SITUATION: An entertainment center that no longer entertained, but instead, simply annoyed the owner.

CHALLENGE: This entertainment center was in the footpath of the way into and out of, the family/great room. I think that the basket was originally intended to hold remote controls.

Instead of being a storage area for entertainment supplies, it was housing keys, glasses, and any other loose toy that was found in that area.

SOLUTION: I recommended getting rid of the basket. Baskets are often a tricky solution to implement. Unless the intended purpose for each basket / container is agreed upon by all family members, it will begin to attract miscellaneous objects almost like magic.

We got busy and emptied and reorganized the drawers that were part of this massive entertainment center. Many of the drawers were underutilized and did not contain entertainment related items. After creating a cabinet space for cameras and other video related tools, we were able to get those supplies off the shelf. Also, in the process, we found memory cards, charger cords and bags that were scattered throughout the area. Now, when it is time for a quick photo or action video of the baby, all important items are quickly located.

It was determined that the basket was not the solution for this area. Instead, using a drawer was a better alternative. This way keys and could gather without becoming an eyesore during tv time.

We also spent a lot of time sorting through electrical cords and moved all of them into a tub to be stored in the garage for future needs. Every house that I visit has too many unidentified cords.

Look at this from my perspective for a moment because this is a very common problem. If all of the electronic devices that you own and use right now are hooked up and functioning, it is a good idea to let go of the unidentified cords that are jamming up your drawers and cabinets. If you can’t convince yourself to let them go, at least move them out of the house and store them in the garage in the tool zone.

Consider this, what is the worst thing that can happen if you don’t have the proper cord later? Well, for starters, right now everything you own is working and hooked up just fine. If you do one day need a cord, go out and spend the $10- 20 to replace it. The money that you might possibly have to spend later is better than living with a drawer or cabinet space that doesn’t function every day in the meantime. Right? Well, at least I think so…