space
Control thy kitchen. As the heart of every home and the place where so much more happens than just cooking and eating (homework, correspondence, mail collection, etc.), the kitchen should be ground zero in any “get organized” campaign. These three basics for a better-run kitchen are from author Stacey Platt’s new book, “What’s a Disorganized Person To Do?” (Artisan Books, $16.95) Platt is a New York-based professional organizer who argues that gaining control over clutter “is better than therapy” at enabling people to be more grounded, confident and efficient.
Note the work triangle. Research has proven that kitchens are easiest to navigate when the sink, stove and refrigerator are in a triangle. Store frequently used items such as dishes and cookware within the triangle.
Store things where you use them. Keep potholders and spices very near the oven, dishes and silverware near the dishwasher, and the colander and cleaning supplies near the sink.
This space is reserved. Keeping counters clear, Platt writes, is the single most important thing homeowners can do to maximize their kitchen. This is prime storage real estate that should be reserved only for items used daily. To keep items off the counter: “think up (to walls and ceiling), in (behind closed cabinet doors and drawers), and out (of the kitchen altogether.)”
money
Home updates that count. has compiled a list of do-it-yourself home projects the magazine promises will add value to your home. Each project costs less than $500 and requires less than a day’s work. Projects on the list include:
Add a backsplash. Estimated Price: $14 per 12-by-12-inch tile. It’s the easiest way to add pizzazz to your kitchen.
Install new vanity cabinets and toilets. Estimated Price: $200 for a vanity; $250 for a toilet. Even minor updates to your bathroom can produce a major return on your investment.
Paint a room. Estimated Price: $30 per can of paint. Nothing beats the punch of a fresh coat of paint.
energy
Readying for winter. Adding moisture to the air in your home ensures the house will hold heat longer this winter and reduces utility costs, according to the tool company Dremel. These steps for installing a whole-house humidifier were gleaned from the many project tips and videos on the company’s website () and .
Step 1: Select a whole-house humidifier size and type that will work well for your home. Before beginning installation, turn off heat and electricity sources to the furnace, and determine where the humidifier would be best installed. Be sure to put on thick gloves before drilling as sheet metal is sharp.
Step 2: Tape the template included in the humidifier installation kit to the return air duct. Follow the instructions provided in the whole-house humidifier kit. Using the Dremel Trio, left, or similar tools, along with a hardwood/ sheet metal bit, cut out the opening for the humidifier.
Step 3: Follow the kit-provided instructions to install the humidifier. Compiled by Elana Ashanti Jefferson
