Maybe this is the year we perfect absolutely everything!…or maybe just find products to make life easier in simple ways. We’ll take that
We know parenting is a lot. We’re parents, too, so trust us; we get it. Some days it feels like we’ll never fully get our arms around everything. And, in January, we’re also feeling the pressure of “resolutions”, of making big changes, of doing better. This year, though, we’re taking that kind of stress out of our lives. Our first order of business is to make sure that we’re taking care of our own mental health so we can keep on taking care of those around us. You know, #momstyle. And in order to do that, we’re on the hunt for products to help us. Basically, products to make life easier.
To keep things rolling along as help-us-outfully as possible, we’ve searched high and low for stuff to do exactly that. Whether it’s cooking, getting ready in the morning, organizing, cleaning, traveling, working, or even playing, these are items we can’t wait to start using. They’re the “why didn’t I think of that?” products that just make life so much easier. So go ahead. Improve your laundry life, your coffee game, and even your relaxation routine.
Wad-Free Bedsheet Detangler
We're pretty much done fighting to detangle sheets right out of the dryer. How are we supposed to have any motivation to fold them after that?? These detanglers also help those bedsheets to come out with fewer wrinkles, cleaner, and dry up to 75% faster!
Whether you're trying to get comfortable when you're pregnant or just need some extra support at night, the Boppy Full Body Side Sleeper Pillow is a must-have. Multiple positioning allows you to use your own pillow if you prefer, and it's designed to easily maneuver so you can get in and out of bed without a struggle. After one night, you'll wonder how you ever slept without it!
We're not sure when supplements got to be the size of a mid-size chicken egg but here we are. This pill organizer is big enough to fit those giant supplements, has a push-through design that makes loading your meds easily, and has detachable compartments if you want to throw a day or two into a bag or weekend tote.
All you have to do is stamp this bleach-free gel onto your toilet bowl and know toilet rings and funky odors are taken care of for 2 weeks (per application)!
Our shopping editors swear by SNOW Teeth Whitening products, so recommending The Magic Strips is easy for us. Know what else is easy? The fact that these super effective strips work in 15 minutes and are self-dissolving, so you won't have to peel them off. They're also individually wrapped and extremely affordable!
Belt bags are having a moment, so we're obsessed with the adorable and easy arcade bag from shortyLOVE! Everything you need is right at your fingertips and completely hands-free.
It's called a vacuum, but it's basically an electric dustpan. The infrared sensors recognize a sweeping motion and automatically activate to suck up all the debris your broom collects.
This gel was designed to keep breakables from crashing and breaking during an earthquake, but let's face it: the kids running past a bookshelf or the cat walking on the dresser can be just as damaging. Museum Gel anchors decorative items, trickets, picture frames, whatever, to the surface you put them on for some extra protection. (7,300+ Amazon customers are fans!)
If you're a stickler for great coffee but also don't want to make a huge mess doing it, the SimpliPress is your new BFF! Customizable and grit-free, the SimpliPress is also really easy to clean.
The RFID blocking front pocket wallet holds 1-12 cards without stretching out, and the design allows them to fan out when you need to use one without losing them all!
Built-in bras that actually support? YES PLEASE! JJwinks created a line of sleep-to-streetwear pieces that include their "light hug" bust support thanks to the built-in bra. Comfy, convenient, easy to mix-and-match. We'd say that makes life much easier!
Make 2023 the year you don't wake up sweating! This system actually regulates the surface of your existing mattress to keep you cool all night. And don't worry about disturbing your partner; each side of your bed can be set to your maximum comfort!
Of course there's nothing quite like a calendar to keep you organized, but this one from Volcanics has 34.6K Amazon reviews rating this specific one 4.8 out of 5 stars! There's gotta be a reason, right?
We know we can't be the only ones who absolutely can't keep track of all the many passwords we have, right? With alphabetical tabs and space for up to 400 websites, you'll have everything you need in one place. And with an untitled cover and magnetic closure, no one else will be able to tell what kind of info you're storing!
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It’s the season of gathering, so make your friends and family feel extra welcome with these guest room essentials
The holidays are (somehow!) almost here, and that means guests are, too. Obviously, seeing our favorite people is something we look forward to all year, and making them feel comfortable in our homes is really important to us. So this time of year has us asking: is our guest room ready? Whether you immediately nodded “yes” or cringed a little, our guest room essentials guide is for you. From a full guest room overhaul to adding a few extra tweaks, we have everything your guests could possibly need to feel completely at home.
If there’s anything guests hate, it’s having to ask for something. Even if your hosts are nearest and dearest to you, it’s far more comfortable to have everything you need, right at your fingertips. Our guest room essentials guide is on top of it. We’ve made sure to include even the smallest details to make your job of holiday hosting a breeze, and to make company feel as relaxed as possible. We’re keeping your holiday full house less Family Vacation and more It’s a Wonderful Life. So, Host With the Most, are you ready?
Chunky Knit Throw
There are a few things that make a room just feel cozier: candles, soft pillows, and warm blankets. Plus, even if you're used to sleeping in a cool 68° room doesn't mean your guests are, and keeping a great collection of blankets accessible keeps everyone resting easy.
A little luxury never hurt, and a guest room is the perfect place to add some. Since guest rooms aren't used all the time, daily wear and tear isn't as much of an issue, so these pretty faux-silk window panels give your home chic hotel vibes.
Speaking of hotel vibes, a luggage rack isn't just an accessory; it's a necessity. The convenience of keeping their luggage organized and within reach, plus it folds away when not in use.
We love this sweet wall decor piece! It's such a cute way to remind your guests to make themselves at home and add some personality to your guest room.
It's so easy to forget the basics that we take for granted in our own home, but this dry-erase-ready sign is here to make sure your friends and family's devices are connected and all set to go.
No one wants to take the time they could be spending with their loved ones to do a long skincare routine every night, and these individual makeup remover towelettes offer your guests a night off from lengthy skin steps!
A surprisingly affordable way to give your guests a spa moment, these slippers fit a range of sizes and can be tossed after they head home so everyone stays hygienic!
We've lived long enough to lose our fair share of hair elastics, so having a supply when we're traveling would save the day! This little jar of elastics might just save the day for your guests.
Pretty soaps and guest bathrooms go hand-in-hand, and these whimsical soaps are perfect for the holidays with their seasonal scents and festive packaging!
Forget those drying, medicinal smelling hand sanitizer. Set a bottle of this Refresher in your guest bedroom or bathroom and let the soothing aloe and chamomile, and the spa-day scent of clary sage and lavender heal and uplift your guests!
It can be tough to fall asleep in a different bed, no matter how comfortable hosts have made it. This body oil uses Saint John's Wort, lavender, and chamomile to soothe and relax and shea butter and coconut oil moisturize. Leave a bottle on the bedside table and sweet dreams are sure to follow!
Keeping the guest room clean and tidy is easy when you have a Ruggable rug. Why? Because they're washable. Simply remove the cover and pop it in your home washing machine! Plus, they're gorgeous.
No one wants to go hunting around someone else's kitchen for something to snack on or drink. Set up a simple snack bar with individual treats and mini beverages on a side table or in a small basket! We actually might take this idea and just have a bunch of snacks in our own bedrooms.
A clock is another must, of course, but this one lets your guests customize it! There are three levels of brightness and even USB ports. Plus, it looks pretty darn cool.
Can you tell we're obsessed with charging our devices? That's only because the holidays mean lots of pictures, FaceTime, Instagram posts, and gift orders, so we have to keep that technology juiced up.
Speaking of things your guests don't want to ask for, we think this one is self-explanatory. Make sure to add one to your guest bathroom and know they appreciate it!
We don't want anyone too hot, and we don't want anyone too cold. And, if your guests are anything like us, the white noise from a fan is an absolute need.
We've noticed a distinct lack of full-length mirrors in guest rooms, and we think that's a problem. It's one of those really appreciated fixtures that make a difference.
Neutral colors are almost always a great idea. Especially in sleeping spaces, neutrals are soft and serene, and this coverlet set allows for extra blanket layers if needed.
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International Artist’s Day is the perfect reason to get your creative juices flowing with these art sets
If you haven’t heart of International Artist’s Day, here’s a little background: beginning in 2004, IAD was created to celebrate the contributions made to society by artists around the world. It also just so happens to be the birthday of Pablo Picasso, who was born October 25, 1881.
We can’t think of a better day to really lean into your artistic side. These art sets are perfect for really flexing those creative muscles. Whether you’re a painter, sculptor, or a scientist (you read that right!), these art sets will get everyone in the family inspired!
Folk Art Watercolor Paint Kit
Create dreamy watercolor art with this paint kit designed for beginner artists! Starting with the four pre-stenciled art images, use the included paints and instructions to branch out with your own unique designs.
Who says art is limited to paper? This kit features natural dyes to turn the homemade pasta you've created with the included 00 flour (the finest ground) into works of art. Makes 8-10 servings.
With this kit, your kiddos are given the opportunity to write and illustrate their own hardcover book! Using the guide, little ones craft an entire book, complete with illustrations, then use the prepaid envelope and order form to send their creation off to be professionally printed!
Kids get to explore color in a whole new way with this kit! It includes 43 pieces and 16 experiments (plus the supplies to do them!). Great for getting your little scientists tapping into their artistic side.
Including enough supplies to create 4 sand art displays, this kit is also a great option for allowing kids to make their own holiday gifts for parents, teachers, friends, and more.
It's tough to create art without the proper supplies, and this child-size wooden art easel has it all: dry-erase board, chalkboard, child-safe paper cutter, locking paper roll holder, and more!
Not your typical mosaic kit! This set includes real natural stones that have been cut by mosaic artists in Tunisia. Follow the template to create a gorgeous unicorn mosaic they'll love to display!
Your kids will bee thrilled with this candle-making activity kit! Starting with a story about Bethany Bee that helps little ones learn just how important bees are, they then have all they need to create their own real beeswax candles (4-8 candles depending on size)!
Through this adorable book about shy Sylvette and her neighbor, Pablo Picasso, kids are introduced to this esteemed artist and his work, along with a great story and lesson!
Make their Osmo an artist's dream with this bundle! Kids ages 4-10 will learn how to bring beloved characters to life through digital sketches. (Get your Osmo Base for iPad here, or for Fire Tablets here.)
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Babs, “the internet mom / grandma you didn’t know you needed,” is here to save the day. The Instagrammer just dropped a pumpkin carving hack video that not only makes as little mess as possible, but also avoids those tiny pumpkin carving knives that could barely pierce a piece of paper in the first place.
The grandma shares the first hack which has moms everywhere applauding: sitting down to carve that big ole pumpkin. Hold the pumpkin on your lap, then cut off the bottom––not the top!
Next is a hack we’ve never heard of, and that’s to use your hand mixer to loosen all the stingy, gooey pumpkin innards that kids either love or hate. Then just use a spoon to scoop out the seeds, then roast into a delicious snack.
Don’t want to mess up your design? Use a red dry erase maker, then just wipe it off when your carving is complete. And speaking of carving, it’s a great time to invest in some pumpkin carving “cookie” cutters. Just take a rubber mallet and hammer the cutters through the pumpkin for a crisp design that doesn’t involve those miniature knives.
Babs also has a hack to keep your beautiful jack-o-lantern from drying out: smooth Vaseline on the open edges to keep it fresh for up to two weeks! Last but not least, don’t forget to sprinkle some cinnamon in the top of the pumpkin before turning it over a candle to display. Smells like Christmas!
@brunchwithbabs has over 1.4M followers and tons more videos. Don’t forget to check them out!
Surround them with kid-friendly furniture that’s designed to hold up to anything they throw at it (sometimes literally).
We have to admit, we weren’t totally ready for how rough-and-tumble our little ones can be on our grown-up furniture. We’ve baby-proofed, done our toy research, but now we’ve got our eye on kid-friendly furniture that’s up to the task. Dust the crumbs off your sofa, sit back, and check out our list of some of the best kid-friendly furniture out there!
With a 4.5 star rating from over 6,200 customers, you know this convertible sofa-lounger is the real deal! Lightweight with a machine-washable cover, there's a reason this is the first one on the list.
The kids pod swing seat is perfect for both indoor and outdoor use, but we're especially excited about it for reading nooks and playrooms. It supports up to 100 lbs., so all the kids can get in on the swinging fun!
It's okay if you're a little jealous of this tent playhouse; we are, too. Watch your kids use it as a playhouse, a castle, and the perfect sleepover clubhouse!
If you have little ones, this butterfly seat set is ideal for every room in the house! Each seat is soft and lightweight, so they can be moved from space to space easily, and you won't mind if they're used for climbing, too.
For little ones who aren't quite ready for a study desk, Crayola's wooden table and chairs set is perfect! With two chairs, four storage compartments, and a tabletop that can be flipped between a dry-erase and a traditional chalkboard, they'll spend hours tapping into their creativity.
For a more streamlined, one-and-done desk option, this chair-desk from Delta is a great way to go! It features a large work surface, storage drawer, and removable cup holder.
A cake sofa sounds like a dream come true, if we're being honest. This darling sofa can be transformed from a seat to a desk and is designed to teach littles about shapes and spatial relations!
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Stranger Things fans are equal parts elated and devastated, as the Season 5 trailer drops
Back in February, the Duffer Brothers announced in an open letter alongside Season 4’s official poster that there would be a season 5, but that it would be the beloved characters’ last hurrah.
“Seven years ago, we planned out the complete story arc for Stranger Things,” the pair shared. “At the time, we predicted the story would last four or five seasons. It proved too large to tell in four, but—as you’ll soon see for yourselves—we are now hurtling toward our finale.”
The writers behind the Netflix show posted a photo of a dry-erase whiteboard with the caption, “Grid Stage,” with eight columns titled for each episode, one less than season 4.
Co-showrunner Matt Duffer confirmed that the final season will be shorter than the previous ones. “I don’t think the runtimes will be as extreme in Season 5,” he told The Hollywood Reporter. “We’re trying to return to the simplicity of the structure in season 1, with bigger scale and scope.”
Luckily for fans, most of the original cast will return. This includes Millie Bobby Brown (Eleven), Finn Wolfhard (Mike), Caleb McLaughlin (Lucas), Gaten Matarazzo (Dustin), Noah Schnapp (Will), Priah Ferguson (Erica), Natalia Dyer (Nancy), Charlie Heaton (Jonathan), Maya Hawke (Robin), Joe Keery (Steve), David Harbour (Hopper), and Winona Ryder (Joyce).
By the looks of the trailer, season 5 will follow the Hawkins gang’s final journey to defeat Vecna once and for all. The Duffer brothers confirmed to Collider that the show will be concentrated on Hawkins and the Upside Down rather than divvying up time among different locations (see: Russia, California). Whatever happens, it looks like we’re all in for a wild ride.
There is no official release date for the final season of Stranger Things, but here’s hoping it happens sooner rather than later.
When the weather doesn’t agree with outdoor play, it might take a little creativity and maybe a delivery or two from Amazon to mix it up. From inspiring and imaginative toys to creative craft kits, there are plenty of fun toys to order on Amazon to keep your kiddos active and learning, and having a grand ol’ time.
Because laying out butcher block paper for your sweet tot isn’t always on your to-do list, there’s Miserwe’s Doodle Mat. Spread it out, fill the included six pens with water, and let your tot have at it—drawing with stamps, stencils and rollers to create a memorable masterpiece. The best part? It dries to a clean slate in just 10 minutes, making creating and cleaning up is easy as pie.
Melissa & Doug's classic shape sorter helps little ones with colors and shapes—a great screen-free option. The engaging toy is made from sturdy wood and is perfect for kids ages 2-4.
Indoor afternoons just got a whole lot more fun! Fort Boards are the perfect open-ended building toys that combine imagination and STEM skills and will keep littles busy for hours. Construct domes, vehicles and various-shaped forts with these colorful and BPA-free pieces that can build up to 20 square feet of construction but fold down for easy storage.
Possibly the coolest hidden pictures book ever, Highlight's 16-ft. fold-out puzzle is fun for the entire family. Made on sturdy paper and featuring 280 hidden objects, this unique activity can be used on the go, completed in sections or spread out all at once!
Kids don't just use their imagination when they play with brain flakes, they are enhancing their spatial thinking, too! With over 500 pieces per container, the possible creations are endless. It's a perfect STEM activity for future engineers!
Simple and oh-so-fun, this egg and spoon relay game will have your littles burning off energy in no time! The classic game comes with coordinating wooden spoons, eggs and a carrying case. Play a simple relay back and forth or make it interesting by creating an obstacle course.
Your little scientists can create their slime concoctions with this easy-to-use kit that gives preschoolers their first lesson in early chemistry and making observations. The kit comes packed with all the tools you need to make slime from common household ingredients. The plastic tools can easily be washed to use again and again.
With 484 pieces, there's plenty of creativity to be had with the LEGO Classic Bricks set. The multi-colored collection has tons of classic pieces, tires, mini-windows and propellers to keep kids entertained for hours.
Don't worry about balls in the house when your kids play Goodminton! This two-paddle game comes with two different speed birdies and is great for indoor fun.
When it comes to fun toys to order on Amazon, these are on the top of our list. Let little imaginations soar with STEM-friendly magnetic tiles. The multi-colored tiles let kids learn with their hands and get a grasp on 3D forms.
So you're stuck inside? Bring the outdoors in with this adorable camping set. It comes with a tent, faux fire, canteen and other camping supplies your little will need to survive the great indoors.
You kids may not be able to strut their stuff because they're stuck inside, but they can still dream up dressy duds. Classic Fashion Plates come with 15 interchangeable plates for countless outfits, plus paper, crayons, a drawing tablet and more.
Each box from Eat2Explore transports you to another country, with three unique recipes and essential spices and sauce mixes. Help your kiddos experience the great world with recipes that feed four each and include a shopping list. Choose from destinations like Greece, Brazil, China, India and Japan, to name a few.
This fun kit comes with a six-page illustrated storybook lab guide, eye chart, eye patch, tooth chart, toothbrush, stethoscope, dry erase marker, magnifier, washable ink pad, slime, red foil confetti, blue foil confetti, white foam balls and mixing container. Kids will learn from 10 activities all about science and first aid concepts.
Discovery Kids Planetarium Projector is double-sided and comes with two different modes: stationary and moving. Settle down for a night of looking at the stars with 32 different images!
This 1000+ piece set is bound to keep the kids happy for a while. Choose from pipe cleaners, pompoms, sequins, googly eyes, foam letters, flowers, plastic beads, wooden sticks, paper scroll and more––all in a handy plastic bucket.
Create up to 20 gorgeous pieces of window art that will make the world a little brighter. Each set comes with suncatcher shapes, cords and suction cups to hang your work with pride.
Creatto kits require only two building components but offer countless results. The beautiful sets not only put creative juices to good use but also double as a work of art to keep on display.
Steam learning and creativity come together with the smART Pixelator. Kids can learn to pixelate any design and build 2D and 3D projects using Bluetooth connectivity, lights and creative tools. Start with the included 50 step-by-step designs!
This might be one of our favorite fun toys to order on Amazon! The marble run of the modern age, this incredible STEM toy from Ravensburger will keep the kids entertained while they learn a little something, too. There are 122 pieces included in the starter set, which makes it possible to design unique marble runs, which in turn helps kids learn about engineering, gravity, magnetism and kinetics.
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I bet you clicked on this post expecting to read something fun and simple like, “10 Easy Ways to Prepare for New Motherhood!” Sorry, you won’t find that here, not really.
Because nothing—I mean nothing—can truly prepare you for the excruciating love you feel for this new, tiny human. For the sleepless nights, the overwhelming worry, the completely abnormal fascination and pride that comes with every. Single. Thing. Your. Baby. Does.
But here are a few things you can try.
1. Stop showering for several days at a time.
2. Set your alarm randomly through the night, anywhere between five-minute and two-hour increments. Each time it goes off, take a lap around the house while holding something fragile, like your grandmother’s crystal—without collapsing. Repeat.
3. Dirty dishes. Prep for motherhood and all the “letting go” that comes with it by allowing your sink to sit full of dirty dishes for multiple days. Better yet, do those dishes and find a way to magic them dirty again within 30 minutes of washing. (I’m sure your hubs can help with that.)
4. Color the walls with a marker. The walls, the couch, your favorite yoga pants. Research different ways to remove marker ink from various surfaces around your house. (Helpful hint: dry erase markers are not friendly to walls. Don’t ask me how I know.)
5. Borrow someone’s sick kid (it’s flu season, you’ll find them) and wear a little vomit on the shoulder of your shirt. Forget it’s there and continue to wonder where that smell is coming from as you sanitize every surface of your home, but one: you.
6. Sit for hours at a time snuggling a small creature and smelling its head, completely blissed out. Do this for long after you’ve had to pee and your legs have fallen asleep.
7. Get into yoga. You’ll need those stretches to reach halfway across the bed with your pinky toe to grab your phone because the baby fell asleep on your boob again and you can’t reach it.
8. Go into your closet and place at least 10 articles of unworn clothing into the laundry pile every day.
9. Buy a Roomba. Smear peanut butter on the bottom of it and set it to run all day. Try to clean up after it. (Side note/epiphany: every mom should add a Roomba to their baby shower registry.)
10. Allow barn animals into your home. Try to retain sanity.
11. Get yourself a drink in a green cup. No, now a red cup. Try a blue cup now. Just kidding, you’re not thirsty anymore.
12. Decide you need to eat mac and cheese. Realize you don’t have any. Go to the store, come home, fix mac and cheese. Decide you hate mac and cheese.
13. Analyze and Doctor Google everything. Every bath product in your home, every red bump on your arm, why you didn’t sleep well last night. Don’t sleep because you are worried about the toxicity level of your sheets and the LED light in your bedroom and convince yourself they’re the reason you aren’t getting any rest.
I’d like to tell you that these steps will completely help you prepare for what it’s like to become a parent.
But it won’t.
As a former nanny who had helped raise several babies, I thought I would have this motherhood gig in the bag. I could change diapers with the best of them and swaddle with ease. Every book, sleep bible, and baby terminology manual was read and practiced…
I was going to be the Best Freaking Mother Ever.
But the second the doctors laid that warm, cheese-covered ball of mush on my chest, it occurred to me: I have no freaking clue what I’m doing.
And I didn’t. (Maybe I still don’t.) Some days, I’m completely failing. I yell, then I hide from them, then I cry for a moment of peace (or sanity), then I hug the crap out of them because I can’t believe I got to grow these amazing, kind, brilliant, hilarious little humans.
I wish I could tell you the secret to rocking motherhood. I wish I knew the secret to rocking motherhood. But, here is what I can tell you, what I know deep down in my bones.
Do your research. Ask questions. Know this too shall pass. Let go of the worry. Throw your books out the window (after reading them) and do what works for you, your family, and your kids.
With over 10 years in childcare experience, Lauren's passion for lifting up moms and advocating for children pours through her work with Breastfeeding World and her daycare. Her life is full of busy, crazy and LOUD. Oh, and coffee—always lots of coffee—but she wouldn't have it any other way.
Tiny babies mean big changes to your life and daily routine. Even if you have all the apps, organizational tools and advice from other parents on getting through the day, it’s still a lot. While there is no magic fix for getting everything done every single day, these baby hacks work well to simplify your life. Read on to learn some new tricks of the parent trade and find a few that will work for you.
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1. Meal Plan & Prep It's a reality of life that we all need to eat three times a day, everyday. Once a baby starts eating solids, there are even more mouths to feed! Taking some time every week to plan out meals means that during the week you don't need to give a second thought to what's for dinner. Even better, if you can find an hour or two over the weekend to prep, dice and slice, then cooking during the week will make weeknights run much more smoothly.
2. Outsource Identifying where you can outsource (and what's in your budget) can change your life. Think about which household tasks you dislike the most or that you have the hardest time fitting in. For some families, sending their laundry out to be washed and folded is a lifesaver. Other parents rely on cleaning services or meal prep subscriptions to keep their household running smoothly and give them more time with family. Even smaller steps towards outsourcing, such as having groceries delivered, can make a big difference.
3. Have a Shared Schedule Once a baby enters the picture, it's vital for all caregivers to share their schedules. This is key to ensuring that schedule conflicts are kept to a minimum. Using a calendar that can be synched across computers and phones, such as Google Calendar, is a great option you can access from almost anywhere. Even better, color-code events so it's easy to tell at a glance what is a family obligation, what is a work event and so on.
4. Touch Things Once It's tempting to take something that's in your way and simply move it to the closest open spot. However, you will save yourself a lot of time and hassle if you commit to touching things just once. In practice, this means that once you have your hands on something that needs to be put away, you take a few extra seconds to put it back where it belongs, instead of stacking it on the table or an existing pile. This not only saves time but greatly simplifies life because you will always know where to find what you need.
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5. Double Duty Look for places in your day where you can double up on duties, or delegate them to older kids. Some parents find that time spent watching TV after the kids go to sleep is a great time to fold laundry. Others use time spent on the phone to go for a walk to get some exercise or straighten up. Everyone needs some downtime, but looking for opportunities to multi-task can really make your day go more smoothly.
6. Daily Tasks Some families swear that the key to making their household run smoothly is doing some tasks daily. You may find that running the dishwasher and putting on a load of laundry everyday helps you stay on top of chores and save time in the long run.
7. Make a Schedule Having a set schedule to get things done can be a lifesaver. If bills piling up are stressful, set aside an hour one night a month to pay bills. If you constantly have a long list of phone calls to make, pick one day a week to go through your list. Just having time set aside to take care of all of the little things that add up can do wonders for reducing stress and simplifying life.
8. Book Time for Yourself If you find you are putting yourself last, as most new moms do, make sure you set aside some time for yourself to do something you enjoy. That could be reading a book, going to brunch with your bestie or going for a run every weekend. Put this on your calendar, tell your partner, and treat it a non-negotiable obligation. Some time away from the daily grind, even if it's just an hour at a time, can help you face everything else you need to do with more patience and grace.
9. Simplify Shopping Shopping for items in bulk is one of the best baby hacks. As long as you have some storage space, stocking up on items like paper towels, diapers and canned beans that can last for years can save hours every year. It can also ensure you're not unexpectedly caught without something essential. Once you're stocked up, limit grocery shopping to once a week for fresh items only. This not only cuts back on number of times you need to shop, but it makes those trips much shorter.
10. Set a Timer There is no magic number of books or toys your child needs. However, there probably is a limit to the number of minutes you are willing to spend cleaning up every day. Whether you can devote 10 minutes or 30 to tidying up daily, leave out only the items that can be put away within your limits. Put everything else in storage to rotate in when your little one needs something new to hold their attention. Another awesome timer trick is to set aside time every day to do a few chores and straighten up. For example, taking 15 minutes before sitting down for dinner to put things away can really make a difference in your day.
11. Mark It Up New parents spend a lot of time getting up at all hours of the night. While you're trapped under a fussy or nursing baby, your mind may drift to thinking thinking about what belongs on your to-do list. Keep a dry erase marker by your bathroom sink. Whenever you remember something important that needs to get done, write it on your mirror so you don't forget. After you add these items to your calendar, just wipe the mirror clean and you are ready for a fresh start.
12. Ditch the Decor It may be tempting to keep pretty decor on display. However, after having kids there are some new considerations beyond aesthetics. Anything fragile within grabbing reach of little ones need to go for safety peace of mind. Even those out of the danger zone present an extra challenge: They take up space and collect dust. Before deciding what to keep and what to ditch, ask yourself if it's worth dusting or giving up storage space to. If the answer is no, donate it.
13. Use a Command Center Whether it's virtual or tangible, having a command center where you can leave notes for your partner, a babysitter and even yourself is an essential part of simplifying family life. There are some fantastic hi-tech and low-tech options for keeping essential information accessible.
Sometimes, the simplest things are the ones we forget. There are plenty of eco-friendly ideas out there, but the key to staying on the green side is making little changes to sprinkle into our everyday lives. We’ve rounded up 30 of our favorite tips and tricks to help busy parents live a more environmentally-conscious lifestyle—you may even save some time, energy and “green” along the way!
Ride a bike to run errands. But of course! Burn cals, not fuel as you enjoy a fun ride around town, making everyday errands anything but boring—WHEE!
Refill hand soap containers instead of buying new ones. Hand soap is one of those things that you seem to go through endlessly. Not only is a reusable pump enviro-friendly, but for this reason, it’s also cost-effective since many brands offer a discount for a refill sans bottle.
Turn that cardboard box into a craft. Acardboard box has endless play possibilities. Turn it into a car, a playhouse—even a game. And it’s easier than you think to make that box the hot new plaything in your home.
Pack school lunches using reusable containers.Ever make a sandwich for your kid’s lunch only to realize you’ve run out of bags to put it in? Never run out again, by going reusable for lunch!
Reuse containers for new uses. Wait! Don’t throw away that yogurt tub—give it a new life by using it to store some of your kiddo’s art supplies.
Grow a herban garden.Your favorite fresh herbs can sprout up without much space! Save a trip to the store and skip the plastic by growing herbs and veggies at home. Get some inspo here.
Coordinate a clothing swap with friends.A closet full of clothes but nothing to wear? Us too. Put together a clothing swap to trade your family’s threads for some new looks!
Trade in your car seat.A few times a year Target’s car seat trade-in program keeps millions of pounds of plastic from landfills. All you have to do is drop off your old seat at a participating Target location, get a coupon and rest easy that you’re saving the planet, one seat at a time.
Instead of tossing old clothes, donate.So you swapped but still left with some of your primo items? Donate them to your local family shelter, overseas for those in need or to your local do-good repurposing shop.
Do a neighborhood toy swap. Toys: In one day and out the next, but now what do you do with them? Set up a neighborhood toy swap, of course! Get that shopping adrenaline rush without opening your wallet AND declutter your space all in one fell swap.
Open windows and turn off heat/AC on nicer days.Okay, maybe this seems like a no-brainer, but it’s easy to forget. So turn off that A/C and let the sunshine in!
Reuse toilet paper rolls for crafts.Toilet paper is always on a roll in our home… but what to do with the actual roll? So. Many. Things! Is it a telescope? A Megaphone? A new nose for Tickles the Bear? The sky’s the limit for kids’ creativity here. (Just don’t forget that you’re out of toilet paper.)
Cut down on craft supplies with a dry erase board/reusable tablet. Tired of watching reams of paper disappear? Get your little Picasso an erasable drawing tablet so they can create a masterpiece without creating waste—now go hug a tree and they just may hug you back for this save!
Melt down broken crayons into new, toddler-friendly ones. That’s it. That’s the whole thing. Broken crayons be darned. Gather up like colors, melt down on the stove, and pour into an ice cube tray, maybe even a fun shaped tray like stars or hearts—now you have the perfect size for those cute little chubby toddler hands.
Make DIY cleaning solutions.Not only is this cost-effective and planet-friendly, but it’s also a great way to make sure whatever you’re spiffing your home up with is non-toxic. Here are some of our favorites.
Keep produce fresher longer by freezing it.At the grocery store, sometimes our eyes are bigger than our stomachs. If you have a bunch of greens, herbs or berries that you just know you won’t get to, freeze them! Lock in all that freshness and lockout rot (and regret.) Now you can use em’ when you want em’.
Get books from the library.We bet your local library is a magical place, and there is nothing like that book smell—ahh! So go check it out, literally, and get your next read at your personal house of all things books, for all interests and all ages—the library!
Recycle your old electronics.Check with your town’s garbage pick-up provider to see if they have days or drop-off sites. Most Goodwill stores accept these items for recycling.
Meatless Mondays! Switch up your burgers to veggie for a delicious eco-friendly swap of your family’s favorite comfort food. Heck, go crazy, maybe even swap your regular fries for sweet potato! Need some yummy recipes? Here you go!
Throw a neighborhood plant party. Ain’t no party like a plant party! Why? Not only are you beautifying your neck of the woods, but you’re bonding with your neighbors. Just ask everyone to bring any extra seeds or plant starts to share!
Do a neighborhood trash pick-up. Here’s a family activity that costs zero dollars, will beautify your hometown and will give you that warm fuzzy do-good feeling: Taking part in a local trash pick up! April is Earth Month, so it’s the perfect time to team up and clean up.
Repurpose old shirts for cleaning rags.Have t-shirts that have seen better days? Give them a new life, as your new best cleaning buddy. No need for more paper products, use these well-loved rags to clean your windows, shine up your bike, countertops and more.
Reuse your plastic bags as trash can liners. Plastic grocery bags make the perfect small-sized trash can liners (we’re looking at you, bathroom wastebasket). So put em’ in the can!
Visit your local farmer’s market. Show local farmers and vendors some love! Spending your hard-earned dollars in your community means it stays in your community. Not only that, you’ll have access to the freshest products money can buy and maybe even get to chat with the person that grew those ingredients you’ll be eating for lunch—that’s pretty cool!
Turn off the faucet when kids brush their teeth. Teaching kids to conserve water is so important, not just for the environment, but for your water bill. Post a note in the bathroom as a reminder and reward kids with an ocean-themed sticker when they help save water for our aquatic friends.
Swap lightbulbs for LED. Not sure what kind of lightbulbs you have? Then it’s the perfect time to swap them for energy-conserving LED bulbs which are widely available—grab some at your local hardware store today!
Join a local beach clean-up. If you are lucky enough to live by a body of water, why not return the favor with a little tidying? Post in a local community group to round up some folks who also want to keep their beach clean so all can enjoy it—including the magnificent creatures it holds.
Bring a reusable water bottle. Going somewhere? Don’t forget your water bottle! Do a little research and get one you love that suits your hydration needs (metal, plastic or glass, for instance). By choosing the water vessel of your dreams, you are sure to reach for it each and every day.
Pack your own utensils. Families are always on the go—and eating on the go! Keep some utensils and reusable straws in your bag for quick meals without the extra waste. Throw a reusable, lightweight bamboo utensil set in your kids’ backpacks, too!
Donate old blankets and towels to an animal shelter. Don’t know what to do with those old blankets and towels that are not quite gently used enough for traditional donation? Bring those much-needed comfort items to your local animal shelter! Our furry friends will thank you.