7 Simple House Hacks

Declutter with the Three-Box Method

Decluttering your home can be overwhelming, but the three-box method makes it manageable.

How It Works: Label three boxes as “Keep,” “Donate,” and “Trash.” Go through each room and sort items into these boxes.
Beneﬁts: This method helps you quickly decide what to keep, donate, or throw away, making the decluttering process more organized and less stressful.

“You can take the box method a step further,” says Stephens agent Monica Heidewald. “I like to use clear containers in my bathroom cabinets to keep personal care items and makeup organized and easy to find. I also like using baskets to store extra throw blankets, shoes, and dog toys. HomeGoods is my go-to spot for storage options.”

Magnetic Strips for Tools and Utensils

Magnetic strips can help keep metal tools and utensils organized and easily accessible.

In the Kitchen: Mount a magnetic strip on the wall to hold knives, scissors, and other metal utensils.
In the Garage or Workshop: Use magnetic strips to organize small tools like screwdrivers, wrenches, and drill bits.

Use Tension Rods for Extra Storage

Tension rods are versatile tools that can help maximize storage in various areas of your home.

In the Kitchen: Use tension rods under the sink to hang cleaning supplies or create a vertical divider for cutting boards and baking sheets.
In the Closet: Install tension rods to create additional hanging space for clothes, scarves, or belts.

Stephens agent Libby Grady says, “I’ve seen clever ways people organize their jewelry when visiting homes. One of my favorites involved a cute curtain rod mounted on the wall, using decorative shower curtain hooks to hang each necklace individually. How many necklaces fit on that rod was impressive, and it looked like wall decor.”

Velcro Strips for Remote Controls

Never lose your remote controls again by using Velcro strips to keep them in place.

How It Works: Attach one side of a Velcro strip to the back of your remote and the other to a convenient spot like the side of your coﬀee table or TV stand.
Beneﬁts: This hack keeps your remotes organized and easily accessible, reducing the time spent searching for them.

Command Hooks for Versatile Hanging

Command hooks are perfect for creating additional hanging space without damaging walls.

In the Kitchen: Use command hooks to hang measuring cups and spoons inside cabinet doors
In the Bathroom: Hang towels, robes, or shower caddies with command hooks to keep the bathroom tidy and organized.

Another Stephens agent, Katie Stutler, offered this hang-up idea: “We use Octopus Drying Hangers in the boys’ closets, and it’s been a game-changer for us. It keeps their t-shirts wrinkle-free, saves space, and makes finding their favorite shirts a lot easier. It’s a simple trick that makes a difference!”

Label Cables and Cords

Avoid the frustration of tangled and unidentified cables by labeling them.

How It Works: Use bread tags, masking tape, or store-bought labels to mark each cable with its corresponding device.
Benefits: This hack makes identifying and managing your cables easy, reducing clutter and confusion.

Under-Bed Storage

Maximize the space under your bed for storing items that are not frequently used.

Storage Bins: Use clear plastic bins with lids to store seasonal clothes, shoes, or extra linens.
Roll-Out Drawers: Invest in roll-out drawers or DIY your own to quickly access stored items without moving the bed.

Simple house hacks can significantly improve your home’s organization, efficiency, and overall functionality. At Stephens Real Estate, we understand how important it is to declutter, optimize storage, and improve daily routines. These helpful hacks offer easy and creative ways to enhance your home.