How to Organize Your Cords

Whether it is coming from your office, entertainment center, or all those gadgets, you probably have a mess of cords somewhere that needs taming. This mess can be unsightly, frustrating and unsafe. Here are several different solutions to the cord clutter issue:

– Before unplugging anything, label all cords.  You can create your own or purchase a set of handy cord flag labels.  Not only will this prevent the accidental unplugging of the wrong cord, but it also makes it super easy to disassemble and reassemble for moves, technology upgrades, remodeling, etc.

– Group cords by area to avoid running them across your desk or on the floor where people could trip.

– Determine how many plugs are needed at a specific power outlet. If you have more than two, then invest in a power strip (with surge protector). So often I hear the complaint that a traditional power strip doesn’t work given the size of so many of the power cords today. The Electro Man Multi-Outlet Extension Cord solves this issue.  With each of the four outlets setup on its own cord, you can move them around to fit any configuration of power cords.

– Use tubing or ties to group cords and cables together in a crowded area such as an entertainment center or computer.

– Use cable hooks or clips to easily gather cords together and guide them around the edges and corners of furniture for a more refined and organized look.

– Bobino Cable Buddy Cord Wraps work really well for extra-long cords.  You simply hook the cord in and wrap it around for the desired length.  This prevents the frustration of tangled cords.

If you have more USB components that you have ports on your computer, consider investing in a USB hub. There are so many gadgets now that have USB connections to the computer (cameras, video cameras, mp3 players, etc.). With this solution, you will only have one wire running to the back of your computer, and you can place the hub in a convenient location. Another advantage of this solution is that all of these cables can stay plugged into the hub and you don’t have to go looking for them when you need them.

Lastly, consider a charging station for all of your handheld devices. It is a great way to keep track of the cords and keep them out of sight.

Whatever your cord challenges are, the solutions provided above will help you regain control of your tangled, unsightly messes of cords, cables and wires!

Donna Lindley, Certified Professional Organizer and owner of Rochester Hills, MI-based Organize Your World, Inc.