The magic basket trick is different because I'm just corralling everything out of place into one spot. At most, it takes five minutes, and there's no thought required.

What is the "magic basket" organizing trick? A living room with an alcove bookshelf, a green sofa, a blue rug and a coffee table with wicker storage baskets underneath ...

Even before it’s emptied, the Stash Basket gets clutter off the counters, keeping the kitchen as visually calm and clutter-free as possible, which helps keep me from flying off the handle.

The other night, however, I ended up volunteering to host our regular game night last minute – but my house was in shambles after a long day of working and tackling tiresome chores.