How to Label All the Things
Previously, I had written a blog post that shared all the details on my three favorite label makers. Like I’ve said before, there isn’t a professional in the organizing industry who doesn’t love labels. We seriously label all the things.
For those of you who are looking at getting organized on your own my biggest tip for you is to find a labeling method you love and run with it. There are so many options out there, but we’ve gathered a few of our favorite tips, tricks, and methods so you can get started on your own.
The Benefits of Labeling When Organizing
Sure, you can easily just organize and forgo the labels. But, before you decide to just categorize and throw your items into bins, let me tell you why labeling makes all the difference in the world.
You know what is inside without even looking.
Labeling is a quick and easy way to find exactly what you need when you need it. Without having to open a lid or peer into a box, you can read the label and know what is inside. This makes restocking items and locating things so much easier on you and your family.
You put things back where they belong.
There is no excuse for just dumping an item in the closet or throwing your groceries on a random shelf in your pantry. Labeling helps you keep your floor clean and clutter-free and set you up for a new mindset: this has a place and it is not okay to just dump it somewhere. Labeling creates a new lifestyle for you and makes it easy to stay consistent with putting items into their homes.
Labeling communicates to the entire family.
No need to tell your kids where to put their toys or your husband where to find his favorite snack. Labels eliminate the constant back and forth of helping others in your family locate items. With labels, everyone will know exactly where to find what they need.
Keeping Your Labels Sustainable + Flexible
At The Orderly Space we aren’t just addicted to our label makers. We are addicted to creating solutions with our labels that have longevity. Your labels should be both flexible and sustainable so you can continue to use your system for years to come. Check out some of our favorite ways you can label your home!
Chalkboard Labels
Labels that are easy to wipe off and re-label are going to be flexible for your family’s needs as they change and grow. Chalk pens and chalkboard labels are going to be a lifesaver if you need to switch something up on the fly. Chalkboard labels are peel-and-stick and fit easily on canisters and bins so you can reapply when needed.
Bin Clips
If you’ve followed us for any amount of time you know we are obsessed with bin clips! Bin clips allow you to label containers that you wouldn’t normally be able to apply a label to (think fabric or wicker). But the bonus of using bin clips is that added versatility factor. Should you ever want to switch things up, relocate, or replace your bins, the bin clip pops off and can be reused elsewhere.
Clipart Images
Labeling can be a visual asset! Using clipart images may be just what you need if your brain organizes visually. There are hundreds of clipart images available right on your Microsoft word program or Canva that can be used to create labels for your home. We also love using clipart images for labels in playrooms or kid spaces.
Cable Labels
These cable labels are a lifesaver when it comes to keeping your electronics straight. And, let’s face it, most households are littered with numerous devices and systems. Keeping everything in check and easy to read makes it simple to swap gaming systems, phone chargers, and more.
Create a Storage Bin Index
When storing broad categories of items (such as holiday, memorabilia or keepsakes) in large storage tubs, we have found it is useful to use simple Letter or Number indexing system. Then you can individually list items within each Indexed bin in a coordinating binder. You will no longer have to open every bin labeled “Keepsakes” to find out what is inside -- you have the binder to quickly and efficiently locate the specific items within each bin.
Custom Premade Labels
Nothing is more sustainable and personalized than having custom labels made for your home organizing projects. If you are hands-on with getting your home in order, The Orderly Space can assist you with our custom vinyl labels and bin clips - the perfect combination for any modern organized home.
Label Maker
There are many label makers on the market today and they all make labeling a breeze. I shared my 3-favorite label makers on the blog that we use daily at The Orderly Space. These label makers run from your trusty easy-to-use home label maker to a professional tool that gives you the style and sophistication your home deserves with high-end vinyl labels.
We love our label makers and each one of them help us create sustainable and beautiful results for our clients. And, you can learn to use them and make your own system too!
Labeling Makes Organizing Easy + Fun
Not only do we love labeling spaces when we help our clients, but our ability to make custom labels that are stylish is the icing on the cake. At The Orderly Space, we are helping clients make life easier on themselves. Labeling does that.
If you are ready to start a home organizing project today, go out and find a labeling system that inspires you. The more joy you find in the process, the easier it will be. And labeling all the things will make it 100% easier from start to finish!
