Germiest Places in Your Home: The Bathroom

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Bathroom Mats 

Looks can be deceiving, and we often think bath mats are clean since we’re stepping out of the shower or bath with freshly washed feet. In reality, fabric bath mats collect a lot of moisture, dirt, debris, and other microscopic bacteria.

Cleaning Tip: Wash mats at least once a week and try to decrease humidity in your bathroom with open windows and fans.

Toothbrush Holder

It’s easy to forget about something as simple as a toothbrush holder, but studies consistently show that it is one of the top five breeding spaces for germs.

Cleaning Tip: Make sure to rinse toothbrushes thoroughly after use, allow them to dry completely, and replace them every 3 to 4 months. Clean the holder by soaking it in warm water mixed with a little bleach for 30 minutes. Rinse and soak it in clean water for another 30 minutes to remove the bleach residue. Better yet, use a cup you can toss in the dishwasher.

Area Around the Toilet

Toilet bowls top just about everyone’s must-clean list, but the area around the toilet is less obvious and just as filthy.

Cleaning Tip: Combine one cup of table salt, one cup of baking soda, and one cup of oxygen bleach—these will help disinfect and loosen up the build-up. Allow the solution to rest for an hour and wipe with a damp cloth. Equal parts baking soda and vinegar can also do the job.

Related: TikTok Cleaning Hacks That Actually Work

Germiest Places in Your Home: The Kitchen

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Sponges / Dishtowels

Sponges and dishtowels are great for cleaning up messes and absorbing liquid quickly, but they pick up plenty of foodborne pathogens along the way, which can lead to food contamination and cause illness. Don’t wait until your sponge starts smelling—an obvious sign it’s harboring bacteria. It’s recommended to clean your sponge frequently or replace it once a month to ensure proper hygiene.

Cleaning tip: There are several ways to clean a sponge to kill bacteria. Choose to microwave the damp sponge for a minute, put it in the dishwasher—set it on the hottest cycle, or soak it in a solution of one-quarter teaspoon of concentrated bleach per quarter of warm water.

Jute Rugs 

Toft shares that jute-style rugs are highly favored by many of her clients, particularly in the kitchen. However, she emphasizes that these rugs are not cleaned properly, or in some cases, not cleaned at all. Luckily, she’s got a hack that she swears by to keep them in tip-top shape: “Jute rugs can be cleaned with vodka; crazy as it sounds, it’s a hack that theater majors have been doing for years with their costumes.”

Cleaning tip: If you don’t want to use liquid, try dry rug shampoo or baking soda.

Blender Gasket

Appliances that aren’t disassembled and cleaned can harbor dirt and grime. Smoothie lovers, your blender gasket is a prime culprit.

Cleaning tip: In addition to cleaning the gasket with soap and water, use a thin-bristle brush on the rubber ring and soak it in warm, soapy water for about 10 minutes to help loosen stubborn stains.

Fan Blades

Toft says those dreaded fan blades are always on the top of her list as they collect so much dirt and can easily be missed. She recently started adding an air filter to each blade and says, “It’s a huge upgrade for us, and I highly recommend it.”

Cleaning Tip: Another way to prevent dust from sticking to fan blades is to wax them with car wax!

Air Vents

Cleaning your air filter is like hitting the reset button on your home’s air quality—it’s a small action that can make a big difference. Not only does it help keep germs at bay, it minimizes dust and allergens.

Cleaning Tip: Replace air filters regularly (every three months) and vacuum visible dust and debris from vents before replacing them.

Related: 11 Cleaning Hacks for When You’re Grossed Out but Too Tired

Best Toy Storage Solution for Stuffies

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Problem: A hoard of stuffed animals is crowding your kid out of their bed.

Solution: Stuffed animals tend to multiply faster than rabbits. Take advantage of an unused corner by storing toys in a hanging hammock. Now your little one will have a space on the bed to put their second, third, and fourth-best lovey.

To buy: LittleWoodPiece via Etsy, $43

Best Toy Storage Solution for Jumbled Messes

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Problem: The toys are jumbled together in one bin and no one can find the item they want.

Solution: Snag storage containers with individual bins, like IKEA’s Trofast system, but take it to the next level by labeling each one so there’s no confusion as to where each toy goes when playtime is over—making it super easy to find the toy they really want when it’s time to play again. Snag a custom set of vinyl  labels from Made by Sunni—they’re not only well-made, but the pictures also make it easy for pre-readers to know what goes where.

To buy: IKEA, $35 & up

Best Toy Storage Solution for LEGO

Problem: Too many LEGO sets, not enough time to sort them all.

Solution: We know that even the best laid-out LEGO storage system is no match for a kid who is asked to put their LEGO away. It's hard to keep bricks color-coded or grouped by type—eventually—everything winds up mixed all together. Make it easy on yourself (and your kids) by ordering a few Swoop Bags. These bags have a six-inch edge to help contain small pieces, come in small, medium, or large (they're big enough to play with those LEGO inside the bag), and you can choose between all sorts of fun colors. It's a storage and carryall solution (thanks to the handy pull-cord that doubles as a carrying strap) in one! 

To buy: Swoop Bags, $54 & up

Best Toy Storage Solution for the Recycler

Problem: You don't want to buy yet another storage container. 

Solution: Make your own toy storage out of paper bags. We love this cute DIY storage bag from Hello Wonderful because it's easy to make, practically free and it makes a one-stop spot for loose toys. All you need is a few paper bags and paint.

Best Toy Storage Solution for Artists

Problem: Your Picasso-in-training can't find their favorite colored pencil when they need it.

Solution: Pencils and markers rolling all over the place? Set up an artist station with a lazy Susan carousel. This one comes with removable storage spots (art on the go!) that can also pull double duty as craft central: think puff balls, paint brushes, and paints. There's (finally) a home for every sharpened pencil, animal-shaped eraser, gel and glitter marker set, and more. 

To buy: Amazon, $30

Best Toy Storage Solution for (Outgrown) Stuffed Animals

Problem: Your kid has outgrown their loveys on display but isn't ready to donate them.

Solution: All those stuffed animals are turning into monster-sized dust bunnies and while your kid is old enough to not (really) need them, they're too young to want to get rid of them. To make everyone happy, fill this storage-cum-bean bag by Posh Creations for an extra cuddly (and dust-free) spot to sit.

To buy: Amazon, $24

Best Toy Storage Solutions for Board Games

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Problem: Flimsy cardboard puzzle boxes lead to lost and mismatched pieces while stacks of board games stuffed in a cupboard end up never being used.

Solution: Enlist the help of mesh bags and a storage bin.  Not only will they be easily accessible, but the storage bin will up the design factor in your family room and free up closet space.

To buy: 24-count mesh bags on Amazon, $19, storage bins on Amazon, $38

Best Toy Storage Solution for Bunk Beds & Cramped Bed Space

Problem: Bedtime buddies and books don’t have any place to go when it's time to sleep.

Solution: You know better than to suggest your little ones drop extra loveys and books onto the floor to make some space to sleep which is why this solution is what you both need—easy-to-access pockets to stuff those stuffies and books while making room for a full night's sleep (finger's crossed!). This genius storage solution is especially clutch when you have an awesome bunk bed or loft bed situation. 

To buy: Walmart, $11

Best Toy Storage Solution for Figurines

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Problem: Barbie, Ken, and their friends are all looking for a place to crash.

Solution: Your kid will be able to locate Black Panther, Ironman, or Barbie and friends in no time thanks to this toy storage idea that uses an over-the-door shoe organizer. Best part? When you want to keep the toys out of sight, just shut the door.

To buy: Amazon, $26

Best Toy Storage Solution for Awkward Spaces

Problem: Your home has an awkward nook, cranny, or closet and it's hampering any creative toy storage solutions.

Solution: Lean into the awkward spot and use it to your advantage. Build out the space and turn that sore spot into an extra special space with a built-in play house (that can also house those stacks of toys behind closed doors). 

For the indoor playhouse how-to: chrislovesjulia.com

Best Toy Storage Solution for Book Fanatics

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Problem: Your kid’s reading obsession (while great) is bordering on book hoarding.

Solution: Take advantage of walls by installing an open-faced bookshelf so your little bibliophile will have access to all their favorites. If there are too many books in your collection, do a monthly rotation so they all get some love.

To buy: joykids.com, $250

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.

All images courtesy of retailers.

How to Prep for the Day You Clear the Clutter

1. Make a plan.

A good way to start is to identify what you want to accomplish while cleaning. Are there a lot of old toys that can be given away to a friend or sold at a garage sale? Does your kid need more space for books? Write down the tasks you want to tackle, and you’ll feel better about the job.

2. Start where you are.

It’s the secret motivational boost for what can feel like a daunting task. As contributor Jennifer Landis recommends, any spring-cleaning project should start with one room, and look—you’ve got your kid’s room already picked out. Whether you tackle an all-purpose bedroom or have a designated playroom, grab your “to keep,” “to donate,” and “to toss” bags, and get going!

3. Move out.

If it’s been a while since you’ve vacuumed under that epic fort in the corner, it’s time to move things around—or at least to the middle of the room. It’s not only the best way to clean out nooks and crannies, but you’ll be more mindful of what you bring back in.

Related: The Secrets Professional Organizers Use to Stay Sane & Clutter-Free

What to Toss While You’re Cleaning

1. Random tiny toys.

All those little plastic toys your kids get while cruising the petite party circuit? If it hasn’t found a place of honor in your kid’s play rotation yet, toss it.

2. The last of the baby gear.

Do you still have a nursing pillow in the closet? How about an activity gym or a Bumbo seat? If you’re done adding to your family, it may finally be time to pass these on to newer mamas or donate to those in need. And upcycle! Add flair to formula or diaper wipe containers for extra storage or paint those baby food containers for a color wheel crayon organizing system. Check out more clever ways to upcycle old baby gear.

3. Anything broken.

No matter what project you’ve undertaken, little feels better than being on a roll, so start with easy toss-ables, such as anything broken. That play purse that lost its handle. Those three missing parts that don’t add up to anything. Crayon stubs you know you’ll never melt into little DIY gifts. Clear all that clutter and enjoy the immediate breathing room.

4. Stuffies that aren’t lovies.

We’ll admit it, this one is going to be a battle, but if your little hoarder is old enough to rise to the task without suddenly growing inseparable from each stuffie you attempt to discard, then this presents a wonderful opportunity to donate those in good condition.

5. Too-tiny clothes and shoes.

Kids grow fast in the early years. Before we know it, the pants are too short and the shoes are tight. Take honest stock of what your kid wears (oftentimes it’s a few favorite outfits), and purge what’s outgrown, stained, or simply not your kid’s style. You can even go the capsule wardrobe route. Check out our tips on how to make it happen here.

6. Odd socks.

It’s a mystery as to where they all go, but we do know that socks love to disappear. Accept the fact that, for some reason, they’re gone, and toss the solo sock. You’ll have more space in your drawers and it’ll make laundry day much more pleasant.

7. The endless piles of paper.

Royal crowns from birthdays gone by? Notebooks long ago scribbled in? Coloring books of yesteryear? How about all those school Valentines or party favors? Take a quick flip through for anything indicative of early artistic genius, then recycle, recycle, recycle.

8. Outdated wall decor

Have you changed your preschooler’s wall art since you set up the nursery? Every few years, it’s nice to switch things up. If you’re still planning to add to your family, put the sweet baby giraffe print in storage with the Rock ‘n’ Play, and update the walls. Etsy has thousands of affordable printables, or you can clear wall space for an educational mural from Wallsauce. Here are other great ways to design a kids’ room that grows with them.

9. Ripped, broken books and board books (if your kids are beyond the baby stage).

Like little bodies outgrow clothes, big minds and imaginations outgrow books. If your bookworm’s shelves are bursting, it’s time to save a few sentimental titles and donate the rest.

How to Keep It Clean After You Clear the Clutter

1. Pick up regularly.

Now that most of the hard work is over, save time in the future by going through this clean-up process regularly, especially after birthdays and holidays, as NEAT Method recommends. Read on for other great pro tips and secrets to organizing success from moms.

2. Don’t micromanage the small stuff.

Toys and parts often migrate under the couch, appear underfoot, and end up right on your last nerve. While these Shopkins and snap-ins may be tiny, they need a big home. Rather than spend time every day re-assigning them to individual containers, consider one big bin or this fun Swoop Bag, which also works wonders for LEGO, train sets, and play food. The best part? Clean-up is a cinch, even for mini-mess makers.

3. Don’t go overboard on storage.

It’s a little counterintuitive, but hear us out. We are all for stylish, sensible ways to organize—and storage solutions are certainly keys to a clean room—but any additional containers are bound to fill up. Work with what you have to minimize excess—the answer isn’t always to store it.

4. Save the sentimental stuff.

Parents, we are one of the biggest reasons it’s so hard to clear out what our kids have outgrown—physically and developmentally. It’s emotional! We remember when he walked off to his first day of kindergarten in that sweatshirt or that toy dinosaur she carried everywhere for a year. Select choice pieces for cool and surprising ways to repurpose the sentimental stuff.

5. Upcycle “new” toys.

With everything streamlined, the last thing you or your budget want to do is rush to fill it up with new stuff. The next time the kids beg for the latest, get creative! Sand-filled juice boxes make for awesome stacking blocks and corks morph into stamps. There are loads of great reasons why you should be upcycling anyway.

6. Use the “out of sight, out of mind” method

. Have a place to stash the toys they haven’t played with in a while and give yourself a time limit. If the time has passed and no one has asked for it, you can donate or toss it. Get more on how to make this work here.

7. Let (some) clutter go.

At the end of the day, it’s a kid’s room. It should look like a kid lives, plays, and imagines there, which means extra stuff is sometimes just part of the fun, messy wonder of it all. So relax, and remember that the next time clutter accumulates.

Any time I’ve embarked on a massive decluttering spree, I’ve regretted the epic scale and whirlwind effort later. Yes, I really chucked all my winter clothes in the middle of summer more than once, because, unlike lab rats, I do not learn from experience. Do not follow my lead—there’s no need to go all in.

Instead, let’s focus on certain categories of items that can be purged without repercussions. You can chuck these without guilt, intense spousal consultation, or lingering regret. Donate and recycle what you can, and trash what you can’t. You can do this; I believe in you.

1. All that art
Picasso probably created 50,000 works of art in his lifetime. Your kid appears to be headed in that direction, too. We know your son or daughter is precious, but do you need to keep every single drawing they have scrawled in their lifetime? Keep the best, maybe one from each month, and throw out the rest. Your kid doesn’t want you to keep them all. My mother-in-law gave us reams of my husband’s childhood scribbles. I wish she had kept it to a few—they would mean more.

2. The bad pictures
You have a million billion photos of your kid. In some of them, they’re making a weird face or scratching their butt or ducking under the table. You don’t need these pictures in your life. Do future you a favor: Narrow it down from 57 ever-so-slightly-different snaps to a handful of winners from every event—big or small—or day. (Psst, the Tinybeans app can help with that.) You’ll feel less overwhelmed, I swear.

3. The presents you feel guilty for hating
Someone gave you a thing. They put thought into the thing. You want to like the thing, but you don’t like the thing, and you feel really bad, you do, and it’s such a sweet thought, but it’s not your thing. Donating the thing is not disavowing the kind thoughts. It is passing on the kind thoughts. Just donate the thing and stop the guilt freight train. It’s just running you over every time you peek under your dresser.

4. That thing your kid loved but has ignored, and it’s now developmentally inappropriate, and they won’t notice if you chuck it
I don’t care how much they loved it. They don’t need it, and they don’t want it, and it’s taking up space in your house. Caveat: You can keep it if it’s a stuffie. You are allowed to keep a stuffie or six.

5. That iPhone box
The impulse to keep iPhone boxes remains a great American mystery.

6. Birthday cards
One day, you imagine, your child will want every birthday card they ever received. Pause. Think about your end game. Do you want to hoard every birthday card you’ve ever received? You wouldn’t look at them. You’d vaguely resent them. Don’t be that mother who saves all of her kid’s, then calls them in 20 years and attempts to pass the torch. Throw them out now and save the argument later.

7. Those clothes your kids refuse to wear
My oldest wouldn’t wear jeans. He had a drawerful. Instead, he favored ratty athletic pants or shorts. Why would I keep a literal drawer full of clothes (jeans take up a lot of space) when I could fill them with clothes he’d actually use? The same goes for your toddler who insists on wearing a dress every day and hasn’t touched her sweatsuits in ages. Let. Them. Go. Eventually, I purged all my kids’ closets—or rather, I let them do it because they’re old enough that I can’t force them to wear what I pick any longer (cue dramatic, tearful sniff). We traded with friends for clothes the kids liked. Then I bought my oldest cargo pants.

8. The fair/amusement park tickets of yore
Once, you visited a magical land of child slot machines. Yes, you said as you dragged your spawn from the blinking hellscape, wishing there was a matching version of Gamblers Anonymous. We will return one day to use the approximately three dollars and 25 cents worth of tickets you can trade for a loud, plastic toy. Do not think about how much money you dropped to earn those tickets: They’re banking on that. The game was always rigged, and your kid had fun at the arcade. Ditch ‘em.

9. The mud-caked shoes
Sometimes, no matter how much you spray a pair of white sneakers, you can’t get the mud out of the cracks. Sometimes, you’re too icked out to scrub it with a toothbrush. This is not about the mud. This is about the sneakers: They’re ancient and they smell bad, and you can use the mud as a convenient excuse to toss them. Your children will not argue because mud is disgusting, and they think those shoes are hopelessly contaminated anyway.

10. The old magazines
You will never look at that issue of Southern Living again. Admit it. You’re not going to cook the squash casserole, okay? Your kid would cheerfully choose cannibalism over zucchini. Pulp the magazines and back away slowly.

11. Tupperware without lids
Where do the lids go? That’s a trick question. You will never ever find out. Accept what you cannot change—the lids are gone—and even if they do appear at the bottom of a cabinet, they’ll be dusty and gross and you won’t want to use them.

12. Sippy cups and bottles
To confront them is to confront mortality. Be brave. Remember: Sippy cups come with grubby paws and sticky faces and diapers. Lots of diapers. Remember those diapers and the screaming nights and the times you never slept? Maybe you don’t. You didn’t sleep. You do not want to return there. Ditch the cups and bottles as soon as you’re able. You are not going back. And if you’re still in that season of life when you’re drowning in dozens of parts, keep the faith! Your day will come soon enough.

13. The idea of achieving a perfectly clean space
Throw this one away while you’re at it, too. It’s not going to happen. You have children and a life, and work’s never done. Get rid of the idea that you’re getting rid of everything. Nothing’s ever perfect. Your to-do list never ends, and you’ll drive yourself batty if you think it will. Sing the Frozen “Let it Go” song. You’re doing the best you can, and honestly, that’s plenty!

Puzzle Storage Hack

Puzzles. They're great for building problem solving skills in kids, but when it comes to storage, they have parents scratching their heads. Luckily, Days With Grey has a simple solution you can easily re-create with your own puzzles. 

Morning Routine Caddy Hack

Rise and shine! It's time to streamline that morning routine. We love this brilliant hack by Systems for Sensory Kids that makes the back-to-school morning routine as easy as 1-2-3! You'll need a container, cups, and labels (waterproof is best) to get your little learner ready for school.

Related: Genius IKEA Hacks to Take Your Kid’s Room to the Next Level

Bath Toy Storage Hack

Squeaky clean! As far as cool bathroom toy storage ideas go, this one's easy-peasy. Mama Shannon over at 8 Foot Six, upcycles a hanging fruit basket to organize tub toys (genius!), which leaves you more space for other things.

Clothing Drawer Hack

Waste no space! Help half-pints get ready quickly on school mornings with The Organized Mama's twist on storing kids' clothes: you can fold clothes for easy outfit picking and make more space when you use bins inside the drawers.

Play Kitchen Storage

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Help little cooks organize their play kitchen with this sweet toy storage idea. Hop over to Hello Baby Brown for her clever use of a tiered rack that keeps cookware and toy food off the floor and within easy reach of little hands.

Stuffed Animal Storage Bin

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We got this stuffed toy storage idea straight from the horse’s mouth. You’ll need to be a little handy to complete this project and can follow the step-by-step over at Shades of Blue Interiors. Your tots can have easy access to their favorite toys through the paracord and keep their rooms clean to boot.

Related: TikTok Cleaning Hacks That Actually Work

Dress-Up Storage Center

Kiddos can’t get enough of dressing up, but finding ways to store all of the costumes and accessories in one place is almost impossible. Luckily, this DIY Dress-Up Storage Center from Old House to New Home is an awesome fix. This piece will require some legit construction, but the final product is totally worth it!

Labeled Jars

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Try storing your favorite art supplies in mason jars. Remove the lids from these adorable glass containers, and add personalized labels to keep just about anything organized and easy to access.

Outdoor Toy Buckets

If your kids love playing outside, you probably know the struggle of organizing all of their outdoor toys. These labeled metal buckets are as far as toy storage ideas go from Domestic Charm to keep all of their goodies together without bringing them into the house.

Peg Board Craft Storage

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To keep everything at your family’s fingertips, get inspired by Hey Let’s Make Stuff’s incredible peg board. This is a cute way to make sure everything goes back where it belongs.

Related: 15 Genius Kitchen Organization Hacks

Barbie Storage Hack

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If there’s an easier storage hack for Barbies (and other dolls) than using an over-the-door shoe organizer, we haven’t found it.

IKEA Baskets as Book Bins

This hack from VanHook & Co. is here to save the day. This budget-friendly idea only requires a couple of $4 Ikea wastebaskets. All you have to do is secure the baskets to any wall or door, and you’ve just created a cool new storage system.

Car Trunk Shower Caddies

Your little ones have made your car their second home, and with that comes a whole lot of stuff. But that doesn’t have to mean the end of the organization in the mommy mobile. According to HAPPYnings, it’s all about shower caddies. That’s right, those funny things with the big pockets that you hang in your shower. It turns out, they’re a pretty fantastic organizational tool for everything from hair brushes to sunscreen and so much more. 

Swoop Bags

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If you’ve ever felt the pain of stepping on a stray LEGO, you know that proper toy storage is an absolute must. One of our favorite ways to store your little one’s toys is the Swoop Bag. This versatile bag lays flat and can be gathered up quickly to store the tiniest of toys. Of course, this is perfect for classic faves like LEGO, cars, train sets, and more.

Related: These Genius Toy Storage Solutions Will Give You More Space

Coffee Pod Play Dough Carousel

Who doesn’t love play dough? But, storing all of those little canisters so your fam can play with any color, any time is just really complicated. Not anymore! Brilliant Mama Aimee Geroux has got you covered. Her idea to use a coffee carousel for play dough toy storage is a brilliant idea that is nothing short of pure genius.

Sick of standing on the counter to reach the top of your mirror? Thanks to this TikTok mirror hack, a swiffer, microfiber cloth and glass cleaner is all you need to get the hard-to-reach spots without breaking your neck.

@maizimmy

Stitch this with your favorite cleaning hack! #cleantok #cleaning #cleaningtiktok #cleaninghacks #momhacks

♬ original sound – Mai Zimmy | MomLife & Cleaning

No matter how hard you try, cleaning the stove feels like its never a done deal. Thanks to this Tiktok cleaning hack, you let time do its magic with a little cling wrap and stove cleaner to remove the worst grime. Than just wipe clean!

@aurikatariina

THE BEST CLEANING HACK!! Byebye burnt stains #cleantok #cleaningtiktok #satisfying #cleaninghack #cleaninghacksforyou

♬ Paradise – TELL YOUR STORY music by Ikson

That space between your cooktop and the counter is beyond gross. Thankfully, all you need is a paper towel and a toothpick to use this hack.

@cleanwithnessa

one my favourite hacks learnt #clean #cleanwithnessa #satisfying #cleaning #kitchenhack #cleaninghack #hack

♬ Thot Shit – Megan Thee Stallion

Do you have a grimy oven like the rest of us do? This TikTok oven cleaning hack will have it sparkling and uses things you probably already have on hand.

@giapendergast

#diy #cleaninghacks #kitchen #allnatural #clean #hack #home #fyp #tips

♬ original sound – Gia Pendergast

Skip the monthly scour and just spend a minute each time you shower to keep soap scum and mildew with simple dollar store products.

@jessmapes

If you aren’t doing this, you should be #tiktokmademedoit #viral #cleaninghack #cleantok #dollartreefinds #diy #cheaptok #cheaptokhacks #SimsSelves

♬ Infinity – Jaymes Young

Soap, hair and who knows what else wreaks havoc on shower drains. This cleaning method uses boiling water and a few other household essentials to get them sparkling with no hair removal required.

@purewow

Safe enough to do often without hurting your drains! TY for the tip @myaspirationallife #cleaningtiktok #showercleaning

♬ original sound – Andrew Savoia

Stanky car? Use this TikTok cleaning hack that uses vinegar to ditch that aroma, stat.

@brightly.eco

So easy! #ecofriendly #greencleaningtips #cleaningtiktok #cartiktok #carcleaning #sustainableliving #allnatural #lifehack #cleaninghacks

♬ Taste It – TELL YOUR STORY music by Ikson

Dingy headlights? Who knew that orange and baking soda could restore their OG shine?

@armandhammer

Clean Your headlights with Baking Soda. : @z34queen #BakingSoda #CleanTok #CleaningHack #CleanCar #Headlights #CleaningTikTok #clean

♬ LIMITS THE SKY – Mpax

Ok gross alert: this video gives you a sneak peek as to just what exactly lives in your dishwasher filter. Use this TikTok cleaning hack to get it back to cleaning (not swirling around all that nastiness) in no time.

@jettsetfarmhouse

Reply to @zraj42 #cleaning #cleaningtiktok #cleantok #clean #cleaninghacks #learnontiktok #tiktokpartner #bakingsodadoesthat

♬ original sound – Noell-Mom of the Jett Set

You can skip the bleach forever thanks to this TikTok cleaning hack that pairs a little Dawn detergent plus your whites.

@pairswellwithwhine

#clean #cleantok #laundry #cleaninghacks #lifehack #cleanhousecheck #fypシ #foryou #foryoupage #mom #cleargenius #share #selfcare #fy #diy #parati #fy

♬ original sound – Cleantok Cary

Sure, you grab the wad of lint from your lint trap when switching loads, but have you ever actually cleaned it? This hack makes it a breeze.

@routinelyrachael

Reply to @rebeccawilliams248 thank you for an awesome idea! So excited to see if this cuts down on my drying time! #cleantok #laundrytok #cleanhack #cleaninghacks #scrubbingasmr #cleaningasmr

♬ original sound – RoutinelyRachael

You know you’ve been staring at the hairy ceiling fan for years. Grab an old pillowcase and get dusting with this mind-blowing TikTok cleaning hack.

@later_kates

Shoutout to @cleanthatup for sharing this hack! #cleaningtok #cleaninghacks #fyp #clean

♬ Elevator Music – Bohoman

Nobody likes to clean a toilet, but with this hack, you’ll be ditching that stubborn calcium ring in minutes.

@vanesamaro91

#cleaninghacks #cleantok #cleaning #amazonfinds #cleaningtip #cleanhack

♬ The Office – The Hyphenate

You have kids, so you know accidents happen. You can help get rid of urine and other bodily fluids from your mattress using this simple TikTok cleaning hack that uses household baking soda.

@positively_paige

I remember saying “my kids won’t wet the bed, I’ll just potty train them!” I bet she got a good laugh out that #cleanmattress #cleaningtricks

♬ Darling – Trees and Lucy

Why do people love organizing with IKEA products?

The Scandinavian design company has long been a place for folks to pick up affordable and functional furniture, but the products also tend to be fairly basic in design, so you can glam it up, and with a little creativity, use it in areas you might not normally think about. Plus, the storage options are endless, and anyone with kids knows how important that can be.

The Best Ideas for Organizing with IKEA Furniture

1. KALLAX Changing Table

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A post shared by Holly Bartholomew (@h.isforhome)

IKEA’s KALLAX storage unit becomes a versatile piece in H.isforHome’s nursery as a changing table with plenty of storage ready at hand. The greatest part about this hack is that later when her son Grayson outgrows the changing table, there’s a seamless transition into simple storage and shelving pieces (click here to check it out).

2. IKEA Closet Organizer Idea

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Creating an open toddler closet might be the most creative use of the HUTTON wine racks we’ve ever seen.

3. LURÖY Bed Slat Wall Hanger

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A post shared by KRISTINA STEINMETZ (@kristina.steinmetz)

Your bed slats are so much more than support for your bed. Use this awesome idea from Kristina of Ich Designer to make an amazing wall storage space for your family using the LURÖY Slatted Bed Base from IKEA. Hang baskets, magazines, notebooks, and more to get your everyday must-haves out of the way.

4. BILLY Bookshelf Mudroom Lockers

Whether you have a mudroom, or just have a bit of extra space in your entry, Melissa from Polkadot Chair has a hack that will revolutionize your storage life. Using the BILLY bookcase, you can create lockers for everyone’s coats, bags, shoes, and more.

5. IKEA Drawer Organizing Idea

If you’re looking IKEA organizing ideas to help you keep the clothes in order, the KOMPLEMENT storage boxes are perfect. They require almost no assembly and can help you organize piles of laundry in a snap.

6. 2-in-1 Kitchen Island

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If you’ve got a small kitchen but dream of having an island, this IKEA organization idea from Craftydust is right up your alley. Using KALLAX shelves and the KARLBY kitchen worktop, you can have an island that not only folds in half but can also be used as a bar cart.

7. Rolling Under Bed Storage

Under your bed doesn’t have to be wasted storage space. Transform it with a helping hand from Faith Towers at Curbly. Believe it or not, her amazing under-the-bed storage boxes are made of frames—specifically the IKEA RIBBA Frames (now discontinued but here's a great Amazon option) and a set of casters from Amazon! Check out her tutorial to get started.

8. IKEA LEGO Table

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We know this project seems like a lot of work, but the result is worth it. Nele Cole has a great tutorial on how to make a LEGO table using the TROFAST Storage System from IKEA that not only has room for all the kids but all the bricks too.

9. BEKVÄM Spice Rack Kids’ Book Storage Hack

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When it comes to books, give the kids a place all their own. Using BEKVÄM spice rack shelves, simply attach them to the side of your bookshelf and rotate their favorites in and out.

10. A Gallery Wall for All the Things

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A post shared by Julia Laing design & craft (@julialaingstudio)

You want to display their best artwork as well as some of the things you’ve collected along your life journey, but you don’t want it to feel too cluttered. Solution? Snag some frames and get to work. (Note: This originally used IKEA Ribba frames but they’ve been discontinued, so try this Amazon alternative!)

11. A Rolling Storage Container with Style

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A post shared by DIY – IKEA Hack (@ikeahack)

Using the TINGBY side table and the RÖDEBY bamboo armrest tray, you can create a storage container that works great in an office and looks amazing, too. You’ll need extra hardware for this one, so be sure to watch the video!

Related: Surprising IKEA Hacks to Transform Your Kid’s Room

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1. Set Expectations & Goals

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Julia G. Raz, Ph.D., professional organizer and founder of Golden West Organizing, uses her expertise in Communications to work with her clients by empowering them with confidence in their own voice—guiding them in a non-judgmental way to understand what their needs are, and helping them "become the best version of themselves through decluttering and organizing—all the little things in life that can weigh us down." Adding, "At one point in my life, I decluttered about 80% of my belongings because I was overwhelmed by how cluttered my life had become." For Raz, it's important to stress for new organizers to understand that, "Decluttering is not a one-time be-all, end-all. Instead, decluttering has to be an ongoing part of your life." She also points out that organizing is a skill that may be new for some and may take time to develop or you may need help to learn it." The takeaway? Set realistic expectations and realize that to stay organized, there may need to be a change in your behavior, and that could take time, so be patient with yourself and the process.

Online: goldenwestorganizing.com

2. Keep It Simple

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Joni Weiss and Kitt Fife, Co-Founders of Practically Perfect, believe in order for an organizing system to work, it must be age appropriate. "The number one mistake parents make is to have a system that’s too complicated for their kids! Staying organized is about maintenance and accountability, and that means kiddos have to be able to pick up after themselves when playtime is over. It’s imperative to consider the age plus stage of your little ones when you consider which organizational system will work best for your play spaces."

Their advice (that can be applied pre and post-pandemic) to maintain an organized space? Try not to control everything, learn to roll with changes, create a routine (and stick to it), and update your entryway drop zones as well as dedicated zones in the fridge and pantry for handy snacks and the like.

Related: Check out more Practically Perfect organizing tips for your kid's room here. 

3. Start Small

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For Beth Penn, founder of the professional organizing business Bneato Bar, motherhood has upped her game. “As a new mom myself, it's about starting small. In my book, The Little Book of Tidying is this quote: ‘Tidying is not a quick-fix solution; it’s a practice, a daily intention, an approach to living.’ Us moms can be very hard on ourselves when we look at everything that needs to get done. Now, more than ever, prioritization and simplifying life is key. What does this look like? Taking distracting apps like Facebook and Instagram off my phone, joining a group that promotes not buying stuff I don’t need—small tweaks like these really add up in keeping my home organized.”

Another way Penn recommends starting small that can make a big impact? Choose environmentally-friendly products when you are organizing. Choose a whiteboard with a dry-erase marker for your DIY command center to reduce your use of paper. 

Online: bneatobar.com

4. The One-Minute Rule

NYC-based best-selling author of The Happiness Project and more, Gretchen Rubin, rocks writing, parenting two daughters, and an in-demand speaking schedule. She has also found a way to be highly organized. A spin on her “Power Hour” idea (working once a week for an hour on a given chore), she suggests abiding by a rule all organized moms can follow: the one-minute rule. “With any task that can be finished in one minute, do it without delay. Hang up your coat, read a letter and toss it, fill in a form, note down a citation, file a paper, put a dish in the dishwasher…and so on. Because the tasks are so quick, it isn’t too hard to make yourself follow the rule—but you’ll see big results."

Online: gretchenrubin.com

5. Don't Put It Down, Put It Away

This concept is perfect for the one-minute rule. Practically Perfect's Joni Weiss and Kitt Fife say if you commit yourself to do this each day, you'll remember how good it feels to be organized. "Changing habits can also be key, and we encourage carving out a small amount of time each day put items away. And labeling can help!

6. Love It or Leave It?

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A post shared by Dr. Julia Raz | Professional Organizer (@goldenwestorganizing)

Raz, of Golden West Organizing, says, "I usually have clients first pick the things they love the most. Once we’ve found all of those items in a particular category, I’ll ask them 1) do they use it, 2) do they need it, 3) would they buy it again if they saw it in a store? This method is inspired by The Minimal Mom—a YouTube channel I’ve been following for years. She adds, "Decluttering is the best way to stay organized. There is no bin or storage system that can make too much clutter work. Lessening the number of items to what is reasonable for you is what makes all the difference."

7. Channel Your Inner KonMari

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Since her bestselling books, The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up and Spark Joy have become must-read tidying tomes, Marie Kondo’s KonMari Method has sparked serious joy across apartments and suburban homes everywhere. And while, yes, Kondo finally admitted her methods don't work as well when you have kids, you'll still get great home organization tips from her advice. SPOKE contributor Lynn Laplante Allaway put the KonMari method to the test with a modified pace for her family of six and a whole lot of humor along the way. She jokes about calling it something of “the AllLyn Method,” if you will. We love her takeaways on socks, the sentimentality of children’s books, and suburban closet space.

8. Clean & Clear Seasonally

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There’s neat, and then there’s NEAT Method, which creates personalized systems for each client’s unique needs and lifestyle. After being founded in San Francisco by friends and organizing entrepreneurs Ashley Murphy and Molly Graves, 32 NEAT cities nationwide now help on-site with home projects (like making room for a new babe), while online packages are available to all. As the moms behind the method told us, their secret to success goes right along with the seasons: “In order to keep things NEAT as a mom, it is crucial to set aside a few times every year that you will clean out your children's toys! Get your kid involved and make a donation and a toss pile. A perfect time to do this is after a birthday or holiday when likely a lot of new toys have entered the playroom.”

Online: neatmethod.com

9. Find a Home for Every Last LEGO

Does the lid no longer fit on that one bin you dedicated to all the LEGO pieces? Time to designate a little LEGOLAND of your own at home. We’ve already done the heavy lifting with a round-up of 14 storage ideas you’ll totally want to try. We’re talking color-coded bins, tackle boxes for the tiny stuff, hanging buckets, and even an all-in LEGO Table and Storage Unit. If LEGO isn’t your kid's thing, several of these organizing ideas would translate well to other multi-part toys (Shopkins Shopville storage, anyone?).

10. Be Your Own Assistant

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The daily grind of work inside the house and out can get tedious, and things like mail can literally pile up. For Texas-based pro organizer (and mother of four!) Mary Johanson of Creating Mary’s Home, that very pile is actually the secret to her success. “Set an appointment with yourself once a week to do the boring adult stuff,” she recommends. “I pile mail into a basket throughout the week. During the time I set aside weekly, I act like my own secretary. I go through the mail, pay bills, RSVP to parties, file or scan important stuff, make phone calls, and whatever else needs to get done. This weekly appointment keeps mental clutter out of my mind, not to mention paper clutter off my counters!”

Online: creatingmaryshome.com

11. Just Meal Prep (& Swap) Already

Minnesota-based professional organizer Sara Pederson of Time To Organize shared her two top tips for saving time when it comes to cooking. First, “set aside a little time on the weekend to plan out five dinners for the following week. Take a quick peek in the pantry and fridge to see what you need to buy in order to make those meals happen. Jot a list and shop on the weekend so that weekday meals can be as quick and easy as possible.”

Then—and here’s where you get a whole night off cooking, people—set up a meal exchange with another family in the neighborhood! “Pick a specific day each week to double whatever you’re making that night and drop it off so your friends can enjoy an effortless, home-cooked meal. In exchange, that family will provide a meal to you on another pre-planned night. It takes virtually no extra effort to double a recipe, saves money, and connects two families in a fun way.”

Online: timetoorganize.com

RELATED: 40 Make-Ahead Meals That Are Perfect for Busy Weeknights

12. Apply the Four-Stop Test to Toys

When it comes to containing the clutter, it’s all too easy for kids to keep us swimming in it. SPOKE contributor Marisa Svalstedt has a genius method for categorizing and downsizing your home’s personal toy department. “While clothing is easy to discard at the appropriate time as children grow out of them so quickly, toys are another story,” Svalstedt writes. “The toys in my household go for a sort of ride through our home before either settling or making a permanent departure." From keeping current favorites well within reach to storing well-loved keepsakes (you’ll adore her easy and affordable storage hack!), and on through to the end of the line, where the definitively outgrown is donated or sold, you’ll want to hop aboard this train.

13. Map Your Time

Laura Gaskill is a San Francisco Bay Area-based mom and writer who offers e-courses on home organization tips to help folks clear the clutter at home and in life overall, so there’s time to focus on what matters most. Gaskill suggests charting a “Time Map,” which she defines as “simply a record of how you actually spend the hours of your day. The key word here is actually!” she writes on her website. “When we make guesses about how we are spending our time, we tend to underestimate how long we spend on not-so-great things (like browsing social media) and overestimate the amount of time we spend on positive things (like playing with our kids).” And as she points out, “getting a clear picture of how we actually spend our time is the first step if you want to change things.”

Online: lauragaskill.com

—with additional reporting by Andie Huber

Common Mistake #1: Not Measuring & Mapping First

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A post shared by Kathy Kuo Home (@kathykuohome)

Common Mistake #2: Overcrowding On a Gallery Wall

Everyone loves a good gallery wall, and Kuo agrees that “they’re especially sweet in children’s rooms because you can incorporate your kids’ own art and family photos amongst art that they love!” However, one mistake she often sees is “crowding pieces too close together on the wall.”

It’s important to recognize that “before everything has been hung in its proper place, your brain, and eyes can trick you into thinking a six-inch space between art pieces is just a massive gulf and it won’t feel like the pieces are meant to go together—you should ignore this feeling!” Kuo suggests stepping back once you have all your items mapped—you’ll realize that four to six inches is a nice amount of breathing room between individual pieces.

Common Mistake #3 When Hanging Art: Not Taking Proportions Into Consideration

When hanging art, it’s important to consider the room as a whole to create a visual balance between art and furniture. Stacey Clarke, B2C Furniture’s Interior Stylist, shares that, as a general rule of thumb, the hanging art should be about two-thirds of the total width of the furniture beneath it. Think of the furniture as a platform for the art, and if it goes beyond it, it will immediately look off-balance.

Related: 9 Interior Design Tips Based on Common Mistakes People Make

Common Mistake #4: Hanging Art Too High

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Interior designers agree that hanging artwork too high is a common mistake they see when visiting homes. Thankfully, there’s an easy fix. A steadfast rule for hanging stand-alone art pieces is to place the center of the artwork 57″-60″ from the floor. This height places the art at eye level so people can comfortably view it without straining. To find the artwork’s center, divide its height and width in half.

Of course, some exceptions exist, but in this case, even the exceptions have helpful guidelines to follow. Aim for the lower end of the range if most members of your household are on the shorter side; in rooms with ceilings higher than eight feet, you can hang artwork a little higher than 60 inches off the floor. Once you pick the midpoint, however, stick with it for consistency. Remember, the amount of space that appears above your art doesn’t matter nearly as much as the amount of space that appears below it.

Last tip—if you’re hanging art above furniture, you want the art and the furniture to feel like a cohesive unit and visually connected as a whole. To achieve this, it’s recommended to hang the art so the bottom of the frame is mounted five to eight inches above the furniture. This applies to sofas, consoles, sideboards, dressers, or any table or stand.

Common Mistake #5 When Hanging Art: Treating Multiple Pieces Separately Rather Than as One Piece

When hanging multiple related artworks, such as a set of framed prints or a gallery wall, envision the collection as one piece of art rather than individual pieces. Arranging the artworks together as a single, intentional display creates a more visually striking and impactful presentation.

Clarke says, “Art works best with cohesive diversity.” You’ll create a more curated look by keeping pieces similar in tone and intensity; this helps avoid the common mistake of randomly hanging pieces, resulting in a disjointed, haphazard look that detracts from the overall aesthetic. Also, when considering proportions, you should consider the collective size of all the pieces together.

Common Mistake #6: Choosing Art That Is Too Small for the Space or the Wall

Art that is too small for the space makes the entire room—and the furnishings in it—feel out of balance. This doesn’t mean you can’t include small pieces of art on your wall; it just means you may want to hang multiple pieces and treat them as one. Whether it’s one piece or a collection, artwork should be two-thirds of the total width of the wall or the space above furniture. Designers agree that slightly too big is always better than going too small.

Common Mistake #7: Not Orientating the Artwork to the Wall

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A post shared by Kathy Kuo Home (@kathykuohome)

Generally, the piece of art or the collection should be in the same shape and orientation as the wall it is trying to fill. On a wide wall, a landscape piece will usually look more natural and balanced. Hang portrait-orientated artwork on narrow walls to fill the vertical space—stacking smaller pieces looks great on skinny walls. Paying attention to how the artwork’s orientation interacts with the wall can elevate the overall look and tie into the room’s overall feel.

Part of the rite of passage as a parent is taking your house from adults-only to a kid-friendly home. Before you start having nightmares about living room furniture that looks like it belongs in your kids’ preschool classroom, rest assured that there are plenty of kid-friendly living room ideas that feel welcoming to everyone. In hopes of helping you achieve that balance, we reached out to top design and organization experts and got some great tips and tricks. Feeling like the first step is just figuring out where to store all the toys? We’ve got you covered there, too. 

Invest in an Open Floor Plan

This design trend allows family members to see each other without being in the “same” room. Suzi Dailey, Luxury Coastal Realtor at RealtyONE says, “The previous trend was to have two steps down into your family room, but now people want one large level. They're looking for level, open floor plans, and many people want a larger island that opens up to the other room.”

Choose the Right Area Rug

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Your living room is a high-traffic area. Consider buying a rug that’s easy to wash (think Ruggable or Lorena Canals) or an indoor/outdoor rug. They’ll be able to withstand all the running, playing, and, inevitably, all the spills, and you still get to choose from hundreds of colors and patterns.

Make It Colorful

HGTV highly encourages going bold when it comes to kid-friendly living room ideas. Whether it’s a coat of paint, living room furniture, or a color-coordinated bookshelf, color is a great way to make a room feel warm and welcoming.

Related: 10 Products That’ll Make You Look Like a Design Pro 

Utilize Empty Wall Space

Jaime Hord, owner of Horderly Professional Organizing says, “Don’t forget that empty wall space can turn into an amazing storage space for everything and anything from decor, family photos or additional containment. We love using The Container Store’s Elfa System to create custom-designed storage spaces for our clients.

Opt for a Wooden Dining Room Table

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Not only will a wood table be able to handle kids’ dents and dings, but it also will give your eating space a laid-back vibe instead of feeling like a super-fancy environment. We love this one from Wayfair; it’s the perfect size for a cozy kitchen nook.

Purchase Furniture with Extra Storage

This is also a must for Hord. She says, "If space is limited, think about getting furniture with built-in storage options. Whether it’s a storage bench, storage seat, or a sectional with a secret storage compartment—get creative when staging your space to make it beautifully functional for you and your family. These hidden storage options are not only handy, but they’re comfortable for the kids to hang out on too!"   

 

 

Create a Space Just for the Kids

A great way to create a kid-friendly living room is to give them their own space. This way, you can keep all their toys, books, stuffies, and art supplies in one space, and the kids know that the space is safe. We love the idea of an indoor fort or reading nook!

Create a Gallery Wall with Their Art

According to Michelle Manske, owner and organizer at Henry & Higby, this is a great way to create a kid-friendly living room. She states, “Create a gallery wall in your living room for children’s artwork with vintage frames from flea markets or the ones sitting in your grandmother’s attic. The variation in frame types and sizes will create a natural focal point to display artwork. The mismatched open frames make rotating artwork pieces very easy and create an easy juxtaposition between youth and adult worlds.”

Do Cut the Corners

No one wants to see a new walker take a nosedive toward the corner of the coffee table. And, those plastic corner buffers aren’t what anyone would call chic. Here’s a compromise between safety and style: consider buying a round table or a pouf. There are dozens of styles and colors to choose from, and some are even big enough for board games! If you must have something square, consider an ottoman with soft fabric. 

Use Decorative Storage Bins

Hord says, "In your living room, remember that containment is key to restoring order to your space. However, you definitely don’t need to sacrifice beauty for functionality. Use decorative storage bins to put on open shelving or inside cabinets to contain different types of categories like electronics, games, toys, or books."

Related: Incredibly Easy Design Hacks for Every Room

Give Them a Space to Write on the Walls

Instead of waiting for the inevitable, give the kids their own space to write on the walls. Not only is it a great creative outlet, but if there’s a real artist in the house, it’s a way to constantly give your living room an update! We love this peel-and-stick chalkboard decal from FancyWallsStore on Etsy.

Buy Kid-and Pet-Friendly Foliage

Plant expert Amber Guetebier, offers this advice, “Having plants in your living space is not only great for mental well-being, but they are also helpful in purifying the air. But it's important to make sure the plants are non-toxic to kids and pets since we all know both are curious. Many easy houseplants are kid-and-pet safe, including the Money Tree (Pachira aquatica) and the Parlor palm (Chamaedorea elegans).