Organization

Ask the Readers: What Are Your Home Organization Hacks?

Ashley Jacobs — Tue, 25 Feb 2020 09:30:10 +0000

An organized home doesn't just happen — we need to put in time and effort to maintain a tidy and functional space. Fortunately, there are lots of handy hacks to help us organize our home.

What are your home organization hacks? What strategies do you use for de-cluttering? What are your favorite organization tools?

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Tell us about your home organization hacks and we'll enter you in a drawing to win a $20 Amazon Gift Card!

This article is from Ashley Jacobs of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

What to Do Now to Prepare for Tax Season

Emily Guy Birken — Tue, 10 Dec 2019 17:17:09 +0000

Preparing for tax season often seems more like a sprint than a marathon. You receive your W2 forms in the mail in late January, and then it's time to excavate your receipt shoe box and spend a stressful weekend trying to make sense of your tax return. All in all, it feels like a hurried, overwhelming, and nerve-wracking chore that you dread every year.

But what if filing your taxes didn't have to be quite so stressful?

The trick to making your tax season a breeze is preparing for it early. As in, right now. If you want an easy and relaxed tax season, here's what you can do now to get ready.

Make a list of the information you'll need

One of the most frustrating moments in tax preparation is discovering you're still missing one vital piece of information after you've gathered everything you thought you needed. And it's even worse if you don't know how to find the missing information.

So look over the specific info you need to file now, to give yourself time to gather all the items well before Tax Day. Specifically, you'll need:

A copy of last year's tax return
The Social Security or Tax ID number of every member of your household
The income records of every member of your household
Receipts for your deductible expenses
Records of any taxes you've paid throughout the year

Putting together your list of necessary information and checking each item off as you gather it will ensure that you're fully prepared when you finally sit down to file. (See also: The 7 Most Common Tax Questions for Beginners, Answered)

Organize your receipts

Keeping track of tax-related receipts throughout the year is one of the most difficult parts of handling your taxes. Many people throw all of their receipts for work-related expenses, charitable donations, mortgage payments, medical expenses, and interest statements in a single folder or box to deal with "later."

Now is an excellent time to dig out your receipts and start organizing them according to category. Having your receipts neatly separated now will make it easy to sort the last few that come in as the year comes to a close, and can help you get into the habit of putting them in order as you receive them.

Gather your paystubs together

Though the majority of filers will receive either a W2 or 1099 form from their employer(s), it's still a good idea to gather your paystubs before the end of the year to get a rough idea of your income. That will help you identify any potential mistakes on your W2 or 1099 forms as soon as they arrive. It's far better to catch a mistake early rather than find you need to request a corrected form close to the IRS deadline.

Plus, checking over your paystubs all at once gives you a chance to take a look at your federal and state tax withholding over the year, as well as any pretax contributions you've made to your 401(k) or IRA.

Review your W4

Another great reason to look at your paystubs now is that it gives you a chance to review your W4 with your employer.

The W4 form determines how much tax withholding is taken from each paycheck. If you expect to receive a large refund this year, you can adjust your withholding allowances now to ensure that more of your paycheck will come home with you in 2020. If, on the other hand, you worry that you may owe money because you didn't have enough withheld, now is a good time to adjust your W4 to be sure you don't have the same problem in the coming year. (See also: Are You Withholding the Right Amount of Taxes from Your Paycheck?)

Send more money to your retirement fund

If you have access to a tax-deferred retirement account like a 401(k) or an IRA, now is the time to see how much money you have set aside this year, and try to increase that number.

As of 2019, workers under 50 years old can save up to $19,000 in a 401(k) and up to $6,000 in an IRA. And every dollar you put into these kinds of accounts reduces the amount of income you have to pay taxes on.

Now is an excellent time to try to maximize your 2019 contribution. You have until the end of the calendar year to maximize your 2019 401(k) contribution, but you can continue contributing to your 2019 IRA until April 15, 2020.

Getting into the habit of increasing your contribution now can also help you reach the maximum in 2020, which is going up to $19,500 for 401(k) accounts, although the IRA maximum will hold steady at $6,000. (See also: 8 Tax Return Mistakes Even Smart People Make)

Plan ahead for your refund

If you expect to receive a refund this year, start thinking about the best way to use the money now. We tend to think of a tax refund as "free money," even though it's just your own salary being returned to you. But with a free money mindset, it's very easy to go overboard spending the refund on fun stuff, like a vacation or a new gadget.

There's nothing wrong with enjoying your tax refund, but taking a hard look at your budget and finances now can help you to determine if having fun with your refund is the best use of the money. Is there some debt you could pay down (or pay off) with the refund instead? Or is there a major goal you're saving toward — like a down payment on a house — that would benefit from an injection of cash?

Thinking through the best use of your tax refund before you have it in your hot little hands makes it more likely you'll make good decisions with it. Once you have the money in your possession, it's very tempting to make it rain instead of saving for a rainy day.

Make your tax season less stressful

Getting a jump start on your filing chores will not only make tax season much easier, but it can also help you prepare for your finances in the coming year. Start 2020 on the right financial foot by starting your tax season preparation early.

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This article is from Emily Guy Birken of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

The 9 Best Storage Products as Recommended by Organization Pros

Carrie Kirby — Tue, 15 May 2018 08:30:23 +0000

You don't have to go shopping before you start organizing your home. Cardboard boxes and any containers you have sitting around the house will suffice for sorting items. But professional organizers know that there are certain containers, shelves, and gadgets that can make the job of decluttering easier. (See also: 10 Smart Ways to Keep Your Entire Life Clutter-Free)

Besides, having a shiny new toy or two just might incentivize you to finally get to work on your decluttering project. Here are some top storage picks from the pros.

1. Paper sorter for container lids

I'm one of those cooks who saves every scrap of leftovers, no matter how small; so of course I have a million plastic and glass storage containers in my kitchen — and of course I have trouble corralling all those lids and keeping them in order. I was intrigued when I read on the Bneato Bar blog that a paper sorter — normally found in offices — could be helpful the kitchen for keeping container lids accessible and visible in a drawer when placed on its side. I'll try it!

2. Lazy Susan

Raise your hand if you think we need a gender-neutral term for this incredibly useful device. Maybe I'll just start calling it a Lazy Sam. At any rate, put these rotating trays in your pantry and cabinets.

"Instead of letting the oils and vinegars that fall to the back disappear, it keeps everything accessible because it spins!" says professional organizer and blogger Tova Weinstock, aka Tidy Tova.

3. Linus clear open storage bins

These open-topped, stackable bins with built-in handles by InterDesign are marketed as a bathroom organizer, but founder of Gotham Organizers, Lisa Zaslow, recommends them for every room and closet in the house.

"They come in a variety of sizes and make it super easy to group similar things together — one of the golden rules of organizing," Zaslow says. "Because they're sturdy and easy to clean, they're particularly great for things that can spill or are sticky."

Weinstock also recommends clear Linus bins, especially for the pantry.

"I love these for keeping like-items contained (think: baking supplies) so you know where things are and don't end up buying multiples," Weinstock says.

4. 3-tiered mesh tray

Founder of Chicago-based organizing service Organizing With You, Inc., Pooja Naik recommends a tiered mesh tray for taming desktop clutter by organizing papers that need attention into categories. It may seem obvious, but, she explains, it helps you get that first step of organizing done, clearing the surface, which then gives you more workspace to tackle the next task.

5. NEET zippered cable tie

With a video-gamer husband and three children who all have their own personal devices, I live in a cable nightmare. Charging cords dangle and sprawl all over my house, making areas that should be calm — like my bedroom — feel chaotic.

Professional organizer and blogger Cary Prince found a product that just might solve my problem at the National Association of Professional Organizers (NAPO) conference (yes, that's a thing). These zippered cable ties by NEET are like little coats that zip around your cables, from skinny earbud wires to fat bunches of coaxial cables.

At home, they can gather together messes of cables and keep them from getting coated with dust. In a purse or suitcase, they provide a convenient way to wrap up and contain cords so they don't get tangled.

6. MOS magnetic cable organizer

Another idea for reining in cord chaos is this chic magnetic cable organizer by MOS, which can be mounted on a wall or placed on a desktop. It comes with magnetic blue cable clips to attach cables to its surface. Founder and president of Mindful Decluttering & Organizing, Pam Holland, included this item in her list of favorite organizing products, explaining, "This attractive magnetic pad makes it easy to keep those unruly electronic cables in one place and untangled." (See also: 5 Easy Ways to Declutter Your Digital Life)

7. Mesh stacking shoe shelves

More than one organizer I spoke with agreed that shoe racks or shelves are a must for preventing pileups. Zaslow swears by this white mesh shoe shelf from The Container Store.

"The mesh keeps heels from falling through the shelf, and you can quickly stack them up to store many pairs of shoes in a small 'footprint' — no tools needed. They are super minimal so you barely see them, but they're really strong, unlike some other flimsy shoe shelves," Zaslow says.

8. Command hooks

Lack of adequate hooks for hanging things is often a frustration for me, especially since I'm not handy with a drill. Zaslow solves this problem by using easy-to-apply Command hooks, which come in a variety of sizes.

"There endless ways to use them: hang mops and brooms inside of a closet, create a spot for kids' backpacks near the front door, hang your blow dryer on the side of your vanity, or store oven mitts inside the door of a low cabinet near the stove," Zaslow says.

9. Stackable shelf organizer

Ideally, your kitchen would have shelves at the perfect heights to store all of your dishes and glasses, with no big gaps of wasted space between shelves. But why wait until you have the ideal kitchen before you start organizing, when you can maximize the space in the cupboards you have now? Holland recommends doing that with this DecoBros product, not just inside cupboards but also on countertops.

"I prefer these to the white wire ones commonly used as they are more stable and things don't slip through the cracks," Holland writes.

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This article is from Carrie Kirby of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

How to Sell All Your Stuff and Travel the World

Nick Wharton — Tue, 08 May 2018 08:30:29 +0000

Many of us dream of escaping the cubicle and traveling the world. But very few people actually have the means to take the plunge and make it happen. One of the most common reasons for staying put is not having enough money to satisfy that wanderlust. However, most of us have a ready-made travel fund at our disposal in the numerous possessions that we own.

One of the quickest and easiest methods of committing to a life of travel and being able to afford it without years of saving is to sell everything you own. Here's how to do it. (See also: Make Money and Declutter by Selling These 5 Unlikely Treasures)

Get in the right frame of mind

Selling everything you own might feel nothing short of terrifying, never mind the fact that you'll be setting off on a journey into the unknown immediately after. For most people, the thought of getting rid of things that they've had for years and formed emotional attachments to can cause serious distress.

However, if you're ready to embark on this adventure, you'll need to get into the mindset of valuing experiences over physical possessions. A great method for doing this is to find a way to remind yourself of exactly why you're doing this and the amazing memories it's going to pay for. Selling that beloved car that you'd dreamed about owning for years? That's potentially six months' worth of accommodation costs paid for. Getting rid of a childhood toy that was a birthday gift from your parents and has now become a collectors' item? That could pay for a delicious meal out.

You can find a million reasons to set aside stuff that you don't want to sell, but once you start down that path, it's difficult to stop. Mentally detaching yourself from your possessions can be gut-wrenching, but once it's done, you'll feel free of all that material baggage and ready for a new chapter. (See also: 4 Reasons You Should Splurge on Experiences, Not Things)

By focusing on the positives that come from selling your belongings, you'll be able to start reframing the experience in your mind to one that's enjoyable. Go through your digital and hard-copy photos from previous trips, or read an inspirational travel blog every day. Whatever it is, find a way to maintain that sightseeing excitement when you start feeling blue. (See also: 8 Ways Clutter Keeps You Poor)

Get organized

Sort through all the stuff you're going to sell, and categorize it into separate piles. Make an inventory list for everything you have, either in a notepad, or in a spreadsheet so it's easy to search and edit. This will also come in handy for tracking what's sold and for how much.

Once everything is on the inventory list, price each item by checking eBay and Craigslist to see how much similar items are going for. This will take some time, but will be worth it to ensure you're getting market value and not letting things go too cheaply or expecting way too much.

Set a date

Once your items are priced and ready to go, it's important to quit procrastinating and just start selling. The best way to jolt yourself into action is to set a date when you're going to have everything sold by. The longer you wait to start, the easier it is to talk yourself out of selling certain items, and the harder it will be to actually let everything go.

Be realistic when you're setting the date and take into account how long it's going to take to put your possessions up for sale, plus the amount of time it may take before they’re actually sold. Not everything will be snapped up right away, and even some extremely valuable items may take a long time to get rid of. Allow yourself at least a few weeks, but ideally, a number of months to get everything sold.

You can also set a target for how much you want to make from selling everything and break it down into a weekly target. This way you can work toward it in increments and maintain your focus by just doing a little bit each day.

Use the right platforms

To maximize the amount of money you're recouping for each item, it's important to choose the right platform to sell it on. Though it may take more time to do it this way, it will ensure you receive the best value for your belongings.

eBay

This site is great for collectibles or other small items that have a decent value. For these items, it's best to use the auction function in the hope that you spark a bidding war between interested parties, driving the price up.

Don't be tempted to just throw a bad picture up there and a two-word description of the item. The more effort you put in, the more attractive you can make things look. Put a bit of time into writing brand names, captions, and taking photos that show items in their best light. (See also: How I Make $800 on Month on eBay Selling Used Clothes)

Craigslist

Things that are going to warrant huge postal fees are more suitable for local pickup. That’s why Craigslist is a great option for these item. Think furniture and bulky items like TVs.

Pro tip: When buyers come to collect, take the opportunity to show them your other stuff and ask if they're on the lookout for anything else. You may be surprised at how many extra sales you make this way.

Yard sales

Remember, one person's junk is another person's treasure. Because of this, even the odd bits and pieces that you may not think would sell might earn you a few dollars or more in the right setting. Yard and garage sales are great for these kinds of items, because in my experience, they're often attended by people looking for unusual objects. (See also: 12 Garage Sale Items That Sell Like Hotcakes)

At a sale I held, a woman was looking for absolutely anything miniature. She made doll houses, and was interested in objects that would be suitable to furnish them, and was willing to pay for items that probably wouldn't have sold elsewhere.

Facebook Marketplace

Facebook Marketplace can be a great tool for selling specialist items, and items to people who live nearby. You have to have a Facebook account in order to use this part of the platform, and you can include photos, the price you're offering the item for, and any additional details. Interested buyers can contact you via direct message to inquire if the item is still available, or ask questions. You don't need to be Facebook friends in order to connect with potential buyers.

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This article is from Nick Wharton of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

7 Things You Can Downsize Right Now

Kentin Waits — Wed, 14 Mar 2018 10:01:05 +0000

When we think of the term "downsizing," we often think of trading a larger home for a smaller one. But downsizing isn't just for houses. Look around you. What's consuming too much of your time, your money, your space, or your energy? In a nation that famously supersizes everything, downsizing just might be the key to a more fulfilling life. Here are seven things you can downsize right now. (See also: How to Decide What to Keep When Downsizing)

1. Car

Advertisers work hard to convince us that what we drive defines who we are. But that trick costs all of us money (after all, who wants to be a 1974 Pinto?).

Don't fall for it. Instead, embrace this revolutionary truth: Cars are simply tools to get us from Point A to Point B. Unburden yourself from an auto loan you can't afford and insurance premiums that bust your budget. Downsize to the safest, most fuel-efficient pre-owned model you can afford. (See also: 3 Reasons Why You Should Never Buy a New Car)

2. Wardrobe

My sister-in-law once had so many clothes that she purchased three commercial clothes racks and expanded her closet into the basement. If your wardrobe is gobbling up more square footage every year, it might be time to downsize.

Consider donating items you no longer wear to charities like Dress for Success, Career Gear, or a local community outreach center. You could also sell your clothing, shoes, and accessories to an online consignment shop and make a little extra cash. (See also: How I Make $800 on Month on eBay Selling Used Clothes)

3. Cable and cellphone plans

Once we've signed up for cellphone plans and cable packages, we seldom give them a critical review. That inattention means we could be missing out on cheaper options that better match our lifestyle, or special offers that provide the same level of service for less money. Take 30 minutes to see if you can downsize your cable and cellphone plans — and the costs that go with them. (See also: 5 Painless Ways to Lower Your Cell Phone Bill)

4. Subscription services

From gourmet cheeses to beauty supplies, subscription services deliver the world to our doorstep. But all that convenience comes at a price.

Take a hard look at your bank statement and your spending habits. Are multiple subscription services nickel-and-diming your budget to death? Is most of that gourmet cheese growing fuzz the fridge? If the answer is "yes," switch to a less expensive subscription package or cancel altogether.

5. Spending

Forget about the idea of cutting corners for a month or two. When you downsize your spending, you're finding permanent ways to minimize your expenditures. It's a mental and behavioral shift that's the first step in living more frugally. Explore ways to reduce your monthly spending by 10 percent, and then use that money to pay down debt or boost your retirement savings. (See also: Boost Your Savings With This Easy Budgeting System)

6. Debt

Once you've downsized your spending, attack the three-headed monster it created — debt. While it makes perfect sense to pay off debt with the highest interest rates first, many people find more success using the debt snowball method. In this approach, you pay off your smallest debt first (regardless of the interest rate), which gives you a motivational boost to stick with your downsizing plan until everything is paid off.

7. Schedule and commitments

A dear friend of mine recently started a new job with a college on the East Coast. In addition to this full-time administrative role, he's teaching two classes and interviewing students for a grant program. I love him to death, but saying "no" is not his strong suit.

Sound like you? Remember, your time is a rare resource. If you're constantly moving and always stressed, downsize your schedule. Life is short; carve out some time to simply be. (See also: 8 Reasons Time Is Worth More Than Money)

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This article is from Kentin Waits of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

7 Reasons to Get Spring Cleaning Done During Winter

Kentin Waits — Thu, 04 Jan 2018 09:00:09 +0000

Spring cleaning — it's a timeless tradition that makes perfect sense … until you think about it for a minute or two. Why does everyone wait until spring to start that deep clean? Wouldn't winter be a more ideal time to tend to all things indoors? Let's turn this unquestioned custom upside down. Here are seven reasons to get spring cleaning done during the dark and dreary months of winter.

1. Baby, it's cold outside

With fewer reasons to be outside, winter gives us more time to focus on the inside of our homes. This is the season for nesting, and cleaning is an essential part of making our nests as comfortable as possible. (See also: 7 Ways to Prepare for Spring Cleaning)

2. You're organizing new stuff anyway

If you're like most Americans, you probably have loads of new trinkets and gadgets coming into your homes during the holidays. As long as you're organizing your haul, why not clean out your closets, rearrange the attic, and clear out the garage to make room for your new toys?

3. It's the giving season

Organizing, decluttering, and donating — they all work together in perfect harmony. Wintertime is the time to give away cold-weather gear your kids have outgrown, clothes you don't wear, and household items that could brighten the lives of those in need. (See also: 12 Ways a Deep Declutter Can Improve Your Life)

4. And the season of getting sick

Stuffy noses, sore throats, and sneezing — they're all part of the magic of the chilly season. But a thorough winter clean can help you keep the nastiest germs and viruses at bay. If your family is already under the weather, a deep clean can prevent a second round of sickness.

5. Everyone's home

With everyone home for the holiday break and the following snow days, it's much easier to declutter. Get the whole family involved; decide together which items can go and which should stay. Then, assign each person a simple cleaning chore and make short work of long to-do lists.

6. It's the right way to ring in the new year

New Year's is all about fresh starts. Clear your mind by clearing out the accumulation of years past. A spotless, clutter-free, and organized home is the perfect place to discover what's next for you and your family. (See also: 31 Things to Do in January to Start the New Year Off Right)

7. It'll be on your mind until you get it done

Spring is still a few months away. However, you know you'll have to buckle down and get this time-consuming deep clean done eventually, so why not cross it off your list now? Completing necessary tasks early will make you feel accomplished, stress-free, and will keep you motivated to keep checking those boxes and chasing your New Year's goals.

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This article is from Kentin Waits of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

The 5 Best Home Safes

Andrea Cannon — Wed, 08 Nov 2017 08:00:09 +0000

A home safe can serve as the last line of defense against burglars. It can provide you with peace of mind knowing that your most valued possessions are well protected.

What is a home safe?

A home safe is a secure box that can store and protect firearms, jewelry, cash, electronics, passports, important documents, and other valuables from damage and theft. Each safe is different and will offer its own unique benefits, such as fireproofing, waterproofing, burglar rating, multiple locks, and fingerprint recognition. (See also: 6 Tips for Choosing The Right Home Safe)

Top 5 home safes

SentrySafe Fire and Water Safe

Amazon's Choice for home safes, the SentrySafe Fire and Water Safe is a heavy-duty option with a solid steel exterior and 1.23 cubic feet capacity. It has four extra-large live-locking steel bolts, pry-resistant hinges, a dual-combination lock and key, an adjustable interior shelf, key rack, door tray, and door pocket. It's certified by UL and ETL to provide fire protection for up to an hour, water resistance up to eight inches for 24 hours, and digital media protection.

This is available with an electronic or combination lock, and can be bolted down with the included kit. It comes from the trusted SentrySafe brand, is recommended by ConsumerSearch and Business Insider, and has hundreds of five-star reviews on Amazon. It's also backed by a one-year manufacturer's limited warranty. If this large safe doesn't work for you, SentrySafe has best-selling safes in all sizes and options, including the SentrySafe Security Safe, Medium Digital Lock Safe, SentrySafe Fire Safe, Waterproof Fire Resistant Chest, and SentrySafe Pistol Safe.

Currently $179.99 on Amazon

AmazonBasics Security Safe

Amazon's #1 best-seller in security lockboxes and cabinet safes, the compact AmazonBasics Security Safe has a 0.5 cubic feet capacity. It has solid steel construction, scratch-proof carpeted floor, and a black exterior finish. It includes re-programmable digital access and two emergency override keys. It is also equipped with an electronic lock, two live-door bolts, pry-resistant concealed hinges, and an adjustable interior shelf. It's light enough to be carried around, if it's not affixed (with included mounting hardware). It is recommended by Business Insider and Locksmith-Advisor. It's also part of Amazon's Home Gift Guide, one of the "Most Wished For" items, and has more than 1,500 five-star reviews on Amazon.

Currently $52.80 on Amazon

Stack-On Drawer Safe with Electronic Lock

The sturdy, solid steel Stack-On Drawer Safe with Electronic Lock is the perfect size to hide inside a drawer or small space. It features two live-action steel locking bolts, concealed pry-resistant hinges, and an easily programmable electronic lock. It includes a backup key and there's a timeout period after three incorrect combination attempts. It includes pre-drilled holes and fastening hardware for mounting. It has outstanding online reviews, including more than 1,500 five-star reviews on Amazon.

Currently $39.97 on Amazon

Barska Biometric Safe with Fingerprint Lock

The solid steel Barska Biometric Safe with Fingerprint Lock is a small safe with a biometric closure. It opens with the touch of a finger, so you don't have to worry about finding a key or remembering a combination. It's easy to set up and can store up to 30 fingerprints. It includes mounting hardware and two emergency backup keys. It is recommended by Business Insider and Best Gun Safe Pro, and has more than 1,000 five-star reviews on Amazon.

Currently $170.61 on Amazon

Honeywell 1-Hour Fire Safe Waterproof Filing Safe

The Honeywell 1-Hour Fire Safe Waterproof Filing Safe is a sturdy home safe with up to 1.06 cubic feet of storage space. It is fireproof for one hour and waterproof for up to 48 hours to better protect your most cherished possessions. It features dual compression latches and safety hinges for additional protection. The large box chest includes two entry keys and a sturdy wheel cart for easy transport. It's also available in three different sizes to suit your needs. It's backed by more than 500 five-star reviews on Amazon and a seven-year limited warranty and lifetime after-fire guarantee.

Currently $182.01 on Amazon

And those are our recommendations for the best home safes. As always, be sure to check Wise Bread's Buying Calendar to learn when and how to buy just about anything!

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This article is from Andrea Cannon of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

Why Holding Onto Too Much Stuff Is a Burden for Your Loved Ones

Max Wong — Tue, 24 Oct 2017 08:30:11 +0000

My father-in-law passed away in February. The morning after his passing, my mother-in-law went into downsizing mode. She wanted all of her dearly departed husband's things out of her home. In her words, "These things are making me too sad. I don't want to live inside an altar. I have 60 years of good memories of him. That's all I need."

Since my in-laws already lived pretty light in a small, one-bedroom apartment, my family initially thought that downsizing such a small space would be an easy task. We were so wrong. Finding new homes for all of my father-in-law's things turned into a two weeklong, full-time job for two people.

Here are the lessons we learned, and why we should all consider downsizing before we go, so that our heirs don't have to. (See also: How to Decide What to Keep When Downsizing)

Not everything is an heirloom

With the exception of some midcentury furniture, the family's six children and eight grandchildren did not want most of my father-in-law's belongings. This lack of interest is partially because my in-laws had already parceled out a lot of the "heirlooms" to the family during previous house moves, but mainly it's because all six of the kids and all the adult grandchildren already have houses full of things. They don't need another bookcase, kitchen table, or toaster oven. (See also: 8 Questions to Ask Yourself to Help You Declutter)

Not everything old is valuable

Many of the hottest collectibles of the 20th Century, including Hummel figurines, Depression glass, Roseville pottery, comic books, baseball cards, lunchboxes, vintage denim, Happy Meal toys, and, of course, Beanie Babies, are worth just a fraction of their former values in the 21st Century.

If your Hummel clown collection is your pride and joy, by all means, enjoy it. But if you are hoarding porcelain figurines so you can gift a clown portfolio to an unsuspecting relative with the belief that it will be a life-changing windfall, it might be better for everyone involved if you know the market value of each piece on eBay.

I own a rhinestone brooch that has value because Lucille Ball was its original owner. If the brooch didn't have this famous provenance, it would be worth next to nothing. If I kick it tomorrow, my husband knows not to sell it at a garage sale.

Get your valuables appraised and let your loved ones know of any back story with a particular "priceless" item. Don't forget about getting valuations for guns, record albums, and cameras.

Forced minimalism is a growing trend

Due to skyrocketing housing prices in many of the hottest job markets, people have to live in smaller places than ever before. This means that even people who don't enjoy the minimalist aesthetic live more minimally than earlier generations. My sister-in-law doesn't want any of her parent's things because she is in the middle of downsizing her own belongings. Your children might love your style, but they won't be able to fit the contents of your 2000 square foot ranch house into their 400 square foot apartment. (See also: Ease Into Minimalism With Some Simple Steps)

Thrift stores are at capacity

When my parents downsized 20 years ago, they made one call to their local resale store. The store owner showed up at my parent's house with a truck, loaded up all their old furniture, and wrote them a check on the spot. Sadly, this kind of one-stop un-furnishing no longer exists. Because two generations of people are downsizing simultaneously, thrift stores are crammed with merchandise. Even big charity shops are now placing limits on how much you can donate at one time.

The main reason why it took us two weeks to divest my father-in-law's things is because we had to do a lot of legwork in order to find charities that would take donations.

Garage sales and curbing can be risky

I supported myself for two years by trash picking furniture from the curb and reselling it at garage sales. Unfortunately, there are laws that thwart this type of industry in many communities. Pro Tip: To avoid hefty fines, check with your local government before curbing possessions or hanging up garage sale signs.

If she didn't live in a swanky resort town, my mother-in-law could have simply dragged everything she didn't want out to the curb and left it for the taking, but her community has strict rules against dumping.

Another obstacle that slowed the downsizing process: my mother-in-law lives in an assisted living facility. So, alas, she lacks a public space she could use to have a garage sale. (See also: 12 Garage Sale Items That Sell Like Hotcakes)

You don't need "things" to tell your story

Americans are especially good at using our possessions to tell our life stories, which explains our voracious appetite for vacation souvenirs, baseball bobblehead giveaways, and status purchases. Because we often use mementos as physical manifestations of our best memories, we tend to tremendously overvalue our things. Alas, sentimental value is subjective.

In a way, my mother-in-law lucked out. Her home is full of nice things, so she got tremendous satisfaction out of the fact that we were ultimately able to find a home for pretty much everything she didn't want to keep. What she didn't get was cash. Shelves of books and DVDs were welcomed by her public library as donations, but worth next to nothing on half.com. My father-in-law shopped in the husky department, so all his gently used, retired rocket scientist clothes weren't sellable to consignment stores, but were snapped up by the local homeless shelter. With the advent of flat-screen TVs, the armoire they used as a TV cabinet languished on Craigslist before a neighbor took it off our hands to use as tool storage in his garage.

The lack of income didn't bother my mother-in-law one bit. Fortunately, she doesn't need the money. More importantly, she just wanted the stuff out of her house and into the hands of people who would enjoy it. She had no expectation that the family would absorb her husband's old possessions into their own homes. Because she made no assumption that her old belongings would have great monetary or sentimental value to anyone else, her downsizing story ended with everyone happy. She was able to achieve her goal, and her family was able to help her achieve it.

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This article is from Max Wong of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

Best Money Tips: Simple Time Management Tips That Work

Amy Lu — Mon, 21 Aug 2017 08:31:10 +0000

Welcome to Wise Bread's Best Money Tips Roundup! Today we found articles on simple time management tips that actually work, morning rituals that can relieve anxiety, and ways to enjoy your city on a budget.

11 Essential Documents You Should Keep in Your Safe

Annie Mueller — Fri, 18 Aug 2017 09:00:05 +0000

It's important to keep the documents you need to establish your identity, property ownership, and financial assets safe … which doesn't mean in your filing cabinet or stacked in a pile on your desk. While you may have digital copies of IDs and tax forms stored on your computer, you should also have a hard copy, in case the digital version is accidentally deleted or your computer crashes. Certain documents deserve a very safe place — like a fireproof safe — in case of identity theft or fire or a break-in. These are the documents you need to put in there.

1. Birth certificates and adoption papers

Keep your original birth certificate and those of your spouse and dependents in your safe. If you need one for reference or proof of identity, make a copy to keep handy. Or you can order a duplicate by contacting the Vital Records office in your state. Keep any legal foster records or adoption papers in your safe, too.

2. Social Security cards

You should never carry your Social Security card with you for identification. It should stay tucked away in your safe at all times, unless you need to bring it to a job interview or provide proof of your identity. Once you do, lock it back up.

3. ID cards and naturalization papers

Get a copy of your military ID, driver's license, or state-issued ID, as applicable, and keep the copy in your safe. You should also keep your passport or green card in there when not in use. Any other documents you have relating to your citizenship, immigration status, or naturalization should be kept in your safe, as well.

4. Marriage and/or divorce papers

Keep your original marriage certificate and/or divorce papers in your safe. Any legal documents related to your marital status, such as a prenuptial agreement, alimony, or child support agreement, should also be in there in case you need to refer to them again later.

5. Living will

Should something happen to you that prevents you from being able to make decisions about your health, a living will provide instructions for your loved ones to execute on your behalf. This could relieve the burden on them of having to make a difficult decision.

6. Will

A last will and testament, on the other hand, is a detailed account of your estate and lists who gets what once you pass away. If you don't already have a legal will, put one together and then keep a notarized copy. (See also: What You Need to Know About Writing a Will)

7. Power of attorney papers

If you have the power of attorney for anyone (such as an elderly parent), keep the order in your safe. In addition, if you have any formal agreements for caregiving or elder care arrangements, keep those in there, too.

8. Proof of benefits and disability documentation

If you qualify for any government benefits or assistance programs, keep proof of your beneficiary status in your safe. Keep any official documentation regarding a disability, workplace injury, or military injury in your safe, as well.

9. Professional appraisals

If you've had a professional appraisal done on your house, or any high-value you item you own (such as original art, heirloom jewelry, or antique furnishings), keep these documents in your safe. If you decide to sell these items later, this documentation will give you the upper hand in the selling process.

10. Deeds and ownership forms

Keep your mortgage papers or any real estate deeds in your safe, as well as the title and registration for any vehicle you own. Don't forget boats, trailers, and tractors.

11. Financial account info documents

Most, if not all, of our financial documents and statements can be accessed online, but a list of your accounts, including account numbers and institutions for each, would be helpful in cases where you or your loved ones don't remember or don't know what accounts you hold. This includes checking and savings accounts, retirement and investment accounts, and life and other insurance policies. You might also want to include a list of usernames and passwords, although there are other, more secure, ways to keep and share passwords. Products like LastPass are helpful. (See also: Organize 8 Key Areas of Your Life With These 17 Smart Apps)

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This article is from Annie Mueller of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

Flashback Friday: 43 Easiest Ways to Become a Time Management Master

Chrissa Hardy — Fri, 18 Aug 2017 08:30:10 +0000

There are never enough hours in a day to get all your to-dos done, am I right? Wrong. If there are super productive, uber successful moneymakers out there who are figuring out how to maximize every minute of the day, then you can, too. Here's everything you need to get started.

8 Reasons Time Is Worth More Than Money — You can always make more money, but time is finite. And recognizing the full value of your time will make you more inclined to pay attention to how you're spending it.

Organize 8 Key Areas of Your Life With These 17 Smart Apps — It's hard to manage your time when your everyday life is a chaotic mess. Getting organized is an important step in the time management process, and will make every step thereafter so much easier.

5 Easy Ways to Declutter Your Digital Life — No matter what your job is, you probably spend a decent amount of time on the internet. Just as you need to keep the physical space you occupy neat and tidy, you should also do the same for your digital space. That'll save you tons of time.

How to Add an Extra Hour to Your Day — No, science has not figured out a way to stop time when you need a break from reading the news. However, there are lots of little ways to cut back on time wasters to leave room for things that are worthy of holding your focus.

The Single Greatest Key to Managing Your Time — It all comes back to you. You are ultimately in control of how your time is spent, and once you learn how to manage yourself, time management will come.

16 Time and Money Saving Apps for Freelancers — When your livelihood is freelancing and your income is inconsistent, time can be extremely tricky to manage, but not impossible! These apps will help freelancers save money, and even better, time.

This article is from Chrissa Hardy of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

The 5 Best Label Makers

Andrea Cannon — Thu, 22 Jun 2017 08:00:12 +0000

Label makers are an organization must-have. Along with using it to label everything in the kitchen and pantry, label makers are also great for scrapbooking, decorating cards and gifts, and labeling cords, folders, charts, photos, storage bins, and other items around the home and office.

What is a label maker?

A portable handheld label maker uses a built-in keyboard and display to effortlessly create professional-looking labels in seconds. It can save you time by making everything easy to locate in your pantry, home, or office.

Top 5 label makers

DYMO LabelManager Handheld Label Maker

Amazon’s #1 best-seller in desktop label printers, the compact, lightweight DYMO LabelManager Handheld Label Maker prints water-resistant labels. It’s easy to enter and edit thanks to the computer-style QWERTY keyboard and one-touch fast-formatting keys. It offers easy customization thanks to six font sizes, eight text styles, formatting options, four boxes, and a built-in library of over 200 symbols and clip-art images. The large, easy-to-read LCD display also shows a preview of the label before printing. It also offers features like last-label memory and automatic shut-off.

This is highly recommended and reviewed online, with more than 3,000 five-star reviews on Amazon alone. It is also backed by a one-year limited warranty. The DYMO LetraTag Plus Handheld Label Maker is another highly reviewed option.

Currently $9.99 on Amazon

Brother P-Touch Label Maker

Amazon’s #1 best-seller in label makers, the reliable Brother P-Touch Label Maker creates crisp laminated plastic labels that can stand up to the microwave, fridge, and dishwasher. The lightweight, portable label maker offers one-touch formatting keys, easy-access memory, and an intuitive QWERTY keyboard. It includes multiple templates, decorative patterns, 14 fonts, 95 frames, and more than 600 symbols. You can also mix up the tape size, color, and type for additional inspiration. It prints up to two lines on tapes up to 1/2” wide. It will also allow you to preview text and layout before printing.

This is recommended by Consumer Search, PCMag, and The Sweethome. It is also one of the “most wished for” items on Amazon and has more than 600 five-star reviews on Amazon. The Sweethome and Consumer Search also recommend the Brother P-touch Label Maker With AC Adapter.

Currently $28.84 on Amazon

Epson LabelWorks Label Maker

The Epson LabelWorks Label Maker has significantly smaller margins compared to other brands for up to 62 percent less waste. The handheld label maker has a large built-in memory and fits up to two lines of text, on tape up to 0.5" wide. It allows you to customize your labels with 14 fonts, 10 styles, over 300 built-in symbols, over 75 frames, and a range of specialty tapes. It is very quiet, easy to use, and supports seven languages.

This is an Amazon best-seller and is recommended by PCMag, The Sweethome, and LifeHacker. It also has more than 500 five-star reviews on Amazon. The Sweethome also recommends the Epson LabelWorks Label Maker.

Currently $29.99 on Amazon

DYMO Organizer Xpress Handheld Embossing Label Maker

Amazon’s #1 best-seller in label applicators, the DYMO Organizer Xpress Handheld Embossing Label Maker is ideal if you want an embossed look. It prints letters, numbers, and symbols effortlessly in seconds and doesn’t require any batteries. It features a comfortable soft-grip handle and an enhanced tape-cutting feature that makes the labels easy to load, cut, and remove. It is frequently recommended online and has more than 300 five-star reviews on Amazon.

Currently $11.99 on Amazon

Brother Professional Label Printer

If you need a high-speed label and postage maker, you won’t find better than the Brother Professional Label Printer. It prints up to 93 high-resolution labels (with crisp text and graphics) per minute. It prints everything from pre-sized, easy-peel, rounded-corner labels to labels on continuous-length paper and film tapes for banners and signs up to three feet long. It can even print stamps and postage. It uses a direct thermal printing mechanism with convenient drop-in tape rolls, which allows you to switch sizes in seconds. The automatic cutter provides precise cuts for printing one or multiple labels at once.

The “Plug and Label” feature allows you to create labels without installing software. You can also install the included optional software to use a variety of templates and further customize your labels. It also integrates with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook. The reliable printer comes with a USB Cable and Power Cord and requires no ink or toner. It is recommended by PCMag, is an Amazon best-seller, and has more than 500 five-star reviews on Amazon. It is also backed by a two-year warranty.

Currently $68.91 on Amazon

And those are our recommendations for the best label makers. As always, be sure to check Wise Bread's Buying Calendar to learn when and how to buy just about anything!

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This article is from Andrea Cannon of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

10 Ways to Make This Your Most Productive Summer Yet

Mikey Rox — Wed, 24 May 2017 08:30:13 +0000

Summer's a ton of fun, but most of us can't hit the beach every day. You have to fit work and chores in there somewhere, and this time of year is perfect because of all that sunlight that lasts into the evening. But it's easy to succumb to the exhaustion that summer heat brings, and just lounge around in the AC. If you're having trouble sticking to a regimen, consider these ways to make this your most productive summer yet. (See also: 11 Easy Ways to Fix Your Whole Life This Summer)

1. Plan a vacation

It sounds counterproductive to plan a vacation when you're trying to get more done, but you can't work, work, work all the time. Going on vacation lets you relax for a few days and come home refreshed, ready to tackle your to-do list. Plus, the lead-up to your vacay often includes packing, cleaning, and tying up loose ends at work, which is sort of forcing you to pay attention to things you may have neglected for a while. Just be sure to finish what you need to finish beforehand. Work hard, reward yourself for your diligence while you're away, and return better than before.

2. Get outside more

When I was in college, some of my professors would have class on the quad to take advantage of the nice weather. It might not sound like much, but it's amazing how creatively you think when you're not stuck in a bland classroom. Of course, you're probably not still in college, but you can apply this logic to your work life. Have walk-and-talk meetings outdoors or plan a meeting during lunchtime at a picnic table. Getting out for a bit will break the day up, and you'll gain more energy after that dose of vitamin D so you can beat the 3 p.m. slump.

3. Make lists

There's a list for almost everything on my phone — groceries I need to buy, meals I'm making, date night ideas, articles I need to write, restaurants I want to try, etc. I honestly can't function without a list. I don't know how any busy person can. So if you really want to own your summer, start making lists for things you need to buy, places you want to visit, books you want to read, and anything else you'd like to accomplish by Labor Day.

4. Set reasonable goals

When setting productivity goals, be reasonable. If you think a project or task is too much for you to handle, it probably is. In that case, it might be necessary to cut it down into smaller goals to make the process more digestible and ultimately achievable.

"Choose one or two reasonably sized projects to work on during the summer," advises Rashelle Isip, professional organizer and author of the lifestyle blog TheOrderExpert.com. "Once you finish those projects, you can take stock and re-evaluate your situation. Did you finish your project? Do you want to work on another project? Do you have enough time to complete another project? Finishing a single project is much more productive than halfheartedly starting three projects and leaving each half-finished."

5. Multitask while you relax

As a multi-business owner, I'm always doing something. That leaves me little time to relax. By combining tasks — particularly an enjoyable task with a mundane one — I'm able to speed things up. For instance, I catch up on my DVR'd shows while I'm folding laundry, respond to emails and read the news while I'm on the treadmill, and I listen to audiobooks while mowing the lawn. Those jobs alone are rather boring, but by pairing them with an activity I like, I seem to get them done faster and without dread.

6. Sleep more

I don't have to present you with a study or new research about how sleep is necessary and good for you. You already know that. So why do we all feel guilty when we get the recommended amount of sleep per night, or even sleep in sometimes? That ends here. Make peace with your need for more shut-eye, and you'll see the results in your energy level almost immediately.

Sarah Brown, wellness expert for Mattress Firm, concurs. "When we're trying to be productive, we often think we need to stay up late hours to fit everything in, but it actually decreases our productivity," she explains. "Adults need six to nine hours of sleep each night, depending on the person, to stay productive. Keep a sleep schedule so that your body falls into a routine for sleep. You'll find yourself making better use of the time you are awake."

7. Edit your closet as you change seasons

I swap out my fall/winter wardrobe for my spring/summer wardrobe in May, and I take that time to pull out anything I haven't worn or don't think I'll wear this summer to either send to my nephews as hand-me-downs or sell on Swap.com. I just started doing the latter and so far I've made over $100 selling my old clothes. It feels nice to recoup some of my cost and keep my garments out of the landfill, plus my closet is pared down and organized. (See also: How I Make $800 on Month on eBay Selling Used Clothes)

8. Rise earlier

Summertime certainly tempts you to stay up later, but try to manage your sleep so you're getting enough and can also get up fairly early without feeling like a zombie. Your daily commute to work will go smoother once you've had time to sufficiently shake the sleep off and face the day rather than jumping out of bed and rushing around because you may be late. Get up early, get ready at your own pace, enjoy your cup of coffee, and prepare for the day ahead without the frazzle.

9. Involve the whole family

If there's too much on your to-do list, spread those tasks around. There's no reason you should be taking on the brunt of the chores when you're not the one who even came close to making the brunt of mess. Plus, the kids are on summer vacation. What else do they have to do besides sleep all day and play video games? Make 'em earn their keep with good old-fashioned housework. They'll survive, and maybe they'll learn a few skills along the way.

10. Prepare your outfits and meals in advance

One of my biggest time savers is choosing my outfits and planning my meals for the week ahead. I usually do this on a Sunday evening when I'm at home watching TV. I choose what I'm going to wear for the week, and iron and assemble the outfits on hangers in the closet. This alone makes mornings a breeze because I can get dressed straight from the shower without any decision-making.

As for my meals, I choose all my recipes and pull all the ingredients I need so I don't have to make many decisions when I'm tired and hungry. I enjoy cooking fresh on a nightly basis, but you can also spend one day preparing a week's worth of food and storing it in the fridge so you don't have to fuss with any food prep for the rest of the week. I get so much more stuff done with these two major daily tasks out of the way. Try it, and you'll feel the difference it makes in your life. Promise. (See also: How to Shop for Food Once a Month and Save Big)

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This article is from Mikey Rox of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

11 Easy Ways to Fix Your Whole Life This Summer

Kentin Waits — Thu, 11 May 2017 09:00:08 +0000

Summer is the season of getting in shape mentally, physically, and financially. But forget making drastic personality changes, devoting hours of extra time to sweating at the gym, or forking over loads of cash. Sometimes the most dramatic lifestyle shifts are the result of tiny decisions we make every day. Here are 11 little lifestyle changes that'll get your whole life fit for summer — and the rest of the year, too.

1. Clean your cell phone daily

I hate to gross you out, but that phone in your pocket is literally teeming with germs. Various studies have found E. coli, MRSA, Streptococcus, and many other pathogens living on mobile phones. Keep yourself healthy by wiping down your phone thoroughly each day with a dry microfiber cloth. Disinfect it weekly using a microfiber cloth dampened with diluted isopropyl alcohol.

2. Switch to a moisturizer with sunscreen

Even on an overcast day, the sun can damage skin. Using moisturizer with SPF 30 or greater can shield your skin from harmful UV rays, slow the development of wrinkles, minimize redness, and reduce the risk of skin cancer — all without adding another step to your morning routine.

3. Cut out soda

A 12-ounce can of regular soda contains roughly nine teaspoons of sugar (about the same amount as 2.5 scoops of ice cream). Just this single dietary change will help you maintain a healthy weight, reduce your risk of developing type-2 diabetes, and minimize dental problems. (See also: 7 Soda Alternatives That Won't Bust Your Wallet — Or Your Waistline)

4. Socialize

Humans are social animals. Spending time with close friends improves your mood, increases self-confidence, and helps you navigate life's ups and downs. Instead of relying on random get-togethers, make a weekly date to spend quality time with those you care about most. If it won't ruffle any feathers, suggest these events be screen-free and revel in the old-fashioned art of conversation.

5. Make your bed

It may seem trivial, but making your bed first thing in the morning sets a positive and productive tone for the rest of the day (hospital corners optional).

6. Floss

According to many dentists, flossing is more important than brushing. Because floss is designed to clean between teeth and between the teeth and gums, it's a more effective tool for fighting tooth decay and periodontal disease. Make flossing at least once a day part of your routine. (See also: The 5 Best Flosses)

7. Move

Sitting is the new smoking, and we're all doing way too much of it. Walk the dog, take the stairs, mow the lawn with a push mower, schedule an outdoor work meeting and go for stroll — just try anything that will get you moving more each day.

8. Sleep more … and better

The busier we are, the more quality sleep matters. Invest in a few things that will transform your bedroom into a sleep-inducing oasis: Consider blackout shades, a white noise machine, quality linens, and comfortable pillows. If a new mattress isn't in your budget, add a memory foam or pillow-top mattress pad.

Once your sanctuary is set, fit more naps into your life. A 20- or 30-minute catnap can improve alertness and mood without disrupting your nighttime sleep schedule.

9. Don't check email before bed

While we're on the topic of good sleep, resist checking your email right before bed. Trust me, nothing good can come from it. Inevitably, there'll be a message that gets your mind buzzing or makes you anxious about the coming workday. Establish a media cut-off time and stick to it.

10. Adopt a one-item-in, one-item-out policy for your home

Cluttered spaces can be overwhelming, difficult to clean, and bad for your mental health. Become a zero-accumulation household by following one simple rule: For every new item you bring into your home, donate or sell an item of similar size. Already drowning under a pile of junk? Purge three or four items for every new one you add.

11. Save an extra five percent of your net income

Saving money is empowering. Properly managed, a healthy nest egg can help you fund a new career, start a family, or become a homeowner. Push yourself to save an extra five percent of your net income. Buy generic, cut the cord on cable TV, or explore ways to lower your cell phone bill. In short, do whatever it takes to beef up your bank account. Your future self will thank you.

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This article is from Kentin Waits of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

How to Decide What to Keep When Downsizing

Mikey Rox — Thu, 04 May 2017 08:30:09 +0000

Having trouble downsizing? You're not alone. Many of us are attached to our things, and that can cause anxiety when it's time to clear out the clutter. But when you start looking at your possessions practically — do they all serve a real purpose? — you'll have a better idea of what stays and what should go. Here are a few suggestions for the former. (See also: 7 Mantras to Sharpen Your Resolve to Downsize and Declutter)

1. Photos

My home is filled with lots of photos because I enjoy having those memories visible at all times. Of course, the other upside to keeping your pictures when downsizing is that they barely take up any space. The framed photos do, of course, but frameless photos hardly require any real estate in your home. In fact, I have hundreds of pictures in an old shoe box that go back more than 20 years. And that's all I'll ever need for real-world photo storage, especially nowadays.

If you want to preserve your photos even further and eliminate the shoe box or album altogether (because there is a chance it could get lost or destroyed, especially if stored in a basement or attic), scan everything into your computer. If you feel the task is a bit more than you're willing to take on, consider sending the hard copies off to a professional photo-scanning operation — there are plenty of options online at various price points — that will take on the grunt work for you and send back a flash drive or DVD of your digitized photos. (See also: 12 Smart Ways to Organize Old Photos)

2. Clothing

Twice a year I go through my closets to edit my wardrobe. Anything I haven't worn in a year gets the boot along with items that look worn, torn, or otherwise out of style. I know I keep way more than I should, but dressing nicely is important to me, so I justify the abundance that I have because it makes me happy.

If you're not emotionally attached to your clothing, but still have too much of it, start thinking about the items as function and not fashion. Start with a base of two weeks' worth of clothes — pieces that are good for work, weekends, and leisure time. That includes undergarments, pants, shirts, and other daily pieces. I'd suggest this strategy for all four seasons so you have items that will carry you through the entire year and whenever you travel.

Next, focus on the specialty items — like your wedding, funeral attire, and suits for business meetings. Keep one outfit for each and eliminate the rest. You need a couple pairs of shoes, too — ideally dress shoes, sneakers, and a pair of boots. Once you set all that aside, revisit your closet and pick a couple pieces you really love and resolve to part with the rest. You can hand them down to family members (all my excess goes to my nephew), sell the in-great-condition items on Swap.com (I've made over $100 in the past two months), or donate to charity, preferably a local mission that outfits the homeless or low-income job seekers.

3. Important documents

Certain documents, such as tax records, should be kept for seven years. Others should be kept forever, including marriage licenses, deeds to your home(s), military documents, birth certificates, passports, life insurance policies, immigration records, and more. Consult our list of important documents to keep, if you're not sure.

To ensure their safety, consider scanning documents that aren't already in digital format and save them in two separate but secure locations, one of which should be an external hard drive that you keep hidden or locked in a safe. The other could be a flash drive in another location — neither should be internet accessible. Failing to secure these items could result in you becoming the victim of identity theft, like the 13.1 million Americans who lost $15 billion to identity thieves in 2015.

Shred any other documents that contain your personal information, as some identity thieves will go through people's trash looking for data found on important papers. Use at least a crosscut shredder, which is more secure than a standard strip-cut shredder. A micro-cut shredder provides the highest level of security.

4. One item from your collection(s)

I won't get on you about how whatever you're collecting is probably costly with no real return on investment, and how all it does is take up space in your home while providing a place for the dust bunnies to live. No, I won't do that, because I'm guilty of the same thing. I have just one collection — Pez dispensers — that I've been adding to for the past two decades, but all the toys do is sit in a trunk in my basement. I know I should get rid of them, but it's hard to part with something that makes me smile. Seeing as how they have a home in the basement and I'm not currently downsizing, I think I'll keep them around a while longer. When I do decide to sell them off, I'll keep just one set — Tom & Jerry characters I picked up in Spain in the mid-90s. Those are my favorites.

5. Practical furniture

You need three major pieces of furniture, essentially: a bed to sleep in, a couch or chair in your living room, and a table at which to sit and eat. If you need to downsize even those items, it can be done easily by choosing smaller versions of whatever you have now. What you absolutely don't need is furniture that doesn't have a function, like the desk in the office you never use or that formal dining table that no one ever dines at.

6. Necessary tools

If you work with a lot of tools, edit your collection at your discretion. But if you're like the rest of us and reach for a hammer or a screwdriver a couple times of year, sell off the rest of the stash that you purchased for one-time projects. Saws, benches, landscaping gadgets, and more have to go if all they're doing is taking up space in your shed or basement.

If you're in a giving mood, hand them down to younger family members, newlyweds, or someone you know who's just starting out in life. Otherwise, tools have great resale value; try Craigslist or the letgo app to recoup some of your costs if you prefer to make a buck instead of giving the lot away for free. (See also: 10 Household Tools Every Frugal Homeowner Should Own)

7. Your "good" dishes

One of my biggest pet peeves is opening a cabinet full of mismatched, random dishes. You'll recognize this symptom of my OCD in my own home, where every dish is white, evenly numbered, and aligned perfectly in my cabinets. You'll understand what I'm talking about when you purge your kitchen of dishes you don't need and pare down to only the good stuff. The ones you bring out for company. Because life's too short to save those for holidays while you eat off cheap plastic plates the rest of the year.

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This article is from Mikey Rox of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

Organization

Ask the Readers: What Are Your Home Organization Hacks?

Win 1 of 3 $20 Amazon Gift Cards

Giveaway Rules:

What to Do Now to Prepare for Tax Season

Make a list of the information you'll need

Organize your receipts

Gather your paystubs together

Review your W4

Send more money to your retirement fund

Plan ahead for your refund

Make your tax season less stressful

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The 9 Best Storage Products as Recommended by Organization Pros

1. Paper sorter for container lids

2. Lazy Susan

3. Linus clear open storage bins

4. 3-tiered mesh tray

5. NEET zippered cable tie

6. MOS magnetic cable organizer

7. Mesh stacking shoe shelves

8. Command hooks

9. Stackable shelf organizer

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How to Sell All Your Stuff and Travel the World

Get in the right frame of mind

Get organized

Set a date

Use the right platforms

eBay

Craigslist

Yard sales

Facebook Marketplace

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7 Things You Can Downsize Right Now

1. Car

2. Wardrobe

3. Cable and cellphone plans

4. Subscription services

5. Spending

6. Debt

7. Schedule and commitments

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7 Reasons to Get Spring Cleaning Done During Winter

1. Baby, it's cold outside

2. You're organizing new stuff anyway

3. It's the giving season

4. And the season of getting sick

5. Everyone's home

6. It's the right way to ring in the new year

7. It'll be on your mind until you get it done

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The 5 Best Home Safes

What is a home safe?

Top 5 home safes

SentrySafe Fire and Water Safe

AmazonBasics Security Safe

Stack-On Drawer Safe with Electronic Lock

Barska Biometric Safe with Fingerprint Lock

Honeywell 1-Hour Fire Safe Waterproof Filing Safe

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Why Holding Onto Too Much Stuff Is a Burden for Your Loved Ones

Not everything is an heirloom

Not everything old is valuable

Forced minimalism is a growing trend

Thrift stores are at capacity

Garage sales and curbing can be risky

You don't need "things" to tell your story

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Best Money Tips: Simple Time Management Tips That Work

Top 5 Articles

Other Essential Reading

11 Essential Documents You Should Keep in Your Safe

1. Birth certificates and adoption papers

2. Social Security cards

3. ID cards and naturalization papers

4. Marriage and/or divorce papers

5. Living will

6. Will

7. Power of attorney papers