Are you tired of your guest bedroom feeling more like a storage space than a welcoming retreat for your visitors? At Escape Your Chaos, we believe that every guest deserves to feel pampered and at ease during their stay. Join us as we explore the art of creating a guest bedroom experience that's both beautiful and organized, ensuring that your guests feel right at home from the moment they arrive.

1. Start with a Clean Slate:

Before you can transform your guest bedroom into a welcoming retreat, it's essential to start with a clean slate. Clear out any clutter and unnecessary items from the room, and give it a thorough cleaning from top to bottom. Vacuum the floors, dust the surfaces, and wash the bedding to create a fresh and inviting space for your guests to enjoy. Paint your walls a light neutral color for a spacious feel with clean white trim and baseboards. 

2. Invest in Quality Bedding:

The foundation of any comfortable guest bedroom is quality bedding that's both luxurious and inviting. Invest in soft, high-quality sheets, plush pillows, and cozy blankets to ensure that your guests get a restful night's sleep. Consider adding extra blankets and pillows to accommodate different sleeping preferences, and don't forget to provide fresh towels and linens for their use during their stay.

3. Create Ample Storage Space:

Make sure your guests have plenty of storage space to unpack and settle in during their stay. Clear out a closet or dresser drawer where they can hang their clothes and store their belongings, provide empty hangers and storage bins for added convenience. Consider adding a luggage rack or bench where they can place their suitcases, keeping them off the floor and out of the way.

4. Add Thoughtful Touches:

Enhance the guest bedroom experience with thoughtful touches that show you care. Place fresh flowers or a potted plant on the bedside table to add a touch of nature and warmth to the room, and leave a welcome basket filled with snacks, water bottles, and travel-sized toiletries for your guests to enjoy. Consider adding a selection brochures and books about local interest and locations.  A bedside lamp with adjustable lighting for late-night reading, a white noise machine, various charging cords and small bedside table fan .

5. Embrace Minimalist Decor:

When it comes to decorating your guest bedroom, less is often more. Embrace a minimalist aesthetic with clean lines, neutral colors, and uncluttered surfaces to create a calm and soothing atmosphere that promotes relaxation and restful sleep. Choose a few key pieces of artwork or decor to add personality and charm to the room, but avoid overwhelming the space with too many knick-knacks or accessories.

6. Provide Essential Amenities:

Make sure your guests have everything they need for a comfortable stay by providing essential amenities within easy reach. Stock the room with extra blankets, pillows, and towels, as well as basic toiletries such as shampoo, conditioner, and body wash. Consider adding a small refrigerator or mini-bar stocked with snacks and beverages, or a coffee maker with a selection of coffee and tea for their enjoyment.

7. Personalize the Experience:

Finally, personalize the guest bedroom experience to make your visitors feel truly welcome and appreciated. Consider adding a handwritten note or welcome card with a personalized message. Pay attention to the little details and gestures that make your guests feel special, and they'll be sure to leave with memories of a truly unforgettable stay.

With these tips from Escape Your Chaos, you can transform your guest bedroom into a beautiful and organized retreat that's sure to impress your visitors. Say goodbye to clutter and chaos and hello to a space that's designed to pamper and delight, ensuring that your guests feel right at home from the moment they arrive. 

Escape Your Chaos provides Home Decor Services and Airbnb set ups for success.

Call Catherine to schedule today at (503) 805-5880

Licensed Bonded & Insured Since 2012 CCB # 205698

Your closet – it's meant to be a sanctuary, a place where you can start your day with ease and end it with peace. But all too often, closets become cluttered, chaotic spaces, filled with clothes we no longer wear, accessories we've forgotten about, and items we've outgrown. At Escape Your Chaos, we're here to help you reclaim your closet and transform it from a source of stress into a space that's both usable and beautiful. Join us as we explore the process of turning an over-cluttered closet into a streamlined and stylish oasis of organization.

1. Assess and Declutter:

The first step in any closet makeover is to assess the contents of your closet and declutter ruthlessly. Take everything out of your closet and sort through each item, asking yourself whether it's something you wear regularly, love, and feel good in. Remember, love it, use it, or lose it! If not, it's time to let it go. Donate or sell items that no longer serve you, and be honest with yourself about what you truly need and use on a regular basis.

2. Maximize Vertical Space:

Once you've decluttered your closet, it's time to maximize the available space by thinking vertically. Install shelving units or cube storage systems to take advantage of vertical space and create additional storage for folded items such as sweaters, jeans, and accessories. Use stackable bins or baskets to corral smaller items and keep them organized and easily accessible.

3. Invest in Proper Storage Solutions:

Investing in the right storage solutions can make all the difference in creating an organized and functional closet space. Consider adding hanging organizers for shoes, belts, and scarves, or installing a closet rod extender to double your hanging space. Use slimline hangers to maximize hanging space and keep clothes neatly organized, and install hooks or racks on the back of the closet door for additional storage options.

4. Organize by Category:

Organizing your closet by category can make it easier to find what you need and streamline your morning routine. Group similar items together, such as tops, bottoms, dresses, and outerwear, and arrange them in a way that makes sense for your lifestyle and preferences. Consider color-coding your clothes or organizing them by season to further simplify the process of getting dressed each day.

5. Create a Stylish Display:

Transform your closet from purely functional to stylish and inviting by creating a beautiful display of your favorite items. Showcase your most-loved pieces on open shelving or display racks, and add personal touches such as artwork, decorative baskets, or scented candles to create a sense of warmth and personality. Treat your closet as an extension of your home decor, and infuse it with elements that make you smile each time you open the door.

6. Maintain Regular Maintenance:

Once you've transformed your closet into a usable and beautiful space, it's important to maintain regular maintenance to keep it looking its best. Take a few minutes each week to tidy up and put items back in their designated places, and periodically revisit your closet to assess whether any further decluttering or reorganization is needed. By staying on top of maintenance tasks, you can ensure that your closet remains a functional and enjoyable space for years to come.

7. Enjoy Your New Sanctuary:

With these tips from Escape Your Chaos, you can transform your over-cluttered closet into a usable and beautiful sanctuary that brings joy and ease to your daily life. Say goodbye to chaos and hello to a closet that's organized, stylish, and tailored to your needs. With a little time, effort, and creativity, you can create a space that's truly worthy of the title "Sanctuary." 

Escape Your Chaos provides Declutter & Organizing Services

Call Catherine to schedule today at (503) 805-5880

Licensed Bonded & Insured Since 2012 CCB # 20569

In a world that often glorifies excess and consumerism, there's a quiet beauty to be found in simplicity – especially when it comes to decorating our homes. At Escape Your Chaos, we believe that you don't need to buy new furniture or splurge on trendy decor to create a space that's both beautiful and meaningful. Join us as we explore the art of beautifying your home with objects you already own, unlocking the hidden potential of everyday items to transform your space into a sanctuary of style and serenity.

1. Rediscover Hidden Gems:

Take a fresh look at the objects and furnishings you already have in your home, and you may be surprised by the hidden gems you discover. That old vase tucked away in the attic or the vintage rug passed down from a family member could become the focal point of your room with a little love and attention. Look for unique pieces that hold sentimental value or tell a story, and incorporate them into your decor to add personality and charm to your space.

2. Repurpose and Reinvent:

Don't be afraid to think outside the box when it comes to decorating with items you already own. That unused bookshelf could be repurposed as a plant stand, or those mismatched plates could be hung on the wall as a charming gallery display. Get creative with your decor and experiment with different ways to use and arrange your belongings, breathing new life into old items and giving them a fresh purpose in your home.

3. Mix and Match Styles:

Embrace the eclectic beauty of mixing and matching styles and aesthetics in your home decor. Pair modern furniture with vintage accents, or juxtapose bold colors with neutral tones for a look that's uniquely your own. By combining elements from different eras and design styles, you can create a space that feels curated and collected over time, rather than overly polished or cookie-cutter.

4. Focus on Quality Over Quantity:

When it comes to decorating with objects you already own, quality always trumps quantity. Instead of filling your space with countless knick-knacks and trinkets, focus on selecting a few key pieces that are well-made and meaningful to you. Invest in items that bring you joy and reflect your personal style, and let them take center stage in your home decor.

5. Curate Meaningful Displays:

Create curated displays throughout your home that showcase your favorite objects and tell a story about who you are and what you love. Arrange collections of books, artwork, and keepsakes on shelves and tabletops, and layer in personal touches such as family photos or travel souvenirs. By curating meaningful displays that reflect your interests and experiences, you can infuse your home with warmth and personality.

6. Embrace Imperfection:

Remember that beauty often lies in imperfection, so don't be afraid to embrace the quirks and flaws of your existing belongings. A chipped vase or a slightly worn rug can add character and charm to your space, lending it a sense of authenticity and lived-in appeal. Instead of striving for perfection, focus on creating a home that feels comfortable, welcoming, and uniquely yours.

7. Start Where You Are:

Transforming your home with objects you already own is not only budget-friendly but also deeply satisfying. Start by taking inventory of your belongings and identifying pieces that you love and want to showcase in your space. Experiment with different arrangements and configurations until you find what feels right for you, and don't be afraid to let your creativity guide you. With a little imagination and a lot of heart, you can turn your home into a beautiful reflection of who you are and what you cherish most. 

Call Catherine to schedule today at (503) 805-5880

Licensed Bonded & Insured Since 2012 CCB # 20569

In a world where sustainability is more important than ever, finding eco-friendly alternatives to traditional cleaning products and methods is key to reducing our environmental impact and creating a healthier home for ourselves and our loved ones. At Escape Your Chaos, we're committed to helping you clean green and escape the chaos of harmful chemicals and pollutants. Join us as we share our top eco-friendly cleaning tips to help you create a clean and healthy home while minimizing your carbon footprint.

1. Make Your Own Cleaning Products:

One of the simplest and most effective ways to clean green is to make your own cleaning products using natural ingredients that are safe for both you and the environment. Common household items such as vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice can be used to create a variety of homemade cleaning solutions that are just as effective as their commercial counterparts. Not only are homemade cleaners eco-friendly, but they're also budget-friendly and customizable to suit your cleaning needs.

2. Choose Non-Toxic Cleaning Products:

When purchasing cleaning products, opt for non-toxic and environmentally friendly options that are free from harmful chemicals such as ammonia, bleach, and phthalates. Look for products that are labeled as biodegradable, plant-based, and cruelty-free, and avoid products that contain synthetic fragrances and dyes. By choosing non-toxic cleaning products, you can create a healthier indoor environment for you and your family while reducing your exposure to harmful pollutants.

3. Reduce Single-Use Plastics:

Swap out single-use plastic cleaning supplies such as disposable wipes and paper towels for reusable alternatives such as microfiber cloths, washable sponges, and mop heads. Not only are reusable cleaning supplies more eco-friendly, but they're also more cost-effective in the long run. Invest in high-quality cleaning tools that can be washed and reused multiple times, and say goodbye to wasteful single-use plastics for good.

4. Conserve Water and Energy:

When cleaning your home, be mindful of your water and energy usage to minimize your environmental impact. Turn off the tap when not in use, and opt for low-flow showerheads and faucets to conserve water. Use cold water whenever possible, as hot water requires more energy to heat and can contribute to higher energy bills and increased carbon emissions. Additionally, consider using energy-efficient appliances and cleaning tools to reduce your overall energy consumption.

5. Opt for Natural Air Fresheners:

Instead of masking odors with synthetic air fresheners and candles, freshen up your home naturally with the power of plants and essential oils. Place houseplants such as peace lilies, spider plants, and snake plants throughout your home to naturally purify the air and remove harmful toxins. Diffuse essential oils such as lavender, eucalyptus, and lemon to create a fresh and inviting scent that will uplift your mood and enhance your well-being.

6. Practice Proper Waste Disposal:

Dispose of cleaning products and household waste properly to prevent pollution and protect the environment. Recycle packaging materials such as bottles, cans, and cardboard boxes whenever possible, and avoid flushing hazardous chemicals and toxins down the drain. Look for local recycling and hazardous waste disposal programs in your area to safely dispose of items such as batteries, electronics, and expired cleaning products.

7. Embrace a Greener Clean:

With these eco-friendly cleaning tips from Escape Your Chaos, you can embrace a greener clean and create a healthier home for yourself and your loved ones. Say goodbye to harmful chemicals and pollutants and hello to a clean and sustainable living environment that you can feel good about. Together, we can escape the chaos of conventional cleaning and pave the way for a brighter, more sustainable future. 

Call Catherine to schedule today at (503) 805-5880

Licensed Bonded & Insured Since 2012 CCB # 20569

As the days grow longer and the temperatures rise, it's time to prepare your home for the sunny days and outdoor adventures that summer brings. At Escape Your Chaos, we're here to help you embrace the season with open arms and a clutter-free home. Join us as we share our top tips and strategies for seasonal organization, focusing on how to prepare your space for the summer months ahead.

1. Streamline Your Summer Wardrobe:

Say goodbye to bulky sweaters and heavy coats and make room for lightweight fabrics and breezy attire. As you transition your wardrobe for summer, take the opportunity to declutter and donate any items that you didn't wear during the previous season. Create a capsule wardrobe of summer essentials that reflect your personal style and make getting dressed a breeze on those hot summer days.

2. Create an Outdoor Oasis:

Transform your outdoor space into a relaxing oasis where you can soak up the sun and enjoy the beauty of nature. Clean and organize your patio furniture, plant colorful flowers and greenery, and set up a cozy seating area where you can entertain guests or simply unwind with a good book. Invest in storage solutions such as outdoor bins and containers to keep your outdoor space tidy and clutter-free all summer long.

3. Stock Up on Summer Essentials:

Make sure you're prepared for all of your favorite summer activities by stocking up on essential supplies and gear. Create designated storage areas for beach towels, sunscreen, insect repellent, and outdoor toys, making it easy to grab and go whenever adventure calls. Consider investing in multi-functional items such as beach bags with built-in coolers or picnic baskets with compartments for utensils and plates.

4. Refresh Your Indoor Spaces:

As the temperature rises, it's important to keep your indoor spaces cool and comfortable. Clean and organize your fans, air conditioners, and window treatments to ensure optimal airflow and temperature control. Swap out heavy curtains for lightweight sheers to let in natural light while still maintaining privacy, and invest in storage solutions such as baskets and bins to corral summer essentials like sandals, hats, and sunglasses.

5. Plan for Summer Activities:

Make the most of the summer season by planning fun and exciting activities for you and your family to enjoy. Whether it's backyard barbecues, picnics in the park, or day trips to the beach, having a plan in place will help you stay organized and make the most of your summer adventures. Create a calendar of events and activities, and designate a specific area of your home to store items such as picnic blankets, coolers, and outdoor games.

6. Embrace Seasonal Decor:

Add a touch of summer charm to your home with seasonal decor that reflects the spirit of the season. Swap out heavy blankets and throw pillows for lightweight alternatives in bright and cheerful colors. Consider adding indoor plants to bring a touch of greenery and freshness into your space, and don't forget to update your wreaths and other decorative elements to reflect the sunny vibes of summer. An entryway is the first part of your home a guest sees!

7. Stay Hydrated and Energized:

With the heat of summer in full swing, it's important to stay hydrated and energized throughout the day. Create a designated hydration station in your home with reusable water bottles, pitchers of infused water, and refreshing snacks such as fruits and veggies. Keep energy levels high by incorporating natural light, fresh air, and vibrant colors into your space, and don't forget to take breaks and rest when needed to avoid burnout.

With these seasonal organization tips from Escape Your Chaos LLC, you can embrace the summer season with open arms and a clutter-free home. Say goodbye to chaos and hello to sunny days and summer adventures as you prepare your space for the season ahead! 

Call Catherine to schedule today at (503) 805-5880

Licensed Bonded & Insured Since 2012 CCB # 20569

The Impact of Organization on Mental Health: A Path to Serenity

In our fast-paced world, where the demands of work, family, and personal life often collide, staying organized can seem like an unattainable goal. Yet, the benefits of organization extend far beyond a tidy home or an efficiently run office. In fact, being organized can have a profound impact on our mental health. Let’s explore how cultivating an organized lifestyle can lead to improved well-being and a more serene state of mind.

Reducing Stress and Anxiety

One of the most immediate and noticeable effects of being organized is a reduction in stress and anxiety levels. Clutter and disorganization can create a chaotic environment that overwhelms the senses and makes it difficult to focus. This chaos can lead to feelings of being out of control and perpetuate a cycle of stress.

By organizing our spaces and schedules, we create a sense of order that helps our minds relax. Knowing where things are and having a plan for the day can significantly reduce anxiety, as it eliminates the uncertainty that often accompanies a disorganized lifestyle. When our surroundings are orderly, our minds can more easily shift into a calm and productive state.

Enhancing Focus and Productivity

An organized environment not only soothes the mind but also enhances focus and productivity. When our physical and digital spaces are free of clutter, it’s easier to find what we need, leading to more efficient use of time. This improved efficiency can boost our sense of accomplishment and self-efficacy, contributing to better mental health.

Moreover, organization allows us to prioritize tasks effectively. By creating to-do lists and setting clear goals, we can manage our time better and avoid the frustration of unfinished tasks. This structured approach helps in breaking down overwhelming projects into manageable steps, making it easier to stay on track and maintain motivation.

Improving Sleep Quality

Disorganization can infiltrate our lives in subtle ways, including our sleep patterns. A cluttered bedroom or an unstructured evening routine can negatively impact our ability to unwind and get restful sleep. Poor sleep, in turn, exacerbates mental health issues, creating a vicious cycle of fatigue and stress.

Maintaining an organized sleep environment and establishing a consistent bedtime routine can significantly improve sleep quality. Simple steps like decluttering the bedroom, setting a regular sleep schedule, and minimizing screen time before bed can create a more conducive atmosphere for rest. Better sleep promotes mental clarity, emotional stability, and overall well-being.

Boosting Self-Esteem and Confidence

The act of organizing can also boost self-esteem and confidence. Taking control of our environment and schedules instills a sense of accomplishment and empowerment. Each small step towards organization—whether it’s cleaning out a closet, organizing a workspace, or planning meals for the week—builds our confidence and reinforces the belief that we can manage our lives effectively.

This sense of control and capability can be particularly empowering for those dealing with mental health challenges. The positive feedback loop created by accomplishing organizational tasks can counter feelings of helplessness and improve overall mental health.

Creating a Sense of Routine and Stability

Routine and stability are essential for mental health, particularly for those who experience anxiety or depression. An organized lifestyle fosters these elements by providing structure and predictability. Routines help anchor our days, offering a sense of normalcy and reliability that can be comforting during turbulent times.

By incorporating organization into our daily lives, we can create consistent habits that support mental health. Whether it’s a morning routine that sets a positive tone for the day or an evening ritual that helps us unwind, these organized practices contribute to a stable and balanced life.

Practical Tips for Getting Organized

Getting started with organization might feel daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are some practical tips to help you begin your journey towards a more organized and mentally healthy life:

1. Start Small: Focus on one area at a time, such as a single drawer or a corner of a room.
2. Create Lists: Make to-do lists to keep track of tasks and prioritize them.
3. Set Goals: Define clear, achievable goals for your organizational efforts.
4. Declutter Regularly: Regularly go through your belongings and discard items you no longer need.
5. Establish Routines: Develop daily routines that incorporate organizational tasks.

Professional Help: Escape Your Chaos LLC to the Rescue 

For those who find the process of getting organized overwhelming, professional help is available. Escape Your Chaos LLC, a leading Portland, Oregon professional organizer, specializes in transforming chaotic spaces into orderly, functional environments. Their expert organizers can provide personalized solutions tailored to your specific needs, helping you achieve and maintain an organized lifestyle.

Escape Your Chaos offers a range of services, decluttering and  organizing, unpacking & settling your new home, packing & staging a home you are selling, personal assistant, errands, and so much more! By partnering with our professionals, you can alleviate the burden of organizing and focus on enjoying the mental health benefits that come with a well-ordered life.

Conclusion

Organization is more than just a method of keeping our physical spaces tidy; it’s a powerful tool for enhancing mental health. By reducing stress, improving focus, fostering better sleep, boosting self-esteem, and creating stability, an organized lifestyle can lead to a more serene and fulfilling life. Start small, be consistent, and consider enlisting the help of professionals like Escape Your Chaos LLC to transform your space and your mental well-being. 

Contact Catherine for scheduling today: 503-805-5880

Licensened Bonded & Insured since 2012 CCB #205698  

In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it's easy for chaos to creep into our homes and wreak havoc on our sense of peace and well-being. But fear not, for there is a simple yet powerful antidote to the chaos that surrounds us – regular cleaning, organizing, and purging. At Escape Your Chaos, we believe that maintaining a tidy and clutter-free space is essential for cultivating a sense of calm and harmony in our lives. Join us as we explore the transformative benefits of embracing these practices on a regular basis.

Cleaning: A Fresh Start for the Mind and Soul

There's something undeniably cathartic about the act of cleaning. Whether it's scrubbing floors, dusting shelves, or wiping down countertops, the physical act of cleaning has a way of clearing away not only dirt and grime but also mental clutter and stress. By incorporating regular cleaning into your routine, you can create a clean and inviting environment that nourishes your mind, body, and soul.

Organizing: Bringing Order to the Chaos

Once your space is clean, the next step is to bring order to the chaos through organization. From decluttering closets to arranging shelves, organizing your belongings in a thoughtful and intentional manner can have a profound impact on your overall sense of well-being. By giving each item a designated place and creating systems that work for you, you can streamline your space and make it easier to find what you need when you need it.

Purging: Love It Use It or Lose It

Perhaps the most liberating step in the process is purging – the act of letting go of items that no longer serve a purpose or bring you joy. Whether it's clothes that no longer fit, books you've already read, or knick-knacks collecting dust, purging allows you to free yourself from the burden of excess and create space for the things that truly matter. By releasing the physical and emotional weight of clutter, you can open yourself up to new opportunities and experiences.

Simplify

At Escape Your Chaos, we believe that cleaning, organizing, and purging are not just tasks to be checked off a list – they're a way of life. By embracing these practices on a regular basis, you can cultivate a lifestyle of simplicity and intentionality that extends far beyond your physical space. From reducing stress and increasing productivity to fostering a greater sense of gratitude and contentment, the benefits of escaping your chaos are endless.

Start Your Journey Today

Ready to escape the chaos and reclaim control of your space and your life? Join us on a journey of transformation as we clean, organize, and purge our way to a brighter, more harmonious future. With Escape Your Chaos as your guide, you can discover the joy of living with intention and create a home that reflects the peace and serenity you deserve. Call us today at (503) 805-5880!

In the chaos of modern life, finding a sense of calm amidst the clutter can feel like an impossible task. From overflowing closets to cluttered desks, the demands of everyday living often leave us feeling overwhelmed and disorganized. But fear not, for there's a guiding light amidst the mess – with Escape Your Chaos, your partner in creating spaces that inspire tranquility and productivity.

At Escape Your Chaos, we understand the transformative power of organization. Our mission is simple: to help you reclaim your space and restore order to your life. Whether you're tackling a small apartment or a sprawling estate, our team of expert organizers is here to guide you every step of the way.

The Escape Your Chaos Difference:

1. Tailored Solutions: We recognize that no two spaces are alike, which is why we take a personalized approach to every project. Our team works closely with you to understand your unique needs, preferences, and lifestyle, ensuring that the solutions we implement are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

2. Holistic Approach: Our organizing philosophy extends beyond simply decluttering your physical space. We believe in fostering a holistic sense of well-being by addressing the root causes of disorganization. Through practical tips and strategies, we empower you to develop sustainable habits that promote long-term tidiness and efficiency.

3. Environmental Consciousness: As stewards of the planet, we're committed to promoting eco-friendly practices in all aspects of our work. From utilizing sustainable storage solutions to responsibly disposing of unwanted items, we strive to minimize our environmental footprint and contribute to a healthier planet for future generations.

Our Services:

1. Home Organization: From kitchens to closets, bedrooms to basements, we specialize in transforming every corner of your home into a sanctuary of order and tranquility.

2. Office Organization: Boost productivity and efficiency in the workplace with our tailored organizing solutions for offices, co-working spaces, and home offices.

3. Relocation Services: Moving can be one of life's most stressful experiences, but it doesn't have to be. Let us handle the logistics of your move, from packing and unpacking to setting up your new space for maximum functionality and comfort.

The Escape Your Chaos Experience:

When you choose Escape Your Chaos, you're not just hiring a service – you're embarking on a journey towards a simpler, more harmonious way of living. Our team is dedicated to exceeding your expectations at every turn, providing unparalleled support and guidance from the owner Catherine LeJeal, start to finish.

So why wait? Take the first step towards a clutter-free existence today and discover the transformative power of organization with Escape Your Chaos. Say goodbye to chaos and hello to a life of tranquility, productivity, and joy. Call us today at (503) 805-5880!

Escape Your Chaos™  During Moves  

 

 

 

MOVING:  The word strikes terror in the heart of the brave. Whether you are moving by choice into your dream home or being forced into a move by an unwanted life change, moving can be traumatic for you, your life, your family and your belongings. 

 

Let’s look at my 10 top tips: 

 

 1.  SIMPLIFY: Is a year in advance to early to begin? No!  If you have advance notice 6    

      months to a year before the move, get started by hiring a professional organizer to go 

      through the home with you step by step, inch by inch. Why pay to move something you no 

      longer need or want. Books are heavy and most are available on Kindle or at 

      your library. Remember “Love It, Use It or LOSE IT™” (Keep the First Editions, wink)

 

2.  DON’T PANIC: Even if you have short notice, Keep Calm. Keep what you cherish. Keep 

     what you use. Keep your memories. This is not the time to throw away all your baby 

      photos and year books. Believe me, I did that and have regretted it ever since. 

 

3. KODAK MOMENTS: Take lots of photos. You may think you have photos but in most of them 

    your home was in the background. This time go room by room and really photograph e

     everything, inside cupboards, medicine cabinets, linen closets, drawers, garage, attic, 

     basement. What’s on your walls and on your patio. This will be valuable for many reasons. 

     For insurance purposes in case of damaged goods. To help you remember how you 

     like those books you didn’t give away arranged on your shelves and for memories. 

 

4.  PACKING: Professional move assisters can be life savers when you need to be at work 

     everyday. You can begin early packing the belongings you don’t use regularly. Stack 

     boxes in a garage or storage unit. This helps clear your home out for staging if it’s 

     for sale and helps you feel like you’ve got a good handle on the situation. *My favorite 

     freebies are produce boxes. They are sturdy, have handles, lids, don’t need taping 

     and stack perfectly. Call your local market produce department to reserve. 

 

 

5.  CLEANING: Leaving a rental? Check with management. Sometimes it’s less expensive to 

     pay the cleaning fees than to have your place professionally cleaned or taking your valuable 

     time to do it.  DO have your new place professionally cleaned before you move in. Nothing 

     feels better than staring out fresh. 

 

6. LEAVING ON A JET PLANE:  Pack a suitcase for each family member, and pet, as if they 

    were going on a 2 week vacation. Hopefully it won’t take 2 weeks to be settled but

    emergencies can come up that delay progress. My daughter had 3 emergency kidney     

    surgeries right after I recently moved. I lived out of my suitcase for about 3 weeks.

 

7. BOX #1: Is one of the last boxes to get packed because it’s the stuff you use everyday. Ex: 

    Your favorite fry pan, toaster, blender, salt and pepper, toilet paper, paper towels, bath towels, 

    sheets, pillows and blankets for beds.