Living in a small home with a large family can be a daunting task; trying to fit everything you need into a single space can be quite challenging and chaotic. But, it isn’t impossible to create an environment that efficiently utilizes the available space and is comfortable for everyone. Using simple strategies such as organizing and implementing creative storage solutions, you can create a pleasant and organized home that is perfect for your large family. In this article, we will explore how to effectively organize a small house with a large family.
Maximizing Space
When you have a big family but a small house, is of utmost importance. Here are some tried and tested tips that our family has used over the years:
– Use vertical space: Don’t forget about those walls! Install shelving units, hang hooks and baskets for storage, and consider using a loft or bunk bed to free up floor space.
– Utilize multi-functional furniture: Look for furniture pieces that have hidden storage compartments, such as an ottoman or a coffee table with built-in drawers. Choose a sofa bed or a murphy bed for guests instead of a separate guest room.
When we were expecting our fourth child, we knew that we needed to find ways to make our small house work. One major change we made was to transform our dining room into a playroom, which was used every day, whereas the dining room was only used occasionally. We installed shelves and storage bins on the wall, and placed a compact table and chairs in the corner for artwork and toys. It turned out to be a great decision, and we’ve never looked back!
Another effective way we’ve maximized space is by using slimline hangers for our clothes. They take up less space than regular hangers, which makes all the difference in our closet. We also keep seasonal clothing items in vacuum-sealed bags, which not only creates more space but also protects the clothes from dust and dirt.
With a bit of creativity and strategic planning, it’s possible to make a small house work for a large family. Remember to think vertically, choose multi-functional furniture, and be willing to repurpose rooms for maximum efficiency.
Streamlining Clutter
When you have a big family sharing a small house, clutter can quickly take over. But there are ways to streamline and simplify your surroundings. One method is to start by decluttering. Ruthlessly go through each room and identify items that haven’t been used in the last year. You can sell, donate or throw them away.
Another helpful technique is to create designated storage areas. Work with your children to ensure that everything has a place and try to stick to that system. For example, you can get a hanging organizer for shoes, hooks for coats and bags, and baskets for toys. Make sure all storage areas are well-labeled, so everyone knows where everything goes. By doing this, you’ll save time and minimize the stress of trying to find something in a mess. Also, remember to have a “one in, one out” policy. When buying something new, make sure you have a spot for it and that you get rid of something you no longer need.
Creating a Storage System
When you’re living in a small house with a large family, storage is absolutely essential to keep everything in its place. is the key to organizing your home and ensuring that you have enough space to accommodate everyone’s belongings. Here are some easy tips and tricks that have worked for real families.
First, get smart about your storage. Store items you use less often in less accessible places, such as high shelves or cabinets. For items that you use every day, keep them within reach. A great way to maximize space is by using storage containers under beds, in closets, or in a dedicated storage room. If you’re short on closet space, consider investing in a wardrobe or armoire to keep clothes organized and ensure that everyone has a designated space for their items.
When it comes to organizing your storage, grouping similar items together is key. This not only makes it easier to find what you need but also helps you to identify any duplicates or unnecessary items. For example, group all of your cleaning supplies together and designate a specific area for them in your storage room or under the sink. The same goes for toys – create a designated area for each child’s toys, and store them in baskets or bins labeled with their names. Baskets are a great way to keep items organized, and they look great too! By creating dedicated spaces for everything in your home, you’ll be able to keep chaos at bay and make the most of your small space.
Developing Cleaning Routines
Keeping a small house clean can be a daunting task, especially when you have a large family. However, developing efficient cleaning routines can make the process much more manageable. One way to do this is by breaking down your cleaning tasks into smaller, more manageable chunks. For example, instead of devoting an entire day to cleaning your entire house, break it up into smaller tasks like cleaning one room a day or even tackling one task at a time, such as wiping down countertops or vacuuming the floors. This will prevent cleaning from feeling overwhelming, and ensure you can keep on top of things throughout the week.
Another way to develop effective cleaning routines is by involving the whole family. Assign tasks to each family member, depending on their age and capabilities. For example, your kids can be responsible for vacuuming, dusting, or tidying up their rooms. Not only does this help keep your house clean, but it also teaches responsibility and accountability to your children. Additionally, try to incorporate fun activities into your cleaning routines, such as playing music or setting a timer to see who can clean the fastest. These tricks can make cleaning more fun for everyone involved and encourage your family members to help out. Remember, developing efficient cleaning routines is all about finding what works best for your family and sticking to it. Consistency is key, and by working together, you can make keeping a clean and organized house a breeze! It’s a challenge, but it is possible to organize a small house with a large family. With the right storage solutions, creative thinking, and out-of-the-box approaches, you’re sure to have a better organized home and happier family. Goodbye for now, and happy organizing!