Tiny house living on any scale, budget

September 8, 2015

Have you seen this tiny house trend? With documentaries and TV shows, it’s hard to miss these days. As a young person at the beginning of my career, I love the idea of having my own home without the pressure of a gigantic mortgage.

Even if you don’t think you can live in the compact space, there are a lot of notes that can be taken from tiny living. Tiny houses are built for efficiency — something that every home needs. Apply these tiny house storage solutions and see a big impact in any size home:

Make it collapsible

Tiny homes create storage in every usable space, but that doesn’t always mean your belongings will fit. Lots of home goods are available in great collapsible styles. These break-down pieces are super easy to store when not in use and can fit in just about any size storage space.collapsible

It is best to apply this collapsible idea to things that you use frequently, but do not need to out at all times. A dish drying rack is an excellent example. A lot of tiny homes do not have the standard appliances we are accustomed to. A collapsible dish rack is super easy to pull out and utilize when needed, but it doesn’t have to be a permanent structure. This model folds flat to tuck out of sight in cabinets or drawers.

Dead space as storage

Like I mentioned, tiny homes create storage out of every usable space. This is a great idea that easily transitions to any home, regardless of size. Consider creating drawers and cabinet space under stairways.

Another common space used in tiny homes is under the bed. This is a real simple idea to apply to everyday homes. Plastic drawers, shoe organizers and plastic totes are all easy ways to take advantage of that space under the bed. Need more? Use bed risers to create even more usable space.

Baskets, baskets, baskets

The easiest way to create order is to make sure every piece has a home. Adding baskets to your storage routine keeps things organized, sorted and stored. With tons of different sizes, styles and materials to choose from, there is certain to be a basket for you. Try to find one with handles or that is made from a sturdy material to increase longevity and weight capacity.

Find these products and more at OrganizeIt.com.

Make tailgating easy this football season

August 31, 2015

Yes, football fans, another season is growing close. If you’re a real fanatic, you’re anticipating every aspect of the game – especially tailgating. I can’t lie, I’m not the biggest pig-skin fan, BUT I have been submerged into the culture at the hands of my friends and family. And tailgating is a blast no matter how committed of a fan you are.

The essentials

There are so many little things you need for that top-shelf tailgating experience, but remembering them all can be a challenge. That’s why I recommend creating your very own tailgate survival kit. Grab all your goods and leave them in one, easy to grab place.

After multiple attempts at creating the best tailgating survival kit, I can say with confidence that I finally found the best one. A tool box. They’re super easy to organize, heavy duty and non-destructive, easy to transport and no man is ashamed to be seen with one. I found this Portable Tool Box and it works great. As for what to pack, here are a few basics:

  • grill accessories (tongs, grill brush, spatula)
  • aluminum foil, saran wrap
  • first aid (band aids and ant-acids for all that pre-game food)
  • matches or a lighter
  • salt and pepper shakers, spices and shelf-stable condiments
  • can/bottle opener
  • flashlight
  • paper products (paper towel, plates and toilet paper if you’re unsure about bathrooms)
  • sunscreen and bug spray
  • hand sanitizer
  • poncho
  • duct tape
  • jumper cables

tailgating-1One essential worth mentioning is a meat thermometer. This dual meat and oven one is pretty inexpensive coming in at thirteen bucks and the benefits of it are worth every cent. The last thing you want is your gang consuming under cooked meat before heading in to the stadium. Protect your stomachs and keep your head in the game.

Garbage bags are a huge help too. You have to be prepared that you may have to pack up and take home all the trash you accumulate. Plus, if you’re in Michigan like me, you’re going to want the deposit back on all those empties.

Setting the scenetailgating-2

Last fall, I had the chance to tag along to a University of Michigan game. While I failed to keep my attention on the ball the entire time, the tailgating there was a scene worth experiencing. If you want to compete with the pros, you must have a pop-up canopy. Whether you’re avoiding pre-game showers or scorching sun, this Pop Up Event Canopy will get the job done. Measuring in at 12 by 12 feet, it has room for you and your whole crew. The design is super simple to put up and take down so you don’t waste any of your time on set up.

Food and drinks

The important part, right? When you’re tailgating you want to make sure you have enough space for all of your goods. That’s why I can’t stress enough how important it is to have at least two coolers – one for drinks and one for food. To consolidate space, freeze water bottles to keep beer and food cold; when they melt, you can hydrate.

A portable cooler is a great idea for drinks. This cool red one is super easy to transport. It includes an adjustable strap for carrying and folds up when empty. I also recommend this Back Seat Cooler. It is perfect for food like hot dogs and burgers, but it also includes loads of pockets to tuck in buns and other goods.

Plan ahead

Now you know what it takes to pull off the perfect tailgate, but be sure to plan before putting it in action. Before the event, research and find out:

  • Where you can park? And how much space will you have?
  • Are open flames allowed? Can you grill?
  • Do you have access to running water? What about bathrooms?
  • Can you have alcohol?
  • Is there a time limit? How early can you start and how late can you stay?

Once you have mastered this, there is nothing left to do but to have fun. Enjoy!

And go Blue!

Find all these products and more at OrganizeIt.com.

 

The benefits of storing your vino in a wine cooler

August 27, 2015

If you area regular wine drinker, seriously consider investing in a quality wine cooler fridge. There are loads of benefits to keeping your favorite reds, whites and blends at the right temperature. Here are a few:

  • Environment: Wine coolers create the perfect temperature, humidity control, stability and exclusiveness that allows wine to maintain freshness and the utmost quality over time.
  • Money: Wine coolers are less expensive compared to wine cellars or an additional refrigerator. Plus, the costs of upkeep and use are significantly less than that of a fridge. 
  • Different wines, different temperatures: Types wines call for varying temperatures for keeping. Sparkling wine should be kept at 45 to 48 degrees; lights whites at 45 to 50 degrees; full bodies whites at 50 to 55 degrees; light reds at 55 to 60 degrees; and full bodied reds at 60 to 65 degrees.
  • Alternative uses: This smaller fridges are the perfect environment for other things in your kitchen too, including: water (sparking or still), fruit, cheese, chocolate, olive oil and more.
  • Chilled glasses: What more do I need to say? Chilled glasses are an excellent addition to any type of wine.

If you’re just starting out, begin small. The Six Bottle Wine Refrigerator is the perfect choice for moderate drinkers or beginners. This counter top cooler has two chrome shelves, designed to hold bottles securely. This stylish black cooler has a stainless front door with a dual-panned glass panel for better insulation and UV protection. Built with an eco-friendly thermoelectric cooling system, this wine fridge is a guilt-less choice. Digital display and push button controls are user friendly.

Find this product and more like it at StacksandStacks.com.