Basement Organization Ideas

Basements end up as dumping grounds in many households. An unorganized basement creates a challenge when items need to be located. If walking into the basement is a scary prospect, consider scheduling an organizational session. Maintaining the organizational system once it is established reduces headaches down the road. Individual styles mean each person's organizational system varies slightly from the next. Find a system that works for you, making adjustments as needed.

Clean Out

• Removing all of the items in the area provides a clean slate for the organizing process, whether you work on the entire basement at once or complete the task in sections. Thoroughly clean the basement once all of the items are removed. Floors, walls and shelving collect dust and grime, making them a prime candidate for scrubbing.

Sort

• Sorting the items in the basement is a crucial stage in the organization process. Storing similar items together allows easier access to needed items down the road. Initial sorting includes determining which items will be kept and which will be donated or sold. Sort the items to be kept by type or function, depending on your personal preference. This process allows your personal style to come into play. Consider the manner in which you normally organize, and search for objects when sorting the contents of the basement.

Assign Purpose

• Basements serve a number of functions, from storage rooms to family gathering areas. Identifying the uses of each area in the basement allows the organization to move forward. Make a list of ways in which the family uses the basement. A walk through of the area allows you to analyze how each area is used. Create a floor plan, labeling each functional area of the space.

Storage

• Storage systems come in a variety of sizes and shapes. A shelving system provides a home for large items and boxes. When placed along a basement wall, it doesn't consume much of the floor space. Plastic tubs with snap-on lids protect the contents from water and dust. They are ideal for small items that serve a similar purpose. Stack these tubs on the shelving units or directly on the floor. A set of drawers holds items that are accessed frequently, such as office supplies or greeting cards. Storage boxes for specific items, such as ornaments or gift wrap, provide additional storage options. Consider the items being stored when selecting the storage system.

Organizational System

• An organizational system allows an easier way to locate needed items in the future. After the storage system is in place, the items are organized in the tubs and shelves. Place similar items next to each other to create a logical flow. Labels provide a system for locating items and ensure the containers are placed back in the proper spot after use. Add labels to the shelves and the exterior of any plastic tubs that are used.