Organize Your Cleaning Supplies

David PrinceHow to tackle the biggest challenges of your broom closet.

Find a Storage Space
"During your precious Saturday hours, an organized, fully stocked broom closet will save you time, motivate you, and remind you what you need to do," says Cheryl Mendelson, author of Home Comforts ($20, amazon.com). If you don't have a whole closet to devote to cleaning supplies, part of a pantry, a nook under the staircase, or a corner of a room will work, too.

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David PrinceOrganize Your Cleaning Rags

Problem: Rags everywhere.
Solution: Don't put dirty rags back in the closet. It's too hard to distinguish between clean and dirty ones. Launder them after use. Keep small clean rags in a hanging bag so you don't have to worry about folding or stacking them. Larger towel rags can be stacked on a shelf.

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David PrinceStore Your Vacuum Cleaner

Problem: The vacuum cleaner is bulky, and the hose is always in the way.
Solution: Position your vacuum cleaner front and center, so it's easy in, easy out. Hang the hose on a hook to free up floor space and to keep from tripping over it.

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David PrinceUse a Storage Caddy

Problem: Cleaning products are in a confusing scrum on the floor of the closet.
Solution: Keep the products you use most in a handled caddy. Store the rest in a spot that is accessible but not in the way. A lazy Susan makes infrequently used items, such as polishes and waxes, easy to find when you need them.

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