In the quest for a tidy and organized home, we often find ourselves grappling with the small, everyday items that seem to scatter themselves across our living spaces. From keys and remotes to jewelry and mail, these bits and bobs can create clutter and chaos if left unchecked. But fear not, dear members of the Seniors Discount Club, for there is a stylish and practical solution that's gaining popularity – the 'catch-all' tray!

The concept is simple yet ingenious: place a small, decorative tray in each room of your home to corral those miscellaneous items that don't have a permanent home or are used too frequently to be tucked away. Not only does this help keep surfaces clear, but it also adds a touch of elegance to your decor.

Why a 'Catch-All' Tray is Essential

The beauty of the catch-all tray lies in its versatility and functionality. It's a designated spot for the little things in life that you need to access quickly or that don't quite fit into your usual storage solutions. For example, a tray by the front door can hold your keys, sunglasses, and wallet, ensuring you never leave the house without your essentials. In the kitchen, a larger tray might be home to unsorted mail and recipes you want to try. In the living room, a tray can keep track of remotes, reading glasses, and coasters.

You might need to get a catch-all try for your home. Credit: Shutterstock

The catch-all tray isn't just about convenience; it's also about maintaining order in a manageable way. By having a specific place for these items, you reduce the likelihood of misplacing them and save time that would otherwise be spent searching for lost objects.

Guidelines for Using 'Catch-All' Trays Effectively

To make the most of your catch-all trays, consider these tips:

1. Choose the Right Size: Opt for a tray that's small enough to encourage regular decluttering but large enough to hold your daily items. If the tray becomes too full, it's a sign that it's time to sort through and put things away.

2. Establish a Routine: Set a schedule for emptying and organizing your trays. Whether it's once a week or every few days, find a rhythm that works for you and stick to it. This will prevent the tray from becoming a permanent storage spot for clutter.

3. Select a Style That Suits Your Space: Since these trays will be on display, pick designs that complement your home's aesthetic. Whether you prefer a sleek, modern look or a more traditional vibe, there's a catch-all tray to match.

Catch-All Tray Inspiration

When it comes to selecting a catch-all tray, the options are endless. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

- A woven rattan tray can add a touch of warmth and texture to any room. Its raised edges are perfect for holding papers and larger items without them spilling over.

- In communal spaces like the living or dining room, a larger decorative bowl or dish can serve as a catch-all for items that family members use throughout the house.

- For smaller, more delicate items such as jewelry or hairpins, consider a petite ring dish or decorative bowl that can sit on a bathroom counter or dresser.

Remember, the key to a successful catch-all tray system is to keep it functional and beautiful. It's not just about storage; it's about enhancing your home's ambiance while keeping it organized.

Key Takeaways

• Catch-all trays are recommended for each room in the house to manage frequently used or miscellaneous items.
• They should be decorative but functional, placed on flat surfaces in convenient locations within each room.
• The article suggests keeping trays small to encourage regular clearance and setting a schedule for organising items.
• There are various styles of catch-all trays available to match the decor of different rooms, from rattan serving trays to decorative dishes for smaller items.

We'd love to hear from you, our savvy seniors! Have you tried using catch-all trays in your home? What are your favorite styles or materials? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below, and let's inspire each other to create more organized and serene living spaces.

 

[Iturate]

I have been doing this for years. Different styles for different rooms. Hand chiselled wooden bowl, square blue glass dish, bamboo tray, woven basket.

 

[Face-to-face]

I have been doing this for years except I use a decorative box (if I get unexpected visitors, I don't want them seeing my "miscellanous junk")

 

[Suzanne rose]

I always had one kitchen draw for junk but I nolonger have this. I hate clutter and unorganisation .

I believe everything has a home and this way you never lose anything.

I have one bowl on my buffet n hutch for everyone to put their keys and we never have lost keys.

I have two folders, one for old bills and paperwork eg birth certificates ectI need to keep, and another one for prescriptions, bills that need to be paid ect.

I always know where everything is.

My rule is , if it hasn't been used in 18 months then it's not going to get used and goes to a new home

 

[oldchook58]

I always had one kitchen draw for junk but I nolonger have this. I hate clutter and unorganisation .

I believe everything has a home and this way you never lose anything.

I have one bowl on my buffet n hutch for everyone to put their keys and we never have lost keys.

I have two folders, one for old bills and paperwork eg birth certificates ectI need to keep, and another one for prescriptions, bills that need to be paid ect.

I always know where everything is.

My rule is , if it hasn't been used in 18 months then it's not going to get used and goes to a new home

Every home should have one. As a child we had a junk drawer in the kitchen and thats where you would find anything without a place to go. Clutter does my head in and if its broken, cracked or not useful anymore it goes out in the bin. I do have a filing cabinet for "paperwork" as I prefer it over digital.