Seasonal Storage

You have heard of Spring cleaning, but there are four seasons in every year. Put these seasonal storage and organization ideas to work and keep your home running smoothly.

Here are some things you can do at the beginning of each new season:

Clean and pack all of the previous season's decorations into a storage container
Bring out and arrange the new season's inside and outside decorations
Deep clean and store all coats and clothing items from the previous season so they will be ready to go for next year.
Bring out your clothing items for the new season and place them in the front of the closet for easy access
Adjust the program on your thermostat according to the weather for the upcoming season

In many areas, Winter means cold and snow. This is typically the season that requires the most preparation and extra equipment. You should prepare early, both inside and outside your home. You never know when that first Winter storm will hit-you don't want to be unprepared.

Do a final cleanup of your yard - rake and bag leaves, fertilize grass with a winter mix, clean up and protect gardens and shrubbery
Store or cover lawn and patio furniture
Winterize your sprinkler system
If necessary, make sure shovels and snow-blowers are serviced and readily accessible
If necessary, make sure that you have window scrapers and brushes in all of your vehicles

Seasonal Storage Tip: Place an inexpensive clothes drying rack on top of a durable rubber mat with a rim around the outside (made for catching and containing water) near the door used most often in your home. This way when the kids come in and out with snow covered clothes and boots, they can take them all off at the door and hang them up to dry. The mat will catch the water to save your floors - plus, no more searching for lost mittens - you will always know where they are!

No later than the first two weeks of Spring you should put away your Winter items and get your home ready for the warmer weather both inside and out. Spring is the perfect time to spend a little extra time and attention cleaning your home - let the crisp fresh air in and bring on a new beginning!

Deep clean your carpets and upholstery
Wash your windows, inside and out
Take a walk around your house and property with a note pad in hand. Make a list of any repairs or improvements that need to be made. Post the list where it is visably so you can check the items off as you go.

Seasonal Storage Tip: Spring is the time of gardening. Purchase a large canvas gardening tote with pockets all around the outside. These are perfect for storing gardening supplies. They keep everything in one place and they are easy to grab when you are ready to get growing!

The transition from Spring to Summer is probably the easiest transition of the year. Unless you need to rotate your wardrobe or change your seasonal home decor, used this time to focus on some larger projects that can be done annually to continue the maintenance of your home.

Do a clean sweep through your house, garage and storage shed to set aside unused items to donate to charity or sell in a garage sale.
Accomplish any outdoor maintenance or repairs that may be necessary to keep your home in good condition.
Take the time to focus on your home's curb appeal and make any necessary improvements.
Take down and wash all interior window treatments.
Flip all matressess

Seasonal Storage Tip: Purchase a large outdoor plastic storage container to keep on your deck or patio or someplace in your back yard. These are great for storing furniture cushions, outdoor party supplies or kids toys and they help to keep your yard organized!

The more I think about it, Autumn is probably my favorite season. The beautiful colors, the crisp air, snuggling up in warm comfy clothes, and getting back into the kitchen to cook hearty meals for my family. The only downfall to Autumn is that it means Winter is on it's way which makes it the perfect time to get a jump start on the preparations for the cold!

Seasonal Storage Tip: Purchase four plastic storage containers and mark one for each of the four seasons. Stow them neatly in your preferred storage area so they will be easy to grab when you need them. This way all of your seasonal items will be together in one place.

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