photo by how can i recycle this

DEAR SARA: Do you have any ideas on how to make space-saving items from everyday things that most of us have on hand? My oldest children have jobs now and are buying more for themselves, which equals more clutter and nowhere to put it. I don’t have a lot of money to go out and buy plastic totes and shelving. — M.H., Texas

DEAR M.H.: Start with some ground rules. Tell your older children if a new item is brought into the home, then one of their other items has to leave. They can also contribute to purchasing their own storage containers, since they’re working. For frugal space-saving storage, try shoeboxes that stack, boxes stored underneath the bed and an over-the-door pocket-storage caddy. You can also hang two clothing rods in the closet to free up some dresser space. I’ve placed inexpensive bookcases in a closet to help organize and not take up space in the bedroom. You can create a bit more space by using walls, too. One example is having light fixtures that are hung from the wall instead of lamps on dressers or nightstands. This frees up some table space. Consider furniture that has a dual purpose, such as chests that can be used as storage and a table.

DEAR SARA: About seven years ago, my husband’s sisters and I decided we would buy gifts only for the children and not the adults. They continue to show up with gifts for us as well as the kids. I have nothing for them because it’s what we agreed upon, but I feel so bad and at the same time angry. What should I do? — Michelle, Canada

DEAR MICHELLE: I wouldn’t feel bad if you agreed on not exchanging gifts with adults. I’d send a thank-you card and remind them of your agreement at a later date prior to any future gift-exchanging occasions. Try not to be angry. Keep in mind that their gifts to you aren’t an obligation for you to reciprocate.

DEAR SARA: What laundry supplies do you have for your laundry room? — Missy, Colorado

DEAR MISSY: During my most frugal years, I stocked only laundry detergent, but now I have a fully stocked laundry room. My utility room is quite large, but it is practical and not fancy. It has wall shelves across one entire wall, and that’s where I store my supplies. I have a seven-foot-long folding table, double sink, indoor clotheslines and drying rack, and my upright freezer. I have some common household cleaning supplies, a broom and a bucket. The following is a list of laundry supplies I like to have on hand:

– laundry detergent, detergent for delicates, stain removers, Fels-Naptha bar soap and bleach
– dryer sheets and liquid softener
– mesh bag for delicates and baby socks
– scrub brush or toothbrush for stain removal
– hand soap
– old washcloths or rags
– iron and ironing board
– spray starch
– spray bottle for vinegar and water
– lint brush
– scissors
– clothespins
– hangers
– wall hooks and pegs
– trash can
– my mp3 player
– container for loose change
– laundry baskets and totes for sorting and storage

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