Easy At-Home Tricks to Keep Your House Organized During Back-to-School Season

The back-to-school season is upon us, and with it comes the inevitable chaos of new schedules, school supplies, and the hustle and bustle of daily routines. But fear not! With a few simple and effective tricks, you can keep your home organized and stress-free, ensuring a smooth transition into the new school year. These tips are designed to help you create a functional and tidy space for your family.

1. Create a Command Center

The first step to keeping your home organized is setting up a central hub where everyone can stay on track. A command center is the perfect solution. Choose a spot in your home, like the kitchen or an entryway, and designate it as the go-to place for schedules, reminders, and important documents.

What to Include: 

- Calendar: Keep track of everyone’s activities and deadlines with a large wall calendar.

- To-Do Lists: Use a whiteboard or chalkboard (or a combo!) for daily tasks and reminders.

- File Organizer: Store permission slips, homework assignments, and mail in labeled folders.

- Hooks and Bins: Hang backpacks and keep school supplies neatly stored.

2. Set Up a Homework Station

A dedicated homework station helps kids focus on their studies and keeps school supplies organized. Choose a quiet area in your home where your children can work without distractions.

Tips for a Great Homework Station: 

- Stock Up: Keep essentials like pencils, paper, and rulers within easy reach.

- Personalize It: Let your kids decorate their space to make it inviting.

- Keep It Clutter-Free: Use drawer organizers and bins to store items when not in use.

3. Use Labeling Systems

Labels are a game-changer when it comes to organization. They make it easy for everyone in the family to know where things belong, reducing clutter and saving time.

Where to Use Labels: 

- Pantry: Label bins and containers for snacks, lunch supplies, and breakfast items.

- Backpacks and Lunchboxes: Label everything with your child’s name to avoid mix-ups.

4. Implement a Morning Routine

Mornings can be hectic, but having a routine in place can help things run smoothly. Prepare as much as you can the night before, and create a checklist to ensure nothing is forgotten in the morning rush.

Night Before Preparation: 

- Lay Out Clothes: Have your kids pick out their outfits the night before.

- Pack Lunches: Prepare lunches and snacks ahead of time to save time in the morning.

- Check Backpacks: Make sure all homework and necessary items are packed.

5. Declutter Regularly

With the influx of new school supplies and clothing, it’s essential to declutter regularly to keep your home organized. Set aside time each month to go through items and donate or toss anything that’s no longer needed.

Decluttering Tips: 

- Closets: Sort through clothes that no longer fit or are out of season.

- School Supplies: Donate extra supplies to local schools or community centers.

- Toys and Games: Keep play areas tidy by regularly removing unused items.

6. Maximize Storage Solutions

Maximizing your storage space is important for maintaining an organized home. Invest in storage solutions that fit your space and meet your family’s needs.

Storage Ideas: 

- Over-the-Door Organizers: Perfect for storing shoes, accessories, or small school supplies.

- Under-Bed Storage: Use containers or drawers to store off-season clothing or extra bedding.

- Cubbies and Shelves: Great for keeping books, shoes, and backpacks organized and off the floor.

7. Get the Whole Family Involved

Keeping your home organized is a team effort. Involve your kids in the process by assigning age-appropriate tasks and making organization fun.

Family Organization Ideas: 

- Chore Charts: Create a chart that outlines each family member’s responsibilities.

- Reward System: Motivate kids to keep their spaces tidy with a reward system.

- Weekly Clean-Up Day: Dedicate one day a week to a family clean-up session.

Final Thoughts

The back-to-school season doesn’t have to mean chaos in your home. By implementing these easy tricks, you can create an organized, stress-free environment that supports your family’s success throughout the school year. Remember, the key is consistency and making sure everyone in the household is on board with the plan.

If you're in Charlotte, NC and need additional help getting your home organized, our team at Step by Steppe Professional Organizing is here to assist! Fill out this intake form to get started!