Checklist1. Round up as many bins, boxes, crates, baskets & containers that you possibly can. These can either be something you already have in your home or you can go to Walmart or Target and purchase some new ones, if you wish. Either way will be fine. Now put them aside in a spare room or corner. You will utilize these during our 3 week challenge.2. Make a donation box. You can use a large cardboard box, a large rubbermaid container, or even a trash bag (whatever you have). This is where you are going to be placing all of the things you no longer use or need (that isn’t trash). At the end of each week, you can take this box to Goodwill, etc… As long as its out of the house!3. Get a LABELER! My challenge isn’t about going and buying new stuff to bring into the home, but I really think this is an important step. If you just can’t afford one now, thats fine… At least get some label stickers (the long narrow ones that you can write on). Walmart has them for a couple of bucks. You will be labeling boxes & bins. I got my labeler at Target for less than $17.00. It’s not necessary for the challenge, but you will be much more organized if you use one. It was instant love after the first time I used mine. Now Im a labeler maniac.4. If you are REALLY serious about organizing your house, purchase some shoe boxes at the store. I think just about every store carries them for around a dollar each. The more stuff you have to organize, the more boxes you will need. You do NOT have to go out and get these, but they will DEFINITELY come in handy if you have them. If you have a lot of bins/boxes at home, this step isn’t needed. I use them for every room in my house.5. Make sure you have trash bags in stock. You will be purging a lot of stuff during our 21 day challenge, and I would hate for you to run out of trash bags.
21 day challenge Posted in 19 comments
19 comments on “Getting prepared for the 21 Day CHALLENGE! (plus an incentive to join the challenge)”
I have been needing to do this for some time now. I just found your blog, so it’s perfect timing. I can’t wait!
Thanks for the list! I have been looking for a reason to get a labeler. 😉
I am so looking forward to this challenge!! My house is in desperate need of some organization!!
There is a possibility of us moving to a different state in February, so this will be a great way for me to purge and declutter my home before I have to pack it!
Looking forwards to doing this! I am in need of some major organization!!!
Can’t wait to get started!
Oh, I am getting ready! Your blog has inspired me (and I am already pretty darn organized)…I need to focus on my pantry, linen closet and re-do the laundry room…I have added your list to my list! AND, I just ordered that Shaklee, so I am ready!
~alicia
Alicia, Im so excited that you have joined the challenge!! And order shaklee. You will LOVE their products. Today, my daughter spilled grape juice on the carpet, so I grabbed my bottle of Basic H and treated it.. no more stains! 🙂 Toni
Yea! I’m getting so excited to start! and even more excited that I will have a reason to use my dusty labeler! haha!
I am so ready to get out of my organization slump!
Lovely site. I am stopping by to invite you to come check out week 5 of Thrifty Thursdays. Happy New Year!
Johnnie
Yay! This is just what I have been looking for!
Perfect timing. I HAVE to do this despite my broken thumb. Thank you for helping me bring such a positive start to my home and life in 2011.
Blessings,
Amanda x
You’re welcome Amanda. Im so glad you are here!
i’m ready! everything is checked on that checklist!
http://lofteeideas.blogspot.com/2011/01/21-day-organizing-challenge.html
I just found your blog today, and I love the 21 day challenge, but I live in a very small apartment, and 5 of the things you’ve already covered in the first 13 days I don’t have. I have to find alternative spots for these things, and don’t have my own washer and dryer. It’d be nice to see alternative challenges for people who don’t have a pantry, spice cabinet, linen closet, etc. Just a thought. I am taking lots of notes though, and I’m going to try to “catch” up. Thanks for all the advice!
There is a very cool shop on Etsy.com that sells vinyl chalkboard labels which helps to reuse your bins over and over as your needs change. The shop I found is… http://www.etsy.com/shop/TheVinylChalkboard
oh…you can also get them in whiteboard/dry erase vinyl too if you prefer.
I know this challenge was set ages ago but with my partner being away for roughly 21 days, and moving house in 2 months, this will be a fantastic way to spend some time home alone!!!