It’s Miniature Golf Day! Do you golf? Do you play mini golf?

If you mini golf:

make time to play another round before the weather turns too cold

discard used score cards

use up tiny pencils

If you golf:

share or donate unused bags, clubs, and more with local pro shops or donationtown.org who often accept these things

check your kitchen drawer for random golf t’s and balls

declutter your car by moving golf clubs out of the trunk of your car for the off season

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Tonight 9/21 7:30pm Stop Procrastinating and Start Getting Stuff Done

Wednesday 9/22 7pm Capsule Wardrobe & Clean Your Clothes Closet by the Weekend 

Thursday 9/23 7pm Sort and Store: 3 Secrets to Get Organized Today

Monday 9/27 7pm How to Organize Your Life in One Notebook

Decluttering on National Punch Day

It is that time of year when we must reconsider all those punch bowls lingering in cabinets collecting dust. Is there one you could donate? If so try donationtown.org to schedule a pick-up. Sharing unused punch bowls is a perfect way to spend National Punch Day!

My Favorite Punch Recipe

If you love a refreshing punch, then my favorite recipe might be the one for you! Delicious and refreshing in the summer but sparkling and garnished for the holidays it is a pretty punch in the winter. In your punch bowl or container of your choice if (like me) you donated the punch bowl you never used – but now regret it because now you have my delicious recipe.

1 can of frozen lemonade concentrate
2 liter bottle of Ginger Ale
1 bag of pebble ice
1 English cucumber

Optional Garnishes and Substitutions:

-1 sliced lime (you can freeze the slices in ice to float)
-1/4 bag of fresh cranberries to float (gorgeous in the winter)
-a few sprigs of fresh mint (I do this when I sub in limeade concentrate for lemonade and switch Ginger Ale for Sprite)

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TONIGHT Monday 9/20 7pm IT ALL FALLS INTO PLACE: HOW TO SAVE TIME & GET THINGS DONE

Tuesday 9/21 7:30pm Stop Procrastinating and Start Getting Stuff Done

Wednesday 9/22 7pm Clean Your Clothes Closet by the Weekend Thursday 9/23 7pm Sort and Store: 3 Secrets to Get Organized Today

National Clean Up Day is meant to be a day mostly focused on cleaning up our environment. Collecting trash from the beach or nature paths are good examples. And while that is important, I think it is also important to ensure our own home environment is cleaned up. Sometimes we don’t even notice what could use a spot clean. And what a difference a little clean up can make. Wiping the detergent drips off the washing machine makes it look new again. Scrubbing scuffs off the vacuum cleaner makes it look refreshed. And renew the white fridge compartment by wiping off the drips. Say goodbye to the grease splatter on the wall by the stove or the toothpaste residue in the bathroom sink. Even just a like scrub of the kitchen sink will have it shining again. You’re worth it – take a moment to clean up today!

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Monday 9/20 7pm IT ALL FALLS INTO PLACE: HOW TO SAVE TIME & GET THINGS DONE

Tuesday 9/21 7:30pm Stop Procrastinating and Start Getting Stuff Done

Wednesday 9/22 7pm Clean Your Clothes Closet by the Weekend Thursday 9/23 7pm Sort and Store: 3 Secrets to Get Organized Today

Today is National Cheeseburger Day! Looking for inspiring ways to top your burger? Here are some of my best ideas. And of course, cheeseburger day is a great day to tidy the condiment collection. Do you have three open bottles of ketchup or an out of date jar of mustard?

My favorite toppings, what’s yours?

1. Potato chips
2. Caramelized onions
3. Fried onions
4. French fried onions
5. Raw onions
6. Relish
7. Pickles
8. Bacon
9. Avocado
10. Shredded lettuce
11. Salsa
12. Fried egg
13. Sautéed mushrooms
14. Cole slaw

And the condiments:

1. Garlic aioli
2. Steak sauce
3. BBQ sauce

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Monday 9/20 7pm IT ALL FALLS INTO PLACE: HOW TO SAVE TIME & GET THINGS DONE

Tuesday 9/21 7:30pm Stop Procrastinating and Start Getting Stuff Done

Wednesday 9/22 7pm Clean Your Clothes Closet by the Weekend Thursday 9/23 7pm Sort and Store: 3 Secrets to Get Organized Today

You know the stack of papers, newsletters, magazines, and catalogs. Today we are going to tackle that to be read pile! All that stuff you keep telling yourself you are going to go through. Today is the day to tackle the pile and try to pare it down.

1. Set a timer for 5 minutes
2. See how many pieces from the pile you can process
3. Repeat until the pile is a much more manageable size

*DO* make time to read/process the to be read pile on a weekly basis.

*DO NOT* just move them to a new pile to deal with later – deal with them now!

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Monday 9/20 7pm IT ALL FALLS INTO PLACE: HOW TO SAVE TIME & GET THINGS DONE

Tuesday 9/21 7:30pm Stop Procrastinating and Start Getting Stuff Done

Wednesday 9/22 7pm Clean Your Clothes Closet by the Weekend Thursday 9/23 7pm Sort and Store: 3 Secrets to Get Organized Today

Today is collect rocks day. Hint: that doesn’t mean you have to bring them all inside. My niece keeps her rock collection outdoors, on a tree stump. I have a small rock collection on a tray, it sits on my bookcase. I love noticing rocks while I am out for a walk. I always look for a heart shaped one. I used to pick them up and bring them home. Now I take a photo which I post on social media. Then, I can leave the rock behind. Mostly because I don’t want to have to dust it. But also because if I take it home, that means the next person won’t get to see it.

Today, will you take a walk and notice rocks? And will you return any captive rocks to the wild?

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Tonight Thursday 9/16 7pm A 15-DAY SEPTEMBER TIDY-UP CHALLENGE

Monday 9/20 7pm IT ALL FALLS INTO PLACE: HOW TO SAVE TIME & GET THINGS DONE

National Linguine Day is when I make one of my favorite pasta dishes of all time! For years I frequented The Macaroni Grill, the location near me is now closed. But, before the doors shut, I was able to get their famous recipe. I usually make it with shrimp, but it works well with chicken too. Grab a pen or bookmark this page, you won’t want to forget this go-to recipe!

Before we cook, don’t forget to use today as a reminder to check your pantry for boxes of pasta and jars of sauce that need to be used up before they expire. And while you’re decluttering consider how many serving bowls you really need. Oh, and don’t forget those fancy pasta scoops that are cracked, peeling, melted, warped, or too flimsy to use. Keep your favorite go-to ones. Donate the excess good ones, recycle the rest.

MACARONI GRILL – SHRIMP PORTOFINO

This is what you need for the shrimp:

• 1 tablespoons butter  
• 25-30 peeled & deveined large shrimp
• 2 tablespoons chopped garlic 
• 3 cups sliced white mushrooms
• 1 1/2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts (see note below)
• 6 cups fresh baby spinach leaves  

This is what you need for the pasta:

• 6 cups cooked pasta (angel hair, vermicelli, or linguini)

This is what you need for the sauce:

• 3 tablespoons butter  
• 1 tablespoon minced shallot or white onion
• 1/2 cup dry white wine  
• 1 cup heavy cream  
• 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

This is what to do:

pre-step: toast the pine nuts in the oven or in a pan – watch them closely, those little nuts go from not toasted to toasted in .3 seconds. It’s an extra step but 100% worth it!

This is what you need to know:

There is a lot of whisking, but, again, totally worth it!

Let’s make the lemon sauce:

Melt 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat to sauté the shallot. Then add in the white wine and while whisking reduce by half. Add the cream and reduce by half. Add lemon juice and reduce by half. Sprinkle in the black pepper before decreasing the heat to low. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of butter. Whisk while simmering until sauce is thick enough to coat the spoon.

Let’s cook the shrimp:

In large skillet over medium-high heat melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Stir in mushrooms, garlic, shrimp, and toasted pine nuts. Sauté until shrimp are done. Remove the pan from the heat and gently stir in the baby spinach leaves. You want to wilt them, not crush them.

Let’s plate the Portofino:

Scoop warm pasta on the side of the plate with shrimp to the other side. Ladle lemon sauce over top – mostly on the pasta but some on the shrimp.

*crusty bread with an infused dipping oil makes a great addition!

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Tonight Wed. 9/15 7pm Clean Your Clothes Closet by the Weekend Tomorrow Thus. 9/16 7pm A 15-DAY SEPTEMBER TIDY-UP CHALLENGE 

Click to print a coloring page of Holly

National Coloring Day is a great day to sort your coloring book collection. Are there are some you won’t color because you don’t like the design? If so, consider donating those books.

CrazyCrayons accepts crayons and crayon bits for melting into new crayons.

Take moment today to color, especially if you can’t remember the last time you did it.

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TONIGHT ONLINE Tue 9/14 7pm Declutter Today: 7 Spots to Declutter This September (including collectibles and teddy bears)

Wed. 9/15 7pm Clean Your Clothes Closet by the Weekend

Thus. 9/16 7pm A 15-DAY SEPTEMBER TIDY-UP CHALLENGE 

I love peanut butter. Eating peanuts, not so much. On National Peanut Day I want to share my favorite recipe that uses peanuts. I buy the refrigerator slice-and-bake tube of peanut butter cookie dough. Immediately after pulling the tray of cookies from the oven, I pop an unwrapped chocolate kiss candy onto the center of each cookie. This is not an original recipe, but it is (one of) my favorite cookies.

Those kiss candies come in so many flavors now you can switch it up and do this with a variety of combinations. How about chocolate cookie dough and a mint kiss or the cherry cordial one? Or sugar cookies and a strawberry kiss or the caramel one? The possibilities are endless. And now I want cookies.

Aside from decluttering by eating any leftover chocolate kiss candies, here are a few ways to tidy up the pantry area:

1. Check to see how many open jars of peanut butter you have. Plan for eating peanut butter and jelly sandwiches accordingly.
2. Tidy the pantry area by up-righting tipped boxes and resealing open bags before they spill or go stale.
3. Remove any excess bulky packaging just wasting shelf space.
4. Label the edges of the shelves. Not only will this help you find things, clearly know what you are out of, but it helps everyone know what goes where. When there is a label we are less likely to break the rules by not returning the item where it belongs.
5. Check use by dates and plan to use up anything that is getting close to spoiling. If you won’t use it by the date then donate it.
6. Group items in the way you find them at the grocery store. That way, when writing out your shopping list, you are automictically writing it in the order of the store. Less backtracking for missed items.
7. Consider adding a step stool and battery operated light. Being able to easily reach higher shelves means you have more storage options. And when the space is well light it is easier to see what you have and keep the space tidy.

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Tue 9/14 7pm Declutter Today: 7 Spots to Declutter This September (including collectibles and teddy bears)

Wed. 9/15 7pm Clean Your Clothes Closet by the Weekend

Thus. 9/16 7pm A 15-DAY SEPTEMBER TIDY-UP CHALLENGE 

Wondering how to organize video game accessories? National Video Games Day is the best day to find out. Here are my ideas and my favorite game. Growing up my family would go camping, a lot. One of my favorite camp grounds had an arcade. Whenever it would rain we would get a roll of quarters and spend time indoors. Although I liked PacMan and Frogger, my favorite game was Galaga. Att home we had Atari and my favorite game was Q-Bert. That’s the one where you have to keep the character from falling off the pyramid. But by far my most favorite game of all was Donkey Kong. My Grandma bought me a lap size arcade and I played that for hours.

Back then Atari console with cartridges and joysticks was not a lot to organize. The cartridges were sturdy and the joystick cords wrapped around the controller easily. But today the games are on small cartridges or delicate CDs and there are so many accessories to sort out. If you are trying to organize your video games try this:

1. Color coordinate your games and pieces. Wrap a short length of colored or designed tape (like this) around the cords. Use one style of tape for each brand of game. That way, at a glance, you can tell what matches to what.
2. Use boxes with lids to contain the collection. If possible use one container per brand. These can be stored on a nearby shelf or stacked on their own. The handles make them easy to pull out as needed. Just remember to label them. And measure first to be sure your console will fit inside width-wise and the tallest piece fits height-wise.
3. Or consider a rolling cart with drawers. Roll the games to the television then roll them away.

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Now you know today is National TV Dinner Day. Follow me on Insta Twitter Facebook Pinterest for daily ideas.

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Tue 9/14 7pm Declutter Today: 7 Spots to Declutter This September (including collectibles and teddy bears)

Wed. 9/15 7pm Clean Your Clothes Closet by the Weekend

Thus. 9/16 7pm A 15-DAY SEPTEMBER TIDY-UP CHALLENGE 

Today is National Make Your Bed Day! Question, do you make your bed? I make mine, then Holly unmakes it. She likes to scratch the blankets into a round bed (on top of the bed) and cozy up.

Making your bed can make the room look finished. But besides the bed, what about the other spots in your bedroom? The room that is meant to be relaxing, sort of a retreat from the outside world.

Is your bedroom cozy and clutter-free?

Or is it a little messy? Distracting? Are there clothes on the chair, stuff on the dresser, and dust on the nightstand? If that’s the case here’s what you can do to refresh your room:

1. Clear the top of the nightstand
2. Remove the stack of stuff to be read
3. Pick up anything on the floor
4. Hang up the clothes
5. Put away the laundry
6. Check the corners for anything that is piled up there
7. Declutter the chair or bench if you have one

Ask yourself:

1. Do I need a new pillow?
2. Do I need to change the linens?
3. Do I need to dust?
4. Do I need to vacuum?
5. What can I tidy today?

Give yourself the gift of a bedroom space where you can get the best sleep possible.

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Tue 9/14 7pm Declutter Today: 7 Spots to Declutter This September (including collectibles and teddy bears)

Wed. 9/15 7pm Clean Your Clothes Closet by the Weekend

Thus. 9/16 7pm A 15-DAY SEPTEMBER TIDY-UP CHALLENGE 

Today is National TV Dinner Day. I love a TV dinner, maybe mostly because I don’t like my food to touch, so the compartments are ideal for that. When my Mom would grocery shop with me in tow, I’d get to pick my TV dinner. Looking back I think I selected the meal based on the dessert choice, my favorite was the (somewhat dry) chocolate brownie, but the cobbler (with a lava hot center) was a close second.

A good friend recently sent me a divided plate, which has become my every day dinner plate. I love the fact my peas can’t roll around and the gravy stays in place. This plate got me thinking, what if I created my own prepped and frozen TV dinners? It makes so much sense, instead of freezing a whole lasagna, I can slice it, plate it, add a veggie and maybe a dessert. Then I started doing this with all sorts of meals, leftover chicken, turkey, and more. Everything is cooked, I plate it, freeze it, and reheat it to a safe temperature!

Pick a protein:

1. ham
2. chicken
3. turkey
4. meatloaf
5. lasagna
6. baked ziti
7. spaghetti and meatballs
8. pot roast
9. hamburger (wrap bun separately)
10. tofu

Add a side(s):

1. mashed potatoes
2. roasted potatoes
3. rice pilaf
4. baked potato
5. green beans
6. peas
7. corn
8. carrots
9. broccoli
10. cauliflower
11. cinnamon apples
12. cornbread
13. corn casserole
14. mac and cheese
15. sweet potato casserole
16. creamed spinach
17. asparagus
18. brussel sprouts
19. zucchini
20. peas and carrots

And something sweet:

1. Cobbler
2. Brownie
3. Chocolate chip cookie
4. Apple crumble

Everyone can have their own favorite. Perfect for a busy day. Leftovers get used up.

*If you have a vacuum sealer, you could seal the plates that way. Or foil wrap them microwavable plates or re-usable.

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Tue 9/14 7pm Declutter Today: 7 Spots to Declutter This September (including collectibles and teddy bears)

Wed 9/29 7pm 9 Ways to Declutter Your Kitchen and Gain Valuable Space

Today is Teddy Bear Day! Can you remember what your first teddy bear looked like? Did you name it one of the most popular teddy bear names? Do you still have a teddy bear (or two) sitting around?

This is me with my very first teddy! His name was Charcoal. Maybe not one of the most popular teddy bear names. My one sister had Paddington and another sister had Teddy Ruxpin. My teddy got lost on a camping trip in Vermont. Luckily it was near the Vermont Teddy Bear Company and my parents took me there to get a replacement.

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TONIGHT 9/9 7pm 5 STEPS TO DECLUTTER YOUR KITCHEN TODAY

Tue 9/14 7pm Declutter Today: 7 Spots to Declutter This September (including collectibles and teddy bears)

Wed 9/29 7pm 9 Ways to Declutter Your Kitchen and Gain Valuable Space

I am sending Happy Birthday Wishes to my Younger Sister today, on her birthday! Are you the baker of cakes in your family? I am in our family.

My go-to cake recipe:

My aunt taught me how to upgrade any national brand, basic box mix by adding these ingredients. The cake ends up being dense but moist, the best part is – it is much easier to ice because it doesn’t crumble.

I don’t change the bake time or temp, but it makes more batter, so plan accordingly. Mix according to the directions on the back of the box. But also add in 1 extra egg, 1 cup each of all purpose flour, white granulated sugar, and sour cream. Optional, add 2 teaspoons of extract, vanilla or almond depending on the flavors you are using.

Donate

1. Specialty pans you never used, or used once and won’t need again. At least you won’t need them until you donate them – but you can borrow them from someone if that happens. Check with your local library. Some lend cake pans!
2. Attachments from old mixers you no longer own.
3. Excessive quantities of mixing bowls, extra measuring cups and measuring spoons.
4. The cake stand or cake carrier you never use. Of course as soon as you donate it, you’ll need to carry a cake somewhere.

Toss

1. Warped or rusty baking pans that can’t be cleaned or used.
2. Cracked wooden spoons that are bacteria magnets.
3. Broken mixers.
4. Measuring spoons and cups that are cracked.

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Tue 9/14 7pm Declutter Today: 7 Spots to Declutter This September (including collectibles)

Wed 9/29 7pm 9 Ways to Declutter Your Kitchen and Gain Valuable Space

Did you know Jersey Cyclone is my brother-in-law’s brewery? National Beer Lovers Day is a big day for him. For me, not so much – I don’t drink beer. Whether you drink beer or don’t, there is a good chance you still have some beer items in your home. And you might not need them all. Today let’s look at a few things you might be able to declutter from your home:

1. Beer steins (appraise them online at GoAntiques if you think they might be valuable)
2. Bottle openers – the rusty ones or the ones that don’t work
3. Home beer brewing kit – this is how it all started for my brother-in-law
4. Beer mugs – like the ones that go in the freezer
5. Beer glasses – the ones that narrow at the bottom so much that you can’t get your hand in to clean them

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Wed 9/29 7pm 9 Ways to Declutter Your Kitchen and Gain Valuable Space

Make it a challenge inside of a chore!

Set a timer for 2 minutes now and tackle that lingering task that you’ve been dreading. When you turn a chore into a challenge it makes it a lot easier to do. You can use this challenge idea by taking on the task during a television commercial break.

3 More ideas to fight procrastination

1. Set a deadline to make yourself do something. Like scheduling a charitable organization to pick up a bag of items, then you have to fill a bag.
2. Set up a reward. Plan a sweet treat or a fun activity as a “reward” for getting the task done.
3. Set up a team. Connect with a friend who is also trying to get things done. Schedule a date to make it happen. Call each other, then do the project, then check back in to share success.

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Monday 9/20 7pm It All Falls Into Place: How to Save Time & Get Things Done

Tuesday 9/21 7:30pm Stop Procrastinating and Start Getting Stuff Done

Today is National Cheese Pizza Day! Which has me thinking about how many pizza wheels I’ve lost over the years. They accidentally get tossed when the box is recycled. So, I buy extra, which may be why I can’t open my kitchen utensil drawer.

Today take a look around to see if you have any pizza related items you don’t use. If they are still good, you can donate them. If they are cracked or broken, then toss them.

1. Pizza wheels
2. Pizza plates
3. Pizza pans
4. Pizza seasonings
5. Pizzas (frozen) in the freezer before they get freezer burn

And now I think we are all hungry for pizza.

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5 STEPS TO DECLUTTER YOUR KITCHEN TODAY Sept. 9th 7pm

Today is ​National Wildlife Day. A great reminder to declutter a few items:

1. broken bird feeders
2. bird baths
3. hummingbird feeders
4. Your old furs can help rehab animals, see a list of donation locations at coatsforcubs.org

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Today is College Colors Day. What can you let go of from your college years?

1. Textbook to BetterWorldBooks.com
2. Yearbook to Classmates.com or the area library
3. Snap a photo of disintegrating memorabilia, then toss
4. Keep a few treasures to share with future generations in a treasure box
5. If you belong to a school reunion class page on social media, upload class photos to share with the members
6. Make sure you keep your transcripts safe, sometimes they are needed for job interviews or background checks

Share Your Mess for Personalized Answers

Trying to organize your memorabilia? Are you closets cluttered? I’ll give you the exact steps you need, in a short video recorded just for you! With over 20 years of experience, I’ve seen it all, share your project now, details and photos if you’d like.

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Now you know today is College Colors Day. Follow me on Insta Twitter Facebook Pinterest for daily ideas.

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5 STEPS TO DECLUTTER YOUR KITCHEN TODAY Sept. 9th 7pm

CLEAN YOUR CLOTHES CLOSET BY THE WEEKEND Sept. 15th 7pm

A 15-DAY SEPTEMBER TIDY-UP CHALLENGE Sept. 16th 7pm

STOP PROCRASTINATING AND START GETTING STUFF DONE Sept. 22nd 7pm

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Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like this are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

Let’s celebrate World Coconut Day with a yummy coconut treat. Do you like coconut? My nephew does. For his 5th birthday I baked him this cake, we names it Chickee Knight. It combined his three favorite things, coconut, chicks, and knights. Can you see the orange wing holding a pipe cleaner sword? The cake is a four layer cake. I dyed the coconut yellow and stuck it to the cake with icing. It was a big hit.

If you like coconut, these are the layer bars I make.

Layered Coconut Bars

I’ve heard these called magic bars; with seven ingredients layered they are also known as seven layer bars. The oven temp is 350 degrees, pan size 9×13, and bake time is 25 minutes until golden brown.

Combine the melted butter with the graham crackers. Press into the bottom of the pan to create a crust. Top with the two cups of chips, I like semi-sweet and butterscotch, but you could use toffee or dark chocolate. Arrange the chopped nuts, I use walnuts, but pecans would be great. Sprinkle on the coconut flakes. Drizzle the sweetened condensed milk across the whole thing. This will act as the glue to hold the layers together. Makes sure to get some around the edges, that will crisp up and be extra tasty.

1. 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
2. 1 stick (1/2 c) melted unsalted butter
3. 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
4. 1 cup butterscotch chips
5. 1 cup chopped walnuts
6. 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
7. 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk

These freeze well, I cut them into squares before freezing.

Share Your Mess for Personalized Answers

Is your pantry a mess? Counter tops covered in clutter? I’ll give you the exact steps you need, in a short video recorded just for you! With over 20 years of experience, I’ve seen it all, share your project now, details and photos if you’d like.

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Tonight I HAVE NOTHING TO WEAR: HOW TO BUILD A CAPSULE WARDROBE Sept. 2nd 6pm

5 STEPS TO DECLUTTER YOUR KITCHEN TODAY Sept. 9th 7pm

CLEAN YOUR CLOTHES CLOSET BY THE WEEKEND Sept. 15th 7pm

A 15-DAY SEPTEMBER TIDY-UP CHALLENGE Sept. 16th 7pm

STOP PROCRASTINATING AND START GETTING STUFF DONE Sept. 22nd 7pm

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Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like this are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

Today is American Chess Day, a perfect reminder to check the board game closet.

1. Donate any unused games.
2. Straighten out the boxes.
3. Check the junk drawer for lost pieces and return them to the correct box.

Share Your Mess for Personalized Answers

Board games toppling out of the closet? Do you want to make your living room less cluttered and more cozy? I’ll give you the exact steps you need, in a short video recorded just for you! With over 20 years of experience, I’ve seen it all, share your project now, details and photos if you’d like.

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Tomorrow I HAVE NOTHING TO WEAR: HOW TO BUILD A CAPSULE WARDROBE Sept. 2nd 6pm

5 STEPS TO DECLUTTER YOUR KITCHEN TODAY Sept. 9th 7pm

CLEAN YOUR CLOTHES CLOSET BY THE WEEKEND Sept. 15th 7pm

A 15-DAY SEPTEMBER TIDY-UP CHALLENGE Sept. 16th 7pm

STOP PROCRASTINATING AND START GETTING STUFF DONE Sept. 22nd 7pm

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Friends don’t let friends organize alone, share this post so they know what to do on American Chess Day.

Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like this are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

Mom’s best trail mix recipe

My Mom made the best trail mix. Her recipe includes candy coated chocolate (M & Ms) and raisins and golden raisins. If you like trail mix, give this recipe a try. Of course, adjust this for personal preferences, allergies, and restrictions. And you get to pick salted, unsalted, or honey roasted nuts. If nuts are not your thing, you can still make the mix without them. Sub in extra dried fruit or something else. The good news is, there is no wrong way to make a trail mix. The only question is, once you mix it, where are you going to eat it? Maybe it will be your snack while taking on an overdue decluttering task today. Just a thought.

Mom’s recipe

Into a large sealable container or zip top bag, mix:

1. 1 cup sunflower seeds
2. 1 cup peanuts
3. 1 cup cashews
4. 1 cup peanut butter or butterscotch chips
5. 1 cup M&Ms
6. 1 cup raisins (I do half and half golden)

optional mix-ins:

1. cereal like Chex or Cheerios
2. shredded coconut
3. dried fruit(s)
4. white chocolate chips
5. mixed nuts
6. mini pretzels

Hint!

Place the ingredients into a muffin tin, one item per cup. Then let people make their own customized blend. Hint: mine would be mostly chocolate.

3 things to declutter from your pantry on national trail mix day

1. Stale, never going to finish, open containers of snacks.

2. Packaging from around products that is just taking up valuable storage space

3. Old spices, especially ones with no scent when you run a little between your fingers. No scent usually indicates no flavor.

Tip: use stilltasty.com to search for best by dates of perishables.

Get a Personal Video Answer from Me

Overwhelmed by all the clutter? Not sure where to begin or what to do next? Get personalized decluttering advice from me. I’ll make sense of your project and deliver the exact steps you need, in a short video recorded just for you! With over 20 years of experience, I’ve seen it all, share some details about a space that’s stressing you out (and a few photos of that space, if you’d like), and you’ll feel lighter and more in control by calming the chaos. Share your project now.

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Now you know what best way to store ties in a drawer. Follow me on Insta Twitter Facebook Pinterest for daily ideas.

Coming Up Online:

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I HAVE NOTHING TO WEAR: HOW TO BUILD A CAPSULE WARDROBE Sept. 2nd 7pm

5 STEPS TO DECLUTTER YOUR KITCHEN TODAY Sept. 9th 7pm

CLEAN YOUR CLOTHES CLOSET BY THE WEEKEND Sept. 15th 7pm

A 15-DAY SEPTEMBER TIDY-UP CHALLENGE Sept. 16th 7pm

STOP PROCRASTINATING AND START GETTING STUFF DONE Sept. 22nd 7pm

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Friends don’t let friends organize alone, share this post so they know the best way to store ties in a drawer.

Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like this are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

Summer isn’t over yet! Heading to the beach or lake and looking for a list of things to pack in your beach bag? Here is what I toss in my bag:

1. sunglasses
2. sunscreen keep it in a cooler bag to make it more refreshing to apply
3. bug spray
4. garbage bag to put sandy items to keep sand out of your car
5. snacks that don’t melt easily
6. hand wipes
7. silverware
8. paint brush works great to gently brush sand off your legs
9. hat
10. towel
11. change of clothes
12. lip balm
13. book to read
14. beach ball without a leak is always preferred
15. kite the beach seems to get the best wind for flying kites
16. hair elastic
17. speaker
18. water bottle
19. beach spiker to keep drinks from tipping over in the sand
20. sand toys I still love to build a castle or two

Would you add anything to this list?

What to Declutter

1. Leaking blow up beach and pool toys with no hope of repair
2. Cracked plastic shovels and sandcastle molds
3. Bent, rusty, dangerous folding chairs
4. Tattered pool and beach towels (check with the local animal shelter, they would probably appreciate them for cleaning)
5. Leaking, buldging, otherwise unusable ice packs for cooler bags
6. Bonus idea: cooler bags with broken zippers that don’t keep things cool

Don’t Do This!

Don’t use the bag with straps that dig into your shoulders. Don’t pack a chocolate bar, there is a high probability it will melt faster than you can eat it.

Do This!

Empty your bag immediately upon returning home. Otherwise you wish things lingering too long. No one wants to find an orange (or at least that’s what we think it is) at the bottom of the bag a month from now.

Get a Personal Video Answer from Me

Overwhelmed by all the clutter? Not sure where to begin or what to do next? Get personalized decluttering advice from me. I’ll make sense of your project and deliver the exact steps you need, in a short video recorded just for you! With over 20 years of experience, I’ve seen it all, share some details about a space that’s stressing you out (and a few photos of that space, if you’d like), and you’ll feel lighter and more in control by calming the chaos. Share your project now.

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Coming Up Online:

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I HAVE NOTHING TO WEAR: HOW TO BUILD A CAPSULE WARDROBE Sept. 2nd 7pm

5 STEPS TO DECLUTTER YOUR KITCHEN TODAY Sept. 9th 7pm

CLEAN YOUR CLOTHES CLOSET BY THE WEEKEND Sept. 15th 7pm

A 15-DAY SEPTEMBER TIDY-UP CHALLENGE Sept. 16th 7pm

STOP PROCRASTINATING AND START GETTING STUFF DONE Sept. 22nd 7pm

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Friends don’t let friends organize alone, share this post so they know the things to pack in your beach bag.

Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like this are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

Have you ever wondered, can bottled lemon juice go bad? The answer is yes. Levels of preservatives vary from brand to brand, so it is important to check the label on the bottle. Or better yet, finish it up instead of letting it linger in the pantry or fridge. No sense cluttering up your kitchen with bottles of anything, including lemon juice, that you can’t use.

What if you can’t use it up?

Freeze it! Lemon juice ice cubes are great for cooking. Need lemon for a piccata sauce? Just crack a cube or two. Also, perfect for making lemonade, an ice cube with lemon juice in it will prevent the drink from becoming diluted. This is how I make my lemonade (adjust for taste and dietary preferences) 1/2 gallon of water to 1/2 cup of white sugar to 1 cup of lemon juice and a dash of salt. I add in ice cubes that I made with water, a splash of lemon juice, and sometimes mint leaves, if I want to be super fancy.

Get a Personal Video Answer from Me

Overwhelmed by all the clutter? Not sure where to begin or what to do next? Get personalized decluttering advice from me. I’ll make sense of your project and deliver the exact steps you need, in a short video recorded just for you! With over 20 years of experience, I’ve seen it all, share some details about a space that’s stressing you out (and a few photos of that space, if you’d like), and you’ll feel lighter and more in control by calming the chaos. Share your project now.

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Coming Up Online:

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I HAVE NOTHING TO WEAR: HOW TO BUILD A CAPSULE WARDROBE Sept. 2nd 7pm

5 STEPS TO DECLUTTER YOUR KITCHEN TODAY Sept. 9th 7pm

CLEAN YOUR CLOTHES CLOSET BY THE WEEKEND Sept. 15th 7pm

A 15-DAY SEPTEMBER TIDY-UP CHALLENGE Sept. 16th 7pm

STOP PROCRASTINATING AND START GETTING STUFF DONE Sept. 22nd 7pm

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Friends don’t let friends organize alone, share this post so they know the answer to the question, can bottled lemon juice go bad?

Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like this are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

If you have been trying to declutter your clothes closet, paring down the tie collection can be a good way to make space. Yes, you can donate ties. And for the ones you are going to keep, this is the best way to store ties in a drawer (where they are less likely to wrinkle) and you free up space in the closet.

Rule of Thumb for the Number of Ties

The way you dress might be more casual these days. If that is the case, you might want to declutter the dress shirts and suits. For the ones you keep, a good rule of thumb is to keep three ties per suit or shirt you wear with a tie. That number allows you to mix and match the collection.

Only keep that many if you 1. really wear them 2. prefer not to repeat ties and outfits often 3. have storage space to store them all

Share, sell, donate some/most if you: 1. don’t wear them 2. someone else needs them more than you

The best way to store ties in a drawer

Yes, you can hang ties in the closet. But they can wrinkle easily or fall to the floor where you never see them again. I prefer tie storage in the drawer. Roll the ties and place them in a divided box with the tie pattern face up. That way at a glance you can see which one you are looking for easily.

Get a Personal Video Answer from Me

Overwhelmed by all the clutter? Not sure where to begin or what to do next? Get personalized decluttering advice from me. I’ll make sense of your project and deliver the exact steps you need, in a short video recorded just for you! With over 20 years of experience, I’ve seen it all, share some details about a space that’s stressing you out (and a few photos of that space, if you’d like), and you’ll feel lighter and more in control by calming the chaos. Share your project now.

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Now you know what best way to store ties in a drawer. Follow me on Insta Twitter Facebook Pinterest for daily ideas.

Coming Up Online:

Free, virtual programs, open to everyone.

I HAVE NOTHING TO WEAR: HOW TO BUILD A CAPSULE WARDROBE Sept. 2nd 7pm

5 STEPS TO DECLUTTER YOUR KITCHEN TODAY Sept. 9th 7pm

CLEAN YOUR CLOTHES CLOSET BY THE WEEKEND Sept. 15th 7pm

A 15-DAY SEPTEMBER TIDY-UP CHALLENGE Sept. 16th 7pm

STOP PROCRASTINATING AND START GETTING STUFF DONE Sept. 22nd 7pm

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Friends don’t let friends organize alone, share this post so they know the best way to store ties in a drawer.

Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like this are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

If you have been wondering, when is national just because day? I’m happy to let you know, today is National Just Because Day! Which means you don’t need a reason or an excuse to do something. Here are some fun and easy ways to celebrate:

1. Call someone to catch up
2. Text someone something nice
3. Pay for the person behind you in the drive thru
4. Take time and do something you enjoy
5. Send someone flowers
6. Buy yourself flowers
7. Make breakfast for dinner

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Coming Up Online:

Free, virtual programs, open to everyone.

I HAVE NOTHING TO WEAR: HOW TO BUILD A CAPSULE WARDROBE Sept. 2nd 7pm

5 STEPS TO DECLUTTER YOUR KITCHEN TODAY Sept. 9th 7pm

CLEAN YOUR CLOTHES CLOSET BY THE WEEKEND Sept. 15th 7pm

A 15-DAY SEPTEMBER TIDY-UP CHALLENGE Sept. 16th 7pm

STOP PROCRASTINATING AND START GETTING STUFF DONE Sept. 22nd 7pm

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Friends don’t let friends organize alone, share this post so they know the answer to the question, when is national just because day?

Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like this are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

Overwhelmed by all the clutter? Not sure where to begin or what to do next? Get personalized decluttering advice from Jamie Novak, an acclaimed pro and author of Keep This, Toss That: The Practical Guide to Tidying Up. In her signature encouraging style she makes sense of your project and delivers the exact steps you need in a short video recorded just for you. With over 20 years of experience, she has seen it all! Share some details about a space that’s stressing you out (and a few photos of that space, if you’d like), and Jamie will deliver practical ideas you can implement – without buying more stuff to make it happen. You’ll feel lighter and more in control by calming the chaos, so share your project today.

With so many choices, you may be wondering, what is the most popular hot dog topping? Although I can’t say what the number one pick is, I can tell you my favorite hot dog topping.

The most popular hot dog topping in my house

Ready, here it is: a mix of apricot preserves and deli mustard with crushed potato chips. Before you stop reading, hear me out. It’s sweet, salty, and delicious.

Aside from eating a hot dog. Here are three ways to celebrate National Hot Dog Day:

1. Today is National Hot Dog Day! So, why not give it a try? Eating a hot dog today is a fun way to celebrate.

2. Ditch the hot dog maker. Seriously, rethink it if you have one of those countertop appliances designed just to heat up hot dogs. There are so many ways to make a hot dog, grill, sauté pan, boil, all come to mind.

3. Sort through condiments. How old is that mustard? When did you open that ketchup? It’s time to check the expiration dates. And just to be clear, this includes sorting through the crumpled take-out packets lost in the way back of the kitchen drawer.

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Coming Up Online:

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I HAVE NOTHING TO WEAR: HOW TO BUILD A CAPSULE WARDROBE Sept. 2nd 7pm

5 STEPS TO DECLUTTER YOUR KITCHEN TODAY Sept. 9th 7pm

CLEAN YOUR CLOTHES CLOSET BY THE WEEKEND Sept. 15th 7pm

A 15-DAY SEPTEMBER TIDY-UP CHALLENGE Sept. 16th 7pm

STOP PROCRASTINATING AND START GETTING STUFF DONE Sept. 22nd 7pm

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Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like this are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

If you are wondering “how to declutter my clothes?” here are the steps you can take on #NationalSecondHandWardrobeDay. Pare down to what you wear and love, then share the rest – which means others can add to their secondhand wardrobe with your pieces. Here are the simple steps to follow:

Step 1 Set up sorting boxes, one for SELL (if you will sell things) and DONATION.

Step 2 Start on the top shelf or the floor or the way back. Sort the stuff grouping like with like.

Step 3 Once you can see how many you have in each category, choose the keepers. Instead of looking for what to part with, pick the stuff you can’t live without.

Step 4 Return the keepers to the closet.

Step 5 Get the “tosses” out the door as quickly as possible.

Keep it or toss it? Questions to ask:

1. Do I love it?
2. Do I wear it?
3. Is it flattering?
4. Does it itch or scratch?
5. Is it stained?
6. Does it fit?
7. Would someone else get more use out of this? *This is my favorite question to ask. And if I have to ask it, the answer is almost always yes!

Wondering where to share or sell things?

Where can I donate used shoes and where can I sell used clothes online?

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Online Clothes Closet Programs

Free, virtual programs, open to everyone.

I HAVE NOTHING TO WEAR: HOW TO BUILD A CAPSULE WARDROBE Sept. 2nd 7pm

CLEAN YOUR CLOTHES CLOSET BY THE WEEKEND Sept. 15th 7pm

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Friends don’t let friends organize alone, share this post so they know how to declutter my clothes.

Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like this are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

Happy National Waffle Day, let’s celebrate!

1 Eat waffles. Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside. Warm syrup drizzled across the top. Or a dollop of whipped cream and fresh sliced strawberries.

2 Donate an unused waffle maker. If you have an waffle maker you never use, give it to someone who will make waffles. Check out these resources.

3 Check out this cookbook, Will It Waffle? you’ll be surprised by how many things your waffle maker can make!

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Now you know the rules to play the 5 in 5 declutter game. Follow me on Facebook Insta Twitter Pinterest for daily ideas.

Coming Up Online:

Free, virtual programs, open to everyone.

I HAVE NOTHING TO WEAR: HOW TO BUILD A CAPSULE WARDROBE Sept. 2nd 7pm

5 STEPS TO DECLUTTER YOUR KITCHEN TODAY Sept. 9th 7pm

CLEAN YOUR CLOTHES CLOSET BY THE WEEKEND Sept. 15th 7pm

A 15-DAY SEPTEMBER TIDY-UP CHALLENGE Sept. 16th 7pm

STOP PROCRASTINATING AND START GETTING STUFF DONE Sept. 22nd 7pm

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Friends don’t let friends organize alone, share this post so they know how to play the 5 in 5 declutter game too!

Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like this are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

17 Papers to Shred

To help prevent identity theft, it is best to shred any paper with personal or identifying information, like account numbers, Social Security numbers, passwords or PIN numbers, like these:

1. ATM receipts
2. Bank statements
3. Canceled/voided checks
4. Credit card bills
5. Credit reports
6. Employment documents that have any identifying information
7. Investments account numbers
8. Investment, stock, and property transactions
9. Items with a signature (leases, contracts, etc.)
10. Luggage tags
11. Medical and dental records
12. Pay stubs
13. Pre-approved credit card applications
14. Receipts with checking account numbers/credit card numbers
15. Travel itineraries
16. Used airline tickets
17. Utility bills (cell phone, phone, gas, electric, water, cable TV, internet, etc.)

Shred or Roll?

Guard Your ID Roller instead of shredding this roller glides over and covers sensitive information with thick ink in a series of letters and symbols

Best shredder this one cuts small and is easy to empty

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Coming Up Online:

Free, virtual programs, open to everyone.

I HAVE NOTHING TO WEAR: HOW TO BUILD A CAPSULE WARDROBE Sept. 2nd 7pm

5 STEPS TO DECLUTTER YOUR KITCHEN TODAY Sept. 9th 7pm

CLEAN YOUR CLOTHES CLOSET BY THE WEEKEND Sept. 15th 7pm

A 15-DAY SEPTEMBER TIDY-UP CHALLENGE Sept. 16th 7pm

STOP PROCRASTINATING AND START GETTING STUFF DONE Sept. 22nd 7pm

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Friends don’t let friends organize alone, share this post so they know the answer to what papers do I need to shred.

Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like this are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

Free Up Space Today

Your phone can become just as cluttered as other parts of your home. If you are running short on storage space or have trouble finding what you need on your phone this is how to declutter your phone fast. Try one or more of these simple ideas today:

5 Simple Ways to Declutter Your Phone

1. Delete unused Apps – look over your icons to ensure you still use all the apps you’ve downloaded on your phone.
2. Delete photos you don’t want any more, including the seventeen photos clicked one after the other of the sunset. Keep the best and delete the rest.
3. Group Apps – group apps by the type, like all your banking apps in one folder and all the shopping apps in another.
4. Delete text messages with gifs and photos those can take up a lot of space.
5. Check the download folder for things you downloaded but no longer need.

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Coming Up Online:

Free, virtual programs, open to everyone.

I HAVE NOTHING TO WEAR: HOW TO BUILD A CAPSULE WARDROBE Sept. 2nd 7pm

5 STEPS TO DECLUTTER YOUR KITCHEN TODAY Sept. 9th 7pm

CLEAN YOUR CLOTHES CLOSET BY THE WEEKEND Sept. 15th 7pm

A 15-DAY SEPTEMBER TIDY-UP CHALLENGE Sept. 16th 7pm

STOP PROCRASTINATING AND START GETTING STUFF DONE Sept. 22nd 7pm

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Friends don’t let friends organize alone, share this post so they know how to declutter your phone fast.

Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like this are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

Wondering where to share things?

Check out these resources.

Follow Me for More Quick Hints

Now you know the rules to play the 5 in 5 declutter game. Follow me on Facebook Insta Twitter Pinterest for daily ideas.

Coming Up Online:

Free, virtual programs, open to everyone.

I HAVE NOTHING TO WEAR: HOW TO BUILD A CAPSULE WARDROBE Sept. 2nd 7pm

5 STEPS TO DECLUTTER YOUR KITCHEN TODAY Sept. 9th 7pm

CLEAN YOUR CLOTHES CLOSET BY THE WEEKEND Sept. 15th 7pm

A 15-DAY SEPTEMBER TIDY-UP CHALLENGE Sept. 16th 7pm

STOP PROCRASTINATING AND START GETTING STUFF DONE Sept. 22nd 7pm

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Friends don’t let friends organize alone, share this post so they know how to play the 5 in 5 declutter game too!

Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like this are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

Today is National Radio Day! Let’s talk radios, here’s what to do with an old radio – the one that’s been sitting in your basement for ten years.

1 Check if it has value

Some old radios have value, look them up at GoAntiques.

2 Donate it

If it is still in working order, consider donating it. Here’s where to donate things.

3 Give it away

Some people like to tinker with radios, you can share them with people who can fix radios. List it on a buy nothing group.

If none of these work, you can recycle radios responsibly. Most towns host a hazardous waste disposal day. Mark your calendar and drop it off.

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You Might Like This:

How to stop junk mail we talked about this on June 11th

How to stop catalogs in the mail and back on Aug. 3rd I shared these tips

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I HAVE NOTHING TO WEAR: HOW TO BUILD A CAPSULE WARDROBE Sept. 2nd 7pm

5 STEPS TO DECLUTTER YOUR KITCHEN TODAY Sept. 9th 7pm

CLEAN YOUR CLOTHES CLOSET BY THE WEEKEND Sept. 15th 7pm

A 15-DAY SEPTEMBER TIDY-UP CHALLENGE Sept. 16th 7pm

STOP PROCRASTINATING AND START GETTING STUFF DONE Sept. 22nd 7pm

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Friends don’t let friends organize alone, share this post so they know what to do with an old radio.

Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like this are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

Are you ready to sort through those shoe boxes of photos? This is how to organize photos in three simple steps:

Step #1

Make some decisions: how you want to categorize them, maybe by date, by event, by person? To decide think about how you will reference them. How do you want to store them? Albums, boxes, or a combination?

Step #2

Once you know what you want to do with the photos it is time to sort through them. Expect it to take time and prepare for memories to come flooding back. This might take some time, enjoy the walk down memory lane. Set a timer for 10 minutes and challenge yourself to see how many you can sort before the buzzer rings. If you have more time and energy, reset the timer and go again.

Step #3

After sorting in small blocks of time be sure you store the photos in a safe place. The attic might be too hot and the photos can become brittle. Not in the sunlight because they fade. The garage makes them susceptible to pests. And the basement can be humid and photos can stick together.

Then enjoy the photos. Being able to flip through them is the whole point of keeping them in the first place.

Try This!

1. Have mailing envelopes nearby so you can mail some photos to friends and family. Everyone loves getting fun mail.
2. When you find a special photo, ensure you have a copy secured by snapping a photo of the photo.
3. If you know who is in the photo or any other details, note them on the back of the back of the photo.

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Need More Help?

Free, virtual program 3 Steps to Sort Your Photos, open to everyone online Tues., Oct. 12th 6:30pm.

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Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like this are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

Today is National Mail Order Catalog Day! Let’s celebrate by keeping the ones you want and unsubscribing from the ones you don’t. Here’s how to opt out of mail order catalogs.

1. Have you ever requested a catalog from a company, only to then find you’re receiving catalogs from other companies that you never asked for?
2. Have you ever seen the warning on the front of a catalog that says, ‘if you don’t order it will be your last catalog’, only it’s never your last catalog, they just keep arriving in the mail?
3. Have you ever wanted to get your name off the mailing lists, but it was too much effort to contact each company? Then try the free junk mail removal service through catalogchoice.org.

Hint: don’t bring catalogs inside if you don’t need to.

You can always shop their online store. Concerned you’ll forget which places you like to shop from? Keep a running list of the companies you have ordered from, that way you’ll have confidence if you’ll be able to order again. Or check them out online and bookmark the page, that way you can refer back to it when/if needed.

Insider tip:

Don’t bring in any catalog if you find they are filled with the things you never knew you needed until you skimmed the catalog. If you can’t resist buying more clutter, then skip the temptation.

New rule

New catalog in the mail – old catalog into the recycling.

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Now you know how to opt out of mail order catalogs. Follow me on Facebook Insta Twitter Pinterest for daily ideas.

You Might Like This:

How to stop junk mail we talked about this on June 11th

How to stop catalogs in the mail and back on Aug. 3rd I shared these tips

Coming Up Online:

Free, virtual programs, open to everyone.

I HAVE NOTHING TO WEAR: HOW TO BUILD A CAPSULE WARDROBE Sept. 2nd 7pm

5 STEPS TO DECLUTTER YOUR KITCHEN TODAY Sept. 9th 7pm

CLEAN YOUR CLOTHES CLOSET BY THE WEEKEND Sept. 15th 7pm

A 15-DAY SEPTEMBER TIDY-UP CHALLENGE Sept. 16th 7pm

STOP PROCRASTINATING AND START GETTING STUFF DONE Sept. 22nd 7pm

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Friends don’t let friends organize alone, share this post so they know how to opt out of mail order catalogs

Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like this are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

This is how to store Tupperware in a lazy Susan, pare down to the few pieces you reach for all the time. You can not keep a set of 88 pieces on one turntable. But you CAN keep the five or ten you use daily. They should be of a similar size and shape so the containers stack. Opt for a turntable with a tall lip or sides to prevent them from sliding off. Place lids inside one of the containers. Stack the containers.

Lazy Susans and turntables make use of wasted space. They make it easy to reach what you need from behind, simply spin what you need to the front. Just don’t spin too hard or it will fly off and you will probably never see it again. Aside from storing Tupperware, turntables and lazy Susan’s are great for keeping lots of other places clutter-free as well. Tupperware and food storage turntable this is the best one, with spots for lids and containers. Here are seven places you might want to use a turntable in your home:

7 Ways to Use a Turntable of Lazy Susan

1. Coffee bar or tea station so everything you need to make your beverage is at your fingertips best with mug hooks
2. Spices in the kitchen cabinet best half moon shape
3. Craft for your craft table with little boxes and jars of notions best for craft
4. Under the sink for stacking containers of small things best two tier
5. Refrigerator for small jars that get lost in the back best divided
6. Kitchen countertop or center of the kitchen table with napkins and the salt and pepper best tall sides
7. Bathroom vanity for everyday items used in your routine best with lip

Bonus idea!

I use a non-skid one to decorate cakes. Being able to spin the cake means I can ice it smoothly by spinning it. Or turn it to do fine decorations.

How to Pick a Lazy Susan or Turntable

Measure first. Check if you need sides or a lip. Consider non-slip. Make sure it spins smoothly on ball bearings.

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TONIGHT 10 STORAGE IDEAS YOU HAVEN’T THOUGHT OF Tue. Aug 17th at 7:00 PM

I HAVE NOTHING TO WEAR: HOW TO BUILD A CAPSULE WARDROBE Thu., Sept. 2nd 7pm

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Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like this are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

Today in honor of National Rum Day, how about we declutter that bar cart. You can only own so many swizzle sticks and toothpicks. Use up the bar napkins and pare down your collection of coasters. Rethink the three-year-old jar of olives and half empty bottle of grenadine.

Hint: Rum Doesn’t Last Forever (neither do maraschino cherries)

Most manufacturers say that once opened, bottles of alcohol are best used up within six months. Always check with the manufacture’s website to confirm the best used by date. You can also look up good by dates at StillTasty.

Glassware

How many cocktail glasses do you need to have out at one time? They get dusty and take up space. If you are not making drinks or entertaining that much, then maybe you can donate some, least pack them away, or tuck them in a less convenient cabinet.

My Favorite Drink

While I am not a big fan of drinks with alcohol in them I do love a mocktail. My favorite is a twist on the utterly refreshing Mojito. If you like lime and mint then this might become your favorite too. I muddle mint leaves in the bottom of a pint glass. Then I fill the glass with crushed ice and fill with limeade. Sometimes I squeeze a fresh wedge of lime in as well.

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TOMORROW 10 STORAGE IDEAS YOU HAVEN’T THOUGHT OF Tue. Aug 17th at 7:00 PM

I HAVE NOTHING TO WEAR: HOW TO BUILD A CAPSULE WARDROBE Thu., Sept. 2nd 7pm

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Friends don’t let friends organize alone, share this post so they know National Rum Day is a great day to declutter your bar cart.

Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like this are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

Do you have a bunch of magazines? This is the best way to store old magazines. And here’s how to tell which ones to keep. Plus, I share my magazine rule.

Which Ones to Keep

Ask yourself, is this available to me elsewhere? Like at the local library or as a digital magazine?

My 1 Year Magazine Rule

I keep one year of my favorite cooking magazine. That’s because I am always going back to them for inspiration and recipes. I also find that I like reviewing the full menu ideas for seasonal celebrations. But I only need one year because each year they come out with new info. All the others get recycled when the new one arrives in the mail.

Is Your Magazine Valuable?

If you think you have a magazine that might have re-sale value, search GoAntiques.

Yes, You Can Donate or Share Magazines

Many laundromats let you leave them for patrons to read while their laundry washes. Also, many organizations accept them for donation.

Test Out Stopping the Subscription

Call Customer Service to pause your subscription. If you miss the magazine, re-start it. If not, let the subscription run out or change the mailing address to someone who wants to read it.

The Best Organizers!

These are the best magazine organizers. Keep only the ones you need and remember to label them for easy reference.

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10 STORAGE IDEAS YOU HAVEN’T THOUGHT OF Tue. Aug 17th at 7:00 PM

I HAVE NOTHING TO WEAR: HOW TO BUILD A CAPSULE WARDROBE Thu., Sept. 2nd 7pm

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Friends don’t let friends organize alone, share this post so they know how the best way to store old magazines.

Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like this are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

Wondering how to store lightbulbs? Lightbulbs are best stored in a hard side box to prevent them being crushed. Adding padding between the bulbs prevents them from touching which can break them.

Which Lightbulbs to Stock

Of course keep the ones you use for the lights you own. These are the ones I reach for all the time.

60 watt

75 watt

100 watt

appliance bulbs

lamp lightbulbs (I have a salt rock lamp) or for a chandelier

3-way

indoor can lights

flood bulbs for outdoor fixtures

2 Things to Remember

1- Stores sell lightbulbs. You can order them online. You do not need to stock a whole cabinet of bulbs. Keep a few spares and replace them as you use them.

2- Not all appliance lights are the same. Label the ones you have for the appliances you currently own. If you upgrade an appliance check to see if you have any bulbs to let go of. And order a space for the new item so you have it on hand.

Where to Store Lightbulbs

I prefer clear, hard sided boxes with latching lids. I use these containers. I like a locking lid but I do not use a lid with a handle. With something delicate like lightbulbs, I don’t risk the lid popping off and breaking the bulbs.

I store lightbulbs by wattage. That way I can clearly tell 60 watt from 75 watt. And I have all the smaller appliance lightbulbs together. Label the bin they are in or tear off the front of the carboard package and place it (facing out) in the bin. That way you can read the type without opening all the bins.

How to Recycle Lightbulbs

Many Home Depot, Lowe’s and IKEA stores accept old bulbs. Call and check if the store near you is participating.

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10 STORAGE IDEAS YOU HAVEN’T THOUGHT OF Tue. Aug 17th at 7:00 PM

I HAVE NOTHING TO WEAR: HOW TO BUILD A CAPSULE WARDROBE Thu., Sept. 2nd 7pm

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Friends don’t let friends organize alone, share this post so they know how to store lightbulbs.

Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like this are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

Wondering how to organize summer stuff? Start by paring down what you own. Having fewer things to sort and store makes it a whole lot easier. Here is a quick list of 15 categories and suggestions of what you can declutter today! Keep the good stuff that you use, share/donate the good stuff you won’t use, and toss/dump the junk today:

1. Summer serving ware – oversize platter with a sandcastle printed on it that you never use
2. Kitchen cooking gadgets – the lemon squeezer that you say you’re going to use, but never do
3. Summer shoes – sandals, shoes, and flip flops that hurt your feet to wear
4. Summer makeup – the bronzer or highlighter you bought thinking it was a great idea
5. Bright nail polish – fluorescent shades that only work when you are on vacation
6. Cover-ups and bathing suits – the ones you never wear
7. Pool and beach towels – you can only use so many, share extras with a local pet shelter
8. Beach bags – the ones with a broken strap, or just excess quantities
9. Summer accessories – broken sunglasses and hats or visors you never wear
10. Outdoor toys and games – the cracked ladder ball game with missing pieces
11. Outdoor furniture – the bent folding chair you can’t sit in safely
12. Outdoor décor – the broken strand of outdoor café lights
13. Grilling gadgets – the fish grilling basket you have but don’t like fish
14. Vacation souvenirs – the broken seashell necklace
15. Summer décor – the faded lighthouse throw pillow with a torn seam

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Now you know how to organize summer stuff. Follow me on social media for more daily ideas like this one.

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10 STORAGE IDEAS YOU HAVEN’T THOUGHT OF Tue. Aug 17th at 7:00 PM

I HAVE NOTHING TO WEAR: HOW TO BUILD A CAPSULE WARDROBE Thu., Sept. 2nd 7pm

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Friends don’t let friends organize alone, share this post so they know how to organize summer stuff.

Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like this are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

If your linen closet is overflowing use my ‘rule of sheets’ to pare down today. This is how many sets of sheets per bed (insert drum roll here) THREE! Yes, three. Here’s why:

Set #1

On the bed

Set # 2

In the laundry

Set # 3

In the linen closet

BUT WAIT!

1. If you change your pillow case more often than you change the sheets, have more pillow cases on hand.
2. If one of the beds is not used as often (like a guest bed) then you might not need all three.

What to do with unused sheets?

If you have sets of sheets and other linens that you don’t use, you can donate them to a local pet shelter. The volunteers can use them to clean and they line the cold cages with your cozy linens.

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TONIGHT 5 Steps to Declutter Your Kitchen Before Labor Day Thu. Aug 12th at 7:00 PM

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Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like this are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

If your kitchen or desk drawer won’t open because it is overflowing with pens, then this is the list for you. Today I finally answer the question: Where can I donate pens? Wait, did you know you could? Yes, you can share your unused pens. Don’t share the ones that won’t write or have no ink. And keep your favorite ones (these are mine and they come in fun colors) for yourself.

My office drawer is a collection spot for all the pens I’ll never use. Some are flimsy promotional pens, some are too heavy, some are too light, some glob when I write, some are a fine point and rip the paper, some have a cap, and I think we can all agree I will misplace the cap.

For a myriad of reasons these are the pens I will never use, which has me questioning why I keep them. But what if I need them? I tell myself. When I know I have plenty of “good” pens and enough ink to last a lifetime. So, that brings us to the question, where can I donate pens? Here’s your answer:  

Where can I donate pens? This is a list of 15 ways:

1. Restaurant staff (through the years I’m sure I accidentally walked away with one so it is fair to give some back) 
2. Cashiers (again, accidentally walked off with one or two – and they are so happy to get them)
3. Post on a Buy Nothing Group
4. List on Freecycle
5. GiveBackBox
6. PickUpPlease
7. GoGreenDrop
8. Day Care Center
9. Churches/Houses of Worship
10. Retirement Homes/Assisted Livings
11. Youth Clubs
12. Scouts
13. Homeless Shelters
14. YMCAs
15. Local Library

I hope this list helps you clear the unused pens from your drawers today!

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TONIGHT How to Tidy Up & Get More Done Wed. Aug. 11th at 7:00 PM ET

5 Steps to Declutter Your Kitchen Before Labor Day Thu. Aug 12th at 7:00 PM

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Friends don’t let friends organize alone, share this post so they know the answer to, where can I donate pens?

Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like this are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

Here are two ways to mark #nationalshapewearday! Not only where can you donate used bras but how to decide which ones to keep.

Way # 1

Three organizations that accept new or gently used bras, this is how you can donate new or used bras:

1. Support The Girls
2. Free The Girls
3. Bras for a Cause

Way # 2

Edit your shapewear drawer today. Share the pieces you never wear, the ones that are not the correct size, the ones that are uncomfortable or dig into your skin, the ones that are torn, stretched out, or missing closures. Keep only the ones you would slip on and feel good in.

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How to Tidy Up & Get More Done Wed. Aug. 11th at 7:00 PM ET

5 Steps to Declutter Your Kitchen Before Labor Day Thu. Aug 12th at 7:00 PM

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Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like this are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

Happy National Booklovers Day! Here are three fun ways to celebrate the day:

Way 1

Straighten up your bookshelf. This is how to organize your bookshelf. Sort out the shelves and make your books easy to view. When you can see all your books you’ll be able to reach for and read them!

Way 2

Consider donating a book you won’t read or re-read. Check with your local library, they may be collecting them for an upcoming book sale. You can post them to a local no-buy group. You can drop them in a Better Word Books collection box. You can give donate them through GoGreenDrop.com or DonationTown.org. If you think you might have a collectable book with value, this is an easy way to check How Much Do Used Books Sell For.

Way 3

Sit down and read that book you keep promising yourself you are going to read. Need a good book? How about mine? Keep This Toss That doubles as a paperweight. So if you don’t read it, at least you’ll have something to hold down your to-be-read pile.

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Now you know today is National Booklovers Day. Follow me on social media for more daily ideas like this one.

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How to Tidy Up & Get More Done Wed. Aug. 11th at 7:00 PM ET

5 Steps to Declutter Your Kitchen Before Labor Day Thu. Aug 12th at 7:00 PM

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Friends don’t let friends organize alone, share this s others know today is National Booklovers Day!

We all have one. That long lost bottle of perfume or cologne, collecting dust in the back of a bathroom cabinet. And we all have a random sample of perfume or cologne tucked in a bathroom drawer. Whether it is one you tried and didn’t like, won’t finish, never opened, or loved and used up, this is what to do with used perfume bottles.

Idea #1

Share opened bottles with friends or family that might like the scent more than you.

Idea #2

Donate unopened bottles or travel or sample sizes.

Idea #3

Sell unopened bottles.

Idea #4

List unopened bottles on a local buy nothing group or Freecycle.

Idea #5

Check Ebay or Etsy to see if you have a valuable collectors bottle that you can sell for cash. If you have a vintage bottles, search the goantiques database.

Idea #6

Make something crafty with the bottles. I took one with a large mouth and used it to store beach sand and tiny shells. Wait, maybe forget I gave you this idea. I feel like it might lead to a “bottle-collecting-but-never-crafting” situation.

Idea #7

Recycle the bottles.

Most perfumes and colognes will keep their fragrance for up to three years. Much beyond that and the scent, color, and consistency can change. Fragrances are meant to be used up. Apply the ones you like, share, sell, or donate the ones you don’t. Yes, even if it was a gift or you paid a lot of money. If you don’t use it- then why keep it?

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Now you know what to do with used perfume bottles bread tags. Follow me on social media for more daily ideas like this one.

Coming Up Online:

Free, virtual programs, open to everyone.

TOMORROW Store More: sort your stuff & find more storage Mon. Aug. 9th at 7:00 PM

How to Tidy Up & Get More Done Wed. Aug. 11th at 7:00 PM ET

5 Steps to Declutter Your Kitchen Before Labor Day Thu. Aug 12th at 7:00 PM

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Friends don’t let friends organize alone, share this post so they know what to do with used perfume bottles

Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like this are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

Happy #nationalmustardday! It’s a great reminder to check the kitchen drawers for out of date take out condiment packets. To check the pantry for old bottles and jars. And to sweep the fridge shelves for expired condiments, including mustard. So you might be wondering, does yellow mustard go bad? Here’s the answer.

Does yellow mustard go bad?

Although mustards do not typically “go bad” you should toss any that have an off odor, unusual consistency, or you know to be very old.

I love mustard

Mustard is my favorite condiment. I love all types and flavors.

My favorite Mustard Salad Dressing

I make my favorite mustard salad dressing in this salad dressing bottle that has recipes written on the side! My sister gave it to me for my birthday and I’ve used it almost every day since. Although I’ve memorized my favorite recipe, having others directly on the bottle saves me time.

1/4 C grated parm cheese

1 TBS minced shallots

1 clove of garlic minced

1/4 tsp ground dried herbs

1 tsp Dijon mustard

1 tsp yellow mustard

1 tsp deli/spicy mustard

1 TBS red wine or sherry vinegar

1 TBS fresh lemon juice

1 C olive oil

dash of S&P

shake, shake, shake, and serve!

How to remove a mustard stain

Years ago I attended an outdoor BBQ where mustard from my hotdog dripped onto my tank top. I tried lots of stain removal suggestions. Luckily, before I had to resort to wearing a brooch to cover the mark, I found a solution: white vinegar.

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Now you know how the answer to the question, what to do with bread tags. Follow me on social media for more daily ideas like this one.

Coming Up Online:

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Store More: sort your stuff & find more storage Mon. Aug. 9th at 7:00 PM ET

How to Tidy Up & Get More Done Wed. Aug. 11th at 7:00 PM ET

5 Steps to Declutter Your Kitchen Before Labor Day Thu. Aug 12th at 7:00 PM

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Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like this are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

Do you have an unused bicycle in storage? Maybe spare bike parts? Or a broken bicycle that just needs a little attention? This is the answer to the question, where to donate used bicycles near me?

If you are holding onto a bicycle thinking you are going to cycle to work one day, I have bad news for you. Bikes don’t age well. The rubber rots, the brakes fade, chains can rust, and the tires go flat. Instead of letting your unused bikes continue to collect dust, this is where to donate a bike today. Letting someone else have it. Let someone fix the broken ones, use your spare parts, or ride the one you never use.

Donate Bicycles Near Me

For the bikes you are not using, you can schedule a pick up with Vietnam Veterans of America through pickupplease.org. And if you happen to be in the tri-state area you have another organization to consider, Pedals for Progress or p4p.org.

Bicycle Storage

For the bikes you are keeping, this bike rack with additional sports equipment storage, is a great option. It prevents the bikes from tipping over and scratching you car. In addition to bikes, this storage shelf gives you space to store holiday décor and all the other stuff that ends up in the garage.

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Coming Up Online:

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Store More: sort your stuff & find more storage Mon. Aug. 9th at 7:00 PM ET

How to Tidy Up & Get More Done Wed. Aug. 11th at 7:00 PM ET

5 Steps to Declutter Your Kitchen Before Labor Day Thu. Aug 12th at 7:00 PM

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Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like this are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

Sometimes you just have to stop and ask yourself, how many clothes hangers do I need? Unless you are opening a dry cleaning business, the answer is probably fewer than you think. Today, clear broken, unused, excess clothes hangers out of the closet. Don’t just do this in the clothes closet, do it in the hall closet as well. Today I answer, What to do with clothes hangers? Which ones to hold onto, to donate, and where to store the keepers.

Wire hangers

Most dry cleaners will accept wire hangers.

Broken hangers

Recycle or trash broken hangers that are no longer useful.

Used hangers

Donate used hangers you no longer need. PickUpPlease.org and other organizations accept them.

Keep these

Hold onto the hangers you use. The ones that hold your clothes without damaging them, like hangers that create shoulder bumps.

Hanger storage

I use this hanger organizer to keep my hangers from becoming a tangled mess. It gets saves space by giving empty hangers a place to go besides hanging, empty, on the rod. And I can easily tote the hangers to the laundry room to hang things up.

Clever use for a hangers

I share these somewhat hesitantly, these ideas are in no way meant to encourage you to keep all the hangers, “just in case”

1. Keep your cookbook open to the right page and off the countertop by clipping each side of the open book to the clips on a pants clothes hanger. Then hang from a kitchen cabinet knob. *this only works for lighter cookbooks, too heavy and it falls.
2. A wire hanger, stretched out, can help de-gunk a clogged drain.
3. Stake a tomato plant in the garden using a wire hanger.

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Coming Up Online:

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Store More: sort your stuff & find more storage Mon. Aug. 9th at 7:00 PM ET

How to Tidy Up & Get More Done Wed. Aug. 11th at 7:00 PM ET

5 Steps to Declutter Your Kitchen Before Labor Day Thu. Aug 12th at 7:00 PM

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Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like this are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

Okay, you unclip the plastic tab to open a bag of bread; what do you do with the tag? If you toss it into the kitchen junk drawer then this is the post for you. Check out what to do with bread tags, these tips will help you get more organized today!

Idea #1

Label spare keys: Use a tag to mark spare keys before putting them away. I know you think you’ll remember what the key opens – but I think we all know we never do. Simple clip the tab onto a single key, then using a permanent marker, label the tag.

Idea #2

Mark a roll of tape: Never lose the open end of a roll of tape again! Prevent an open roll of tape from sticking to itself by using a tag to mark the end of the roll. Next time you go to cut a piece of tape, you won’t have to search for the end.

Idea #3

Close bags of frozen veggies: use the plastic tag to close bags to prevent freezer burn.

Idea #4

Elastic storage: Whether you want to clip rubber bands together before tossing them in the junk drawer or hair elastics before tossing them in the bathroom vanity drawer, use a tag to keep them organized. Slip the tag onto the elastics to keep them matched up.

Idea #5

Plant identifier: Clip the tab onto a the garden fence or garden wire. Then using a permanent marker, label the tag. You’ll be able to easily identify seedling peppers from parsley and tomatoes from turnips.

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TONIGHT Paperwork! How to stop the paper pileup Wed. Aug 4 7:00-7:30 PM ET

Store More: sort your stuff & find more storage Mon. Aug. 9th at 7:00 PM ET

How to Tidy Up & Get More Done Wed. Aug. 11th at 7:00 PM ET

5 Steps to Declutter Your Kitchen Before Labor Day Thu. Aug 12th at 7:00 PM

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Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like this are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

Today, let’s get your table back! If your mail pile contains catalogs this is how to stop catalogs in the mail; unsubscribe at CatalogChoice.org.

Good News

The good news is that you will never regret stopping a catalog subscription. Why? Because if you change your mind, all you have to do is re-subscribe.

But I Might Need It

I used to love flipping through catalogs. Then I realized they were filled with all the things I never knew I needed, until -you guessed it – I read the catalog. All of a sudden my stuff wasn’t as good as the new things in the catalog.

My ice cream scoop isn’t heated, my couch doesn’t have a remote pouch. And I don’t own an umbrella just for my handbag. And I sure don’t have tiny corn on the cob shaped plates for ears of corn on the cob. But you know what I do have? Regular dinner plates. And you know what you can put on a dinner plate – yes that’s right – ears of corn on the cob!

Hmmm maybe I need a monogramed cheeseboard, wait, do I? I don’t eat cheese. But I might have company and they might want cheese. Wait, will I? I’m not having indoor company right now. And I probably already own one, most likely it collecting dust in a kitchen cabinet.

And an hour later I’ve got five things in my online shopping cart, I’ve wasted an hour, almost wasted $100- and where was I going to store all this stuff I never needed in the first place anyway? Don’t go down this track, instead prevent additional junk and stop catalogs in the mail today. 

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Coming Up Online:

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Tomorrow Paperwork! How to stop the paper pileup Wed. Aug 4 7:00-7:30 PM ET

Store More: sort your stuff & find more storage Mon. Aug. 9th at 7:00 PM ET

How to Tidy Up & Get More Done Wed. Aug. 11th at 7:00 PM ET

5 Steps to Declutter Your Kitchen Before Labor Day Thu. Aug 12th at 7:00 PM

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Friends don’t let friends organize alone, share this post with the answer to how to stop catalogs in the mail.

Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like this are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

We all have one. That small countertop appliance we were sure we were going to use. But you are not the same people as when you brought it home. Did you dream of making ooey gooey cheesy paninis? But you never got the maker out of the box? And now you need to know, can I donate a panini maker?

The answer is yes! You can donate a panini maker and all those other small countertop appliances that sit unused and collecting dust in the kitchen cabinet. Which ones? Almost any, blenders, toasters, cake pop makers, waffle irons, mixers, rice makers, air fryers, bread maker, choppers and mincers, and more.

I know what you are thinking. Now that we are talking about your panini maker (or any other maker) you have a taste for what it makes. And you might regret letting it go. But ask yourself, if I hadn’t have mentioned it would you even remember you had it? There are other ways to press a sandwich using common kitchen tools. Let someone who actually makes panini’s have your panini maker. You’ll free up space in your kitchen cabinet for the punch bowl you never use, which we are going to talk about another day.

Here’s who will take them:

Schedule a pick-up today by calling or going online.

1. PickUpPlease.org
2. HabitatforHumaity Restore
3. SalvationArmy
4. Goodwill

WAIT!

Before you donate the item, check your box with appliance manuals to see if you have one for the item you are sharing. Also check the kitchen drawers for any accessories or spare parts that go with the item. Finally, check the garage to see if you kept the box for the item. Not only with the item be complete when you give it away, but you will have decluttered other spots as well.

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Store More: sort your stuff & find more storage Mon. Aug. 9th at 7:00 PM ET

How to Tidy Up & Get More Done Wed. Aug. 11th at 7:00 PM ET

5 Steps to Declutter Your Kitchen Before Labor Day Thu. Aug 12th at 7:00 PM

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Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like this are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

International Mahjong Day is reminder to sort out your board game shelf, before the shelf gets so heavy it collapses.

Keep

Keep the games you have space to store. The ones you enjoy playing. The ones you’ve been wanting to try. And most importantly pencil in a game night on your calendar. That is the very best way to ensure you make time to play the games.

Donate

Today, let’s donate all those used board games. How many games are still wrapped in cellophane, maybe given to you as a wedding gift, and you’ve been married for 30 years. Or you own multiple versions of the same game.

On International Mahjong Day or any other day this is where to donate used puzzles:

1. Family Shelters
2. Schools
3. Day Care Center
4. Children’s Hospitals
5. Churches/Houses of Worship
6. Retirement Homes & Assisted Livings
7. Youth Clubs
8. Scouts
9. Homeless Shelters
10. YMCAs
11. Local Library
12. Share with a Neighbor
13. Post on local “buy nothing” groups

What To Do With Missing Pieces

Do you have games missing pieces and you keep hoping they will “turn up” one day. Yes, you can sell games. But you can also sell parts and pieces. Crafty people make art with “missing” board game pieces. Try listing them on Etsy. Or give them away on a local buy nothing group, your piece might complete someone else’s set.

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Coming Up Online:

Free, virtual programs, open to everyone.

Store More: sort your stuff & find more storage Mon. Aug. 9th at 7:00 PM ET

How to Tidy Up & Get More Done Wed. Aug. 11th at 7:00 PM ET

5 Steps to Declutter Your Kitchen Before Labor Day Thu. Aug 12th at 7:00 PM

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Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like this are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

Get a quick win today! Clean out your coupon drawer. Stop clipping coupons if you never remember to use them. This is the answer to, What Can I Do With Expired Coupons?

What Can I Do With Expired Coupons

You can share your manufacturer coupons by mailing them to: Support Our Troops, P.O. Box 70, Daytona Beach, FL 32115-0070. Coupons, even expired (up to 2 months) can be used.

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I hope this gives you the answer to the question, “What Can I Do With Expired Coupons?” Follow me on social media and be sure to click “follow” for daily ideas.

Coming Up Online:

Free, virtual, open to everyone.

Store More: sort your stuff & find more storage Mon. Aug. 9th at 7:00 PM ET

How to Tidy Up & Get More Done Wed. Aug. 11th at 7:00 PM ET

5 Steps to Declutter Your Kitchen Before Labor Day Thu. Aug 12th at 7:00 PM

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You are not the only one who wonders, What Can I Do With Expired Coupons you know the answer. Share this post now so your friends know what to do.

Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like this are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

Declutter with Me Every Friday @4pm

Every Friday @ 4pm I’m on Facebook Live brought to you by the through the Jersey City Free Public Library. No registration is needed. Simply log onto Facebook.com/JamieNovak at 4pm to watch the live with me. We do an on-the-spot organizing session!

Cleaning out the toy room? Going through old toys? See who buys old toys near me?

Sell Brick Toys

decluttr

bricklink

Share Brick Toys

Lego Replay print a free postage paid label to ship your Legos back so they can be donated

You can also check with

1. Family Shelters
2. Schools
3. Day Care Center
4. Children’s Hospitals
5. Homeless Shelters
6. YMCAs
7. Local Library
8. Share with a Neighbor
9. Post on local “buy nothing” groups

Be Sure to Follow Me for More Helpful Hints

I hope this gives you the answer to the question, “Who Buys Old Toys Near Me?” Follow me on social media and be sure to click “follow” for daily ideas.

Coming Up

Join me online for this fun new program! Store More: sort your stuff & find more storage Monday Aug. 9th at 7:00 PM ET.

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You are not the only one who wonders, Who Buys Old Toys Near Me For you know the answer. Share this post now so your friends know what to do.

Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like this are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

Declutter with Me Every Friday @4pm

Every Friday @ 4pm I’m on Facebook Live brought to you by the through the Jersey City Free Public Library. No registration is needed. Simply log onto Facebook.com/JamieNovak at 4pm to watch the live with me. We do an on-the-spot organizing session!

Celebrate National Lipstick Day by decluttering your makeup.

Keep the lipsticks in shades you actually wear. Pass along new lipstick you will never wear. Toss empty tubes and toss ones you won’t finish.

Get a bonus for decluttering your drawers! Many brands offer discounts, store credits, or product for returning clothes, shoes, or partially used or empty beauty product containers.

Here are the most well-known options, if you don’t see your company here – call their customer service to inquire. These are the highlights of the programs; you can read the fine print on their websites; some require you to be signed up for their version of a loyalty program.

The MOST IMPORTANT thing is this: If you are going to collect these items to be returned to the manufacturer, keep them all in one place. And not such a safe place that you forget where you put them. If you are going to go through the effort of collecting them, you need to get them out the door. Otherwise, all you’ve done is collect clutter 🙂 

MAC Cosmetics
Back-to-MAC-Program offers a free M.A.C. lipstick, lip gloss, or a single eyeshadow of your choice in return for six M.A.C. makeup containers, available online and in stores.

Kiehl’s Recycle and Be Rewarder Program. For each full-size empty, you’ll get a stamp. Collect 10 stamps for a free travel-size product.

bareMinerals Give Back Get Back Recycling Program. Earn 5 FAB points for every empty item brought in to participating bareMinerals boutiques.
 
Origins recycles cosmetic empties from any brand, every day. You will earn 25 loyalty points each time you drop-off your cosmetic empties (once per month) at participating locations.

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Coming Up Online:

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Store More: sort your stuff & find more storage Mon. Aug. 9th at 7:00 PM ET

How to Tidy Up & Get More Done Wed. Aug. 11th at 7:00 PM ET

5 Steps to Declutter Your Kitchen Before Labor Day Thu. Aug 12th at 7:00 PM

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Now you know today is National Lipstick Day. Share this post now so your friends know too.

Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like this are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

Declutter with Me Every Friday @4pm

Every Friday @ 4pm I’m on Facebook Live brought to you by the through the Jersey City Free Public Library. No registration is needed. Simply log onto Facebook.com/JamieNovak at 4pm to watch the live with me. We do an on-the-spot organizing session!

Celebrate National Milk Chocolate Day by decluttering these three things today:

1. swirly straws that are difficult to clean
2. out of date powdered strawberry or chocolate milk mix ins
3. excess quantities of milk glasses

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Coming Up Online:

Free, virtual, open to everyone.

Store More: sort your stuff & find more storage Mon. Aug. 9th at 7:00 PM ET

How to Tidy Up & Get More Done Wed. Aug. 11th at 7:00 PM ET

5 Steps to Declutter Your Kitchen Before Labor Day Thu. Aug 12th at 7:00 PM

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Now you know today is National Milk Chocolate Day. Share this post now so your friends know too.

Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like this are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

Declutter with Me Every Friday @4pm

Every Friday @ 4pm I’m on Facebook Live brought to you by the through the Jersey City Free Public Library. No registration is needed. Simply log onto Facebook.com/JamieNovak at 4pm to watch the live with me. We do an on-the-spot organizing session!

How Much Do Used Books Sell For?

If you are scanning your bookcase for some books to sell, check bookscouter to find out which online book buyer is paying the highest price.

How to appraise books online.

Check Biblio or AbeBooks to checkout valuations of vintage, signed, limited edition books.

Sell Books from Home

Bookscouter is one place to sell your books. Powells is another.

Sell your Textbooks

Log onto Cash4books or Chegg to see about selling textbooks.

Donate or Share Your Books

1. Better World Books
2. Donation Town
3. Local Library
4. Pick Up Please
5. Salvation Army
6. Goodwill
7. Assisted Living Communities
8. Free Little Libraries
9. Local Theaters as set props
10. Freecycle
11. Bookmooch
12. Books for Soldiers
13. Operation Paperback
14. Prison Book Program
15. Books for Africa
16. African Library Project
17. Reader to Reader
18. Kids Need to Read

Send Your Book Around the World

Create an account at bookcrossing then tag your book and wait for your book to be picked up and watch the log to see where your book travels.

Be Sure to Follow Me for More Helpful Hints

I hope this gives you the answer to the question, “How Much Do Used Books Sell For?” Follow me on social media and be sure to click “follow” for daily ideas.

Coming Up

Join me online for this fun new program! Store More: sort your stuff & find more storage Monday Aug. 9th at 7:00 PM ET.

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You are not the only one who wonders, How Much Do Used Books Sell For you know the answer. Share this post now so your friends know what to do.

Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like this are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

Declutter with Me Every Friday @4pm

Every Friday @ 4pm I’m on Facebook Live brought to you by the through the Jersey City Free Public Library. No registration is needed. Simply log onto Facebook.com/JamieNovak at 4pm to watch the live with me. We do an on-the-spot organizing session!

Here is the surprisingly simple answer to the question: Where can I donate used shoes? If you have some extra shoes to share try one of these easy ways to share them with someone who can use them:

1. DSW Shoe Warehouse is a collection point for the Soles 4 Souls organization. You can donate them in-store or (at some locations) curbside. Call before going to confirm they are currently accepting donations.
2. Zappos also collects shoes for Soles 4 Souls, but you mail them at no cost to you. Simply go to their website and print a postage paid mailing label to attach to your box.
3. If you prefer to have your shoes picked up you can use DonationTown.org to choose a local organization and schedule a pick-up.

Shoes to KEEP

Keep the shoes you wear. The ones you need. The ones that fit and are in good condition. For the ones you keep this is how to organize shoes in coat closet.

Shoes to SHARE

Donate the shoes you think you will wear, but never do. The ones you know you don’t wear. Think about the ones with the heel height that is too tall. The ones that pink your toe. The ones that are difficult to put on or take off. The ones that do not go with anything you wear. The ones that hurt your feet.

Shoes to SELL

If you have shoes that are new or in really good condition; especially brand name shoes, you might consider selling them. Weigh the cost of your time versus any potential profit. If you want to give it a try, look into Poshmark or TheRealReal.

Be Sure to Follow Me for More Helpful Hints

I hope this gives you the answer to the question, “Where Can I Donate Used Shoes?” Follow me on social media and be sure to click “follow” for daily ideas.

Coming Up

Join me online for this fun new program! Store More: sort your stuff & find more storage Monday Aug. 9th at 7:00 PM ET.

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You are not the only one who wonders, Where Can I Donate Used Shoes Now you know the answer. Share this post now so your friends know what to do.

Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like this are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

Declutter with Me Every Friday @4pm

Every Friday @ 4pm I’m on Facebook Live brought to you by the through the Jersey City Free Public Library. No registration is needed. Simply log onto Facebook.com/JamieNovak at 4pm to watch the live with me. We do an on-the-spot organizing session!

National Wine and Cheese Day is the perfect day to declutter your stash of cheese boards, serving platters, wine openers, and glassware. Donate the good stuff you don’t use and toss the broken stuff. Then pour a glass and celebrate your quick win!

Coming Up

Join me online for this fun new program! Store More: sort your stuff & find more storage Monday Aug. 9th at 7:00 PM ET.

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Now you know today is National Wine and Cheese Day, follow me on social media and be sure to click “follow” for daily ideas.

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You are not the only one wine glasses to give away. Now you know the answer to, is today National Wine and Cheese Day? Share this post now so your friends know what to do.

Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like this are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

Declutter with Me Every Friday @4pm

Every Friday @ 4pm I’m on Facebook Live brought to you by the through the Jersey City Free Public Library. No registration is needed. Simply log onto Facebook.com/JamieNovak at 4pm to watch the live with me. We do an on-the-spot organizing session!

To celebrate National Drive-Thru Day let’s declutter the take-out drawer. You know the one with crumpled packets of ketchup and old mayo. And it probably is overstuffed with plastic silverware and tiny envelopes of salt & pepper.

What To Do With Them

Many food banks and food pantries accept and appreciate the still good packets and excess utensils. If you eat in your car, keep some in the glove box. Add a few to your summer fun tote bag to have what you need when you grab and go like go to catch an outdoor concert.

What NOT To-Do

Stop bringing them home! If you have enough you can skip collecting more. You already have bottles of ketchup and a drawer filled with silverware.

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You are not the only one with packets of ketchup. Now you know the answer to: is National Drive-Thru Day? Share this post now so your friends know what to do.

Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like this are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

Coming Up

Join me online for this fun new program! Store More: sort your stuff & find more storage Monday Aug. 9th at 7:00 PM ET.

Declutter with Me Every Friday @4pm

Every Friday @ 4pm I’m on Facebook Live brought to you by the through the Jersey City Free Public Library. No registration is needed. Simply log onto Facebook.com/JamieNovak at 4pm to watch the live with me. We do an on-the-spot organizing session!

Do you have new or used crayons, coloring books, stuffed animals, or children’s reading books you don’t use or need? If you have some to share, you maybe wondering, Where Can I Donate Used Crayons? Let’s declutter today and give them away, here’s how:

What to do with a Used Crayons

1. projectsmile (crayons, books, plush toys)
2. thecrayoninitiative (crayons only)
3. crayoncollection (crayons only)
4. crazycrayons (crayons only)

Coming Up

Join me online for this fun new program! Store More: sort your stuff & find more storage Monday Aug. 9th at 7:00 PM ET.

Be Sure to Follow Me for More Helpful Hints

Now you know where can I donate used crayons, follow me on social media and be sure to click “follow” for daily ideas.

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You are not the only one with used crayons to give away. Now you know the answer to: where Can I Donate Used Crayons? Share this post now so your friends know what to do.

Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like this are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

Declutter with Me Every Friday @4pm

Every Friday @ 4pm I’m on Facebook Live brought to you by the through the Jersey City Free Public Library. No registration is needed. Simply log onto Facebook.com/JamieNovak at 4pm to watch the live with me. We do an on-the-spot organizing session!

Happy National Hammock Day! It always looks so dreamy to relax in a hammock under a tree. Do you love lounging in a hammock? Or, like me, do you tip out onto the ground? I’ve never been able to gracefully get in or out of a hammock. The one we had when I was a child was made of ropes, which left a waffle pattern on the back of my legs.

What to do with a Broken Hammock

Do you have a rusty hammock frame or a torn hammock collecting dust in the garage? Before you junk a hammock you don’t need or want – but isn’t in good enough condition to share – try giving it to someone who will upcycle it. Some people are skilled at creating a new hammock and painting a frame. Or share the metal frame, some people scrap metal for cash. If your town allows, put it curbside with a “free” sign. Or post it on a local “buy nothing” group. Otherwise, most towns offer a bulk pick up or recycling day.

Where to Share Good Hammocks

If it is a good hammock you never use you can share it. Some organizations accept them, check DonationTown or GoGreenDrop. Or ask a neighbor if they would like to have it.

Tonight

Join me online for this fun new program! 10 Quick Summer Decluttering Projects Thursday July 22nd at 7:00 PM ET.

Be Sure to Follow Me for More Helpful Hints

Now you know today is National Hammock Day, follow me on social media and be sure to click “follow” for daily ideas.

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You are not the only one with a hammock tucked away in the garage. Share this post now so your friends know what to do.

Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like this are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

Declutter with Me Every Friday @4pm

Every Friday @ 4pm I’m on Facebook Live brought to you by the through the Jersey City Free Public Library. No registration is needed. Simply log onto Facebook.com/JamieNovak at 4pm to watch the live with me. We do an on-the-spot organizing session!

I can’t think of a person I know that doesn’t have at least one leftover electronic device that needs to be properly recycled. And that includes me! I’ve had a broken tablet sitting in my hall closet for at least 8 years. Wondering where to recycle that broken printer that has been sitting in a closet for years? How about the old speakers in the garage? If you have been stuck for where to recycle electronics, I have the answer for you today.

Almost every Staples Office Supply store is a drop-off point for electronics to be recycled, including:

1. desktop PCs
2. laptops
3. netbooks
4. tablet PCs
5. external hard drives and small servers
6. all computer monitors
7. printers
8. desktop copiers
9. faxes
10. all-in-one devices
11. mice
12. keyboards
13. modems
14. routers
15. PC speakers
16. shredders
17. streaming devices
18. phones
19. Universal Power Supply (UPS battery backup)
20. mobile phones
21. GPS devices
22. MP3 players
23. digital camcorders
24. digital cameras

What To Do First

Of course call first to make sure. And don’t forget to wipe the device of any personal information. 

Another Idea
Remember, most towns host hazardous waste, electronic recycling, paper shredding events. Mostly in the spring and fall. Just google your town or county, 2021, and the phrase electronic recycling. If you can’t find one that way call the town for more information.

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Now you know where to recycle electronics, be sure to hit “follow” for more ideas.

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You are not the only one with a broken keyboard. Share this post now so your friends know what to do.

Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like this are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

Coming Up:

Join me online for this fun new program! 3 Mini Makeovers to Get Your Decluttering Done (30 Minute Class) Tonight Wednesday July 21st at 7:00 PM ET.

Declutter with Me Every Friday @4pm

Every Friday @ 4pm I’m on Facebook Live brought to you by the through the Jersey City Free Public Library. No registration is needed. Simply log onto Facebook.com/JamieNovak at 4pm to watch the live with me. We do an on-the-spot organizing session!

Tell Me a Topic to Cover:

Do you have a question? Want something for me to talk about? Need a resource? Tell me no

Today is National Lollipop Day! That makes it the perfect day to finally toss old, crushed, and uneatable leftover lollipops. If you find some, here is what to do with leftover lollipops.

Where to find stale lollipops

Check the bottom of your handbag, they like to live there. Also, check the kitchen junk drawer. I often find some in the glove box of the car, my bank hands them out at the drive-thru.

What to do with leftover lollipops

Please toss the gross, icky, broken ones. Seriously, why are you keeping them?

Where to donate leftover lollipops

Yes, you can donate candy and lollipops. Check out, Treats for Troops accepts candy, treats, and lollipops. A good resource to remember on National Lollipop Day and Halloween!

Mark the Calendar

Now you know today is National Lollipop Day. I hope you celebrate by eating a lollipop. I love the ones with gum inside. I do not like the ones with a chocolate candy inside. When I was a child we would go camping, nearby there was a “penny” candy store. I can still remember the rows and rows of clear glass jars that held multi-colored lollipops. It was magical.

Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like this one, are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail you keep saying you are going to go through.

Coming Up:

Join me online for this fun new program! 10 QUICK SUMMER DECLUTTERING PROJECTS THIS Thursday July 22nd @ 7:00 PM ET.

A Date to Declutter with Me Every Friday @4pm ET

Every Friday @ 4pm I’m on Facebook Live brought to you by the through the Jersey City Free Public Library. No registration is needed. Simply log onto Facebook.com/JamieNovak at 4pm to watch the live with me. We do an on-the-spot organizing session!

Tell Me a Topic to Cover:

Do you have a question? Want something for me to talk about? Need a resource? Tell me now.

On National Daiquiri Day let’s sort out the specialty drink makers – and all the makers – in your kitchen cabinet.

Step 1 Look through the cabinets for all the makers, including:

1. frozen drink makers
2. ice cream makers
3. smoothie makers
4. juice makers
5. slushy makers
6. seltzer makers
7. countertop ice cube makers
8. popsicle makers (the molds with the sticks kind too) My Mom used to fill these molds with orange juice and it is by far my most favorite flavor of popsicle. Before we got the real mold she’d make them in bathroom Dixie cups. She put foil across the top and poked a hole for the stick to freeze in the correct position. By far the most difficult thing was waiting for them to freeze so I could eat one.

Step 2 Sort the keepers from the “toss/donate” ones.

Remember: Check to see which do more than one thing. You may be keeping dupes, like a drink maker that also juices.

What’s a keeper? The ones you use.
What a toss/donate? The ones you think you will use, but don’t. The ones you haven’t taken out of the box. The ones you were gifted for your wedding (and you have been married 52 years) and have yet to use it. The ones that are more trouble than they are worth. The ones for making things you never eat/drink.

Remember: By giving away any you don’t use or need, you’ll free up space to store the stuff you use.

Step 3 Put the keepers back into the cabinet. Give the “tosses” to someone who will use and appreciate them more than you are.

Where to share: if you have some makers to share, first check with family, friends, and neighbors that entertain a lot. It is possible they might like to take it. Plus, that way you can borrow it if you change you mind. But, if there are no takers you can list it for free on a local “buy nothing” group. And some organizations will accept them for donation. Check out what to donate where.

Great Job!

Now you know today is National Daiquiri Day. Hopefully these suggestions will be useful.

Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like this are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

Coming Up:

Join me online for this fun new program! 3 Mini Makeovers to Get Your Decluttering Done (30 Minute Class) THIS Wednesday July 21st at 7:00 PM ET.

Declutter with Me Every Friday @4pm

Every Friday @ 4pm I’m on Facebook Live brought to you by the through the Jersey City Free Public Library. No registration is needed. Simply log onto Facebook.com/JamieNovak at 4pm to watch the live with me. We do an on-the-spot organizing session!

Tell Me a Topic to Cover:

Do you have a question? Want something for me to talk about? Need a resource? Tell me now.

Today is National Ice Cream Day! Let’s celebrate by eating “leftover” ice cream before it forms ice crystals. Not that there is really ever leftover ice cream, more like eaten and to be eaten. But it is a good day to sort out the freezer, you might find a container with a little left inside. If kept constantly frozen at 0°F opened ice cream will still have a good quality for about two months. But let’s be honest, does it ever really last that long?

While we are on the topic of National Ice Cream Day, let’s clear the cabinets of these leftovers too:

1. stale ice cream cones
2. hot fudge topping
3. strawberry sauce
4. caramel drizzle
5. other sundae toppings
6. out-of-date cherries
7. long lost sprinkles (these are my favorite jimmies as my grandmother used to call them)

Don’t Forget

Broken ice cream scoops can be recycled. This is my favorite ice cream scoop and this is my favorite trigger style. This is also the best day to sort out specialty ice cream bowls you never use. And any other ice cream related product that is just collecting dust in your kitchen.

Great Job!

Now you know that today is National Ice Cream Day. Hopefully these suggestions will be useful.

Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like this are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

Coming Up:

Join me online for this fun new program! 3 Mini Makeovers to Get Your Decluttering Done (30 Minute Class) THIS Wednesday July 21st at 7:00 PM ET.

Declutter with Me Every Friday @4pm

Every Friday @ 4pm I’m on Facebook Live brought to you by the through the Jersey City Free Public Library. No registration is needed. Simply log onto Facebook.com/JamieNovak at 4pm to watch the live with me. We do an on-the-spot organizing session!

Tell Me a Topic to Cover:

Do you have a question? Want something for me to talk about? Need a resource? Tell me now.

Let’s celebrate National Lottery Day by taking a moment to check your wallet, bag, and drawers for forgotten tickets and scratchers, then this is how to check if you won the lottery online. Don’t forget to toss old, non-winning 50/50 tickets from door prizes and Bingo.

Check Your Tickets Online

This is how to check if you won the lottery online: Mega Millions and Powerball both have ticket checkers on their website. To find state specific drawings, simply search ‘[your state name] lottery ticket checker’ then confirm you are choosing the official lottery webpage.

Great Job!

Now you know how to check if you won the lottery online. Hopefully these suggestions will be useful.

Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like this are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

Coming Up:

Join me online for this fun new program! 3 Mini Makeovers to Get Your Decluttering Done (30 Minute Class) Wednesday July 21st at 7:00 PM ET.

Declutter with Me Every Friday @4pm

Every Friday @ 4pm I’m on Facebook Live brought to you by the through the Jersey City Free Public Library. No registration is needed. Simply log onto Facebook.com/JamieNovak at 4pm to watch the live with me. We do an on-the-spot organizing session!

Tell Me a Topic to Cover:

Do you have a question? Want something for me to talk about? Need a resource? Tell me now.

Do you have sporting equipment collecting dust in a closet, the garage, or basement? Things like: cleats, gloves, balls, clubs, bats, sticks, footwear, nets, racquets, gloves, protective equipment. This is the answer to the question, “where can I donate sports equipment near me?”

Donating your unused pieces of sporting equipment means that someone who might not be able to participate in sports can join the sports team; all because you donated your unused pieces. Yes, you can also try to sell them. Here are some ideas to get them to someone who can use them.

Good Idea

Don’t forget to donate whistles! A coach can use them and bonus: you won’t have to hear them being used. Don’t donate all the whistles, pop one into your Emergency Kit. They are helpful for getting attention in an emergency situation.

Places to Donate Sports Equipment

1. levelingtheplayingfield.org
2. pickupplease.org
3. letsplayitforward.org
4. bikesfortheworld.org
5. oneworldrunning.com
6. peacepassers.org

Sell Sports Equipment

You can try to sell sports equipment online through playitagainsports.com or Facebook Marketplace.

Great Job!

Now you know where can I donate sports equipment near me. Hopefully these suggestions will be useful.

Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like, where can I donate sports equipment near me, are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

Coming Up:

Join me online for this fun new program! 3 Mini Makeovers to Get Your Decluttering Done (30 Minute Class) Wednesday July 21st at 7:00 PM ET.

Declutter with Me Every Friday @4pm

Every Friday @ 4pm I’m on Facebook Live brought to you by the through the Jersey City Free Public Library. No registration is needed. Simply log onto Facebook.com/JamieNovak at 4pm to watch the live with me. We do an on-the-spot organizing session!

Tell Me a Topic to Cover:

Do you have a question? Want something for me to talk about? Need a resource? Tell me now.

Besides that bag of donations that never made it out the door, check out this quick list of things you can give away today, on National Give Something Away Day. Let’s celebrate by sharing!

Quick things to give away today:

1. An article of clothing you never wear? PickUpPlease.org
2. A pair of shoes that pinch your toes? Soles4Souls
3. Old towels? Local pet shelter
4. A book or cookbook? BetterWorldBooks.com
5. Household décor? DonationTown.org
6. Holiday decorations? GoGreenDrop.com
7. Furniture you don’t need? Habitat for Humanity Restore

Great Job!

Now you know what to donate on National Give Something Away Day. Hopefully these suggestions will be useful.

Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like, tosses for National Give Something Away Day, are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

Coming Up:

Join me online for this fun new program! 3 Mini Makeovers to Get Your Decluttering Done (30 Minute Class) Wednesday July 21st at 7:00 PM ET.

Declutter with Me Every Friday @4pm

Every Friday @ 4pm I’m on Facebook Live brought to you by the through the Jersey City Free Public Library. No registration is needed. Simply log onto Facebook.com/JamieNovak at 4pm to watch the live with me. We do an on-the-spot organizing session!

Tell Me a Topic to Cover:

Do you have a question? Want something for me to talk about? Need a resource? Tell me now.

Cleaning out that closet? If you find some professional clothing you no longer need you probably already know about Dress for Success. But what about men’s clothing? Yes, you can donate men’s suits for charity. Here is a list of places that could use your extra professional attire. Check your closets for:

Suits – Belts – Dress shirts – Dress pants – Blazers – Ties – Dress socks – Professional shoes – Cuff Links – Briefcases

Where to donate men’s suits for charity

1. Suits and Smiles
2. Jails to Jobs
3. Career Gear
4. Goodwill
5. Churches
6. Salvation Army
7. Homeless shelter
8. Thrift stores
9. The Foster Coalition Foster Care Closets
10. Local School Board to gift to high school students
11. Vietnam Veterans of America
12. Local Veteran Job Center

Don’t Forget

Make sure to check the pockets before donating.

Great Job!

If you were wondering, where to donate men’s suits for charity, now you know the answer! Hopefully these suggestions will be useful.

Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like, where to donate men’s suits for charity, are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

Related Tips:

How to organize gift bags in a closet

Coming Up:

Join me online for this fun new program! 3 Mini Makeovers to Get Your Decluttering Done (30 Minute Class) Wednesday July 21st at 7:00 PM ET.

Declutter with Me Every Friday @4pm

Every Friday @ 4pm I’m on Facebook Live brought to you by the through the Jersey City Free Public Library. No registration is needed. Simply log onto Facebook.com/JamieNovak at 4pm to watch the live with me. We do an on-the-spot organizing session!

Tell Me a Topic to Cover:

Do you have a question? Want something for me to talk about? Need a resource? Tell me now.

A quick win for today is to sort though your potatoes. If you have any that have turned to mush, today is the day to toss them. What is the best way to store potatoes? Here are some simple do’s and don’ts to follow.

Do

Keep potatoes in a cool place.

Keep potatoes in a dark place.

Store them in a basket, bowl, or paper bag for ventilation.

Check the potatoes and discard any that are spouted, soft, or shriveled.

Don’t

Keep them in a plastic bag, they need air circulation to stay fresh.

Store potatoes on the refrigerator, it’s to warm.

Keep potatoes near other fruits and veggies like onions, bananas, or apples, they produce ethylene gas which can accelerate ripening/spoilage.

Best Potato Storage Options

This one if great, if you prefer a rolling storage cart.

These burlap bags are fun and functional storage options for potatoes and onions.

And then there is always a countertop size.

I love this open basket for storing potatoes, I can easily see how many I have left.

Great Job!

If you were wondering, what is the best way to store potatoes, now you know the answer! Hopefully these suggestions will be useful.

Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like, what is the best way to store potatoes, are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

Related Tips:

How to declutter kitchen drawers

How to organize the kitchen cabinets

Coming Up:

Join me online for these fun new programs! 3 Mini Makeovers to Get Your Decluttering Done (30 Minute Class) Wednesday July 21st at 7:00 PM ET and 10 Quick Summer Decluttering Projects Thursday July 22d at 7:00 PM ET.

Declutter with Me Every Friday @4pm

Every Friday @ 4pm I’m on Facebook Live brought to you by the through the Jersey City Free Public Library. No registration is needed. Simply log onto Facebook.com/JamieNovak at 4pm to watch the live with me. We do an on-the-spot organizing session!

Tell Me a Topic to Cover:

Do you have a question? Want something for me to talk about? Need a resource? Tell me now.

Today is National Paper Bag Day. Do you love a good paper bag? I do. I especially like the ones with folded paper handles that I get from the boutique grocery store. But if I’m honest, I think I save way too many bags. My front hall closet door wouldn’t close without a good push and it was all due to the bag collection. So today, I’m sharing how I was able to, finally, organize my bags.

Follow these 3 Steps:

1. Gather all the bags together
2. Group the bags into categories (paper, canvas, etc.)
3. Sort each grouping into KEEP, DONATE, TOSS

Having all the bags in one area makes it easier to go through them at one time. Once have have all the bags in sorted out, you can see just how many you have of one category. You might have through you only has one of two canvas bags. But you come to find out you have twelve.

Don’t Forget To Do This

Look inside the bags! You might find something you have been looking for, like a lipstick or loose change. And checking inside prevents you from putting the bag away with a piece of gum or something still left inside.

Don’t Do This

Don’t store away any bags that have holes or are otherwise unusable. If the strap it too long or the material is too flimsy, you won’t use it- so why keep it?

Yes, You Can Donate Them

Bag up the bags and donate them. Or fill them with the donations for pick up or drop-off. Check out where to donate items.

You Might Want These

A cube organizer.

A plastic grocery bag organizer.

A gift bag organizer.

Great Job!

If you were wondering, organize my bags, now you know the answer! Hopefully these suggestions will be useful.

Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like, organize my bags, are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

Related Tips:

How to organize gift bags in a closet

Coming Up:

Join me online for this fun new program! 3 Mini Makeovers to Get Your Decluttering Done (30 Minute Class) Wednesday July 21st at 7:00 PM ET.

Declutter with Me Every Friday @4pm

Every Friday @ 4pm I’m on Facebook Live brought to you by the through the Jersey City Free Public Library. No registration is needed. Simply log onto Facebook.com/JamieNovak at 4pm to watch the live with me. We do an on-the-spot organizing session!

Tell Me a Topic to Cover:

Do you have a question? Want something for me to talk about? Need a resource? Tell me now.

Ready for a quick win? A tiny summer project is cleaning out your greeting card file. And, if you have extra cards to share you can donate greeting cards for charity.

Place all the cards on a table. Sort them into categories. Check if you need to add any to your collection. If so, add those to your shopping list. Flip through the cards in each category. Are they all in good condition? Do you like them? Will you use them? If the answer is no, recycle them or donate them.

I use this organizer box to keep all my greeting cards sorted and stored away neatly. It is large enough to fit my oversize cards. No more misplaced envelopes. No more crunched card corners.

It is the perfect time of year to sort through your cards. Before buying new ones, use up the ones you have on hand for upcoming events. If there are any you can donate, this is what you can do with greetings cards:

Mail new or used cards (front only – no envelope) to: St. Jude’s Ranch for Children, 100 St. Jude’s St., Boulder City, NV 89005.

If that will not work for you, this is what else you can do to share your greeting cards today:

• Gift them to a local day care center for the children to use in crafts.
• Check with a local house of worship, sometimes they leave them out for anyone who needs them.
• See if a local senior center might like them for residents to use.

Great Job!

If you were wondering, how to donate greeting cards for charity, now you know the answer! Hopefully these suggestions will be useful.

Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like, how to donate greeting cards for charity, are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

Related Tips:

What to do with expired coupons

Coming Up:

Join me online for this fun new program! 3 Mini Makeovers to Get Your Decluttering Done (30 Minute Class) Wednesday July 21st at 7:00 PM ET.

Declutter with Me Every Friday @4pm

Every Friday @ 4pm I’m on Facebook Live brought to you by the through the Jersey City Free Public Library. No registration is needed. Simply log onto Facebook.com/JamieNovak at 4pm to watch the live with me. We do an on-the-spot organizing session!

Tell Me a Topic to Cover:

Do you have a question? Want something for me to talk about? Need a resource? Tell me now.

Share Your Socks!

Have you ever Googled, how to donate to a homeless shelter near me? If so, here is a list of what to share and where to share it. While sorting through your closets and drawers, see if there is anything you can add to a bag to donate. Come back tomorrow to see a new tip. Tips are posted at midnight.

1. Socks
2. New underwear
3. Hygiene items (new & travel-size) hand sanitizer, body wash, shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, toothbrush, toothpaste, shaving cream, nail clippers, razors, baby/body wipes and feminine hygiene products
4. Backpacks
5. Canned and non-perishable food

Find a Shelter Near You

Here’s how to find a homeless shelters near you:

1. Salvation Army Shelters Directory
2. Homeless Shelter Directory
3. Midnight Run (NYC)

Great Job!

If you were wondering, how to donate to a homeless shelter near me, now you know the answer! Hopefully these suggestions will be useful.

Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like, how to use leftovers, are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

Related Tips:

1. What Can I Do With My Old Furniture
2. Where to Donate Used Puzzles
3. Where to Donate Legos

Coming Up:

Join me online for this fun new program! 3 Mini Makeovers to Get Your Decluttering Done (30 Minute Class) Wednesday July 21st at 7:00 PM ET.

Declutter with Me Every Friday @4pm

Every Friday @ 4pm I’m on Facebook Live brought to you by the through the Jersey City Free Public Library. No registration is needed. Simply log onto Facebook.com/JamieNovak at 4pm to watch the live with me. We do an on-the-spot organizing session!

Tell Me a Topic to Cover:

Do you have a question? Want something for me to talk about? Need a resource? Tell me now.

Are you cleaning out a child’s playroom? Tidying up their bedroom? Are you sorting through toys in the basement or attic? If the toy chest is overflowing, you might have some toys to share. If so, you might be wondering where can you donate toys. So, if you are ready to share and you need to know, where can I donate new toys, where can I donate children’s toys, or where can I donate gently used toys, I have complied a helpful list for you.

1. Go Green Drop
2. Salvation Army
3. Goodwill
4. Pick Up Please
5. United Way
6. Donation Town
7. Listing it on a “buy nothing” group through social media
8. Check with friends, family, and neighbors
9. Head Start Programs
10. Local Day Care Centers
11. Toys for Tots
12. Shelters
13. YMCA
14. Religious Centers, Church, Synagogue, Mosque 
15. Operation Homefront
16. Doctors’ Offices
17. Social Services
18. Second Chance Toys
19. Big Brothers Big Sisters of America
20. Host a Garage No Sale and give them to the children in the neighborhood

Feeling Sentimental?

If you are ready to share the toy, but seeing it brings back a flood of memories; snap a photo. Seeing the photo can bring back those same memories. Keep the good feelings but toss the clutter!

Great Job!

If you were wondering, where can you donate toys, now you know the answer! Hopefully these suggestions will be useful.

Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like, how to use leftovers, are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

Related Tips:

Where to donate stuffed toys for plush toys.

How to appraise collectibles in case you have a toy that might have value.

Coming Up:

Join me online for this fun new program! 3 Mini Makeovers to Get Your Decluttering Done (30 Minute Class) Wednesday July 21st at 7:00 PM ET.

Declutter with Me Every Friday @4pm

Every Friday @ 4pm I’m on Facebook Live brought to you by the through the Jersey City Free Public Library. No registration is needed. Simply log onto Facebook.com/JamieNovak at 4pm to watch the live with me. We do an on-the-spot organizing session!

What Can I Do With My Old Furniture

There comes a time when you need a solution for what to do with old furniture. Maybe you want to change your style, you have a pieces that is now just clutter, you inherited items, you are moving, children are moving out and leaving pieces behind. Whatever the reason, if you have a dresser, lamp, table, or chair (or anything else) and you are not sure what to do with it, check out this list.

Let someone use the furniture

Someone needs the furniture you have to share. It is simply a matter of making a match. Keeping extra, unused pieces isn’t good for anyone and it isn’t good for the furniture. Pieces chip, break, warp, and deteriorate in storage. The cost of storage for big pieces is too great. Sure you may have an old bedroom set in your garage. That means your car is parked in the driveway, exposed to the elements.

Don’t do this!

Don’t put it in your basement or leave it in your garage with the plan to “refinish it later.” No one I know has ever actually refinished a piece of furniture! We all think we will, I’ve even told myself I would. Spoiler alert: I never did. Unless this is already a passion of yours, it is highly unlikely you will start now. And if you do start, there are plenty of unwanted pieces of furniture you can use.

16 Places to Give Your Furniture Away

Here are sixteen ways to figure out what you can do with your old furniture.

1. Furniture Bank
2. GoGreenDrop
3. Salvation Army
4. Habitat for Humanity
5. Goodwill
6. Pick Up Please
7. The Arc
8. AMVETS
9. Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA)
10. United Way
11. Donation Town
12. Putting it at the curb with a sign “free”
13. Hosting a garage/yard sale
14. Listing it on a “buy nothing” group through social media
15. Check with friends, family, and neighbors
16. Ask students going to college, if they are renting an apartment

If It Is Junk

Check with your town. Most towns offer bulk disposal options.

Great Job!

Now you know what to do with old furniture! Hopefully these suggestions will be useful.

Related Tips:

If you think your furniture might be valuable check out how to appraise your collectibles.

And if you have clothes to sell, check out where can I sell used clothes online

Coming Up:

Join me online for this fun new program! 3 Mini Makeovers to Get Your Decluttering Done (30 Minute Class) Wednesday July 21st at 7:00 PM ET.

Declutter with Me Every Friday @4pm

Every Friday @ 4pm I’m on Facebook Live brought to you by the through the Jersey City Free Public Library. No registration is needed. Simply log onto Facebook.com/JamieNovak at 4pm to watch the live with me. We do an on-the-spot organizing session!

Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like, how to use leftovers, are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

This past weekend the USA celebrated Independence Day! Which included a lot of grilling and backyard BBQ’s. If you didn’t use up all the coleslaw and potato salad or have leftover hot dogs, check out how to use BBQ leftovers.

Transform Potato Salad

You can make a mash up of a potato pancake/fritter/hash brown sort of thing by forming a patty, then rolling both sides in Panko breadcrumbs, before skillet frying it in a pan. Or try it in a toaster oven if you prefer to bake it.

Make Something New with Coleslaw

Go for a fish taco! Cook a frozen fish stick or a piece of fresh fish. Place the fish on a crunchy or soft tortilla and top with leftover coleslaw. Or add coleslaw to your deli meat sandwich. It is especially good on a corned beef or pastrami on rye bread.

Hot Dog and Coleslaw Mash Up

If you have leftover hotdogs, warm them and top with the coleslaw. If you have a shaker of celery seed in the pantry, try a sprinkle on top.

Reuse Hamburgers

Crumble hamburgers into a chili. Freeze extra chili if it is too hot to eat it now.

Chicken Redo

Add a few spices, like garlic, cumin, and paprika, to BBQ chicken and you have the base for fajitas. Toss it in a pan with sautéed peppers and onions, then eat it with soft tortillas. Serve sour cream, avocado, and salsa on the side.

Sausage

Leftover sausage can become the topping for a pizza.

Revamp the Hot Dog

My Mom would slice leftover hotdogs and make a hot dog hash using (you guessed it) leftover baked potatoes. She would dice the potato and brown it in a skillet using a little butter. She would add chopped onion and the sliced hot dogs. A sprinkle of paprika for flavor or a dash of onion powder and you have a tasty meal. She would also do this same with the leftover ham after every Easter.

Great Job!

Now you know how to use BBQ leftovers! Hopefully these suggestions sparked your creativity. The goal is to use up the food before it becomes an unusable science experiment.

Learn More-

How to organize food storage containers

How to organize your refrigerator

Coming Up:

Join me online for this fun new program! 10 Tiny Tasks to Get Your Decluttering Done this Summer Tuesday July 13th at 6:30 PM ET.

Declutter with Me Every Friday @4pm

Every Friday @ 4pm I’m on Facebook Live brought to you by the through the Jersey City Free Public Library. No registration is needed. Simply log onto Facebook.com/JamieNovak at 4pm to watch the live with me. We do an on-the-spot organizing session!

Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like, how to use leftovers, are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

Today I am sharing one of the best tips when it comes to learning how to reduce clutter at home. A simple tray can solve the clutter piles. So when you are looking to get more organized, try my tray method.

https://youtu.be/n1nTLvqCy3k

Hint for how to reduce clutter at home:

When you read, try a tray, did you automatically think about shopping for a new tray? When you are learning how to reduce clutter at home, shopping for more stuff is the opposite of paring down. Don’t add to your clutter by purchasing one more thing. Instead, shop at home first. There is a really good chance you have a tray or platter or box lid or shallow basket you can re-use. Even if you end up wanting to invest in a tray later on, use something you already own to get this new habit going.

Don’t Forget to Hit Subscribe

Be sure to click subscribe so you don’t miss a show. You’ll be notified when new episodes are available to watch.

Great Job

Now you know how to reduce clutter at home! I can’t wait to hear if you try my tray method.

Share Your Thoughts

Leave a comment, I always reply. I love to hear if you tried it and what you think.

Check out the rest of the shows

New episodes go live every Wednesday. Check out all the past episodes here.

Keep This, Toss That (the book)

Tips like, how to use leftovers, are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

While you are decluttering there is a good chance you’ll come across an item and wonder, “does this have real value?” This is how to appraise collectibles, toys, treasures, and souvenirs, and more!

Search online

GoAntiques.com is a database of items, you can do a free search there. You could also do a search on Ebay to get a sense of value. If you choose to search there, be sure filter your results by checking the “show sold only” box. This will help you get a clearer picture of what is listed versus what it actually sold for.

Use a free online appraisal program

Country Living magazine

You can hire an accredited appraiser.

Appraisers are neutral parties, who only appraise, they can not purchase. There are three major appraiser associations: Appraisers Association of America, International Society of Appraisers and the American Society of Appraisers. Most have specialties, so seek someone who is an expert in your item. You can expect to pay a flat fee, $150+ never a percentage of the value.

Paid online appraisals

You could use Value My Stuff to get an appraisal for $30. all you have to do is upload a photo.

Live auction houses

Sotheby’s and Christie’s offer online appraisals for free, if the item is something they would auction. Or check your local listings, there may be an auction house near you.

Check out your local library

Libraries are a great resource for information. They have pricing guides you can look through.

Try to get on Antiques Roadshow

Or maybe you want to apply to be on Antiques Roadshow?

GREAT JOB!

Now you know the answer to, how to appraise collectibles.

COMING UP

Join me online for this fun new program! 10 Tiny Tasks to Get Your Decluttering Done this Summer Tuesday July 13th at 6:30 PM ET.

Declutter with Me Every Friday @4pm

Every Friday @ 4pm I’m on Facebook Live brought to you by the through the Jersey City Free Public Library. No registration is needed. Simply log onto Facebook.com/JamieNovak at 4pm to watch the live with me. We do an on-the-spot organizing session!

Keep This Toss That

Tips like, how to appraise collectibles, are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

If your home is one stuffed bear short of a full blown plush zoo then you might be wondering, where to donate stuffed toys. You can share them with stuffedanimalsforemergencies.org. Some emergency responders will also accept them, they like to keep some on hand for when they respond to an emergency and children are involved. You can also hold onto them until the fall, when there are a lot of toy drives for Toys for Tots.

GREAT JOB!

Now you know the answer to, where to donate stuffed toys.

COMING UP

Join me online for this fun new program! 10 Tiny Tasks to Get Your Decluttering Done this Summer Tuesday July 13th at 6:30 PM ET.

Declutter with Me Every Friday @4pm

Every Friday @ 4pm I’m on Facebook Live brought to you by the through the Jersey City Free Public Library. No registration is needed. Simply log onto Facebook.com/JamieNovak at 4pm to watch the live with me. We do an on-the-spot organizing session!

Keep This Toss That

Tips like, where to donate stuffed toys, are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

Would you like to know how to organize your party décor? Since you have them out already for the holiday, sorting through your collection of party decorations and paper goods today is a great idea!

Are you ready to sort out your party supplies?

1. Use up party paper plates, napkins and cups.
2. Toss/recycle the trashed items.
3. Keep the items that are in good condition.

While it is temping to save every last top hat and every single scrap of leftover crepe paper – reconsider your choices. Yes, you can donate party supplies. Keep what you need, share the rest. If you have extra party supplies to share consider making a party pack. Donate a ready to go kit with a foil cake pan, with a box cake mix, with a tub of icing, a birthday candle, and a streamer or two. Your unused supplies can make someone’s special day, extra special!

BEST TIP!

Take inventory before storing leftovers, make sure you have what you need for Labor Day. Shop after holiday sales for anything you might need. But skip picking stuff up just because it is on sale. If you don’t need it, then it is no sale at all.

GREAT JOB!

Now you know the answer to, how to organize your party décor. Looking for more hints? I shared my party-in-a-box idea and tips for how to organize party supplies.

COMING UP

Join me online for this fun new program! 10 Tiny Tasks to Get Your Decluttering Done this Summer Tuesday July 13th at 6:30 PM ET.

Declutter with Me Every Friday @4pm

Every Friday @ 4pm I’m on Facebook Live brought to you by the through the Jersey City Free Public Library. No registration is needed. Simply log onto Facebook.com/JamieNovak at 4pm to watch the live with me. We do an on-the-spot organizing session!

Keep This Toss That

Tips like how to organize your party décor are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

If you have a shirt you never where and you are wondering, where can I sell used clothes online? I have the answer for you today!

How to Sell Used Clothes

1. Poshmark.com (Listing an item is free, fees for sales under $15 fee is $2.95. Sales above $15 the fee is 20%. The buyer pays the shipping.)
2. Thredup.com (Order a free closet clean-out kit. Postage is paid by them to ship it. If you don’t end up accepting the price or they won’t buy something IF you want it back, you pay the return shipping. If you don’t want it back they will donate it for you.
3. Rebag.com (Sell designer bags by searching for your bag on their database. Once you get the price you can get a pre-paid mailer to send the bag to them)
4. Therealreal.com (An online consignment shop for luxury items including clothes. They pay up to 85% of each item’s sale price.)
5. Tradesy.com (Sell authentic luxury shoes. clothes, and handbags. Items sold for less than $50 commission fee is $7.50, items sold for $50 or more commission rate of 19.8%)

Of course, always check the fine print to make sure the company is a right fit for you. Also, the fees listed were current at the time I wrote this.

TRY THESE:

Just like in a rack in a store, clothes closet dividers are a great addition to your closet at home. Hang labeled dividers from the rod so you know what is where. Group clothes by size, season, or style.

BEST TIP!

If you are selling used clothes online make sure you store them in on spot. Otherwise, you might end up accidently donating or misplacing the item. Then, when it sells, you won’t be able to fulfill the order.

GREAT JOB!

Now you know the answer to, where can I sell used clothes online?

COMING UP

10 Tiny Tasks to Get Your Decluttering Done this Summer Tuesday July 13th at 6:30 PM ET.

Declutter with Me Every Friday @4pm

Every Friday @ 4pm I’m on Facebook Live brought to you by the through the Jersey City Free Public Library. No registration is needed. Simply log onto Facebook.com/JamieNovak at 4pm to watch the live with me. We do an on-the-spot organizing session!

Keep This Toss That

Tips like where can I sell used clothes online are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

Where to find chain restaurant recipes

When you know where to find chain restaurant recipes deciding whether or not to keep that dusty cookbook becomes a lot easier. Many of those recipes are available online at CopyKat.com. With so many great recipes online you can donate unused cookbooks. This is what you can do with old books, including cookbooks.

Tune in now to hear the story of my recipe disaster! This recipe binder is one of my favorite ways to keep recipes organized. If you have a shoebox of clipped recipes, pull one out and give it a try! Add the ingredients you need to your shopping list.

COMING UP

10 Tiny Tasks to Get Your Decluttering Done this Summer Tuesday July 13th at 6:30 PM ET.

TODAY Declutter with Me Every Friday @4pm

Every Friday @ 4pm I’m on Facebook Live brought to you by the through the Jersey City Free Public Library. No registration is needed. Simply log onto Facebook.com/JamieNovak at 4pm to watch the live with me. We do an on-the-spot organizing session!

Keep This Toss That

Tips like where to find chain restaurant recipes are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

Today let’s clean out your coupon drawer.

If you are wondering what to do with expired coupons, mail Manufacturer’s Coupons to: Support Our Troops® P.O. Box 70, Daytona Beach, FL 32115. Did you know expired coupons, up to two months past expiration, can still be used overseas.

Try This Tip!

When writing out your grocery shopping list, add the letter “C” next to any item that you have a coupon for. That way you can make sure you pick the right one up that matches any coupon restrictions. Also you can ask for a raincheck in case they are out of that particular item.

Sort Your Coupons.

Use a coupon organizer to keep them organized. Using a organizer to sort them by grocery store aisle makes it a lot easier to shop.

Hint:

If you always find yourself clipping coupons, but never using them, maybe you don’t need to waste your time continuing to clip them. After all your time is valuable. Or find a way to make sure you end up using them. If you are tech savvy, there are many ways to use coupons from your phone.

Great job on a quick win.

Now you know how what to do with expired coupons.

ONLINE TONIGHT!

The 31 Day Declutter Challenge begins at 7pm ET Thursday, July 1st, grab your virtual seat now. And 10 Tiny Tasks to Get Your Decluttering Done this Summer Tuesday July 13th at 6:30 PM ET.

Declutter with Me Every Friday @4pm

Every Friday @ 4pm I’m on Facebook Live brought to you by the through the Jersey City Free Public Library. No registration is needed. Simply log onto Facebook.com/JamieNovak at 4pm to watch the live with me. We do an on-the-spot organizing session!

Keep This Toss That

Tips like this one about what to do with expired coupons are in my new book, Keep This Toss That, pick up one today. If nothing else, it doubles as a great paperweight to hold down your pile of mail.

Today is the day to clean out the junk drawer, locate all those unknown keys, and learn what to do with old keys. These are the 5 steps to organizing your junk drawer AND keeping it tidy. Ready? Let’s go for a quick win!

Step 1 Dump

The first step to cleaning the junk drawer is dumping the contents onto the counter. You might want to put down a towel first to collect crumbs and prevent scratches. Dump the drawer and let’s see what you find.

Step 2 Sort

Now that you can see everything, start sorting the stuff into piles. Put all the pens together, all the rubber bands together, all the spare keys together and so on. At this point you may find some instant tosses, like pens without ink or gum wrappers. And make sure things work, like a flashlight, try it and take the time to replace the batteries, if needed.

And did you know it is not recommended to store batteries loose in a drawer? Touching another battery can drain the power. Move your batteries into a storage case like this one. The batteries will be safe, at a glance you know what you have in stock, and you’ll gain valuable space in your drawer.

Step 3 Toss

Toss the junk, donate what you now longer need, like spare keys to old locks. If you are wondering what to do with old keys, consider donating them to Recyclingkeysforkids.org. Some towns offer metal recycling as well. Or you could see if an artist/crafter on Etsy might be interested in turning your keys into art.

Step 4 Store

Wipe out the drawer, get into the corners and make sure it is crumb and dust free before returning the items to the drawer. Add drawer organizers. Then return the items you are keeping to the drawer. Group like items together. Consider using snack size zip top bags to hold things. Use plastic tabs from bags to label the keys you are keeping.

Add an In Drawer Organizer

Ice cube trays, box lids, food storage containers, and egg cartons can work well as in drawer organizers. If you are looking for something with a lot of adjustability check out this bamboo option. Or this divider set which takes up less space than a full drawer insert and offers tons of flexible storage.

Step 5 Maintain

Now that you know what to do with old keys and your drawer is all sorted out, it is time to keep it tidy! You did the hard work, now maintain a clutter-free space. Instead of tossing things into the drawer, take an extra moment to return things where they belong.

Great job on a quick win.

Now you know how what to do with old keys.

ONLINE TOMORROW!

BEFORE THEY ARE GONE, be sure to grab your virtual seat for the 31 Day Declutter Challenge beginning at 7pm ET TOMORROW Thursday, July 1st. And, if you don’t already have a copy of my book, Keep This Toss That, I highly suggest picking one up today. You’ll find yourself highlighting pages and using it as an ongoing reference. Plus, it makes a great paperweight for the pile of papers you keep saying you’ll go through one day.

Today, let’s donate all those used puzzles. The ones you spent the past 18 months struggling to put together. And the ones still in shrink wrapped boxes waiting to be opened. And the ones you assembled once and won’t attempt again.

This is where to donate used puzzles:

1. Family Shelters
2. Schools
3. Day Care Center
4. Children’s Hospitals
5. Churches/Houses of Worship
6. Retirement Homes & Assisted Livings
7. Youth Clubs
8. Scouts
9. Homeless Shelters
10. YMCAs
11. Local Library
12. Share with a Neighbor
13. Post on local “buy nothing” groups

What To Do With Missing Pieces

What if you have puzzle pieces without a puzzle? Yes, you can donate single pieces. Many crafters and artists use puzzle pieces in their work. Instead of breaking apart a new puzzle with all the pieces, they’re rather use your spare pieces.

Try My Mom’s Trick

To keep pieces matched up, use my Mom’s trick. When we first opened a box, she would flip all the pieces upside down and add an identifying mark. A letter or number or symbol. That way, if a piece was found, you would know which puzzle it belonged to. I inherited a lot of my organizing tricks from my Mom.

Organize Puzzles

For the ones you are going to keep try these storage options. Store in process puzzles in a clever organizer. Or on this mat. If you prefer to work on an angle try this easel. Store puzzle boxes on a hanging shelf organizer. Or take them out of the box and store the pieces in a plastic bin. Be sure to keep the image so you know what you are building.

Great job on a quick win.

Now you know where to donate used puzzles

Coming up!

BEFORE THEY ARE GONE, be sure to grab your virtual seat for the 31 Day Declutter Challenge beginning at 7pm ET this Thursday, July 1st. If you don’t already have a copy of my book, Keep This Toss That, I highly suggest picking one up today. You’ll find yourself highlighting pages and using it as an ongoing reference. Plus, it makes a great paperweight for the pile of papers you keep saying you’ll go through one day.

You know the spare thread that comes in a tiny bag with new clothes? Let’s donate them today! I don’t even know which outfit mine go to. And chances are, we already gave that item away anyway. Keep reading to see how to organize supplies for crafting and sewing. Tidy up your supplies by choosing organizing options that keep them visible. Being able to see your supply stash, can jumpstart your creativity!

File Your Fabric

Transform a filing cabinet into a fabric cabinet. Add a bunch of hanging file folders. Then drape the fabric over the file folder. Open the drawer and at a glance you see all your fabric neatly lined up. Pull what you need. No more stacking or re-buying what you know you own but can’t find.

Double Duty Spice Rack

With 56 jars to fill this wall mounted spice rack solves the problem of where to store the little stuff. Sequins, glitter, buttons, and more will be on display. Because it is wall mounted you don’t have to give up any countertop space.

Use Magnetic Tape

Apply peel-and-stick magnetic tape to the cutting table and sides of the drawers. It is the perfect place to collect pins and things.

Add a Measuring Tape

Just like they do at the fabric store, glue a measuring tape to the table.

Go Vertical

Stick what you can to the wall to make use of wasted space. Try a thread organizer that hangs on the wall.

Use a Gift Wrap Organizer

A hanging or under-bed gift wrap organizer can be the solution for how to organize supplies. Rolls of fabric fit in the largest pocket. Smaller pockets can hold rolls of ribbon and binding.

Transform a Bathroom Towel Rack

Hang a bathroom towel rack to hold spools of ribbon.

Try an Ice Cube Tray

Ice cube trays are ideal drawer organizers. The small compartments are perfect for storing notions and buttons and more.

Great job on a quick win.

Now you know how to organize supplies for sewing.

Coming up!

BEFORE THEY ARE GONE, be sure to grab your virtual seat for the 31 Day Declutter Challenge beginning at 7pm ET this Thursday, July 1st. If you don’t already have a copy of my book, Keep This Toss That, I highly suggest picking one up today. You’ll find yourself highlighting pages and using it as an ongoing reference. There is a whole chapter dedicated to crafting!

You know all those recipes and recipes for dinner ideas you clipped? The ones you keep telling yourself you’re going to make one day? We both know, if you haven’t made it by now, you probably never will. But I bet there are some great ideas in the stack, ideas you can try today. Let’s look for a new recipe to try. Mixing up your menu planning and adding a new “might become a go-to fav recipe” Today, recycle ten you will never make. Bonus points if you recycle even more. And locate a few to try for dinner or another meal. Try to avoid getting sidetracked by just reading all the delicious recipes. The idea is to sort.

Keep or Toss?

If you need some help deciding which ones go and which ones stay, try this:

1. Recycle any that have unusual ingredients you never purchase
2. Recycle any that are easily available to you elsewhere or that you can look up online
3. Recycle any you have in multiple versions (like 7 chocolate chip cookie recipes)
4. Recycle any that are in cookbooks you own (unless you prefer to donate the cookbook)
5. Recycle any that don’t have color photos – unless you like to chance it and hope you make it correctly (although without a photo for comparison, you’d never know if it was wrong)
6. Keep any that are your go-to favorites
7. Keep any that have been passed down through the generation
8. Keep any that you truly intend to prepare – if that’s the case, then add the ingredients to your shopping list
9. Keep any that are for your favorite menu items from your favorite chain restaurant (or check to see if your favorite chain restaurant recipe is available on CopyKat.com)

Great job on a quick win.

Now you have some recipes for dinner ideas.

Coming up!

BEFORE THEY ARE GONE, be sure to grab your virtual seat for the 31 Day Declutter Challenge beginning at 7pm ET this Thursday, July 1st. If you don’t already have a copy of my book, Keep This Toss That, I highly suggest picking one up today. You’ll find yourself highlighting pages and using it as an ongoing reference. Plus, it makes a great paperweight for the pile of papers you keep saying you’ll go through one day.

How long is food good after sell by date? A great question to ask when you come across an open bottle of marinade or frozen leftovers from last holiday. Check out StillTasty.com to search for the answer.

Today, clear the fridge!

1. Toss wilted herbs, molding cheese (unless it is moldy on purpose, like Blue Cheese), and outdated marinade.
2. Identify things in the pantry that are past their use by date.
3. Check the freezer for unknown frozen items, usually wrapped in foil with no identifying labels.
4. Then check the cabinet for stale chips and tea bags you’ll never use.
5. Finally, search the potato bin for sprouted potatoes.

Organize the Fridge

If you are always finding long lost food items in the bask of the fridge, you’ll love these bins. I use them to store all sorts of things, like containers of sour cream, bags of leftovers, baskets of berries and so much more. Being able to “slide” the bin forward means I can see everything without digging around for it. No more forgetting to use food before it spoils. I use one for leftovers, that way I can use them up before they are unidentifiable. This is how to organize food storage containers for leftovers.

Great job on a quick win.

Now you know how long food is good for after sell by date.

Coming up!

BEFORE THEY ARE GONE, be sure to grab your virtual seat for the 31 Day Declutter Challenge beginning at 7pm ET this Thursday, July 1st. If you don’t already have a copy of my book, Keep This Toss That, I highly suggest picking one up today. You’ll find yourself highlighting pages and using it as an ongoing reference. Plus, it makes a great paperweight for the pile of papers you keep saying you’ll go through one day.

Amazon Prime Days just ended. If you ordered a few (or a few more than just a few) things, you will likely have a bunch of boxes and you may be wondering how to recycle your Amazon packaging. Empty boxes are a GREAT way to get organized. New stuff came in the boxes, declutter by filling the boxes with old stuff for donation. You can mail the boxes through Give Back Box using the postage paid label they provide to you at no charge. Or schedule a pick up or drop them off. The idea is a version of the rule: 1 in 1 out. One box of new stuff in – 1 box of old stuff out!

Recycling Recommendations:

Amazon Second Chance details exactly how to recycle your Amazon packaging. They also give you information about trading in your old electronic devices, speakers, wearable tech, and more for a gift card. The balls of brown packing paper are recyclable through most curbside paper recycling service in town. The plastic pillows and bubble lined plastic mailers are considered plastic film and also easy to through most curbside paper recycling service in town. If your town does not offer that option, check out PlasticFilmRecycling.org for a local collection point based on your zip code.

Great job on a quick win.

Now you know how to recycle your Amazon packaging. Keep your momentum going by joining me on Facebook every Friday @ 4pm for a Facebook Live through the Jersey City Free Public Library. No registration needed. Simply log onto Facebook.com/JamieNovak at 4pm ET today to declutter live with me!

Coming up!

BEFORE THEY ARE GONE, be sure to grab your virtual seat for the 31 Day Declutter Challenge beginning at 7pm ET this Thursday, July 1st. If you don’t already have a copy of my book, Keep This Toss That, I highly suggest picking one up today. You’ll find yourself highlighting pages and using it as an ongoing reference. Plus, it makes a great paperweight for the pile of papers you keep saying you’ll go through one day.

Do you have an extra dresser? Or a lamp or a chair to share? When you’re not sure where to donate furniture you don’t use, you keep it. No one wants to be wasteful and toss still good pieces. Go to Habitat.org/restores to schedule a pick-up by entering your zip code.

You don’t have to store the lamp you’ll never use or the extra dresser from a bedroom set you inherited. It’s time to donate the furniture. It’s a win-win; you reclaim space previously taken up by unwanted furniture and someone will get furniture they need.

What Do You Have to Donate

You might have one of these items, or something else to share. These pieces don’t store well in a basement, attic, or garage. The temperature fluctuations and humidity levels can warp or dry out the wood, the finish can begin to peel, and any metal can rust. Instead of letting your unused furniture continue to deteriorate, get your space back and let the pieces be used today.

1. Coffee table
2. End tables
3. Couch
4. Nightstands
5. Dresser
6. Hutch
7. Dining table
8. Chairs
9. Desk
10. TV Stand
11. Stool
12. Ottoman
13. Bakers Rack
14. Coat Tree
15. Accent Chair
16. Bedframe
17. Loveseat
18. Accent Table
19. Console Table
20. Bookcase

Make Moving Furniture Easy

Have these furniture movers ready, you can place under the feet of your furniture, especially the next time you are getting new furniture delivered. These little pads make it so easy to push even heavy pieces of furniture around.

Great job on a quick win. 

Now you know where to donate furniture! Check out more posts here. If you have things to donate check out these resources. Keep your momentum going by joining me online for The Secret of 10 & 10 Organizing Tonight Thurs. 6/24 at 7pm

And if you don’t have a copy of Keep This Toss That I’d suggest picking one up today. You’ll find yourself highlighting pages and using it as an ongoing reference. Plus, it makes a great paperweight for the pile of papers you keep saying you’ll go through one day.

This is how to organize gift bags in a closet. Yes, that’s right, today we finally sort through the gift bags! The ones that are too good to use. The giant ones and the tiny ones you never need. And the ones that have been re-used one too many times.

First, sort your collection by size. Look them over and discard any that can’t be used/re-used. They might be crinkled, damaged, torn, or missing handles. Next, from the bunch of usable gift bags, select a variety of sizes to keep.

Use Organizers to Store Them

This gift bag organizer stores a bunch of bags in a compact space. If you prefer to hang the bags this hanging might be what you need. But, if you want to store rolls of gift wrap, bows, and more use this organizer.

Donate Some

Yes, you can donate gift bags. Give away any that are still usable (or new) but you don’t need. Now that you know how to organize gift bags in a closet, check out a list of where to donate the extra. Keep your momentum going by joining me online next week for these free online programs:

1. TONIGHT How to Tidy Up & Get More Done this Summer SAME title – NEW show
2. The Secret of 10 & 10 Organizing SAME title – NEW show

And if you don’t have a copy of Keep This Toss That I’d suggest picking one up today. You’ll find yourself highlighting pages and using it as an ongoing reference. Plus, it makes a great paperweight for the pile of papers you keep saying you’ll go through one day.

Great job on a quick win! Now you know the answer to the question, “how to organize gift bags in a closet?”

Is your garage a clutter collection spot? If you are trying to make space in your garage for your car, then you might be wondering where to donate a bike. For the bikes you are not using, you can schedule a pick up with Vietnam Veterans of America through pickupplease.org. And if you happen to be in the tri-state area you have another organization to consider, Pedals for Progress or p4p.org.

Bikes don’t get better with age, sitting in a hot garage they deteriorate. The rubber rots, the metal brakes and chains can rust, and the tires go flat. Instead of letting your unused bikes continue to collect dust this is where to donate a bike today. Letting someone else have it, means it will be used, which feels better than letting it sit there.

For the bikes you are keeping, this bike rack with additional sports equipment storage, is a great option. It prevents the bikes from tipping over and scratching you car. In addition to bikes, this storage shelf gives you space to store holiday décor and all the other stuff that ends up in the garage.

Great job on a quick win. Now you know where to donate a bike! Check out more posts here. If you have things to donate check out these resources. Keep your momentum going by joining me online this week for these free online programs:

1. How to Tidy Up & Get More Done this Summer SAME title – NEW show Wed. 6/23
2. The Secret of 10 & 10 Organizing SAME title – NEW show Thurs. 6/24

And if you don’t have a copy of Keep This Toss That I’d suggest picking one up today. You’ll find yourself highlighting pages and using it as an ongoing reference. Plus, it makes a great paperweight for the pile of papers you keep saying you’ll go through one day.

Today we clear out all the forgotten lunchboxes from the shelf. We can only hope that when you open them, you don’t find a long lost sandwiches inside. This is also a good time to check over your re-useable ice pack collection. Let’s check out how to organize lunch containers, insulated boxes, lunch boxes.

Pare Down the Collection

Sort your collection, grouping similar types together. Once you know how many you own, it will be easier to pick the best and “toss” the rest. Hold onto the ones you use all the time. Or the ones you could need soon.

Share the Excess

Consider donating the still-good, but not-needed, insulated bags, thermoses, and lunch boxes.

Toss the Trash

The bag with the broken zipper can’t be donated. If you have ones that are zipped, cracked, have a broken strap, or a missing lid, you’ll have to toss them. Check out Earth911.com if you need local recycling options.

Water Bottle Storage

For the ones you are going to keep, try this clever rack to store your water bottle collection. Nest smaller bags inside larger ones.

Great job on a quick win! You now know how to organize lunch containers. Are you ready to tidy up other areas? Check out more posts here. Keep your momentum going by joining me online next week for these free online programs:

1. Ten Tiny Tidy Ups this Summertime SAME title – NEW show
2. How to Tidy Up & Get More Done this Summer SAME title – NEW show
3. The Secret of 10 & 10 Organizing SAME title – NEW show

And if you don’t have a copy of Keep This Toss That I’d suggest picking one up today. You’ll find yourself highlighting pages and using it as an ongoing reference. Plus, it makes a great paperweight for the pile of papers you keep saying you’ll go through one day.

     

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Pandora

On the show today Jamie shares how she made it a point to figure out, how to be happy again. Hear about her recent trip to Pennsylvania where she made her own cool and tasty treat.

Read the blog and catch up on episodes here. And if you don’t have a copy of Keep This Toss That I’d suggest picking one up today. You’ll find yourself highlighting pages and using it as an ongoing reference. Plus, it makes a great paperweight for the pile of papers you keep saying you’ll go through one day.

1. Ten Tiny Tidy Ups this Summertime SAME title – NEW show
2. How to Tidy Up & Get More Done this Summer SAME title – NEW show
3. The Secret of 10 & 10 Organizing SAME title – NEW show

I hope you make it a point to do something today that makes you happy! Especially if you are trying to figure out how to be happy again.

Today I want to share some ideas for what to do with old men’s ties. If you have a closet or drawer with a few (or a few more than just a few) unused men’s ties, you are reading the right post today!

Share the Men’s Ties

Today, pull out a handful of unused men’s ties to donate. You can give them to a local organization, or bag them up and schedule a pick-up with an organization of your choice through DoantionTown.org. Also try checking with a social worker at a local hospital to see if they maintain a clothes closet for men returning to the workforce. A local house of worship might also have a similar closet, you can check with them as well.

How to Organize Men’s Ties

Keep ties wrinkle-free and ready to use by organizing them neatly. Find the one you are looking for easily by paring down to just the ones you use. Then try clever storage for the ties you are keeping. This is an awesome in drawer storage tray. If you prefer to hang them check out this organizer.

Ways to Reuse Men’s Ties

Did you know that silk ties can be used to “dye” eggs? You can find the directions online, it involves boiling them with some vinegar. I made them one year and they came out great. I think I still have them in a closet somewhere. I might need to think about tossing those and making a few more.

What To Do with Treasured Ties

There is a good chance you have some ties that have meaning. Whether they once belonged to a loved one. Or they are special ones that have a particular meaning or they are part of a treasured collection. Did you know expert crafters can transform men’s ties into artwork? Check out Etsy.com to find artisans that can turn ties into a unique throw pillow, wall art, and so much more. If might be a way of taking special ones and making them into something cool or useful.

Great job on a quick win! Ready to tidy up other areas? Check out more posts here. Keep your momentum going by joining me online next week for these free online programs:

1. Ten Tiny Tidy Ups this Summertime SAME title – NEW show
2. How to Tidy Up & Get More Done this Summer SAME title – NEW show
3. The Secret of 10 & 10 Organizing SAME title – NEW show

And if you don’t have a copy of Keep This Toss That I’d suggest picking one up today. You’ll find yourself highlighting pages and using it as an ongoing reference. Plus, it makes a great paperweight for the pile of papers you keep saying you’ll go through one day.

Do you know someone who has boxes of Legos in the attic, garage, or basement? Do YOU have boxes of Legos in the attic, garage, or basement? Or do you have Legos that are no longer being played with in the toy room? If you are decluttering and ready to let some go, this is where to donate Legos today!

Donate Them

Log onto Legos.com/replay where you can print a prepaid shipping label. After you print the label, box up your Legos, and mail them off. That’s it!

Of course, you can always check with a local library first. Many run Lego clubs and might be interested in your collection.

Appraise Them

BEFORE you donate them, check to see if you have a set that is valuable. On Ebay right now some sets appear to have sold for thousands, they included: Marvel, Star Wars, Friends, Harry Potter, Minecraft, vintage sets, and new in the box sets.

1. Inventory your sets
2. Log onto Ebay
3. Search for the ones you own as if you were going to buy them. Don’t buy them, you already own them.
4. Tick the box on the left hand side of the screen “show sold only.” This will help you get an accurate picture of what is selling versus what is listed for sale.
5. Decide if it is worth your time and energy to sell the ones you have. You might try selling a large group as a “lot” before giving them away.

Store Them

This is the best Lego storage case for the Legos you are keeping. This gives them a home so you a. don’t vacuum them up and b. don’t step on them – which is very painful.

Now that you know where to donate Legos check out what to do with old trophies. Keep your momentum going by joining me online next week for these free online programs:

1. Ten Tiny Tidy Ups this Summertime SAME title – NEW show
2. How to Tidy Up & Get More Done this Summer SAME title – NEW show
3. The Secret of 10 & 10 Organizing SAME title – NEW show

And if you don’t have a copy of Keep This Toss That I’d suggest picking one up today. You’ll find yourself highlighting pages and using it as an ongoing reference. Plus, it makes a great paperweight for the pile of papers you keep saying you’ll go through one day.

Great job on a quick win! Now you know the answer to the question, “where to donate Legos?”

When it comes to what to do with old trophies you have a few options, besides letting them continue to collect dust.

But, before you do anything with them, you might want to snap a photo. The photo will be a memory jogger of the event, without keeping the whole trophy. Bring all the trophies into good lighting and snap a group shot. And if there are any super special ones, maybe they get an individual trophy. If you feel sentimental about the name plate, that can be removed by a trophy maker, before you donate the whole piece. Save the name plate in a scrapbook, or place them in a shadowbox. If the photo is enough then just keep that. Or you may not even need a photo, your choice.

How to Donate the Trophies

Search for a local organization at DonationTown.org by entering your zip code and scheduling a pickup. Or mail them to Medals4Mettle.org or SportsMedalRecycling.com.

How to Display the Trophies

A wall mounted rack takes up less space. This is the best shelf for displaying trophies and hooks for hanging ribbons and awards.

In my treasure box, I have a few of my old track medals. I used to run track and I participated in the long jump. My sister has many ribbons, she had a collection of Brayer horses she would show. If you want to keep some, but not display them, a treasure box might be the answer.

Now, I’d give you a trophy for doing such a great job decluttering, but the trophy would just be more clutter 😉

Keep your momentum going by joining me online next week for these free online programs:

1. Ten Tiny Tidy Ups this Summertime
2. How to Tidy Up & Get More Done this Summer 
3. The Secret of 10 & 10 Organizing

And if you don’t have a copy of Keep This Toss That I’d suggest picking one up today. You’ll find yourself highlighting pages and using it as an ongoing reference. Plus, it makes a great paperweight for the pile of papers you keep saying you’ll go through one day.

Great job on a quick win! Now you know the answer to the question, “what to do with old trophies?”

Are you wondering where to donate toys? I have a bunch of ideas for you. Before we get to sharing still-good toys let’s talk about the no-still-good toys. While cleaning out the basement, if you come across old (and unusable) Mattel toys, like Barbie dolls, you can send them back to Mattel. They pay the shipping to get their old, broken, toys back. Then they reuse them when making new toys! Go to Mattel.com/Playback to print your postage paid label.

Where to Donate Toys

For the other toys you find, the ones you can donate, here’s how to donate new or gently used toys. While sorting and decluttering, when you come across toys that bring up memories, try taking a photo. That way you can donate the toys and still keep the memories.

1. GiveBackBox.com
2. DonationTown.org
3. GoGreenDrop.com

How to Appraise Toys

Are you wondering if any of your old toys have value? Check out GoAntiques.com to look up the value of toys and collectibles. This is also a great place to look up value of other things in your home, like coins, cards, and more.

Toy Storage for the Toys You Keep

And this hammock is a clever storage option for the plush toys that you are keeping.

Learn More

Need even more resources? Check out Where to Donate Items.

I hope you can join me online for one of these upcoming free online programs: Declutter sentimental items. 7 tiny decluttering ideas. And if you don’t have a copy of Keep This Toss That I’d suggest picking one up today. You’ll find yourself highlighting pages and using it as an ongoing reference. Plus, it makes a great paperweight for the pile of papers you keep saying you’ll go through one day.

High five! You did a great job getting started. Stay tuned for the quick toss tomorrow.