How can a person so small have so much stuff? Babies and children need everything from books and toys to clothes and gear, and these items can quickly fill up a home. If you’re constantly controlling clutter or routinely regulating rogue messes, use these organization tips for a cleaner, more tidy home:
Minimize Crib Clutter
There’s been quite a stir about which items can go inside a crib, but the American Academy of Pediatrics has ruled: Loose blankets, quilts, bumpers, pillows, fluffy bedding and stuffed animals should be kept out of the crib. The AAP recommends parents use wearable blankets or one-piece sleepers to keep baby comfy and cozy in the crib.
Make sure your baby’s crib is a safe sleeping environment by removing the potentially dangerous items right away. If you’re worried about your baby’s comfort, look to SwaddleDesigns for a wide variety of wearable blankets. They’re perfect for when baby is transitioning from swaddling.
Organize Toys
Organizing your kid’s toys can be quite the task, especially if there are more toys and playthings than storage space in your home. First, pack up a handful of the toys that are rarely played with, place them in a box and store them for a couple of weeks. Every so often, bring the toys out and rotate out a different set of toys. By doing so, you’ll be able to surprise your little one with “new” toys instead of bringing more items into your home from the store.
Each day (and with the help of your child, if he or she is old enough), spend a few minutes picking up toys and putting them away. Clear plastic over-the-door shoe holders can be used to neatly store Barbies, and Rubbermaid bins can be used to house Legos.
Once your children outgrow their favorite toys, talk to them about donating to another child in need. This will inspire them to be charitable as they grow up and can help instill a set of values at a young age.
Recycle Clothing
All the cutesy outfits, jumpers and bodysuits that fit just a month ago may be too small for your little bundle of joy today. It’s an all too familiar dilemma for many parents — what should you do with all those clothes?
One way to recycle outgrown baby clothes: Transform them into a keepsake baby blanket or quilt. Crafty moms and DIY dads can take on this project and have it finished in a single weekend. Quilt Keepsake recommends using ironed clothing that has minimal wear. The crafting experts also suggest sewing on fun embellishments like baby’s hats, socks or bibs.
If quilting isn’t quite your forte, consider donating baby’s outgrown clothing. Pack up clean, wearable items and give to a friend or family member who is expecting, or donate these items to a local nonprofit, such as Goodwill. There are plenty of charities out there that would be happy to take baby’s old clothing.