That big power strip may have been there because it is a surge protector. You should have one for electronics. I once lost a computer and stereo system because I hadn't invested in a surge protector.
So.... I knew nothing about minimalism. Never heard of it before. You just came up on my feed a couple weeks ago. Iam 62yrs old and have been binging on your videos since!!! You have changed my life! I double body with you everyday as I go through my house. YOU gave me permission to do what my brains wanted to do for a long time, and it sure feels good! That's profound. I love you and THANKYOU💕
So, I am the type of person to keep everything “in case we need it someday”, and my husband is the polar opposite. I just had an eye opening opportunity where hubby and kid went on vacation for a whole month - and of course I cleaned the whole place THAT day. And I realized just how at peace I felt without the clutter everywhere! So I came across your channel and just spent 3 days binge watching all of your videos as motivation, and I managed to reorganize, declutter and get rid of sooooo many things. I want to thank you for all that you do - it has had a profoundly positive impact on my life already, the way I think about stuff, the mental shift, and the positivity ❤❤❤
@@rdb4996 the kid barely noticed, but hubby was genuinely happy and at peace, if that makes sense. I think the chaos gives him some anxiety too, so he is definitely feeling happy to be back home, especially when it's been decluttered :)
@@KafaJunkie what a gift you were able to give your man and yourself! I fully understand your husband, visual clutter is stuff saying 'use me', 'take care of me', 'repare me' etc etc.
Yes, as mentioned already, if the gray power strip was also a surge protector, that's probably why your computer was plugged into it. Very important to have that. You could get a smaller one. 😊
You definitely need the power strip/surge protector! After a tv was damaged due to a surge, I found out that surge protectors need replaced periodically as well.
I organized my upright freezer with those Container Store bins years ago. They are still in great shape and it's very easy to locate items in the freezer.
I have been using those exact container store bins for over 15 years, in every room in my house, every storage container, my kids even have one with their messy play outside. They are awesome, all of them look like new, even after being run through the dirt outside and being used and repurposed for over a decade! they are a bargain!
Great job! I like these smaller projects. Tip: Before you disassemble anything, (from electrical cords going to and from the back of TV's and computers, to plumbing projects, to recovering cushions) take a pic or two on your phone before you disassemble, so you can remember where everything goes. This one tip has saved me tons of time (and money).
I’m also a Ladybug. 🐞 Solid neutral bins are my favorite because I find them calming. Broad categories and labels help me stay organized without feeling overwhelmed. For example I have a small container (sitting on its lid because I access it so often) labeled fasteners. It has things I use in the house including glue, Velcro tape, picture hangers, magnet tape etc. Your videos and podcasts always motivate me to keep going, lessen my inventory and organize! Thank you! 🤗
Ugh!! When I read the title of this video, my eye roll was immediate! Cord clutter is truly the bane of my existence! I work from home with two monitors, a docking station, a laptop, a modem, and some cords that don’t reach very far so the clutter of cords is is ridiculous!! Thank you SO much for your ideas!
Same here! And I have to leave it on the desktop in case I need to take the laptop in to work. I saw on another channel where they used a wooden box with cutouts to the cover the mess.
I’ve used the little square bread tags, labeled them and put them on wires to know what they’re for. I save the white ones because they are easier to write on with a sharpie.
Maybe a solid color box could hold all the rolled up cords. I’ve used Avery labels on cords. I fold them around the cord and label them to tell what the cord is for.
You may need a surge protector for your computer. The one that was in the cabinet may not have been for the extra plug ins, but to protect your computer from power surges. The container store does have some containers that are worth the cost.
It was so wonderful meeting you last night at the homeschool event. You are even more amazing & funny in person! Thank you for taking the time to encourage & challenge us all. I left feeling blessed. DaNae from Alexandria
A more minimalist approach to power cord corralling: assess what we need before purchasing a whole set we may never use, that has to be stored and probably soon decluttered. I bet a few zip ties or hair clips/holders or even just rubber bands would have worked just fine, then less inventory to manage. It’s so tempting to buy the storage item first that’s going to solve all our issues, when the simplest solution was probably in our house already.
I have two beautiful bamboo cord boxes that hide my power strips and cords (one for my computer area and one for my TV area). Love them - and they look so much better than seeing the cords.
Labeling the cords is such a good idea. I also like the idea of marking the mystery cord with the date, so you know if you will or will not need it at some point, or feel confident donating it. I think you were speaking to me about the outlet covers…. Since I threatened to come to Minnesota and put them on myself…lol. I love seeing things neat and organized, and as I have decluttered for so long it is easier and easier to put an organization system in place and see it stay that way. I know what clutter shifting is, and have discovered how not to do it…great video…..❤
I have those same bins. They worked so well in my stand-alone freezer, and on some lower cabinet shelves in my kitchen for organizing cleaning products and flower vases. The largest deep ones fit perfectly 2 across in my freezer. It makes keeping track of inventory much easier for me.
I am an unapologetic word nerd. You nailed it with "stuff shuffle." Thank you for that helpful description! My husband has heard me say we haven't solved the problem; we've just moved the problem. Stating we have "Stuff shuffled" is much more fun. Although I suspect we'll giggle the first few times we use that description, I hope it stops us in our tracks before we yield to that temptation again. Thanks for the smiles.
Here is some unsolicited advice. Lol. I would buy a smaller surge protector or use the existing one to plug in your computer. It's for power outages and is made to protect electronic equipment from unwanted power surges. It takes only a tiny amount of voltage increase to damage most of today's sensitive electronics. I would definitely reconsider using one. ☺️ Side note, Thanks for your great videos Dawn. You have really helped me let go of a lot of items.❤
For any expensive electronics, a surge protector is better than a simple power strip. Without surge protection, a lightning strike or electrical surge can ruin anything that has a circuit board or computer chip (think SmartTV, refrigerator, computers, routers, hubs, etc.) The extra money is well worth the peace of mind. Love these videos! I'm picking a problem area and FIXING it every time I watch one of your declutter sessions. You are so inspiring.
You might want to make sure that the power strip that you use for the computer is okay at stopping a power surge from hurting the computer. Some are and some aren’t.
I LOVE the containers in the thumbnail. They are so good for freezer organization and I use them in my basement too. I like that they are all the same depth and height, but come in different widths. Love love love
Thank you for these tips. Your mention of stuff shuffle is I think where I get caught in the same loop and feel like I can't get anywhere. This was very helpful, thank you again.🙂
Thankyou for this. Such a realistic de clutter encountering problems we all have. Your thought process and problem solving was very helpful. Thank you ❤
Another use for the rolls of velcro tape..... in the garden to attach vines to stakes or trellises. I use this sort of thing every year for my climbing roses, clematis, tomatoes etc.
It looks Great! Thanks for the reminder that I need to get some cord organizers and also label my cords. I have a container of cords. I've been waiting for my family member to go through them to see if we really need to keep any of them. I am much like you where I love things behind doors but I love the capability of clear containers so I can see what is there easily. I'm so thankful for all that you share. It has helped me so much in my home and life. Also if people are not watching rusty judgment they need to ! Tom's channel Is ever so good, It's informative, It's funny, and you, you really get to see what you're doing on your other projects!!!
This video is like my attempts... things not fitting or not the best size for the space. It's hard to think of everything. I always learn something from your videos. Thank you.
I love those file bins and I use them all over the house. I use big ones to store my winter tops and sweatpants on the upper shelf in my closet. I pack my tinned goods in a big container and it is stored in the bottom of the grocery cupboard. It acts as a drawer and I can easily pull it out and get to it.
Dawn, This was super helpful to watch. I too have a box just for random cords. I've had it for years. Not much has labels on it, so this is giving me the impetus to finally deal with it. Thank you. Cheers
That cord looks like a AC 2 Prong C8 Power Cord. It usually goes with things like speakers, printers, gaming consoles, computer monitors etc. Look it up to be sure, but if you end up decluttering and then finding you need it, it is something you can purchase again.
Uses your code and bought our helix mattress after thanksgiving last year… literally the best thing ever! I figured why not try it out with the 100 night sleep trial and with you being a minimalist and actually advertising it I thought it must be the best… and it is!!!! I love it!!! I literally look forward to going to bed every night! My back no longer hurts! Paid for ours out right nothing sent to us or paid to say :)
@theminimalmom I would add a small solid basket/bin/container on that top shelf where all the tied chords sit so that it looks cleaner, less visual wires. I have a basket under my desk in my living room which corals everything right by the wall outlet. Just makes it look less messy.
Those are my favorite Container Store containers! I use them everywhere! They work great for storing any kind of papers ~ kids workbooks/textbooks, copy paper, notebooks/3 ring binder paper/spirals! They work in pantries also!
I use those bins , or very similar in my kitchen freezer to seperate things and keep them from getting lost. I also use them inside a cabinet to hold the taller utensils like ladle, tongs, potato masher... they are really durable containers.
Great episode today. Could you do one about sentimental things, but mainly birthday and christmas cards and things people have given you. I know you’ve done this type before but i really struggle with cards etc. XO Fran from Oz.
Yes! Thanks for the cord organization video I think that'd be so interesting if you did a video on just divider trays (or any other non-tray type of organizer that has one or more dividers in it) and if you showed which ones you have, where you use them, what you put inside them, and where you got them (if you remember) Everytime I see anything that has dividers I get so excited - they're one of my favorites to organize with, especially with tiny objects or standing/narrow vertical objects :)
Potential work around for the bottom part of the cabinet is to prop up the back containers on a "step" so that you still have visual access if that helps with you being a ladybug!
Great video Dawn. I am glad you showed a different way to use the bins on the bottom. I get stuck in the "perfect" sometimes and then stop. Love your channel. I watch Tom's, Diana's and recently started watching your brother too. ❤
Hi Dawn! These bottom organizers can also be used turned around (with the opening on the side)... I think that so they would fit side by side in the cabinet as you wanted and will create an additional shelf too... Anyways, the cabinet looks a thousand times better now 🙂 I love your channel and your videos, have a great summer 🤩!
I thought they would fit the way she tried. It didn’t seem to me that they extended beyond the depth of the shelf. It looked blocked by the roll of shelf liner that was laying on its side. Thanks for sharing so much helpful info!
I have a lot of cords/plugs that go with several electronic devices. Although I may never use them I always put them in ziplock bags with a label to say what device it is for. Do this when you actually know what it is for so as soon as you get the device!These all sit in a drawer. It may not be the tidiest way but I can see what cord/plug goes with which device and they don't tangle. Every now and then I go through the drawer and discard (recycle) any for which I no longer have the device.
The mystery cords you rolled up could be hung in the back or off to the sides from 3M hooks. It would open more space on the actual shelf and possibly make it look more tidy.
@tcm087 - I am absolutely adoring my 3M hooks of different kinds in my kitchen cabinets! Pot holders, tiny pots and pans, a lid here and there, barbecue skewers, Revolutionary. I love your idea of using them for cords. It’s definitely on my brainstorming list now.
Love this! We reach a point where we can't hardly stand to have anything extra! Im sure you can get a smaller power strip that has surge protection. I just had lunch with some friends who are all tired of something in their homes. One had large bins of clothing in the basement that hadn't fit for 3.5 years. I told her about disallowing clothing from shaming us, and taking up space in our heads. She’s going to donate them!! I'm so excited she's going to rid her soul of the burden of not losing the weight! Woot!
You can add a small diagram on the inside of the doors so you know what is in each bin. Use paper and then as you add things or remove them, you can write on it to update. I agree with the comments you likely need a surge protector for the computer. You can get a surge protector that covers the outlet you are using and adds places for plugs then you would have no extra wire for it. If you don’t have a gfci outlet in that room, you may want to plug the other things into it, as well. Thanks for the inspiration to wrangle our cords!
I really love those multipurpose bins (from the Container Store). I use them to store my scrapbooking papers and they are the best thing ever for that.
I just want to say that ‘the mystery cord’ reminded me of one I had for a small Olympus digital camera. One end (the double round) plugged into a small rectangular tray that you could pop your camera battery into, the other end, the outlet. Just a thought.
Dawn, Amazon has a lot of cord organizer “ boxes” if you want that cleaner look, I heard you once or twice it still looks cluttered to you. Don’t you just love getting things organized👍🏻🥰
The mystery cord is a very universal one and cheap to purchase especially at a used electronics shop. Definitely keep for a while, but if you do throw it away and then find what it goes to then you can easily purchase a new one. It is commonly used on a laptop power cord to attach to the block that has the lighr on it. Also attaches to things like a cable box, DVD player or DVR, etc.
This video was such a big help for me. I just realized that even though I love to organize, I “stuff shuffle” because I have a hard time parting with items that I can use “Justin Case”! Also, I develop a sentimental attachment to items that I inherited from my parents and have a hard time donating them. I thought taking a picture of the item would help, but then I have pictures I have to do something with haha. I have found that once I do part with something I have not used in awhile, I DO NOT miss it….out of sight out of mind. Now I just need to stop buying more stuff!
Your timing is amazing. I'm tackling the cords on my desktop. They were all rolled and tucked under the desk, but I've got to have the cords accessible on the desktop so I'm able to detach my laptop and monitor for times when I want to work in another location. I'm thinking of a wooden box with cutouts to cover the bundle of cords. Nice work on that cabinet. I think the bins behind each other will work, because it's a lower cabinet and you'll be looking down from above. Thanks as always!
Maybe your can get a surge protector that plugs flush into the outlet and that way it’s not taking up room, lying on your shelf. Or you could hang a smaller surge protector on the back of the cabinet? They usually have a couple mounting holes or a command strip might work. You’ll definitely want one though.
Keep in mind that your clutterbug organizing style can be different from you clutterbug maintenance style. Personally, I love to organize in detailed categories that are hidden away. But when I took the test, I classified as a butterfly. That was a game changer for me because I finally understood why I couldn't maintain all of the wonderful organizing I did once every two years.
Dawn, I think the containers you were forced to turn the other way look completely fine the way they are. I wouldn’t fret about it. They are really nice. They can hold a lot of small things that would otherwise not stack, or stack but fall over easily. I may have to get some. Thanks again for the great video.
Tip for using the label maker: try to enter one item name after the other and print one time, this way you won't waste the beginning lead of the tape each time you print.
I would mount the power strip and cords to the ceiling or side wall of the cabinet. To get them out of the way. Cords are such a pain, but a necessity these days.
Looks so good at the end!❤ Thanks for coving and reminding me of ways to declutter easier and be overall less stress, finding ways that'll actually work for me and my household ❤❤❤
Great video Dawn! I hate cord clutter too. If it's not being used, I shove it back into the wall or wherever, as far as it will go and attach the end outside of the hole. SOMETIMES, I'll wrap a thread around the end, shove the whole cord back and secure the thread to the hole lol.
My favorite supplies used to be WD-40 and duct tape. I could fix nearly anything with those 2 items. I've added painter's tape to the list. I use it all the time for completely random stuff.
Someone may have told you but I'm pretty sure the black mystery cord you labeled with the blue tape is a laptop, chromebook type charger cord. Usually plugs into a box thing with the cord that plugs into said laptop or chromebook. Could be any internet accessing device. Also the cord coming out of the wall looked like an old phone line could be how you used to get your internet access.
I had cords like that coming out of the wall at my house- old phone lines and for cable- which we don't use and that wasn't the part of the room my TV was in anyhow. I pushed them back into the wall all except the plug portion. My reason for doing it was so my rabbits wouldn't chew on them, but it was really nice visually to make the bulk of that cord disappear! Also, I bet if you showed the end of the cord someone in the comments could tell you what it was. It was never close enough to the screen to be sure, but it reminded me of the cord for a PlayStation video game system.
With those Velcro cord ties you can also use the hole to attach the tie to the cord first and then wrap the cord up and warp the Velcro around. I do that for cords I use a lot, the tie stays on the cord ready to re wrap then. Maybe that makes sense…
Regarding the wires hanging and not being used, you could tape them to the top of the cabinet, to keep them there and ready, but hide their messy look... If you use painter's tape or even washi tape if you have it instead, it will come out easily if you need to and leave no residue!
![ILLSLICK X YOUNGOHM - We're The same [Official Video]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/yUJNkobYR0E/mqdefault.jpg)
That big power strip may have been there because it is a surge protector. You should have one for electronics. I once lost a computer and stereo system because I hadn't invested in a surge protector.
My IT husband would loose his mind by taking away the surge protector. There has to be a better fit or shape but 100% necessary.
@@cristyrobertson9165 too funny, I'm an IT person now too. I was not when I didn't think surge protectors were required.
Without surgery protector you are opening up your computer and what else to damaging due to storms and power surges
Yes! I just about screamed "no, no, no, don't get rid of the surge protector!!!"
I came here to vote to bring back the surge protector for your computer.
Obviously, you don't live in Florida.
So.... I knew nothing about minimalism. Never heard of it before. You just came up on my feed a couple weeks ago. Iam 62yrs old and have been binging on your videos since!!! You have changed my life! I double body with you everyday as I go through my house.
YOU gave me permission to do what my brains wanted to do for a long time, and it sure feels good! That's profound.
I love you and THANKYOU💕
Dawn if you put a few command hooks up you can hang the cords you rolled up where they are up and out of the way. I just did that!
So, I am the type of person to keep everything “in case we need it someday”, and my husband is the polar opposite. I just had an eye opening opportunity where hubby and kid went on vacation for a whole month - and of course I cleaned the whole place THAT day. And I realized just how at peace I felt without the clutter everywhere! So I came across your channel and just spent 3 days binge watching all of your videos as motivation, and I managed to reorganize, declutter and get rid of sooooo many things. I want to thank you for all that you do - it has had a profoundly positive impact on my life already, the way I think about stuff, the mental shift, and the positivity ❤❤❤
woo hoo! good for you!
Yay 🎉 What did you family think of it when they returned?
Wow ❤❤!! That's amazing ❤❤!!
@@rdb4996 the kid barely noticed, but hubby was genuinely happy and at peace, if that makes sense. I think the chaos gives him some anxiety too, so he is definitely feeling happy to be back home, especially when it's been decluttered :)
@@KafaJunkie what a gift you were able to give your man and yourself! I fully understand your husband, visual clutter is stuff saying 'use me', 'take care of me', 'repare me' etc etc.
I take pictures prior to unplugging and sometimes put Painters tape with numbers before taking the picture so it always works correctly at the end 😊
Yes, as mentioned already, if the gray power strip was also a surge protector, that's probably why your computer was plugged into it. Very important to have that. You could get a smaller one. 😊
Yes, it's not advisable to plug it into the power directly. I agree, you can find a smaller one
Was coming here to say that.
You definitely need the power strip/surge protector! After a tv was damaged due to a surge, I found out that surge protectors need replaced periodically as well.
I use the screw holes on the back to hang up surge protector power strips so they take up less real estate. Hope that helps! 😊
I organized my upright freezer with those Container Store bins years ago. They are still in great shape and it's very easy to locate items in the freezer.
I have been using those exact container store bins for over 15 years, in every room in my house, every storage container, my kids even have one with their messy play outside. They are awesome, all of them look like new, even after being run through the dirt outside and being used and repurposed for over a decade! they are a bargain!
Which containers are those in the container store?
Great job! I like these smaller projects. Tip: Before you disassemble anything, (from electrical cords going to and from the back of TV's and computers, to plumbing projects, to recovering cushions) take a pic or two on your phone before you disassemble, so you can remember where everything goes. This one tip has saved me tons of time (and money).
I’m also a Ladybug. 🐞
Solid neutral bins are my favorite because I find them calming. Broad categories and labels help me stay organized without feeling overwhelmed. For example I have a small container (sitting on its lid because I access it so often) labeled fasteners. It has things I use in the house including glue, Velcro tape, picture hangers, magnet tape etc.
Your videos and podcasts always motivate me to keep going, lessen my inventory and organize!
Thank you! 🤗
Dawn, we all have places in our homes like this. You are brave! Thanks for tackling this area with the camera on.
Labeling all cables no matter how obvious it is has been so helpful for me…especially when dealing with computer setup with the numerous wires…
Ugh!! When I read the title of this video, my eye roll was immediate! Cord clutter is truly the bane of my existence! I work from home with two monitors, a docking station, a laptop, a modem, and some cords that don’t reach very far so the clutter of cords is is ridiculous!! Thank you SO much for your ideas!
Same here! And I have to leave it on the desktop in case I need to take the laptop in to work. I saw on another channel where they used a wooden box with cutouts to the cover the mess.
Need a video on how you organize your homeschool area! And where you have your kids keep their school work.
Just get a little block surge protector. The one I have holds six I think plus you can charge from it. And its tiny! Great video as always💜✨
I’ve used the little square bread tags, labeled them and put them on wires to know what they’re for. I save the white ones because they are easier to write on with a sharpie.
Maybe a solid color box could hold all the rolled up cords. I’ve used Avery labels on cords. I fold them around the cord and label them to tell what the cord is for.
You may need a surge protector for your computer. The one that was in the cabinet may not have been for the extra plug ins, but to protect your computer from power surges. The container store does have some containers that are worth the cost.
It was so wonderful meeting you last night at the homeschool event. You are even more amazing & funny in person! Thank you for taking the time to encourage & challenge us all. I left feeling blessed. DaNae from Alexandria
@@DenyDefendDepose2i hope this is a joke.
@@DenyDefendDepose2 🙄
A more minimalist approach to power cord corralling: assess what we need before purchasing a whole set we may never use, that has to be stored and probably soon decluttered. I bet a few zip ties or hair clips/holders or even just rubber bands would have worked just fine, then less inventory to manage. It’s so tempting to buy the storage item first that’s going to solve all our issues, when the simplest solution was probably in our house already.
I have two beautiful bamboo cord boxes that hide my power strips and cords (one for my computer area and one for my TV area). Love them - and they look so much better than seeing the cords.
Once you get that surge protector back in there, I will give this makeover 5 ⭐️! It looks so much better; great job!
Those containers you are using are perfect for organizing the bottom drawer freezer!! I have organized my whole freezer with those containers!!
I came here to say this. I have a tiny fridge/freezer and the vertical space they give me is a game changer.
Labeling the cords is such a good idea. I also like the idea of marking the mystery cord with the date, so you know if you will or will not need it at some point, or feel confident donating it. I think you were speaking to me about the outlet covers…. Since I threatened to come to Minnesota and put them on myself…lol.
I love seeing things neat and organized, and as I have decluttered for so long it is easier and easier to put an organization system in place and see it stay that way. I know what clutter shifting is, and have discovered how not to do it…great video…..❤
Those opaque bins from Dollar Tree are My Fave! SERIOUSLY, they fit so so many places!
I have those same bins. They worked so well in my stand-alone freezer, and on some lower cabinet shelves in my kitchen for organizing cleaning products and flower vases. The largest deep ones fit perfectly 2 across in my freezer. It makes keeping track of inventory much easier for me.
I am an unapologetic word nerd. You nailed it with "stuff shuffle." Thank you for that helpful description! My husband has heard me say we haven't solved the problem; we've just moved the problem. Stating we have "Stuff shuffled" is much more fun. Although I suspect we'll giggle the first few times we use that description, I hope it stops us in our tracks before we yield to that temptation again. Thanks for the smiles.
Here is some unsolicited advice. Lol. I would buy a smaller surge protector or use the existing one to plug in your computer. It's for power outages and is made to protect electronic equipment from unwanted power surges. It takes only a tiny amount of voltage increase to damage most of today's sensitive electronics. I would definitely reconsider using one. ☺️
Side note, Thanks for your great videos Dawn. You have really helped me let go of a lot of items.❤
For any expensive electronics, a surge protector is better than a simple power strip. Without surge protection, a lightning strike or electrical surge can ruin anything that has a circuit board or computer chip (think SmartTV, refrigerator, computers, routers, hubs, etc.) The extra money is well worth the peace of mind. Love these videos! I'm picking a problem area and FIXING it every time I watch one of your declutter sessions. You are so inspiring.
You might want to make sure that the power strip that you use for the computer is okay at stopping a power surge from hurting the computer. Some are and some aren’t.
Yes, it’s perfectly fine
“Stuff shuffling” is such a great phrase. I had to chuckle when you said it!
Great video Dawn !!! Love you & your sweet Family.❤❤❤
I LOVE the containers in the thumbnail. They are so good for freezer organization and I use them in my basement too. I like that they are all the same depth and height, but come in different widths. Love love love
Tell us what Tom said about the surge protector!
Thank you for these tips. Your mention of stuff shuffle is I think where I get caught in the same loop and feel like I can't get anywhere. This was very helpful, thank you again.🙂
Thankyou for this. Such a realistic de clutter encountering problems we all have. Your thought process and problem solving was very helpful. Thank you ❤
I got my Helix mattress yesterday-LOVE IT. I'm glad they are made to last!
Another use for the rolls of velcro tape..... in the garden to attach vines to stakes or trellises. I use this sort of thing every year for my climbing roses, clematis, tomatoes etc.
Something tells me you will revisit this area in the future with bins that face out 😊 the lovely container store bins will no doubt find another home
It looks Great! Thanks for the reminder that I need to get some cord organizers and also label my cords. I have a container of cords. I've been waiting for my family member to go through them to see if we really need to keep any of them. I am much like you where I love things behind doors but I love the capability of clear containers so I can see what is there easily. I'm so thankful for all that you share. It has helped me so much in my home and life. Also if people are not watching rusty judgment they need to ! Tom's channel Is ever so good, It's informative, It's funny, and you, you really get to see what you're doing on your other projects!!!
I also use a metallic paint pen to label chunky cords to what they are used for.
This video is like my attempts... things not fitting or not the best size for the space. It's hard to think of everything. I always learn something from your videos. Thank you.
Just a suggestion-a switch plate cover on the outlet would neaten up the look also.
And be more safe!
I love those file bins and I use them all over the house. I use big ones to store my winter tops and sweatpants on the upper shelf in my closet. I pack my tinned goods in a big container and it is stored in the bottom of the grocery cupboard. It acts as a drawer and I can easily pull it out and get to it.
Dawn, This was super helpful to watch. I too have a box just for random cords. I've had it for years. Not much has labels on it, so this is giving me the impetus to finally deal with it.
Thank you.
Cheers
Much better ! I label all cords, and some can be stuck on the cabinet wall with Velcro patches to get them even more out of the way.
That cord looks like a AC 2 Prong C8 Power Cord. It usually goes with things like speakers, printers, gaming consoles, computer monitors etc. Look it up to be sure, but if you end up decluttering and then finding you need it, it is something you can purchase again.
Yes, I was thinking that looks like a cord ti the printer!
Yes I came to the comments to say it looked like an ink jet printer power cord!
I use those bins from the container store for canned goods in my pantry. I ❤ them!
Uses your code and bought our helix mattress after thanksgiving last year… literally the best thing ever! I figured why not try it out with the 100 night sleep trial and with you being a minimalist and actually advertising it I thought it must be the best… and it is!!!! I love it!!! I literally look forward to going to bed every night! My back no longer hurts! Paid for ours out right nothing sent to us or paid to say :)
@theminimalmom I would add a small solid basket/bin/container on that top shelf where all the tied chords sit so that it looks cleaner, less visual wires. I have a basket under my desk in my living room which corals everything right by the wall outlet. Just makes it look less messy.
Those are my favorite Container Store containers! I use them everywhere! They work great for storing any kind of papers ~ kids workbooks/textbooks, copy paper, notebooks/3 ring binder paper/spirals! They work in pantries also!
I use those bins , or very similar in my kitchen freezer to seperate things and keep them from getting lost. I also use them inside a cabinet to hold the taller utensils like ladle, tongs, potato masher... they are really durable containers.
Great episode today. Could you do one about sentimental things, but mainly birthday and christmas cards and things people have given you. I know you’ve done this type before but i really struggle with cards etc. XO Fran from Oz.
Yay!!! I’m excited for this Dawn!!! I have been wondering about cords!!!!
My husband didn't realize there was a power cord to a recliner, I told him and he now has a lift chair! The cord's been missing for years 😂
Yes! Thanks for the cord organization video
I think that'd be so interesting if you did a video on just divider trays (or any other non-tray type of organizer that has one or more dividers in it) and if you showed which ones you have, where you use them, what you put inside them, and where you got them (if you remember)
Everytime I see anything that has dividers I get so excited - they're one of my favorites to organize with, especially with tiny objects or standing/narrow vertical objects
:)
Potential work around for the bottom part of the cabinet is to prop up the back containers on a "step" so that you still have visual access if that helps with you being a ladybug!
Great video Dawn. I am glad you showed a different way to use the bins on the bottom. I get stuck in the "perfect" sometimes and then stop. Love your channel. I watch Tom's, Diana's and recently started watching your brother too. ❤
Hi Dawn! These bottom organizers can also be used turned around (with the opening on the side)... I think that so they would fit side by side in the cabinet as you wanted and will create an additional shelf too... Anyways, the cabinet looks a thousand times better now 🙂 I love your channel and your videos, have a great summer 🤩!
I thought they would fit the way she tried. It didn’t seem to me that they extended beyond the depth of the shelf. It looked blocked by the roll of shelf liner that was laying on its side. Thanks for sharing so much helpful info!
I have a lot of cords/plugs that go with several electronic devices.
Although I may never use them I always put them in ziplock bags with a label to say what device it is for.
Do this when you actually know what it is for so as soon as you get the device!These all sit in a drawer.
It may not be the tidiest way but I can see what cord/plug goes with which device and they don't tangle.
Every now and then I go through the drawer and discard (recycle) any for which I no longer have the device.
Twittlypoo I’m so glad that I have labeled different plugs and chargers very clearly to say exactly what device they are for.
The mystery cords you rolled up could be hung in the back or off to the sides from 3M hooks. It would open more space on the actual shelf and possibly make it look more tidy.
@tcm087 - I am absolutely adoring my 3M hooks of different kinds in my kitchen cabinets! Pot holders, tiny pots and pans, a lid here and there, barbecue skewers, Revolutionary. I love your idea of using them for cords. It’s definitely on my brainstorming list now.
Love this! We reach a point where we can't hardly stand to have anything extra! Im sure you can get a smaller power strip that has surge protection.
I just had lunch with some friends who are all tired of something in their homes. One had large bins of clothing in the basement that hadn't fit for 3.5 years. I told her about disallowing clothing from shaming us, and taking up space in our heads. She’s going to donate them!! I'm so excited she's going to rid her soul of the burden of not losing the weight! Woot!
I find dollar tree shoe boxes are great stackable containers. I have extra extension cords/remotes/chargers/electrical misc for outside labels.
You can add a small diagram on the inside of the doors so you know what is in each bin. Use paper and then as you add things or remove them, you can write on it to update.
I agree with the comments you likely need a surge protector for the computer. You can get a surge protector that covers the outlet you are using and adds places for plugs then you would have no extra wire for it. If you don’t have a gfci outlet in that room, you may want to plug the other things into it, as well.
Thanks for the inspiration to wrangle our cords!
I really love those multipurpose bins (from the Container Store). I use them to store my scrapbooking papers and they are the best thing ever for that.
Body doubling my tv stand media collection 💪🏻
I just want to say that ‘the mystery cord’ reminded me of one I had for a small Olympus digital camera. One end (the double round) plugged into a small rectangular tray that you could pop your camera battery into, the other end, the outlet. Just a thought.
Dawn, Amazon has a lot of cord organizer “ boxes” if you want that cleaner look, I heard you once or twice it still looks cluttered to you. Don’t you just love getting things organized👍🏻🥰
I got a set of 2 cord hiding boxes from Amazon... Love them
I’m thinking the Elf made a mess of those cords!
The mystery cord is a very universal one and cheap to purchase especially at a used electronics shop. Definitely keep for a while, but if you do throw it away and then find what it goes to then you can easily purchase a new one. It is commonly used on a laptop power cord to attach to the block that has the lighr on it. Also attaches to things like a cable box, DVD player or DVR, etc.
Nice improvement!
I have the container store containers and I Love them!
This video was such a big help for me. I just realized that even though I love to organize, I “stuff shuffle” because I have a hard time parting with items that I can use “Justin Case”! Also, I develop a sentimental attachment to items that I inherited from my parents and have a hard time donating them. I thought taking a picture of the item would help, but then I have pictures I have to do something with haha. I have found that once I do part with something I have not used in awhile, I DO NOT miss it….out of sight out of mind. Now I just need to stop buying more stuff!
I think that mystery cord that you put blue tape on is the charger for your label maker. Love your videos!
My label maker uses regular batteries.
Ok. good to know. Mine has a cord like the one shown. Thanks@@ninadukette3340
Your timing is amazing. I'm tackling the cords on my desktop. They were all rolled and tucked under the desk, but I've got to have the cords accessible on the desktop so I'm able to detach my laptop and monitor for times when I want to work in another location. I'm thinking of a wooden box with cutouts to cover the bundle of cords. Nice work on that cabinet. I think the bins behind each other will work, because it's a lower cabinet and you'll be looking down from above. Thanks as always!
I TOTALLY just bought containers JUST like those at Target for between 5 and 10 dollars depending on the size. I love their vertical hight
Maybe your can get a surge protector that plugs flush into the outlet and that way it’s not taking up room, lying on your shelf. Or you could hang a smaller surge protector on the back of the cabinet? They usually have a couple mounting holes or a command strip might work. You’ll definitely want one though.
I'm pretty sure the mystery cable is a printer cable. (Could also be from a scanner.) I hope that helps!
Keep in mind that your clutterbug organizing style can be different from you clutterbug maintenance style. Personally, I love to organize in detailed categories that are hidden away. But when I took the test, I classified as a butterfly. That was a game changer for me because I finally understood why I couldn't maintain all of the wonderful organizing I did once every two years.
Great ideas for cords. Many thanks!
Great video Dawn!
I would keep the Dymo refill tape with the label maker.
How about a thin tension rod through the contact papers and across in the cabinet?
Dawn, I think the containers you were forced to turn the other way look completely fine the way they are. I wouldn’t fret about it. They are really nice. They can hold a lot of small things that would otherwise not stack, or stack but fall over easily. I may have to get some. Thanks again for the great video.
I ❤ those Velcro strips. I have them on so many things in my home.
I have those containers in my freezers! Love them
Tip for using the label maker: try to enter one item name after the other and print one time, this way you won't waste the beginning lead of the tape each time you print.
That is what I do. Too much waste the other way. The label tape is costly.
I so have to work on my “stuff shuffling.
I would mount the power strip and cords to the ceiling or side wall of the cabinet. To get them out of the way. Cords are such a pain, but a necessity these days.
Looks so good at the end!❤ Thanks for coving and reminding me of ways to declutter easier and be overall less stress, finding ways that'll actually work for me and my household ❤❤❤
Great video Dawn! I hate cord clutter too. If it's not being used, I shove it back into the wall or wherever, as far as it will go and attach the end outside of the hole. SOMETIMES, I'll wrap a thread around the end, shove the whole cord back and secure the thread to the hole lol.
My favorite supplies used to be WD-40 and duct tape. I could fix nearly anything with those 2 items. I've added painter's tape to the list. I use it all the time for completely random stuff.
Someone may have told you but I'm pretty sure the black mystery cord you labeled with the blue tape is a laptop, chromebook type charger cord. Usually plugs into a box thing with the cord that plugs into said laptop or chromebook. Could be any internet accessing device. Also the cord coming out of the wall looked like an old phone line could be how you used to get your internet access.
That mystery cord looks like one I have that goes to my printer. Maybe it goes to yours? Love your videos!!
Love that mystery cord tip!
I had cords like that coming out of the wall at my house- old phone lines and for cable- which we don't use and that wasn't the part of the room my TV was in anyhow. I pushed them back into the wall all except the plug portion. My reason for doing it was so my rabbits wouldn't chew on them, but it was really nice visually to make the bulk of that cord disappear!
Also, I bet if you showed the end of the cord someone in the comments could tell you what it was. It was never close enough to the screen to be sure, but it reminded me of the cord for a PlayStation video game system.
That hair length looks great on you 🙂 such a cute cut!
love how you swapped out that clear container for the dollar store ones because it looked "busy" this is exactly what i do!
With those Velcro cord ties you can also use the hole to attach the tie to the cord first and then wrap the cord up and warp the Velcro around. I do that for cords I use a lot, the tie stays on the cord ready to re wrap then. Maybe that makes sense…
Regarding the wires hanging and not being used, you could tape them to the top of the cabinet, to keep them there and ready, but hide their messy look... If you use painter's tape or even washi tape if you have it instead, it will come out easily if you need to and leave no residue!