Filed under: Shopping, Kitchen, Projects, Storage & Cleaning, Storage & Organization, Cleaning
These simple fixes will make you want to take out the trash.Are you using paper bags and old buckets to hold your recyclables? And let me guess, "sorting" only applies to the laundry, right?
You're not alone. Luckily, it's really easy to set up a recycling area in your home, whether it be in the kitchen, laundry room or garage. And it doesn't have to be cluttered and untidy. Organize your recyclables with the same care you would your spice rack and you'll feel good just taking out the trash. Here's how to do it:
1. Designate a recycling area in your home. Would you prefer that your recyclables are hidden away or easily accessible? I like to locate my recycling area right next to the kitchen trash can because it makes the most sense for me. But if you don't have room there, try your garage, backyard or laundry room.
2. Measure. If your space is small, you will need to get bins to fit, so make sure you know how large your space is before you step foot in a store.
3. Shop. Now you're ready for the fun part: shopping for bins. I skipped the ugly buckets and old trash bins and went looking for style. Trash containers never looked so good.
4. Organize. Once you've chosen your bins (see below), create a system for discarding paper and plastics. You can label the bins, and be sure to educate everyone in your household as to what goes where. Decide who is responsible for bringing out the recycling and the trash, and who should be in charge of keeping the area clean.
Okay, now the fun part: Which option do you like best?
Option #1: Divide and conquer.
It's easy to get everything in its place with a divided container. You can even choose an under-cabinet option to hide it all away.
From left to right: The Smart Bin (3 sections), $80, Walmart; Double Sliding Trash Can, $99, Organize.com; Precision Series Recycler - Divided Recycling Can, $249, Stacks and Stacks.
Option #2: Stack it up.
If you need more space, build up! These stacking containers allow you to choose how many you need depending on how much you have to separate.
From left to right: 2-bin Recycler, $40, The Container Store; Stackable Recycle Containers (set of 3), $50, Improvements Catalog; 18-gallon Stacking Bin, $40, The Home Depot.
Option #3: Bag it.
What makes taking out the trash easier? Handles, of course! Why not use attractive set of bags for your recycling and then easily transport them out to the curb by their built-in handles. No mess, and no dumping or bagging needed.
From top left, clockwise: Recyclebags 3-piece set, $80, Target; Recycle Bags, $5 each, Bed Bath and Beyond; Kangaroom Set of 2 Recycle Bags, $12, Amazon.
Want to know how to recycle your old electronics?