Posted in Clean & Tidy

Budget-Friendly Organizing


Affordable Ways to Keep Your Home Tidy
By Cheryl, Clutter Coach at Lifestyle by Designs | Apr 15, 2025

Keeping your home tidy doesn’t have to mean spending a fortune on fancy containers or hiring a cleaning crew every week. With a few smart, budget-friendly habits, you can create a more organized and peaceful space without breaking the bank.

Here are some affordable ways to keep your home tidy and stress-free:

1. Declutter First – Always

Before spending money on bins or shelves, go through each room and remove what you no longer need. Donate, recycle, or toss items you haven’t used in over a year. Less stuff means less to clean and organize.

2. Use What You Already Have

Repurpose jars, shoe boxes, or old baskets as storage containers. An empty mason jar makes a great pen holder. A shoebox with a lid can keep cords or stationery neatly tucked away. You don’t need a Pinterest-worthy look for an efficient system to work.

3. Create a 10-Minute Daily Reset

Set a timer for 10 minutes each evening to do a quick tidy-up: clear countertops, toss trash, fluff the couch cushions, and put away out-of-place items. It keeps mess from building up and costs nothing but a little time.

4. Label Everything

A simple roll of masking tape and a marker can create labels that help everyone in the house know where things belong. Clear labels reduce the chances of clutter reappearing.

5. Designate a “Drop Zone”

Set up a small space near your front door for shoes, keys, mail, and bags. A tray, hooks, or an unused basket works wonders to corral everyday items and keep clutter from spreading.

6. Shop Thrift Stores for Organizers

Instead of spending big at retail stores, check out local thrift shops for inexpensive shelves, bins, or storage furniture. Many quality pieces just need a quick clean or a coat of paint to look brand new.

7. Adopt a One-In, One-Out Rule

For every new item you bring into your home, remove one. This keeps things from piling up and makes you think twice about impulse buys.

8. Use Vertical Space

Install wall hooks, hanging baskets, or floating shelves to maximize unused space. Vertical storage helps keep things off the floor and adds style and structure to a room.

9. Keep a Donation Box Handy

Place a box or bag in a closet where you can easily toss things you no longer want. When it’s full, take it to a local charity. It encourages a minimalist mindset and keeps clutter moving out the door.

10. Plan Seasonal Purges

Schedule mini-decluttering sessions at the start of each season. It keeps your home aligned with your current needs and avoids last-minute deep cleans before holidays or guests arrive.


Final Thought:
Staying organized doesn’t require expensive tools—it just takes commitment, creativity, and consistency. At Lifestyle by Designs, we specialize in helping clients find sustainable, affordable ways to bring order to their homes and offices. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by clutter, let’s create a system that works for your lifestyle.

Peace & Harmony, Cheryl


Where Clean Meets Design

If you require more comprehensive guidance than the information provided in my article, consider my personalized coaching programs. Book a complimentary consultation to explore the factors hindering your journey toward organized living spaces. Together, we will identify your challenges and develop a tailored strategy to help you achieve your goals. I anticipate the opportunity to collaborate with you to transform your lifestyle.

Let’s Chat!

Email: organizercoach98@gmail.com to set up a free 10-minute consultation call

Cheryl

Posted in Mini-Clinic Mondays

Mini-Clinic Monday

Mini Clinic: Organizing the Family Bathroom


The aim of this project is to completely transform a cluttered and disorganized family bathroom. The end result should be a space that is not only functional and clean but also efficient and comfortable for every family member to use. This means considering all family members’ needs, from young children to adults, and ensuring that the bathroom is accessible and safe for everyone.

The transformation will likely involve decluttering and organizing existing items, potentially adding storage solutions, and possibly even rearranging the layout (if your budget allows) of the bathroom to maximize space and efficiency.  The final result will be a bathroom that is both aesthetically pleasing and practical, making the daily routines of everyone in the family easier.


Step 1: Declutter

  • Remove everything: Clear off countertops, shelves, and cabinets. Lay everything out on a surface.
  • Sort into categories: Group items by type—towels, toiletries, cleaning supplies, first aid, etc.
  • Toss expired or unused items: Discard expired products, empty bottles, and anything no longer in use.

Step 2: Establish Zones

  • Create dedicated zones for:
    • Daily use items: Keep frequently used products (toothbrushes, soap, hand towels) within easy reach.
    • Hair and skincare products: Use a drawer or container for makeup, skincare, and hair tools.
    • Bathing essentials: Organize shampoos, conditioners, and body washes near the shower or bath.
    • Cleaning supplies: Store under the sink or in a closet, but keep them out of reach of children.
    • Family members’ items: If several family members use the bathroom, create personal bins or shelves for each person.

Step 3: Maximize Storage

  • Use drawer organizers: Keep small items like cotton swabs, toothpaste, and razors tidy.
  • Install shelves or baskets: Make use of vertical space with wall-mounted shelves or hanging baskets for extra storage.
  • Use clear containers: For deep cabinets or under-the-sink areas, use clear bins or baskets for easier access to items.
  • Towel hooks or racks: Mount hooks for each family member’s towel, or add a towel bar to keep them off the floor.

Step 4: Label & Maintain

  • Label containers and bins: Labeling helps everyone know where things belong and keeps the system working.
  • Implement a routine check: Once a month, check for items that need replenishing or discarding, ensuring the space stays clutter-free.

Additional Tips:

  • Add a laundry hamper: Make it easy for everyone to toss dirty towels and clothes directly into the hamper.
  • Childproofing: If you have young children, ensure that any sharp or hazardous items are stored securely and out of reach.

Products to Consider:

  • Stackable bins for under-sink storage
  • Over-the-door hooks for towels
  • Clear plastic containers for small items
  • Drawer dividers for toiletries
  • A lazy Susan for easy access to products in deep cabinets

Final Thoughts:

A well-organized family bathroom can streamline the morning and evening routines, helping every family member start their day more efficiently. Plus, an organized bathroom is easier to clean and maintain!

Happy Organizing! Cheryl

Posted in Body & Skin Care

Love The Skin You’re In

After 60: Embracing The Love Of Body & Skin

I’ve always made an effort to care for my skin, even as a teenager when my hormones wreaked havoc on it. I wish I’d understood the role hormones played back then! It wasn’t until I started modeling at 19 that I truly learned how to care for my skin properly. However, since turning 60 a few years ago, I’ve noticed my skin taking on a life of its own, and the rest of me is just along for the ride!

Our skin undergoes significant changes as we age, requiring a shift in skincare routines that worked in our 30s. At the same time, youthful skin focuses on prevention, mature skin after 60 demands hydration, nourishment, and gentler care. Here’s how to adapt your skincare habits for a healthy, radiant glow.

1. Hydration is Key

Skin loses moisture more rapidly with age, leading to dryness and fine lines. Swap out foaming cleansers for hydrating creams or oil-based cleansers that maintain the skin’s natural oils. Follow up with a rich moisturizer containing hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or squalane to lock in hydration.

2. Gentle Exfoliation Over Harsh Treatments

In your 30s, strong exfoliants and retinol may have been your go-to for skin renewal. After 60, opt for milder alternatives like lactic acid or enzyme-based exfoliants. Over-exfoliation can damage the skin barrier, making it prone to sensitivity and irritation.

3. Sun Protection is Non-Negotiable

While SPF is important at any age, mature skin is more vulnerable to UV damage and hyperpigmentation. Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily, even on cloudy days, to protect collagen and prevent further aging signs.

4. Boost Collagen and Elasticity

Collagen production slows down with age, leading to sagging skin. Incorporate peptides, vitamin C, and niacinamide into your routine to support elasticity and firmness. Consider a nourishing face oil to replenish lipids and add a healthy glow.

5. Prioritize Gentle Ingredients

Harsh anti-aging products can do more harm than good on mature skin. Instead, look for ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, and oat extract to soothe and strengthen the skin barrier. Retinol alternatives like bakuchiol provide anti-aging benefits without irritation.

6. Skincare is Self-Care

Beyond products, lifestyle habits play a crucial role. Stay hydrated, eat antioxidant-rich foods, and prioritize sleep. Facial massage and gua sha can improve circulation, while silk pillowcases reduce sleep lines and friction on delicate skin.

Aging is a natural process, and adapting your skincare to meet the needs of mature skin helps maintain a healthy, glowing complexion. By embracing hydration, protection, and gentle care, you can ensure your skin stays vibrant well into your golden years.

7. Cleaning & Storing your Body/Skin Care Tools

To keep your body and skin care tools clean and in good condition, follow these steps:

  1. Cleansing – Wash makeup brushes, facial rollers, and sponges with warm water and a gentle cleanser or mild soap weekly. For razors and tweezers, use rubbing alcohol to disinfect after each use.
  2. Drying – Let tools air dry completely on a clean towel to prevent bacteria growth. Avoid using heat, as it can damage some materials.
  3. Storage – Keep tools in a dry, ventilated area, preferably in a clean pouch, container, or drawer to protect them from dust and moisture.
  4. Replacement – Regularly replace disposable tools like razors and sponges to maintain hygiene and effectiveness.

Consistently maintaining your tools ensures they remain safe and effective for your skincare routine. This skincare routine can be used by men as well as women.  It’s easy to whip up a treatment in the kitchen to keep your skin looking its best.  Why not plan a couples’ spa night? ♥


Here is a Weekly Body & Skincare Plan using only gluten-free & organic ingredients to nourish your skin naturally. This plan includes DIY skincare treatments, hydration tips, along with daily self-care rituals.


WEEKLY BODY & SKINCARE PLAN 

(I buy Gluten-Free-Because I live a gluten free lifestyle!)

🌿 DAILY ESSENTIALS:

✅ Drink plenty of water (at least 8 glasses)
✅ Apply SPF 30+ daily
✅ Moisturize morning & night with lotion (like shea butter, coconut oil, or jojoba oil)
✅ Use a silk pillowcase for better skin and hair health


Below is the routine I use – recreate it to fit you and your lifestyle. ♥

🌞 MONDAY – Hydration Boost

🧼 Cleanse: Rice water face wash (soak organic rice in water, strain, and use the water)
🛁 Body Care: Oatmeal & honey bath (use gluten-free oats in a muslin bag)
💆‍♀️ Mask: Avocado & aloe vera face mask (mash avocado + aloe gel, apply for 15 min)
💧 Moisturize: Jojoba oil with vitamin E


🌿 TUESDAY – Exfoliation Day

🧼 Cleanse: Chamomile tea face mist (soothes and refreshes skin)
🛁 Body Scrub: Brown sugar & coconut oil scrub (massage in circular motions)
💆‍♀️ Face Scrub: Coffee & honey exfoliator (use finely ground coffee + honey)
💧 Moisturize: Shea butter & argan oil


🍊 WEDNESDAY – Brightening Care

🧼 Cleanse: Aloe & cucumber face wash (blend cucumber & aloe, strain, and apply)
🛁 Body Care: Orange peel & yogurt body mask (grind dried orange peels + mix with yogurt)
💆‍♀️ Face Mask: Turmeric & Greek yogurt (for an even skin tone)
💧 Moisturize: Almond oil (if no nut allergy) or grapeseed oil


🌹 THURSDAY – Anti-Aging & Repair

🧼 Cleanse: Rosewater & witch hazel toner
🛁 Body Care: Green tea soak (steep tea in bathwater)
💆‍♀️ Face Mask: Egg white & honey tightening mask…A favorite!!!♥
💧 Moisturize: Hyaluronic acid serum + rosehip oil


🌻 FRIDAY – Soothing & Relaxation

🧼 Cleanse: Chamomile & oatmeal cleanser
🛁 Body Care: Lavender-infused coconut oil massage…flavored? Just sayin” 😉
💆‍♀️ Face Mask: Banana & honey mask (for hydration and glow)
💧 Moisturize: Aloe vera gel & jojoba oil


🍵 SATURDAY – Deep Detox & Nourishment

🧼 Cleanse: Apple cider vinegar toner (diluted with water)
🛁 Body Scrub: Sea salt & olive oil scrub
💆‍♀️ Face Mask: Bentonite clay & apple cider vinegar
💧 Moisturize: Shea butter & chamomile oil


🫐 SUNDAY – Beauty Sleep & Renewal

🧼 Cleanse: Blueberry & honey antioxidant cleanser
🛁 Body Care: Epsom salt bath with lavender
💆‍♀️ Face Mask: Yogurt & honey overnight mask
💧 Moisturize: Sweet almond oil or coconut oil before bed…maybe flavored just saaayin” 😉


📝 Notes:

  • All ingredients must be certified gluten-free. (this is for the GF family!)
  • Adjust recipes based on skin type (oily, dry, sensitive).
  • Always do a patch test before trying a new ingredient.
  • Store homemade skincare in the fridge for freshness.

Peace ♥ Harmony ~ Cheryl