Think About How You Use Your Basement
Before you start the sometimes overwhelming task to organize your basement, consider what you will primarily use the space for. Is it only used for storage and laundry? Do the kids play down there? Is the basement where you go to relax after a long day? Thinking about how you will be using the space will give you focus as you go about your organizational tasks.
Organize Your Basement by Decluttering
The basement is often used for storage by default, especially for larger items. Take inventory of everything in your basement, and then decide what can be thrown away, donated, or repurposed. Once you’ve accomplished this, organizing your basement is a little easier since you know you are only working with items you want or need.
Get Creative With Storage
If you have a finished or partially finished basement, integrate furniture that doubles as storage, such as bookshelves, tall cabinets, or a coffee table or ottoman with built-in storage capabilities. This will help reduce clutter and encourage you to designate spots for items that you’re storing. For seasonal or long-term storage, find larger storage containers and label them for easy access—such as “holiday decorations,” “baby/toddler toys,” “winter sports,” etc. Avoid using cardboard boxes due to moisture in the basement.
Take Advantage of Height to Organize Your Basement
Organizing your basement is more efficient when you use the wall space. Pegboards and hooks help keep things visible, and they keep items off the floor and safe in case of flooding. Hanging items from the wall make them more accessible as well.
Create a Laundry Area
A home’s washer and dryer are often found in the basement. If this is the case for you, create a space used solely for this purpose. Shelving units for items such as detergent and dryer sheets, a rack for hanging clothes, and a folding table create the appearance of a true laundry room. Avoid storing other types of items in this basement area to keep the focus entirely on laundry.
You might feel like putting off organizing your basement since it can seem like such an impossibly overwhelming task. Follow these simple tips, start small, take it slow, and stay motivated.
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