Organize a Baby’s Changing Table
July 6, 2011
we just got back from visiting family in Minnesota. My sister-in-law and her husband are expecting their first child, and I had the opportunity to offer them some organizing tips for their nursery.
One of the most critical areas to get organized during your baby’s first year is the changing table. You will spend a significant amount of time here, and you need many things right at your fingertips. Each year accidents happen when a caregiver steps away from the changing table to get something they need. Here are some things to keep in mind when setting up the changing table:
- Convert a Dresser – Today’s changing pads make it easy to convert a dresser into a changing table. Given all of the drawers, you can have all of your essentials within reach. If you are not able to do this, you can use wicker baskets or plastic baskets to divide and organize some of the different items.
- Use a Basket for Diapers – If your changing table is long enough, I recommend having diapers and wipes in a basket on the dresser top. If not, you can use a top drawer or shelf to store them. Other diaper changing necessities to keep close by include a burp cloth, creams and/or ointments which can be stored in the same drawer and kept separate with drawer dividers.
- Include a Wastebasket – Keep a wastebasket close by. If you are using disposable diapers, consider purchasing one with a lid to reduce odors.
- Include a Hamper – Don’t forget a hamper. You will be amazed at how much laundry your little bundle of joy will produce.
- Store Clothes in Drawers – Use the drawers or baskets for storing your baby’s “everyday” clothing, including onesies, pants and socks. A closet works well for storing dress clothes and clothes for your baby to grow into.
I hope these tips help you to organize your baby’s changing table. By preparing this central area before you bring your baby home, you will ensure an easier transition.
– Donna Lindley, Certified Professional Organizer and owner of Rochester Hills, MI-based Organize Your World, Inc.
Shoe Shelves – The Complete Guide
June 24, 2011
Read on for an all encompassing guide and review of shoe shelves. Shoe racks come in varying forms, as we know, and one of the most popular are shoe shelves! What is a shoe shelf? It’s like a bookcase, but it’s not for books, it’s for shoes! I’ve tried out so many different types of shoe racks, and I can honestly say, and I believe I am a fair and qualified judge in this matter, that besides over the door shoe racks, which are my absolute favorite, shoe shelves offer the second best way to keep shoes neat and tidy and off the floor. The first thing I love about shoe rack shelves is that they are really easy to use. You (and your husband and kids) can easily toss your shoes up on the shelf, no opening doors or drawers necessary – really, it doesn’t get much easier than this! Another thing I like about them is that they offer ample air circulation – no stinky shoe smell hiding out in the closet or cabinet, the air circulates keeping shoes fresh on these racks. And lastly, I like shoe shelves because they can be used anywhere – by the front door, in the closet, outside the home, and more. Here are some bonus features you can look for when looking for a new shoe rack with shelves. Open slats versus solid shelves: I prefer the open slats, just make sure you have a tray or rug underneath to catch dirt particles. Folding, like this Stacking Shoe Rack by Winsome – not only is it attractive, it folds up easily when not needed. Another thing I like in a shoe rack is if it has room for improvement in the way of volume. For example, some shoe racks expand in width and some are stackable, allowing you to store more shoes without taking up anymore floor space!
Bread Box Turned Into a Mailbox
June 24, 2011
10 years ago, Mike turned his bread box into a mailbox. After many years, it was time to replace his weathered bread box with a brand new one. We were the lucky ones he bought his bread box from and he shared his story with us! Check it out:
My 10 year old Bread Box / Mail Box
As you can see it has weathered many a Colorado winter’s snow and our hot summers. Not to mention hard working US Postal Carriers.
The transformation from old to new. The wife would kill me if see knew I was working on her table.
The inside rack to keep the mail off the bottom.
You would sag too if you had a heavy mail bag plopped on top of you.
This for all of you who don’t know – it’s a toilet flange. A slip seal type. You can find one like it at one of the BIG BOX hardware stores. ( Lowe’s or Home Depot )
Trace out the bolt pattern on the bottom of the box. Drill six, 1/4 inch holes. 6 each 1/4″ X 1″ bolts + 6 flat washers & 6, 1/4″ nuts.
Nice and neat inside.
Place rack back inside box.
This is a post made of 4″ Sch 40 PVC plastic drain pipe. White in color. The black pipe is called ABS. Paint the outside of the pipe to hold up against the sun’s UV rays.
All ready for another ten years of public service.
Looks real smart and fresh. :^)
That’s Gunther waiting for his buddy the mail lady. She gives him treats.
Thank You Organize-It Store. You don’t know how hard it is to find a real bread box now. I live in a small Western Colorado city. If it wasn’t for your web site Organizeit.com. I would never have been able to replace my one of a kind mail box. Thanks and I’m sure I’ll be buying more from Organizeit.com.”
-Mike
What a great DIY project Mike! Thank you for sharing this with us!
What do you guys think?