Back to School Home Prep Tips: Streamline Your Routine with Smart Organization
As the back-to-school season kicks into high gear, families everywhere are bracing for the whirlwind of early mornings, packed schedules, and endless to-do lists. A well-organized home can make all the difference in easing the transition from summer to school. At The Handy Whiz, we’re here to share practical tips and clever storage solutions to help you conquer the chaos. From backpack and shoe storage to meal prep and outfit planning, here’s how to set your home up for a smooth school year.
Smart Storage Solutions for Backpacks and Shoes
Backpacks, shoes, and school gear can quickly clutter your entryway or living spaces. Here are some handyman-approved storage ideas to keep things tidy:
Wall-Mounted Backpack Hooks: Install sturdy hooks at kid-friendly heights in your entryway or mudroom. Assign each child a designated hook to hang their backpack, keeping them off the floor and easy to grab on the way out. Pro tip: Add a small shelf above the hooks for lunchboxes or hats.
Shoe Cubbies or Racks: A custom shoe cubby near the door can prevent piles of sneakers from taking over. Opt for open cubbies for quick access or stackable bins for a sleeker look. For smaller spaces, a slim vertical shoe rack can maximize storage without eating up floor space. Ensure you are allowing yourself 36"+ in width to have enough room for a shoe cabinet. The Handy Whiz recommends the GULLABERG shoe cabinet with 2 compartments, 345/8x113/4x48" - IKEA US. This is perfect for all spaces and comes in a variety of colors to match your home!
DIY Bench with Storage: A bench with built-in storage compartments is a game-changer. It provides a spot to sit while putting on shoes and hidden space for backpacks, sports gear, or extra school supplies. Our handyman team can craft a custom bench tailored to your space—contact us for a consultation!
Meal Prep: Save Time in the Mornings
Mornings are hectic enough without scrambling to pack lunches or brew coffee. Preparing the night before can shave precious minutes off your routine.
Batch Prep Lunches: Dedicate one evening a week to prepping lunch components. Chop veggies, portion out snacks, and assemble sandwiches or wraps, then store them in reusable containers in the fridge. Use a divided lunchbox to keep everything organized and ready to grab.
Coffee Station Setup: Streamline your morning caffeine fix by creating a dedicated coffee station. Keep your coffee maker, mugs, and supplies like filters or pods in one spot. For a polished look, install a small shelf or organizer to hold everything neatly—our team can help with custom shelving solutions.
Breakfast on Autopilot: Prepare overnight oats, smoothie packs, or muffin tins with baked egg cups the night before. Store them in the fridge for a quick, nutritious breakfast that kids can help themselves to.
Outfit Planning: One Less Decision to Make
Laying out outfits the night before eliminates morning wardrobe battles and saves time for everyone.
Weekly Outfit Organizer: Use a hanging closet organizer with daily compartments for each child’s outfits. On Sunday, help your kids pick out clothes for the week, including socks and accessories, and place them in the designated slots. This also teaches kids responsibility and decision-making.
Laundry Station Upgrade: A well-organized laundry area makes outfit prep easier. Consider adding a folding table, hanging rods, or labeled baskets for each family member. Our handyman services can install these upgrades to keep your laundry room efficient and clutter-free.
Additional Tips for a Stress-Free School Season
Homework Station: Create a designated homework area with a small desk, good lighting, and organized supplies. Wall-mounted shelves or a rolling cart can keep books, pencils, and notebooks within reach. A custom-built desk nook can maximize small spaces—ask us how we can help!
Family Command Center: Centralize your family’s schedule with a command center. Install a dry-erase calendar, bulletin board, or chalkboard paint wall for tracking activities, due dates, and reminders. Add a small basket for permission slips or notes to keep everything in one place.
Morning Checklist: Post a simple checklist near the door with tasks like “Grab backpack,” “Pack lunch,” and “Check homework.” This visual reminder helps kids stay on track and reduces last-minute chaos.
Let Us Help You Get School-Ready
A little organization goes a long way during the back-to-school rush. Whether you need custom storage solutions, a new homework station, or a laundry room refresh, The Handy Whiz is here to make your home work smarter for you. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and let’s build a space that keeps your family on track all year long!
Need a specific storage solution or home upgrade? Reach out at (803) 465-4782 or visit www.thehandywhiz.com to get started.