Storing Non-Essential Items

Whilst a filing cabinet or other system is a good idea for important documents that you need to keep safe and secure, there are many other less-important items such as catalogues, takeaway menus and coupons that you may simply need to keep handy.

Addresses and Phone Numbers

Even if you store addresses electronically, you might find it useful to have a card index box or small indexed ring binder of contact details near the phone. List emergency numbers - plumber, vehicle rescue, family contacts - on the front, in case someone else has to phone.

Coupons, Special Offers and Affinity Card Discounts

Clip together and keep in your wallet, so they don't get left behind when you need to use them.

Magazines and Mail-Order Catalogues

Keep in cardboard holders, which sit on a shelf. Throw out a magazine whenever you put a new one in.

Other Items

Pin details of sports clubs, medical/ dental surgery hours, takeaway menus, and so on to a small noticeboard, or put together in bulldog clips and hang from hooks under a shelf.

Don't buy storage containers unless you are clear about how you plan to use them - otherwise they will merely create more clutter.