Home Organization Tips With Founder of The Haume: Gabriela Kogan

With sports practices to go to, lunches to pack, and homework to help with, cleaning the house can get swept under the rug (literally).

But staying organized can have a positive influence on more than just the appearance of your living space - it is said to have benefits such as increasing productivity, improving self-confidence and relationship quality, and even relieving stress.

We wanted to learn more about the secrets behind organization which is why we talked with home organization expert, Gabriela Kogan - founder of Canadian company The Haume, to get some professional advice on keeping things collected.

A word from Gabriela:

After more than a decade working in the financial services industry as an investment banker, I was blessed with three beautiful children in a very short period of time.

Spending significant time at home taking care of my family - husband, three kids three years of age and under, and our dog, I realized that maintaining organization in the home and having a plan are key to achieving peace-of-mind. I saw a need for a stress-free, all-in-one company helping people achieve organized living.

One of my passions in life aside from my family, is helping other people - exactly what drove me to create The Haume! 

I have always been passionate about organization and interior design and decor. Last year when my maternity leave was coming to an end, I decided to complete my professional organizing and decorator & redesigner certifications. At this point it became clear to me that I wanted to shift my career to a completely different path.

What does The Haume offer? 

At The Haume our goal is to provide peace-of-mind by reducing your stress caused by disorganized spaces or the work involved with moving between homes. We are a one-stop shop for home organization, moving, and space planning.

Expert tips for organization and time management:

1. Create routines that fit your family's lifestyle and stick to them

• Being consistent is key for routines to become habit

2. Edit belongings every couples of months

• Especially in early years, kids grow out of gear and clothing very quickly
• Rooms may seem cluttered with items that no longer serve a purpose in your home

3. Do mini tidy sessions twice per week

• Go through your home with one large bin organizing items that have been left out of place

4. Keep an up to date "to do's" list and calendar for the family

• Keeping everything in one list and calendar will allow you to plan better, prioritize activities, and get family members' support

5. Keep a ready-to-go bag with essentials close to the door 

• Contents (depending on your kids age) might include diapers, spf, water bottle, snacks and a change of clothing

6. Allocate one bin and one hook per family member by the entrance or mudroom

• Family members will be more inclined to leave their shoes and coats in their personal bins as they walk through the door. 
• Have a bin for your pet as well!

7. Ask your kids to contribute to house chores, such as tidying up, making beds, and putting their dishes in the dishwasher

• They are more capable than we give them credit for!

What are some common issues that lead to disorganization?

• Bad habits
• Disrupting life events
• Culture or accumulation/ clutter
• Lack of time
• Lack of focus or know-how
• Inability to make decisions/ procrastination
• Mental health and brain-related conditions

What are some other underlying benefits of staying organized?

• Saves time and money
• Improves sleep and energy
• Promotes healthier lifestyle and choices
• Improves time management

What are some useful organization accessories that can be used at home?

• Right sized baskets, bins, and containers
• Drawer dividers
• Turntables
• Thin profile, uniform hangers
• Storage carts

For all your home organization needs, check out The Haume on Instagram @thehaume and on their website!

Have questions or comments? Let us know down below!