DOLLAR TREE

Ever seen one of those reality makeover shows where a talented and extremely organized person walks into a home filled with piles of junk and somehow manages to turn it into a place of beauty?  It may seem magical on television, but you can actually do it yourself almost for free with the help of a dollar store.

Before you start getting rid of stuff, consider these quick and easy tips that will help you get the most out of any dollar store:

• Utilize Dollar Store Deals:  Take advantage of seasonal sales and always stay alert for those famous five-item-bins. If you plan your purchases around the store layout, you can often find the same items cheaper just a few aisles down.
• Focus on Functionality:  Dollar stores offer an amazing array of organizational tools, from baskets to bins to shelves, and most are priced very reasonably. If you look closely and think creatively, you can often find things in the wrong area of the store for a slightly cheaper price. Once you have everything organized, your space will automatically look less cluttered and chaotic.
• Resist the Cute Clutter:  One of the easiest ways to increase the amount of junk in your home is to buy cute stuff you don't really need, like those adorable figurines or that tin sign that says "Live, Laugh, Love." Even if they cost a dollar, they're still a waste of money and space. Try to only buy things that serve a specific purpose.
• Become a Regular:  Dollar stores receive new shipments of merchandise all the time, and each store has its own unique inventory. If you visit regularly, you'll have first dibs on the new stuff, and you'll be more likely to avoid going home empty-handed.

Now that you're armed with a few helpful hints, it's time to transform your home.  Not sure where to start?  Here are a few areas that can benefit from a dollar store makeover:

Bathrooms:  You'd be amazed at how quickly bathroom clutter piles up.  Over-the-door shoe organizers can store all sorts of items, from shampoo to cleaning supplies.  Wire baskets are perfect for holding toiletries and beauty products.  And don't forget the power of a good old-fashioned shower caddy.

Closets:  Shelf dividers can multiply the space on your shelves.  Drawer organizers can help you keep your socks and underwear in order.  And vacuum storage bags can free up more space to store clothes out of season.

Kitchen:  Lazy Susans are great for storing spices or canned goods in the pantry.  Clear canisters are perfect for organizing your dry goods.  And drawer organizers can help you bring order to the chaos of your kitchen drawers.

With a little creativity and a few dollars, you can turn your home into an organized oasis.  And since nothing costs more than $1, the only thing you have to lose is clutter!