Home hacks for going back to school

Piles of homework, strewn school uniforms, and after-school activities – it’s that time of year again: back to school! But don’t despair; we’ve teamed up with the Organised Co’s Emma Stone to help navigate the chaos.

From handy storage hacks to cash-saving solutions, these six top tips will help you breeze through the back-to-school madness.

Many people don’t have desks for the kids to work from, so they tend to end up working at the dining table. If this is the case, grab a storage box or set of drawers to give the kids access to their stationery and books.

They can easily take out the drawer when doing homework and tidy it away when they’re done, keeping everything neat and tidy.

When we move into a new home, we tend to put things into cupboards where they fit at the time. But when our families grow, so do the complaints of things not fitting or falling out of the cupboard! So, before the school term starts and you’re rushed off your feet, let’s organise the kitchen.

First, move the kitchen utensils you regularly use near the oven if they’re not already. Anything you don’t often use, move them to higher cupboards or shelves.

Use clear kitchen storage containers for open packets of flour/pasta/sugar etc., so you can see when you’re running low – containers also make it easier to stack your cupboards.

If you have kids, put their plates and bowls in an accessible drawer or low cupboard for easy access – they might even start setting the table! Another top tip – place healthy snacks in easy-to-see areas so they’ll choose them over less healthy options.  

Your morning routine will feel less chaotic if you can find everything you need, saving you vital seconds in the battle to get out the front door. We can add all the storage hacks, baskets and labels we like, but we won’t reap the benefits unless we streamline the space first.

Mitigate manic mornings by placing large baskets by the front and back door; that way, everyone knows where things are.

But if you’d rather keep the family’s shoes out of the way in a chic storage unit, check out our utility storage range for storage seats, shoe cabinets and more.

If everything has a home, the family will acclimatise to organised living quicker than you'd think!  

If their bedtime routine has slipped during the holidays, implement a routine to ease them into the new term. At least nine hours of sleep is recommended, so they’re fully rested and ready to learn.

Try these hacks from Rebecca Snowden, Interior Style Advisor at Furniture & Choice:

“In a child’s bedroom, avoid energetic colours like red and orange, as this may raise their heart rate and affect sleep quality. Stick to restful colours like blue, green or white for a calming effect.

If you want to make the room feel more exciting, introduce pops of a zesty colour like yellow for a boost of productivity. Whether it’s painting the doorframe or going bold with a feature wall, yellow is not only joyful but is also associated with happiness and creativity.”

Don’t forget that your sleep is essential, too! Make your bedroom a haven to rest and recharge with these tips from Aureen Chinchpure, Brand Communications Manager at Pizuna Linens: 

‘’There are a few considerations when creating the best sleep environment, such as the room layout and colour palette. The bedroom layout depends on the space you have to work with; however, the ideal place for a bed is in the centre of the room, giving access to both sides of the bed.

A bed facing a window creates a focal point, but suitable blinds or curtains are essential to prevent light disturbance throughout the night. It’s also said that facing your bed west will create the best conditions for a good night’s sleep.

Picking a colour for your bedroom is always down to preference; however, sticking to a neutral palette can aid your sleep.

Colour palettes to consider include pale yellows, light greys, and earthy tones. Pale yellows create warmth and a comfortable atmosphere, while light greys create a slightly cooler tone, which can be warmed up with accessories and plush cushions. Those thinking of using earthy tones will be able to create a tranquil, relaxing mood in the bedroom – similar to a spa-like feel.

Bed linen is another crucial factor. If you choose a neutral palette for the bedroom walls, you can use the colour of your bed linen to add a bold colour statement, or the reverse, with a bold statement wall paired with neutral bedding.

Having luxury bedding and bedroom accessories can instantly lift a room's look and improve your sleep quality, too.”

Whether they’re just starting school or getting back into the swing of things, a physical planner gives kids a visual reminder of how many days are left until the first day of term.

Planners are also a great way to keep your kids in a routine while they’re off school, as you can include daily chores or targets, like brushing their teeth, making their beds, or helping with dinner!

Creating fun and nutritious lunches will keep kids going throughout the day.

You can own the after-school snack game by setting out a healthy selection of nibbles for when your kids get home – there are lots of fun recipes to try online.

Designate different coloured/themed reusable bags for each child, so they can quickly grab what’s theirs.

We trust these handy hacks will equip you and the kids for the new school term, smoothing the transition into a new year of healthy habits!

Check out our blog for more lifestyle hacks, how-to guides, and interior inspiration.

And if you’re scrolling, browse our Instagram shop to find different ways to style your bedroom storage (or furniture) to maximise your space when the new term begins.