Creating a Command Central

Fall is one of the most popular times to get organized! As the summer winds down, I see more and more folks hoping to set up sustainable systems and one of my biggest tips is to set up a command central for your essentials. This can be located in the mudroom, kitchen, office, or anywhere that has the space to contain what you need.

Here is an example of a well maintained command central:

Each section (in this case, clear drawers) is clearly labeled making it easy to reach each item, saving time when you have a task at hand. Your command central can range from your mailing center, craft storage, to-do bin, or house admin station. In my home, this area is a roll-top desk that contains:

• Mailing station (stamps, blank cards + envelopes, checkbook, and writing utensils)

• Preschool prep items (sharpies, label stickers, lunchboxes)

• Craft storage (paint brushes, paint, markers that aren’t for daily use)

• To-be-filed folder (any bills, cards, drawings that we would like to keep- this gets cleared weekly)

• Misc. essentials drawer (paper clips, rubber bands, phone chargers, ear buds)

• Toddler proofing zone (folks with kids will know that random items in your home don’t post a problem until they do! We keep a bin in our command central for items that need to be relocated)

Not sure what needs to be in your command central? Take a week and write down the tasks that come up consistently. Note whether you need to run to different areas of the house and what would be simpler to be contained in one central spot. Next week, think about a spot that would be convenient to house all of the items needed for these tasks.