If you’ve been following my blog for a while, you may remember when we discovered a “minor” leak in our bathroom. Some of the tiles under the faucet had developed hairline cracks and started pushing in.

It turned out, they were getting pushed in because the wall behind them was disintegrated.  Water had found its way to the other side of the tile and ruined the wall.  The rest of the tiles were in good shape, and we hadn’t planned on a major bathroom renovation, so we decided to take the tiles off of the wall right around the faucet area, fix the wall, and reattach the tiles.  But…

After removing a few extra tiles, we discovered that the damage had not been limited to the area around the faucet.   Our home is in very good condition and was well maintained by the previous owners, but the fact is: it’s getting older.  We already had a pretty long list of updates and projects on the to-do list, but remodeling the bathroom was not on it!

I have lived in homes with uglier bathrooms before, so although it wasn’t decorated according to my tastes, it was something I could live with.  I didn’t like the pink speckled tile, the 1960′s chipped enamel sink with the rusty spot on the drain, or the tiled countertop, but the one thing I really disliked was the layout. (FYI – The tile didn’t actually start breaking off of the sink until we pounded out the tile on the wall.  It looked bad, but not “quite” this bad).

Here is the outside view of the bathroom from our hallway:

The door barely clears the toilet and makes the space by the sink and tub feel crowded, not to mention blocking the light from the window.

The previous owners installed the stand alone shower next to the bathtub in the early 1980′s.  Although it’s once again in vogue to have a stand alone shower and a separate tub, this just didn’t seem to be a practical use of space in this bathroom.  As I mentioned, it’s an older home, so there is no master bath.  Therefore, our entire family uses this bathroom.  It can get pretty crowded with six people trying to get ready in the morning!

When I was growing up, I dreamed of becoming an interior designer.  Although my interests changed over the years, I have always had a love for design.  So, this “problem” that happened with the leak was actually a secret release for something I’ve dreamed of for years!

I had already envisioned the solution to the bathroom long before I knew of any problems, but I knew what I was envisioning was far out of our reach.  I’m talking: walls down, tile out, plumbing moved, etc.  So I had to get creative.

My hubby and I discussed our finances and decided that a tub surround was the best solution for phase one of our bathroom reno.  It was fairly inexpensive at about $200, it solved the leak, added shower storage, and freed me from the necessary evil of scrubbing grout in the shower (one of my least favorite chores!).  We found this surround at Lowe’s and loved it.

After removing all the tile from around the tub and side wall,

putting up new drywall,

and installing the new tub surround, we started our new task: saving our pennies!  I know it’s not an ideal way to renovate, but we didn’t want to go into debt, so we decided we could live with a half-done bathroom for a little while.  That “little while” turned into a year.  I’m not going to lie…I started to get very tired of looking at drywall after a few months!  But, being debt-free was more important to me.

The installation was pretty straightforward, but got a little interesting trying to maintain constant pressure on the adhesive.  We wrapped old towels and rags around 2 x 4′s to prevent scratching and kept the pressure on for 24 hours.  It worked great!

God has blessed us in so many ways, and I knew he would provide for us.  We decided to do most of the work ourselves to keep it affordable, and after a year of saving, we are finally up to finishing this reno!  Whoot!

Here is the original floor plan:

And this is my new plan:

Getting rid of the stand alone shower, moving the toilet, changing the location of the door and the direction in which it opens, will allow for so much more space and light in the bathroom.  Plus, we won’t have to fight over one sink and mirror (at least not quite as much )!  We have a nice sized landing at the top of the stairs in the hallway, so having the door open out will not be a problem and will gain us so much space in the bathroom.

If you’ve been following me on Instagram, you may have seen some of the “sneak peeks” as we’ve been working on it.  Over the next few weeks, I’ll be sharing our bathroom renovation with you.  After it’s complete, I’ll show you how I’m going to organize everything for a family of six in a single bathroom.

This giveaway is now over.  Congratulations to #74 Allison!!

(Winner has been notified by email.)

I’m sure by now you have probably seen the Ultimate Homemaking eBook Bundle flying around on the web.  I shared it with you the other day, but I think it is such a great deal and I don’t want any of you to miss it because it ends at midnight tonight! So…

I have decided to buy a bundle and give one away to one of my fabulous readers!

This is a flash giveaway for 8 hours only!!

More than 75 widely-known bloggers and authors in the homemaking sphere have joined together to offer 97 of their most popular eBooks and eCourses, valued at just over $600, for the incredibly low price of $29.97!  That’s 95% off the regular price making each eBook only $0.30 each!

This library of homemaking helps include topics such as:

Organization and Cleaning

Recipes and Kitchen Helps

Frugal Living

Home Education

Spiritual Growth for Both Moms and Kids

Home Décor and DIY

Pregnancy and Baby Care

Mothering

Health and Fitness

and even Work-From-Home and Financial Tools!

For more details on the eBooks and eCourses (plus bonuses) that are included, check out my original post with all the details here.

The Fine Print:

• One winners will be chosen randomly using random.org to receive an Ultimate Homemaking eBook Bundle valued at $640.
• No purchase necessary.
• Entrants must be 18 years or older.
• Giveaway begins at 10:00 a.m. EST Saturday, May 4, 2013 and ends at 6:00 p.m. EST Saturday, May 4, 2013.
• Winner will be e-mailed and announced here at 6:30 p.m. EST on Saturday, May 4, 2013.
• Winner has 7 days to respond to e-mail.

How do you enter?  It’s simple!  Just leave me a comment below telling me what book you’ll read first.

Just so you know, I’m an affiliate so I will earn a small percentage of each bundle sold.  Your purchase helps to pay for the projects and technical resources I need to run this blog.  I appreciate your support so much!

Don’t want to wait to see if you win?  Check out the details here, or you can buy the bundle here:

I would like to send a huge shout out to my sponsors! I am thrilled to share their awesome products and websites with you!

There are a number of discounts for Organizing Homelife readers, so check them out below. If you love Organizing Homelife, be sure to show these fab businesses some love. They are part of what keeps this blog going!

Back for another month is the Duo Multitasking Binder.  If you haven’t used the Duo before, I am thrilled to introduce you to it! It is my favorite organizing binder. I cannot recommend it highly enough!

This binder is so versatile! It is a combination of a 7 pocket accordion file and a 3-ring binder. I have several that I use to organize my recipes, blog planner, and I even switched my Home Management Binder over to the Duo.

It would also be excellent to use for:

• Budgeting, financial paperwork, bank statements, investment information, tax receipts, etc.
• Family medical information, shot records, allergy information, hospital and insurance information, etc.
• School contacts, homework assignments, upcoming events, school projects, etc.
• Coupons, grocery lists, and meal planning pages
• Household projects, estimates, contractor contacts, home/appliance warranty information

Great news! The Duo Multitasking Binder is about to be added to Amazon’s super saver shipping program! Don’t worry, I’ll keep you updated as soon as they are live so you can grab the free shipping.

Back for another month is my friend Becky of Clean Mama Printables. Clean Mama has you covered when it comes to getting your home and cleaning schedules organized! She offers very reasonably priced printables for your homekeeping binders, cleaning schedules, and recipe organization, to name a few.

She makes homekeeping fun by helping you easily implement routines. Her detailed, stylish printables take the work out of figuring out what to do and when to do it, making it easy to organize your life.

Clean Mama also has a fantastic new ebook, Cleaning Around the Seasons: Deep Cleaning on Your Schedule. This ebook is perfect for those who desperately need to get some deep cleaning done, but don’t know where to start or how to fit it into their busy schedule. It’s an easy read with quick start approach to help you begin today.  It also includes 7 detailed cleaning worksheets!

What’s included in Cleaning Around the Seasons: Deep Cleaning On Your Schedule?

• Chapter 1 The Motivation – Seasonal and Deep Cleaning
• Chapter 2 First Things First – De-Clutter
• Chapter 3 Choose Your Method
• Chapter 4 Gather Your Supplies
• Chapter 5 How to Start Deep Cleaning
• Chapter 6 Ideas for working Deep Cleaning into a Full Schedule

Special Discount: Organizing Homelife readers will receive 20% off orders from Clean Mama Printables using the code: 20ORGHL

You should also visit Clean Mama’s blog. She has lots of FREE printables, including FREE monthly cleaning schedules.

I’m thrilled to have Fridge Coaster back for another month! Check out my review of Fridge Coasters here.

Don’t you hate scrubbing sticky messes from your refrigerator shelves? Fridge Coasters are super stylish shelf liners that keep frequently used areas of your fridge looking neat and clean all the time. The super-absorbent recyclable material absorbs spills without swelling. Put them in the crisper drawers, under bottles and milk, and keep your fridge free from messy spills and unattractive messes.

Fridge Coasters are designed to fit perfectly inside every refrigerator, no matter what make or model you own. Their website is fantastic for helping you determine the best sizes for your fridge. They are guaranteed to fit somewhere inside your refrigerator or you get your money back!

Check out Fridge Coaster here. You can also find Fridge Coaster on Facebook.

Special Discount: Organizing Homelife readers will receive 10% off any order from Fridge Coaster through May 15, 2013 using the code: OHL10

Please welcome my newest sponsor, Brandi of Clever Container!  If you aren’t familiar with Clever Container, you definitely need to check them out!  Their stylish and functional product line is an organizer’s dream!

Clever Container Company is dedicated to helping people take control of their lives by providing high-quality, innovative and functional tools—along with practical techniques and useful information—for organizing the world around them and by offering business opportunities to motivated individuals who share our belief that an organized environment can lead to a more productive, fulfilling life for each of us.

Clever Container’s fashionable products make organizing extra fun at very affordable prices!  Check out Brandi’s Clever Container page here and visit her Facebook page, Cleverly Organized With Brandi here to keep up with the latest deals and special offers.

If you haven’t already seen it, there is an amazing sale going on until May 4th on an Ultimate Homemaking eBook Bundle.  You can get 97 eBooks and eCourses plus bonuses for just $29.97!  That’s only $0.30 per book!  Over 75 well known bloggers and authors have teamed up to offer this great deal.  You do NOT want to miss this sale!  For more details, check out the Ultimate Homemaking eBook Bundle here.

Thank you so much to all of my fabulous sponsors!

If you are interested in becoming a sponsor of Organizing Homelife, please see my Advertising page HERE, or email me HERE.

I am so thrilled to share with you a fantastic deal on almost 100 Homemaking eBooks just in time for summer reading!  You will not believe the list of books and ecourses that are included in this deal!

This truly is the ULTIMATE homemaking eBook bundle! You will not find a more comprehensive collection of homemaking resources anywhere on the web, and definitey not in this price range.

Just so you know, I’m an affiliate so I will earn a small percentage of each bundle sold.  Your purchase helps to pay for the projects and technical resources I need to run this blog.  Thanks for your support!

For 6 days only, more than 75 widely-known bloggers and authors in the homemaking sphere have joined together to offer 97 of their most popular eBooks and eCourses, valued at just over $600, for the incredibly low price of $29.97!

This library of homemaking helps include topics such as:

Organization and Cleaning

Recipes and Kitchen Helps

Frugal Living

Home Education

Spiritual Growth for Both Moms and Kids

Home Décor and DIY

Pregnancy and Baby Care

Mothering

Health and Fitness

and even Work-From-Home and Financial Tools!

To sweeten the pot, we’ve also teamed up with 10 companies to bring you over $140 in bonus offers, giving you an affordable opportunity to get products you’ll use and love for only the cost of shipping, or in some cases, entirely for free!

What’s Included in the Sale?

When you purchase The Ultimate Homemaking eBook collection, you will get instant access to any of the 97 eBooks and eCourses listed below.

PLUS over $140 of FREE Bonuses

Each The Ultimate Homemaking eBook collection comes with more than $140 of FREE Bonuses from 10 companies that we know you’ll love. More on these bonuses below.

Please note: This collection is only available from 9 a.m. EST on April 29th to 11:59 p.m. EST on May 4th. There will be no late sales offered.

Home & Property {Cleaning, Organizing, Decor}

31 Days to Clean by Sarah Mae @ SarahMae.com ($4.99)
Getting it Together: Your Guide to Setting Up a Home Management System that Works by Kayse @ kayse pratt ($3.99)
Pulling Yourself Together: Implementing a Cleaning Routine that Sticks by Becky @ Clean Mama ($10.00)
Simple Living by Lorilee @ Loving Simple Living ($2.99)
NOT a DIY Diva by Melissa @ The Inspired Room ($3.99)
One Bite at a Time: 52 Projects for Making Life Simpler by Tsh @ Simple Mom ($5.00)
28 Days to Hope for your Home by Dana @ A Slob Comes Clean ($5.00)
Organizing Life as Mom by Jessica @ Life as Mom ($9.00)
Clean Enough: Simple Solutions for the Overwhelmed by Jenni @ Live Called ($4.99)
10 Steps to Organized Paper by Lisa @ Lisa Woodruff.net($5.00)
Handmade Walls by Jamin and Ashley @ the handmade home ($9.95)
Easy Peasy Chores: An Easy-to-Use Chore System That Brings JOY Back Into Family Chores by Alina Joy @ The Good Old Days Farm ($17.99)

Educational Children’s Resources

Princess Training by Richele @ Under the Golden Apple Tree ($3.99)
The Armor of God by Richele @ Under the Golden Apple Tree ($2.50)
My Bedtime Learning Book by Richele @ Under the Golden Apple Tree ($1.00)
Think Outside the Classroom by Kelly @ Generation Cedar ($6.97)
Raising Rock Stars — Kindergarten Bundle by Carissa @ 1plus1plus1equals1 ($10.00)
The ABC’s For Godly Boys Curriculum by Lindsey @ Road to 31 ($8.00)
The ABC’s For Godly Girls Curriculum by Lindsey @ Road to 31 ($8.00)
K4 Curriculum by Erica @ Confessions of a Homeschooler ($15.00)
Write Through the Bible (print) by Trisha @ Intoxicated on Life ($5.00)
Write Through the Bible (cursive) by Trisha @ Intoxicated on Life ($5.00)
Balcony Girls (books 1 & 2) by Sandy @ Reluctant Entertainer ($19.90)
The Dig for Kids: Luke (Volumes 1 and 2) by Patrick, husband of Ruth @ The Better Mom ($5.98)
Music: An Essential Ingredient for Life by Ryan @ Resound School of Music ($6.99)

Budgeting {Finance & Time}

From Debtor to Better by Barry @ From Debtor to Better ($10.00)
Tell Your Time by Amy @ Blogging with Amy ($2.99)
The Homemakers Guide to Creating the Perfect Schedule by Amy @ Raising Arrows ($4.99)
Your Grocery Budget Toolbox by Anne @ Authentic Simplicity ($7.99)
Finding Financial Freedom by Kelly @ Generation Cedar ($5.97)
Become a Frugalista in 30 Days by Susan @ The Confident Mom ($3.99)

In the Kitchen {Recipes and Cooking}

Crock On by Stacy @ Stacy Makes Cents ($5.00)
Real Food, Real Easy by various bloggers @ The Humbled Homemaker ($9.95)
Wholesome Mixes by Kristy @ Little Natural Cottage ($4.00)
20-Minute Meals by Leigh Ann @ Intentional by Grace ($4.99)
Restocking the Pantry by Kresha @ Nourishing Joy ($9.99)
Money Saving Mom’s Guide to Freezer Cooking by Crystal @ Money Saving Mom ($3.99)
Simply Summer by Kate @ Modern Alternative Mama ($7.95)
Do the Funky Kitchen by Laura @ Heavenly Homemakers ($4.95)
Real Food Kids: In the Kitchen plus 1 month access to select Real Food Kids eCourse videos by Wardeh @ GNOWFGLINS and Jami @ Eat Nourishing ($20.00)
Seasonal Menu Plans on a Budget: A Month of Meals from My Humble Kitchen to Yours by Diana @ My Humble Kitchen ($4.99)
Just Making Ice Cream by Marillyn @ Just Making Noise ($12.00)
The Curative Kitchen by Susan @ Handy Pantry ($20.00)

Pregnancy & Baby Care

First Bites by Hilary @ Accidentally Green ($9.99)
Confessions of a Cloth Diaper Convert by Erin @ The Humbled Homemaker ($9.95)
Stress-Free Baby Shower by Sara @ Your Thriving Family ($4.00)
Unbound Birth by Jenny @ The Southern Institute ($2.99)
My Pregnancy Journey by Mindy @ Simply Designs ($9.99)
My Buttered Life Baby Edition by Renee @ Made On Hard Lotion ($5.00)
The Minimalist Mom’s Guide to Baby’s First Year by Rachel @ The Minimalist Mom ($5.00)
Redeeming Childbirth: Growth & Study Guide by Angie @ Redeeming Childbirth ($3.99)

Holidays & Special Events

Festive Traditions by Jill @ Modern Alternative Kitchen ($7.95)
Holiday Mixes: Gifts in a Jar by Kristy @ Little Natural Cottage ($4.00)
Flourishing Spring by Michele @ Frugal Granola ($5.95)
Family Camping Handbook by Katie @ Kitchen Stewardship ($6.95)
Truth in the Tinsel by Amanda @ Oh, Amanda! ($7.99)
Plan a Fabulous Party by Mary @ Giving Up on Perfect ($4.99)
iPhone Photography: The Visual Guide by Alli @ Alli Worthington($9.97)

Spiritual Growth

Pursuit of the Proverbs 31 by Amy @ Amy Bayliss ($3.99)
The Best of Visionary Womanhood by Natalie @ Visionary Womanhood ($5.00)
God’s Word in my Heart: A Scripture Memory Learning Guide with Verses {all 4 versions} by Jenn @ The Purposeful Mom ($3.99)
Kept: a 13-Week Inductive Study on 1 Peter by Lara and Katie @ Quench Bible ($4.99)
Love Like Him: an 8 week Inductive Bible study on 1 Corinthians 13 by Lara and Katie @ Quench Bible ($2.99)

Marriage & Romance

Rekindling Romance by Jason & Jami @ A Biblical Marriage ($4.99)
Good Wife’s Guide by Darlene @ Time-Warp Wife ($2.99)
31 Days to Build a Better Spouse by Ashley @ Ashley Pichea ($4.99)
31 Days to Great Sex by Sheila @ To Love, Honor and Vacuum ($4.99)
Entangled: Recognize Your Emotional Affair by Amy @ Amy J. Bennett ($4.99)

Motherhood

The Heart of Simplicity by various authors @ The Heart of Simplicity ($9.99)
True Christian Motherhood by June @ A Wise Woman Builds Her Home ($7.00)
Hula Hoop Girl by September @ One September Day ($4.99)
When Motherhood Feels Too Hard by Kelly @ Generation Cedar ($4.97)
Mindset for Moms by Jamie @ Steady Days ($4.99)
From Cube to Farm by Heather @ From Cube to Farm ($2.99)
4 Moms of 35+ Kids Answer Your Parenting Questions by various authors @ 4 Moms, 35+ Kids Parenting E-book ($7.99)
That Works for Me! by Kristen @ We are THAT Family ($8.00)

Health & Fitness

100-pound Loser by Jessica @ Muthering Heights ($4.99)
Honoring the Rhythm of Rest by Danielle @ Domestic Serenity ($2.99)
42 Days to Fit by Brandy @ The Marathon Mom, Emma @ Real Fit Moms and Stacy @ A Delightful Home ($4.99)
Healthy Homemaking by Stephanie @ Keeper of the Home ($12.95)
Personal ePlanner by Jennifer @ ListPlanIt ($5.00)

Beauty

Frumps to Pumps by Sarah Mae @ SaraMae.com ($4.99)
The Cottage Mama’s DIY Guide by Kristy @ Little Natural Cottage ($4.00)
Simple Scrubs to Make and Give by Stacy @ A Delightful Home ($3.99)
The No Brainer Wardrobe by Hayley @ The No Brainer Wardrobe ($7.99)
Embracing Beauty by Trina @ Trina Holden ($9.00)
Reuse, Refresh, Repurpose by Kristen @ The Frugal Girl ($3.99)

Working from Home & Blogging

Your Blogging Business: Tax, Talk and Tips by Nikki @ Christian Mommy Blogger ($4.99)
The Bootstrap VA by Lisa @ The Home Life {and Me} ($12.99)
How to Grow Your Blog and Manage Your Home by Jacinda @ Growing Home ($4.99)
How to Have Your Cake and Eat It, Too by Mandi @ Life Your Way ($12.00)
Simple Blogging: Less Computer Time, Better Blogging by Rachel @ Small Notebook ($8.00)

Ecourses

Learning in Love: The Preschool Years by Renee @ FIMBY ($7.99)
Homeschooling from the Heart by Renee @ FIMBY ($7.99)
Grocery University by Carrie @ Colorado Bargains ($24.95)
Vibrant Living Strategies for Moms by Lisa @ Well-Grounded Life ($59)
You Can Do This! The First Five Steps to a Real Food Kitchen by Laura @ Heavenly Homemakers ($5.00)

PLUS, You will receive FREE Bonuses from these companies…

A FREE Two-Month Membership to Fit2B Studio, where their wholesome workouts for the whole family are tummy safe and particularly target Diastasis Recti (split abs). ($19.98 value. No shipping restrictions.)

A $15 store credit to TruKid. With products like their aware-winning sun care, they are dedicated to providing all natural skin and hair care for kids, babies, and now pets. ($15.00 value. Standard shipping applies. International shipping available.)

Your choice of incredible natural products like sea salt and clay for FREE. Choose from the Redmond Trading Earthpaste Bundle ($24.90 value) or the Facial Mud Bundle ($26.90 value). (Standard shipping applies. Continental US only.)

Your choice of a FREE heirloom sourdough starter or FREE yogurt starter from Cultures for Health, the leading supplier of starter cultures and supplies for making cultured and fermented foods ($12.95 value. US & CAN addresses only. Standard shipping applies.)

Your choice of: a FREE 3-Month Subscription (for new accounts) or 30% off a One Year Subscription. Plan to Eat is an online menu planner that uses your recipes, scheduled for the days you want them. ($15.00 value. No shipping restrictions.)

A FREE Culinary Herbs Assorted Seed Pack Check just in time for spring planting from www.wheatgrasskits.com, a living whole foods company. ($11.95 value. Standard shipping applies to all US states and territories- no international shipping for seeds.)

Get $10 off Union28′s original “my husband rocks” tee. Their marriage apparel lets you celebrate your spouse in style. ($10.00 value. Standard shipping rates apply. International shipping available, but free shipping only available within USA.)

A $10 store credit plus 1 FREE lip balm from Bee All Natural. Their whole body products nourish and heal, and are made using only the highest quality, food grade, organic ingredients. ($13.49 value. Standard shipping applies. International shipping available.)

A FREE 2 oz. bottle of your choice of liquid herbal formula from TriLight Health. They specialize in fast acting, great tasting natural herbal remedies. ($12.95 value or more. Standard shipping applies, within the USA only.)

Your choice of 3 FREE ePlanners OR a 3-Month FREE Membership to ListPlanIt, whose mobile lists will help to organize your life. ($15.00 value. No shipping restrictions.)

The fine print:

Bonus Offers

• Each bonus offer can be redeemed once only per eBook Bundle purchase.
• For each bonus offer, transaction numbers or proof of purchase may be required at the time of redemption.
• All bonus offers are free gifts from the bonus sponsors, are their sole responsibility to provide, and are subject to availability.
• All bonus offers expire at midnight on May 19th, 2013 (2 weeks from the last day of this sale).

General

• It is your responsibility to download and back-up your purchase within the 1-month download time-frame. With proof of purchase, we can renew download links up until August 1st, 2013. After this date we will no longer have access to the books and will not be able to provide any new links to download.
• Due to the nature of this sale, there will be no refunds available. However, we would invite you to read our Frequently Asked Questions page to learn more about the file types, the download process, how the bonus offers work, etc.

Please note: This collection is only available from 9 a.m. EST on April 29th to 11:59 p.m. EST on May 4th. There will be no late sales offered, so make sure that you get your bundle right away!

Particularly for those wanting to read these ebooks on their mobile devices (iPhones or iPads, Android, Kindle, etc.) you will want to learn more about the file types, how to download them correctly, and how to transfer them to your device.

This post includes affiliate links, and I make a portion of the sale of each ebook bundle. Thanks for your support of this site!

If you don’t already follow her, I’d love to introduce you to Kathy of Cornerstone Confessions.  I invited Kathy to guest post on Organizing Homelife today to share how she organized her craft and school supply cabinet.  Kathy shares homeschooling tips and organization, printables, blogging tips, and much more.  I hope you’ll hop over and visit her!

Our first school year at home is quickly coming to a close. We have loved using our school room we organized last Spring but there is one space in our school room I never got around to–our craft and school supply cabinet. You know the saying “failure to plan is planning to fail?” That quote is usually used to refer to goal setting but it could also easily be used to describe organization. When you fail to plan where you are going to put things, you are planning on failing when it comes to putting things away. That describes our former craft cabinet to a T. As the year wore on, the cabinet went from bad to worse until it looked like this…

Craft and School Supply Cabinet Before

Our supplies became lost inside miscellaneous net bins. I had no idea what we really had so I often ended up buying more supplies instead of using what we already owned because I didn’t want to go through the hassle of dumping everything out of the bins for one glue stick. Yes, it was definitely time for an overhaul.

To begin, I emptied everything out onto the floor. I then sorted through the supplies we had, formed supply piles and counted how many containers I might need. While I usually try to use containers and storage options I have around the house for my organization projects, this particular project needed some uniformity to minimize the chaos. Translation–it was time for a visit to the Dollar Tree–my second home for totally cute and cheap organization storage options. For this product I chose to use some of their colorful locking food storage containers, as they were the right size for most of my supplies and easily stackable. For the larger supplies I also grabbed a few color matching plastic shoe boxes. Already, the cabinet was beginning to look much more eye appealing.

Food Storage Containers and Matching Shoe Boxes

Yet no organization project is complete without labels so I went to DigiScrapDepot where I found some cute free digiscrap from NumbBumm for making my labels. I laminated them using my Scotch Laminator and then adhered them to the storage containers with packing tape.

Labels created using digiscrap by Numbbumm

Stackable food storage containers make great craft supply storage too!

Now I can easily find the supplies I am looking for and I even have a few extra storage containers stored at the back of the top shelf ready for additional supplies in the future so that I’m not left without a plan!

Top Shelves of the Craft Supply Cabinet

And our only net bin is for the storage of our small balls and frisbees…a much more appropriate use.

The Craft Closet…AFTER!

I love a finished organization project. Don’t you? It just makes me all joyful inside…to the point that I just want to open and close the cabinet doors again and again to bask in the completion. I know. I’m a little crazy like that. So, what latest project have you been working on to help you plan where you’ll put your things?

Kathy Gossen is a developing domestic diva drawing on the divine who writes about her domestic adventures on Cornerstone Confessions. She’s a child of God, a wife, a homeschool mom of two, a daughter, a friend, a sister, an undercover organizer, a musician and an aspiring techie who is learning what it means to apply God’s Word in the everyday. She prays her life song sings of her love for her Lord and hopes to encourage others along the way.

I am so excited to tell you about another fantastic organizing product this week!

I was so happy when the folks at Staples contacted me about reviewing the Martha Stewart Wall Manager, but I was thrilled when they offered to give away TWO Wall Manager systems to my readers!  Woo hoo!

I have been looking for a product that will enhance my kitchen command center and making filing paperwork a little easier.  As soon as I saw the Wall Manager, I knew it was exactly what I had been looking for.

You may know if you’ve been reading my blog for a while that I don’t have a lovely office space that I can call my own.  My “office” is tucked in the corner of our basement playroom/homeschool room.  It’s where I keep my filing cabinet, office supplies, etc.  But, most of the time, I work upstairs on the couch or at my dining room table.

I like to deal with incoming paperwork and mail immediately so it doesn’t get lost or pile up, so I created a mini office in my kitchen that acts as my “command center”.  When bills arrive that need to be paid, I file them in my “to be paid” file.  I also keep other important paperwork there.  That way, I don’t have to run up and down the stairs 20 times a day (although it probably wouldn’t hurt me, but I’m lazy like that. )

I knew when I saw the Wall Manager that it was going to be perfect for my needs.  You can easily set up any configuration you want!  The accessory boards are great.  You can choose the unique track system, a cork board, a magnetic dry erase calendar, or a magnetic dry erase board.  It’s easy to get the functionality that best suits your situation with the variety of accessories they offer.  They are so easy to pop into a new spot, but lock down so they don’t get easily knocked off.

Since my command center space is limited, I don’t file paperwork there.  I usually keep important paperwork in a file that I occasionally take down to the basement filing cabinet.  The problem with that has been that I’m too visual.  Out of sight, out of mind is so absolutely true of me!  I always remember after I get down the steps that there was something I wanted to bring (like my paperwork).  When the file gets too full to forget, I’ll take it to file, but I would much rather have a spot that is easily accessible so I can remember to file those papers before they get out of control.

I cannot even begin to tell you how easy it was to hang this!  I was done start to finish in 10 minutes – and I was taking pictures for this post!

Each board has two pieces of sticky tack on the back side.

Simply hold the board up to the wall, use the built-in level to make sure it’s lined up correctly, and press onto the wall.

All four of these boards are hanging without nails.  It’s easy to reposition them if you want to change the placement before nailing.

I absolutely loved the little slots for the nails, too!  Have no fear of pounding your thumb!  These hold the nail perfectly while you hammer them into the wall.After nailing the board backings onto the wall, simply slide the tracks, cork, or board onto the front.  Voila!  All done.  That was simple! 

Now it’s time to accessorize!  I’m not a huge fan of brown cork boards, so I grabbed a piece of 12 x 12 scrapbook paper to cover the cork.  I used some tacks to hold it in place.  So much better!  I also used some washi tape and my label writer to label the drawers and bins.

My favorite accessory is the inbox.  THIS was the reason I really wanted the Wall Manager.  It’s perfect for holding my papers that need to be filed in the basement.  Now, when I run down the steps, it’s simple to grab my file and get that paperwork put where it belongs!  

I also started keeping the kids’ school paperwork, my teacher’s lanyard, box tops, notes for school, etc. there.  Now it’s all in one spot so I never forget those things when we’re running out the door to school!

I am so thrilled that TWO OF YOU have the chance to win a Martha Stewart Wall Manager!!  I just know you’ll love it.

Please note that the giveaway winners will each receive: 1 Wall Manager Cork Board, 1 Wall Manager Accessory Board, 1 Drawer Set, 1 Package of (2) Hooks, and 1 Tall Caddy. 

And there’s more great news!  For the next two days (through April 13), Staples is offering the Wall Manager accessory boards at 40% off!  Check out the Wall Manager system HERE.

The Fine Print:

• Two winners will be chosen randomly using Rafflecopter.com to receive a Wall Manager System which includes the following pieces: 1 Wall Manager Cork Board, 1 Wall Manager Accessory Board, 1 Drawer Set, 1 Package of (2) Hooks, and 1 Tall Caddy.
• No purchase necessary.
• Giveaway is open to U.S. residents only.
• Entrants must be 18 years or older.
• Giveaway begins Thursday, April 11, 2013 and ends at 11:59 p.m. eastern time Friday, April 19, 2013.
• Winners will be e-mailed and announced here on Saturday, April 20, 2013.
• Winners have 7 days to respond to e-mail.

Entries are super simple: log into the Rafflecopter below with your Facebook name, or just use your email address.
a Rafflecopter giveaway

I have such a fabulous new product to introduce you to!  Have you seen the new Rubbermaid® All AccessTM organizer bins at Walmart?

I am so excited about this product because I am such a bin loving girl!  I store everything in bins: outgrown kids clothes, toys in the playroom, decorations, seasonal dishes and tableware for entertaining, etc.  The list goes on and on.  I even pack my family’s clothing in bins when we travel instead of using suitcases!

So why am I so excited about a new bin product?

Well, the new Rubbermaid® All AccessTM storage containers make it easy to find what you’re looking for, even if it’s on the bottom of the stack.  These cleverly made bins have a clear, drop-down door on the front!

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Do you have a place in your child’s closet where you keep clothes for the next season or a place to store the outgrown clothes you’re saving for your younger child?  These are PERFECT for closets!

Want to organize toys without having to unstack bins?  These are PERFECT for toys!

Need a spot to keep laundry supplies and rags that are easily accessible?  These are PERFECT for that!

Are craft supplies taking over? No problem! These are PERFECT for crafts!

Packing for college and need easy dorm storage and tavel ability? These are PERFECT for dorms!

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One of the best ways to keep your home clutter-free and organized is to keep the things you use the most in neat, easy to access locations.  That way, you don’t forget what you own and buy more. These stylish and functional bins will help you do just that!

And if that’s not enough, they also come in small, medium, and large sizes and great colors!

If you’ve ever used Rubbermaid® bins before, you know how durable they are.  You can find these fabulous Rubbermaid® All AccessTM storage containers at Walmart stores nationwide.

Happy organizing!

 
 
This post brought to you by Rubbermaid® All AccessTM Organizers. All opinions are 100% mine.

I can probably bet what you’re thinking by the title of this post.  Fish what?  That’s pretty much what I thought when the folks from Fish Window Cleaning contacted me about reviewing their product, Fish Foam.

Of course the name grabbed my attention, but after looking at the product, I decided it might be worth a review.  One thing I don’t like about the window cleaner I have used for years is that it drips down the glass and runs all over the frame.  It’s especially frustrating when cleaning picture frames or mirrors.  Fish Foam sprays as a foam that stays put, so I decided to try it out.

With four children and a curious little dog, our windows and doors get a lot of “attention”.

It’s a little hard to see the smudges in this picture, but be assured, they are there.  Finger and paw prints are a regular sight on our windows and doors.

Okay, so if I told you I was impressed by the foaming spray, it would be an understatement.  I loved how it stayed put when I sprayed it on the door.  No dripping or running down the glass into the door frame!  It was super easy to wipe clean with my micro fiber cloth.  By the way, a little bit goes a long way!

It did a great job on the door.  I had to show you this picture from the outside to show just how clean and sparkly it made the glass!

I know this may seem a little over the top, but the next time I drove by my house, I seriously stopped to admire how sparkly my windows and doors looked from the street.  I’m not even kidding.  I’m pretty sure my neighbors already think I’m nuts after watching me photograph my window cleaning process, but I was totally impressed with how beautiful it looked!

This next picture is seriously embarrassing.  Let me just preface it with the fact that the sun was at “just” the right angle to reveal the dirt.  I was horrified when I saw this, but I’m putting it on to show you just how good this cleaner is.

And, just in case you think I never clean my windows, I also must tell you that we are in the midst of a huge bathroom renovation.  If you follow me on Instagram, you may have seen some of my updates.  Let me just tell you if you’ve never done a major renovation, you will NOT believe the amount of dirt that can take over your house!  There is dust on every surface, but I didn’t realize how much had accumulated on the windows!

Check out this before…

and after…

I told you it was amazing!  I will tell you honestly that when I first sprayed the Fish Foam to clean this window, I wasn’t sure I was going to be all that impressed with the product.  I was expecting “no streaking or hazing” as the product claimed, and I was seeing streaks.  I had to spray it a second time on the inside and outside, and that’s when I realized it wasn’t the cleaner that was leaving streaks.  This window was so dirty that I was smudging DIRT, not the cleaner.  Once I sprayed it and wiped it down a second time, it sparkled like you wouldn’t believe!

I’ve been using Fish Foam for a few months, and will never go back to my old cleaner.  I don’t often sell out totally on a product, but I was so impressed with Fish Foam, it’s now my go-to window cleaner.

Would you like to try some?  Then I have GREAT news for you!  Fish Window Cleaning is offering YOU the chance to win a set of three cans of Fish Foam!

Don’t want to wait to see if you win?  More great news!  Fish Window Cleaning is running a special promotion – only $5 for shipping and handling per 3-pack!  Shipping used to be over $10, so this is a great deal!  Fish Foam can be purchased HERE.

Here’s a little bit more about Fish Foam:

Fish Foam is a professional grade, ammonia-free window cleaner used by homes and businesses across the nation.  It’s absolutely the best at cleaning:

• Windows, including stained glass & double hung windows
• Mirrors
• Windshields, windows & sunroofs on all types of cars
• Cubicle glass panels and partitions
• Exterior surfaces of appliances
• Countertops
• Fixtures
• And more!

The Fine Print:

• One winner will be chosen randomly using Rafflecopter.com to receive three 19 oz. cans of Fish Foam Window Cleaner.
• No purchase necessary.
• Giveaway is open to U.S. residents only.
• Entrants must be 18 years or older.
• Giveaway begins Friday, April 5, 2013 and ends at 11:59 p.m. eastern time Sunday, April 14, 2013.
• Winner will be e-mailed and announced here on Monday, April 15, 2013.
• Winners have 7 days to respond to e-mail.

Entries are super simple: log into the Rafflecopter below with your Facebook name, or just use your email address.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

I wish you all a very happy and blessed Easter!  This is the most meaningful day of the year for me, so I thought today I would share a little from my heart.

Although much of the decor surrounding the Easter holiday is centered around bunnies and chicks, Easter is really a celebration of new life.  New life given by the only One who can give life.  The One who is powerful above all – even death.  Easter is a celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, the day he overcame death and paid the punishment for my sin, for your sin.

Today I’d like to share with you one of my favorite songs.  It tells the story of Jesus Christ’s great love and sacrifice for us.

I pray that each of you will know His amazing love and forgiveness!

Glorious Day by Casting Crowns

One day when Heaven was filled with His praises
One day when sin was as black as could be
Jesus came forth to be born of a virgin
Dwelt among men, my example is He
Word became flesh and the light shined among us
His glory revealed

Living, He loved me
Dying, He saved me
Buried, He carried my sins far away
Rising, He justified freely forever
One day He’s coming
Oh glorious day, oh glorious day

One day they led Him up Calvary’s mountain
One day they nailed Him to die on a tree
Suffering anguish, despised and rejected
Bearing our sins, my Redeemer is He
Hands that healed nations, stretched out on a tree
And took the nails for me

One day the grave could conceal Him no longer
One day the stone rolled away from the door
Then He arose, over death He had conquered
Now He’s ascended, my Lord evermore
Death could not hold Him, the grave could not keep Him
From rising again

One day the trumpet will sound for His coming
One day the skies with His glories will shine
Wonderful day, my Beloved One, bringing
My Savior, Jesus, is mine

Oh, glorious day

For God so loved the world
that he gave his one and only Son
that whoever believes in him
will not perish
but have eternal life.
John 3:16

One of the most difficult challenges for moms of school aged children is keeping their family’s schedules organized.  Do you ever feel pulled in every direction?  I know I do!  Juggling sports, lessons, school assignments, youth group, friends, and other activities is no simple task!

How do you keep it all organized?  I hate to admit how much I depend on my smartphone, but the fact is, it is my lifeline!  I’m definitely a list person which is why I love printables, but you can’t beat having ALL of your lists and schedules with you wherever you go!

Have you heard of Cozi?  It was voted the #1 app for moms by moms!

Cozi is a free app and website that helps you keep your busy family calendar organized.  And, not only is it a perfect place to organize your calendar, but you can also keep track of school schedules, sports, activities, meals, grocery lists, and chores, all in one place!

One of my favorite features on Cozi is that everyone in your family can access it and you can color code each member of your family!  Check it out on your iPhone, iPad, Android phone or tablet, Nook, Kindle and other devices.

My hubby uses Google Calendar for his business and personal schedules, but I recently discovered that you can import a Google calendar (or other online calendars) into Cozi!  Once I got the hang of how to import the calendars, I got it all set up pretty easily.  Now, I can pop things onto a list for him that he can see from his phone!

Cozi also makes cleaning a little easier.  Enter your cleaning list or to do list, and have your family join you in checking off the tasks!

Want a great, FREE app?  I recommend you check out Cozi!  And, if you sign up for a free account from now until April 12, 2013, you will automatically be entered into a giveaway where you could WIN a Kindle Fire HD!

And there’s more great news!  One of my readers will also be chosen to win a free Cozi Gold 1 year membership!  Cozi Gold is ad-free and has extra features like a birthday tracker, mobile monthly calendar view, and more.

To enter the giveaway for the Kindle Fire HD (and the chance to win a Cozi Gold membership), you must enter the giveaway here (or click the picture below), and then download the free app.  That’s all there is to it.  Best wishes!

Are you already a Cozi user?  No problem!  You can still be entered into the giveaway!  Simply send an email to cozipromo@cozi.com and make the subject line “Kindle giveaway”.  In the body, include how long you’ve been using Cozi and tell them Organizing Homelife sent you.  That’s it!  You’ll be entered as long as you follow those steps.  Best wishes!

I would like to give a huge shout out to my sponsors this month. I am so excited to share their awesome products and websites with you!

There are a number of discounts for Organizing Homelife readers, so check them out below. If you love Organizing Homelife, be sure to show these fab businesses some love. They are part of what keeps this blog going!

If you have not already seen the Duo Multitasking Binder, I am thrilled to introduce you to it! It is one of my favorite organizing binders. I cannot recommend it highly enough!

This binder is so versatile! It is a combination of a 7 pocket accordion file and a 3-ring binder. I have several that I use to organize my recipes, blog planner, and more recently, I switched my Home Management Binder over to the Duo.

It would also be excellent to use for:

• Budgeting, financial paperwork, bank statements, investment information, tax receipts, etc.
• Family medical information, shot records, allergy information, hospital and insurance information, etc.
• School contacts, homework assignments, upcoming events, school projects, etc.
• Coupons, grocery lists, and meal planning pages
• Household projects, estimates, contractor contacts, home/appliance warranty information

Great news! The Duo Multitasking Binder is about to be added to Amazon’s super saver shipping program! Don’t worry, I’ll keep you updated as soon as they are live so you can grab the free shipping.

Back for another month is Clean Mama Printables. Clean Mama has you covered when it comes to getting your home and cleaning schedules organized! She offers very reasonably priced printables for your homekeeping binders, cleaning schedules, and recipe organization, to name a few.

She makes homekeeping fun by helping you easily implement routines. Her adorable printables take the work out of figuring out what to do and when to do it, making it easy to organize your life.

Clean Mama also just released her fantastic new ebook, Cleaning Around the Seasons: Deep Cleaning on Your Schedule. This ebook is perfect for those who desperately need to get some deep cleaning done, but don’t know where to start or how to fit it into their busy schedule. It’s an easy read with quick start approach to help you begin today.  It also includes 7 detailed cleaning worksheets!

Becky’s Printables

What’s included in Cleaning Around the Seasons: Deep Cleaning On Your Schedule?

• Chapter 1 The Motivation – Seasonal and Deep Cleaning
• Chapter 2 First Things First – De-Clutter
• Chapter 3 Choose Your Method
• Chapter 4 Gather Your Supplies
• Chapter 5 How to Start Deep Cleaning
• Chapter 6 Ideas for working Deep Cleaning into a Full Schedule

Special Discount: Organizing Homelife readers will receive 20% off orders from Clean Mama Printables using the code: 20ORGHL

You should also visit Clean Mama’s blog. She has lots of FREE printables, including FREE monthly cleaning schedules.

I’m thrilled to have Fridge Coaster back for another month! Check out my review of Fridge Coasters here.

Don’t you hate scrubbing sticky messes from your refrigerator shelves? Fridge Coasters are super stylish shelf liners that keep frequently used areas of your fridge looking neat and clean all the time. The super-absorbent recyclable material absorbs spills without swelling. Put them in the crisper drawers, under bottles and milk, and keep your fridge free from messy spills and unattractive messes.

Fridge Coasters are designed to fit perfectly inside every refrigerator, no matter what make or model you own. Their website is fantastic for helping you determine the best sizes for your fridge. They are guaranteed to fit somewhere inside your refrigerator or you get your money back!

Check out Fridge Coaster here. You can also find Fridge Coaster on Facebook.

Fridge Coaster also has some exciting news! The have applied for the ABC TV show, Shark Tank. If you are unfamiliar with it, Shark Tank is a show where entrepreneurs have an opportunity take their businesses to the next level. Fridge Coaster has applied, but needs YOUR help! Please “like” and “share” their Facebook post here to show Shark Tank that you’re a fan of Fridge Coasters!

Special Discount: Organizing Homelife readers will receive 10% off any order from Fridge Coaster through March 27, 2013 using the code: OHL10

Thank you so much to all of my fabulous sponsors!

If you are interested in becoming a sponsor of Organizing Homelife, please see my Advertising page HERE, or email me HERE.

I have definitely had the spring cleaning bug this past week.  We’re in the midst of a major bathroom renovation, and I feel like it’s taken over my whole house!

I recently shared with you Clean Mama’s brand new ebook, Cleaning Around the Seasons: Deep Cleaning on Your Schedule.   But, I have great news to share with you!  If you haven’t read Clean Mama’s first book, Pulling Yourself Together: Implementing a Cleaning Routine That Sticks, there is a great deal running this weekend only!

From now until 8 a.m. EST on Monday, March 18th, you can get Clean Mama’s book and four other books by fabulous women who will help you learn to declutter, organize, and clean your home and all for only $7.40!  That’s a savings of over 75%!

This is a great deal definitely worth sharing!

31 Days to Clean by Sarah Mae
Part cleaning handbook, part devotional, this ebook is not just about the how of cleaning, but about the why. In 31 Days to Clean, Sarah Mae provides you with two challenges each day — a Mary challenge to encourage and engage your heart and a Martha challenge with a specific cleaning task. At the end of 31 days, your house will be clean, and you’ll have a new perspective on housekeeping as well!

Simple Living by Lorilee Lippincott
Deal with tangible and intangible clutter in just 30 days with Simple Living, which will help you have a simpler and cleaner home…and keep it that way. Tackle thirty different clutter areas in under an hour a day and create drastic and permanent changes.

A Simply Homemade Clean by Lisa Barthuly
Rid your home of commercial, toxic products without the high price of all natural, organic products that line the shelf. Learn to make everything from your own laundry soap, to homemade dryer sheets, antibacterial spray cleaners, potpourri blends and fabric softeners!

Project Organize Your Entire Life by Stephanie Morgan
With a simple and customizable approach, Project Organize Your Entire Life helps you walk through your daily habits and weekly routines to conquer some of the biggest obstacles to living the simplified life you’re yearning for: decluttering, cleaning, organizing, meal planning and more.

Pulling Yourself Together by Becky of Clean Mama
In Pulling Yourself Together, Becky provides you with the tools to declutter and organize your home in the midst of a busy life, implement a cleaning routine that really works and strategies to continue with the perfected plan!

Congratulations!!!

to the following winners of the Fridge Coasters giveaway:

#3530 Tammy G.

#8545 Wendy F.

#14935 Michelle P.

(winners have been notified by email)

Are you ready for spring?  I KNOW I am!  The bright sunshine, longer days and warmer weather always inspire me to get so much done!

My friend Becky of Clean Mama just released her brand new ebook, Cleaning Around the Seasons: Deep Cleaning On Your Schedule.  It’s an ebook that will help you get your home well cleaned no matter what the season!  She sent me a copy, and once again, she has totally inspired me!

I have a very busy schedule, and deep cleaning isn’t something I have much time for.  It’s hard enough keeping up with my daily cleaning schedule.  But, Becky’s book will help you get started where you are.  Busy schedule?  She’s got you covered!

This ebook is perfect for those who desperately need to get some deep cleaning done, but don’t know where to start or how to fit it into their busy schedule.  It’s an easy read with quick start approach to help you begin today.

I’d love to introduce you to Clean Mama’s newest ebook…

Cleaning Around the Seasons: Deep Cleaning On Your Schedule

What’s included in

Cleaning Around the Seasons: Deep Cleaning On Your Schedule?

6 quick read chapters

Chapter 1 The Motivation – Seasonal and Deep Cleaning

Chapter 2 First Things First – De-Clutter

Chapter 3 Choose Your Method

Chapter 4 Gather Your Supplies

Chapter 5 How to Start Deep Cleaning

Chapter 6 Ideas for working Deep Cleaning into a Full Schedule

 

7 printable guides to help you through the process:

 

De-Clutter Before You Clean Checklist

The One Day Clean

The Weekend Clean

The One Week Clean

The 31 Day Method

The Deep Cleaning Checklist

The DIY Deep Cleaning Checklist

 

Clutter and chaos taking over your life? Need some motivation and insight to figure out the best way to do a little deep cleaning? Hop on over to the Clean Mama blog to learn more about Cleaning Around the Seasons: Deep Cleaning On Your Schedule and to purchase your copy today!

If you haven’t had a chance to check out Clean Mama’s first ebook, Pulling Yourself Together: Implementing a Cleaning Routine That Sticks, you should definitely check it out!  It’s another great resource for helping you clean your home on your own schedule!

 
 

This post contains an affiliate link.  I will receive a small percentage of each book purchased through my site.  My opinions are 100% mine and are not influenced by potential income.  If I don’t love something, I don’t post about it!  Read my full disclosure policy here.

 
This giveaway has ended. Winners are announced here.

Have you heard of Fridge Coasters before?  I had seen them advertised and have friends who use them, but I have to be honest: I wondered what all the buzz was about.  When something spills in my fridge, I wipe the glass shelf clean.  Why would I need a “coaster” in my fridge?

Recently, Fridge Coasters contacted me about reviewing their product.  My friends who use them absolutely love them, so I decided I’d give it a whirl.

Fridge Coasters are super absorbent “liners” that fit on the shelves and in the bins of your refrigerator.  They are designed to fit in any fridge no matter the manufacturer, and they’re guaranteed to fit in your fridge, or you get your money back.

They come in numerous colors and beautiful, modern designs.

Fridge Coasters are made of a dense super-absorbent 30% recycled wood pulp.  When I first learned that they weren’t plastic, I thought, “Wood pulp?  Won’t that get ruined quickly?”  And the answer is, no!  These things are really amazing.  I never believe what I hear without testing it, so I dribbled water on one just to see what would happen.  I was really impressed!  It absorbed the liquid without swelling, the colored design stayed put, and after it dried (which happened amazingly fast), you could not tell there had ever been liquid on it!

And you know what is really awesome?  If you have a spill on your Fridge Coaster, you can wipe it clean!  The liquid absorbs, and the crumbs or sticky residue can be washed away.  Here’s what I found on fridgecoasters.com:

How do you wash Fridge Coasters?

A wet soapy sponge can be used to wipe down your Fridge Coasters for the occasional jelly or chocolate syrup spill. Fridge coasters are not dishwasher safe, but that’s a good thing! If they were rubber, silicone or plastic, they wouldn’t absorb any condiment drips. Fridge Coasters eliminate build-up that eventually leads to scrubbing. We don’t like scrubbing.

For more answers to Frequently Asked Questions, check out Fridge Coaster’s FAQs page here.

I wipe out my fridge pretty regularly and save the full-fledged cleaning for when it becomes really necessary.  When I emptied my fridge to put in the Fridge Coasters, I was actually pretty surprised at how much gunk had accumulated on the shelves.  So, I spent the next 45 minutes scrubbing my fridge shelves and bins.  Not fun.  While I was scrubbing, I kept thinking how wonderful it will be when I don’t have to do that anymore!  The Fridge Coasters will absorb spills so they don’t run into the edges and crevices of my fridge!

Here’s my fridge before:

Yuck!

And here it is cleaned up, looking all stylish and pretty with its new Fridge Coasters:

The Fridge Coasters were so easy to fit into my fridge.  The standard sizes fit perfectly on my shelves.  Each coaster has several perforated lines where you can snap off (easily, I might add!) the excess so it fits just right in your fridge.

Apparently the shelves in my fridge’s door are a little shallow, so I just trimmed them a little with my scissors, and they look fab!

I must tell you that after using the Fridge Coasters I fell in love.  There are 3 things that drive me crazy about my fridge that Fridge Coasters solved:

#1.  My kids love cereal.  I mean LOVE.  We go through about 9 gallons of milk in one week, so one of the reasons we bought this particular fridge was because of the fact that 4 gallons fit perfectly in the door.  However, there are always drips left in that bin.  It almost always looks dirty because of the number of times it’s used every day. 

After cleaning it, I put two Fridge Coaster shelf liners next to each other.  I LOVE it!

#2. The main glass shelf in our fridge has gotten so many scratches.  Our fridge is only about five years old, but already, that shelf is covered in hairline scratches.  It wasn’t the easiest thing to get pictures of scratches on clear glass, but believe me, they are all over that shelf.

#3.  This shelf started “peeling” not long after we bought the fridge.  Grrr!  It has a thin layer of plastic covering the main plastic support.  I guess it’s from people dragging the water pitcher across it, but it looks awful.  Dirt can collect there, so I’m constantly having to keep up with that.  Plus, it’s front and center when you open the door.

I put 2 large coasters on that shelf, and not only do they cover (and help prevent) the scratches, they cover the peeling plastic!  Woo hoo!  Did I mention that I love these things? <3

No more scratches, and no more peeling!

Remember that picture at the top of the post where I showed you the “gunk” on the shelf?  That is one of my most used shelves where I keep leftover food.  How pretty is it now!?!

One trick I started doing years ago to prevent meat juices from leaking all over my fridge is to keep the meat contained in a bin.  I can easily remove the bin to wash it and clean up meat juices which always seem to find a way of leaking, don’t they?  By the way, if you like those labels and the bin, you can see more about them and get the free printable labels in this post.

Another problem area in my fridge is actually in my freezer.  The bottom drawer and the pull out top drawer have pretty widely spaced wire baskets.  Not a great design in my opinion.  Food can easily become unbalanced and fall in every direction making it hard to stay neat and organized.

Because of the different sizes the Fridge Coasters come in, I was able to easily snap the perforated areas to create a “custom” size.  They now fit perfectly in my freezer bins, and I don’t have to worry about food falling through, or falling over.

I am so happy that I had the opportunity to review Fridge Coasters.  And I’m thrilled to tell you that YOU could win a set in the design and color of your choice!!  3 WINNERS will be chosen to win a complete Fridge Pack valued at $25!!

And there’s more great news!

Fridge Coasters are so reasonably priced, especially when you consider the time saved in scrubbing down your fridge.  They only need to be replaced once or twice per year, depending on the level of use.  In my opinion, it’s totally worth it!  And, from now until March 11, 2013, Organizing Homelife readers will receive a 10% off discount using the code: OrgHomelife5

Entries are super simple: log into the Rafflecopter below with your Facebook name, or just use your email address.

The Fine Print

• Three winners will be chosen randomly using Rafflecopter.com to receive one Fridge Pack ($25 value) each.
• No purchase necessary.
• Giveaway is open to U.S. residents only.
• Entrants must be 18 years or older.
• Giveaway begins Friday, March 1, 2013 and ends at 11:59 p.m. eastern time Sunday, March 10, 2013.
• Winner will be e-mailed and announced here on Monday, March 11, 2013.
• Winners have 7 days to respond to e-mail.

a Rafflecopter giveaway