I start a project I like to talk to the client and find out what is not working in the space, what is working and what their expectations are at the end of the project.
The first thing I suggested was to purge clothing, jewelry, purses and shoes. Like most of us she was holding onto different sizes, “just in case”.
My goal for her was to keep only what she loves, wears and let the rest go. Always purge then organize!
She had a section of hanging pants in the closet that worked in the closet but the space underneath was not being utilized properly. These elfa closet drawers were the perfect fit and she gained the needed drawer space she was looking for.
She needed storage for off season items and there was plenty of shelving above the hanging that was not being used. I suggested we use theseboxes for all of her off season items. They fit perfectly and look great!
The space to the left was perfect for two acrylic necklace racksto hold jewelry because it didn’t protrude into the space and kept her necklaces tangle free.
We needed a way to store her small clutches and this was the perfect choice for the shelf depth and gave her easy access.
There was already one shoe shelf that worked for her needs but the other one was unstable and the shoes kept falling off. We picked up another one and it was perfect. Sometimes what you already own works!
When I put everything back into the closet I changed to the slimline hangers in white. It gave the closet the finishing touch with the white boxes.
The end result worked without any permanent changes so if she moves she can take it with her.
June has arrived and this week onRiver City Live we featured how to get organized for upcoming summer travel.
The key to organized travel is to get organized before your trip is planned. When you return from a trip make a list of what you need to replenish and ask yourself what you were missing so you are prepared the next time you travel.
Click the link below to learn more simple tips that will get you organized and have you ready for all your upcoming travels.
This concept also applies to travel items. If you mix makeup with hair care products you may have a mess when you arrive. Keep hair products, makeup, lotions and sunscreens in their own separate bags. You will be glad you did when you arrive at your destination.
Garment Rack
I’m constantly singing the praises of owning agarment rack. They are multifunctional and fold flat for storage under a bed. You can add inexpensive garment organizers and organize your clothes and accessories for everyday of your trip. It really helps prevent over packing.
Hanging Toiletry Bag
Ahanging toiletry bag is a space saver. It can be hung in your closet when not in use and when you arrive at your destination hang in the bathroom so you can gain more counter space. Fill your toiletry bag with travel sizes or samples of your favorite things. Almost every department store, Sephora, grocery store and beauty salons carry travel sizes. Pick up items you love and need (you see I clarified that) so you will be ready for your next trip. Another time saving solution is to purchase a multi pack of toothbrushes so you always have one ready to pack. The benefits to doing all of this in advance means no last minute trips to the store to pick up forgotten items.
Clear Bags
Clear travel bags are perfect for beauty products, sunscreen and makeup. They save time when you are getting ready or heading to the beach. I also use labeled ziplock bags for medications and vitamins but put those items in a carry on in case your luggage is lost. Bring extra bags for wet bathing suits for items that may spill in your suitcase.
Jewelry Case
Keeping jewelry organized while you travel can be tricky unless you have the right accessories. There are so many options available but what ever you choose make sure there is a place to keep necklaces tangle free. One of my favorites organizers is from Closet Too.
Make copies of your Passport, Drivers License and Credit Cards
Make copies of important information and leave them with a relative or friend. You want to be prepared in case they are lost or stolen.
The easiest way to get your travel items organized like I mentioned above is to get ready before your trip is planned. If you wait until the last minute you overbuy, over pack and your frantically going from place to place picking up what you forgot.
By following these simple organizing tips you will be able to relax, and enjoy the trip ahead.
