Clutter. Mess. Disorganization. Any way you say it spells mayhem.
Yet not everyone can afford -- or is willing to face the humiliation -- of having a professional organizer tackle their bulging closets, messy basements and chaotic kitchen cupboards.
Pack rats take heed: You don't have to raid your bank account to bring order to your sloppy living spaces. Here are seven affordable and practical solutions for curbing household clutter:
Trug-a-lug
These soft, rubbery totes can be used to store everything from toys and sports equipment to firewood and recyclables. The lightweight Flexi Tub from Keter can also be used as a laundry basket or as a trug for collecting fall leaves in the yard. Available in two sizes: 43-litre for $12.99 and 27-litre for $7.99 at Canadian Tire stores.
Off the wall
From IKEA's GRUNDTAL series, these stainless-steel wall organizers are the ideal space savers in kitchens where counter room is at a premium. Choose from racks ($12.99 to $19.99) for hanging cooking tools, a wall shelf ($29.99) for holding canisters and dishware and a magnetic spice rack ($19.99).
Under cover
Made of faux orange- and chocolate-coloured leather with chrome studs and buckles, these storage boxes offer a quick fix for messy home offices. Use them to store important documents, CDs and file folders that are best kept out of sight. Large, $24.99; medium, $14.99 at Home Outfitters.
Standing tall
Keep magazines, newspapers and children's storybooks neat and accessible with this cherry-red wooden rack for $39.99 from HomeSense. Measuring 98 centimetres high, the super-slim rack includes three compartments with old-style filing-cabinet labels.
On the hook
Time to make room for the hockey gear and snow shovels in the garage. The Gladiator GarageWorks starter kit includes two tool hooks, one deep hook for hanging up the garden hose, a utility hook and wire basket. Available for $64.99 at Sears.ca
Jewel heist
Stash your favourite beads and baubles in this compact jewelry box from the Gluckstein Home Collection. Three faux-leather drawers lined with velvety fabric swing out for easy access. $19.99 at Home Outfitters.
-- Canwest News Service
