Eco-friendly organizing: kindness to the planet!

​Sometimes, people mistakenly assume that getting organized requires purchasing lots of storage supplies.

While purchasing new bins, boxes, etc. can be fun, it is definitely not your only option!

Many household items that would otherwise go to waste can be re-purposed for organizing. Reusing items for organization is an all-around win: it saves you money, keeps non-recyclable items out of landfills, and reduces the energy costs of processing recyclables!

Some ideas to get you started:

1. Cut the flaps off of cardboard boxes to use as in-drawer dividers
2. Use plastic Crystal Light (or other powdered beverage) containers to hold writing utensils; see topmost photo, above
3. Remove the labels from empty pill bottles--you may need an adhesive remover, like Goo-Gone--and use the bottles to hold earrings, cufflinks, etc. while traveling
4. Rinse clear plastic or glass spice jars, then use as holders for office or arts and crafts supplies. See lower photo
   Tip: Jars with perforated lids make especially good glitter shakers!  
5. Add casters to outgrown, small chests of drawers (e.g., those for children's clothes) to create a mobile cart for reading material, office supplies, or snacks
6. Turn old curtains into an attractive bedskirt (no sewing required!)--and then use under-bed space for storage!