Last February, many of us had flooded basements when combined snow and rain caused flooding in our area. For some, it was a total loss (as evidenced by all the “stuff” that went to the curb in the days and weeks afterward). Organizing your basement using simple tips could have avoided this disaster.
Thinking ahead and organizing with water protection in mind can avoid a catastrophe. Melting snow/rain, an overflowing washing machine, a water heater leak, bathtub on the main floor runs over, all disasters that will ruin your memories that are in storage.
Organizing basements is on all of our to-do lists. It only takes a few hours and some simple organizing tools. As a result, you will accomplish one of those never ending to-do list items and protect your possessions from water damage.
ISSUE: In this “Before” picture, the basement floor was used for storage. Therefore, the clutter is a dangerous tripping hazard, and it makes it hard to see what is underneath the piles.
SOLUTION: A few hours later, we eliminated the clutter and hazard to reveal an organized space. First, we found several metal and plastic shelves. This kind of shelving is a real treasure when you find it at your local Goodwill Store!
Second, we used several clear storage bins to keep the items safe from dust and moisture. Items in the bins are organized by type; for example holiday decorations, documents, and family memories. Label each bin so in the future, it is easy to see what the bin contains.
Finally, clear the floor and donate to Goodwill!
When you organize your basement using simple tips, you will know what you have, be able to find it easily and quickly, and above all you will able to put things away in a place that makes sense to you.
Your organizing challenge is to go through the things in your basement and declutter! Keep only what you know to be useful or important and let go of the rest. Protect what remains in waterproof bins and/or put them up on a shelf. This will create a safer space for your family and your things will hopefully survive any unexpected water.
This month’s guest blogger is Cathy Fairchild
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