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Many of us are guilty of using our basement storage areas to hold all the stuff that we just don’t know what to do with or all the things that we really should throw out or recycle. This year why not make one of your resolutions finally getting control of your basement storage area? Even though you may think that once your stuff goes to the basement it is out of site and out of mind, chaos in your basement is probably weighing on your mind without you realizing it. Here are some steps you can take to bring control and order back to your basement. Often the problem we have with our storage areas is that there is no designated storage system in place. Large open areas with no existing walls can pose problems because without structure we don’t know where to put shelves and storage bins. Some organization and sense of order is essential to get things cleaned up and keep them that way. The best way to begin the organization process is to start with a clean slate. Remove everything from the unfinished area to the finished area temporarily, if you can. If your basement is completely unfinished and full to bursting with stuff, try to move everything to one side or corner in order to give you the space to start from scratch. Try to create a storage plan that will work well in your space. Perhaps you have a large wall where you can place some shelves for small boxes and baskets, leaving another area where you can stack large plastic bins. Consider using small containers to fill small awkward spaces, so you can take advantage of every inch you have available to you. Once you have created designated areas you can purchase the right storage solutions for each area. Wire shelving is strong and durable and will hold very heavy boxes if necessary. Plastic storage bins are available in all sizes and types. Perhaps you prefer a combination of clear and coloured storage bins. Perhaps you need bins on industrial casters to hold very heavy items. Time taken to consider your needs and all your options is time well spent. Proper storage containers and shelves can be costly and you don’t want to buy things that will be of no use to you. Once you have figured the best way to make use of all available space you can begin sorting through the things that need to be stored. This is the most time-consuming part of the process. Be ruthless! Don’t store things that you will never use. When in doubt, put the things you are not sure about in a pile and revisit them in a few days. Store the things you have decided to keep in well labelled bins and label all shelves so that you can easily keep things organized. Remember to keep seasonal and infrequently used items like Christmas decor in the most inaccessible places so you don’t have to keep moving things around during the year. A little thought and perseverance is all it takes to have the neat basement of your dreams. Make this year the year you tackle this project for once and for all.
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basement, storage, storage bins, organization,
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