Cut Clutter

Recent statistics suggest that we spend close to five years of our lives in the bathroom. It is very important to keep the bathroom clutter free. Mold, mildew, germs, and grime love clutter--especially in a warm, damp space like a bathroom.

Consider the following tips:

• Keep beauty products to minimum so that you can easily wipe down countertops.

• Keep cleaning products in a plastic caddy under the sink so you have easy access to the sponges, sprays, and wipes you need to keep the room spotless.

• Maximize your vertical space by purchasing an over-the-toilet cabinet or install cabinets that allow you to neatly store extra times.

• Use baskets, trays, and small containers to keep like things together. Put medications in one, hair products in another, first-aid materials in a third, and so on.

• Every six months, do a quick check on any bottles or tubes you haven't opened or used in that time.
  

• All makeup has an expiration or use-by-date. Sometime it is stamped on the product itself, sometimes on the packaging. Mascaras go bad more quickly than anything else; they are good for about four months. Other cosmetics and lotions are good for about twelve months. Perfume has a shelf life of 3 years.

• All medications have an expiration date. Go through the medicine cabinet once a year and toss out old drugs.