Inside ToteSavvy

6 Ways to Use the Cooler Pocket

Inside ToteSavvy

6 Ways to Use the Cooler Pocket

by ToteSavvy Team on Jul 26, 2021
One of our favorite features exclusive to ToteSavvy Deluxe is the insulated cooler pocket. It's the perfect pocket for storing cold beverages (like a few cans of sparkling water), a lunch, or even bottles. The double-wide pocket zips closed to keep its contents nice and cool throughout the day. We recommend using a small ice pack along with your items for best results.  Ready to put your cooler pocket to use? Continue reading below to learn our 6 favorite things to pack inside this unique pocket.    1. Four Cans of La Croix (or other cold beverage) 2. Sippy Cup and Snack Tower 3. Lunch Inside Large Lunchbot Trio 4. Three Bottles 5. Yogurt, Cheese, and Other Perishable Snacks 6. Medium Lunchbot with snacks and a La Croix    
How to Clean Your ToteSavvy

Inside ToteSavvy

How to Clean Your ToteSavvy

by ToteSavvy Team on Jul 12, 2021
Once you start using your ToteSavvy you'll want to keep it in top shape by following a few of these simple guidelines. Though our inserts may not be machine washable, they're easy to clean and take care of!  Quick Cleaning Tips Use a damp cloth or wet wipe to wipe down the outside of your ToteSavvy and most touched areas to keep it from discoloring. If you give it a quick once-over weekly, your insert will stay looking new for much longer Once a month take everything out of your ToteSavvy and shake out any excess debris like crackers or crumbs that may have collected. This is a great time to give it a wipe down all over.  Deep Cleaning A magic eraser is great for removing marks and other stains Clean up any liquid spills right away. Wipe away any extra liquid with a damp cloth or disinfectant wipe. Sprinkling baking soda on the area and letting it dry in the sun can help keep odors from developing.    Never put your ToteSavvy in the washing machine or soak it in water. This will break down the inner material and destroy your insert.          
How to Pack for Summer

Inside ToteSavvy

How to Pack for Summer

by Lauren Kutting on Jul 05, 2021
As the weather warms, I always find myself taking my kids on little adventures to the park, pool, or somewhere else outdoors to burn some energy and soak in the sun. A lot of these trips are spur-of-the-moment, making it crucial that I have a well-packed bag for wherever we’re heading. Below you’ll find my list of essentials to keep inside your ToteSavvy so you’re ready for anything. You can easily adapt the list depending on the age of your child and swap pull-ups for diapers or leave them out altogether. THE LIST • Water bottle / canned beverage (for yourself) • Sippy cup / bottle • Protein bars / crackers / misc. snacks • Sunscreen lotion (love Think Baby!) • Sunscreen face stick  • Hat • Change of clothing (including underwear if your child is potty trained) • Wet bag • Wet wipes • Diapers / Pull-ups • Hand sanitizer • Hand / body lotion • Lip balm with SPF  • First aid kit (small size) • Makeup     Alright, let’s break this list down. The sippy cup, water and/or other beverage are pretty crucial as it starts to get hot. My kids are always thirsty so I like packing them a big water bottle. Same goes for me. I like having water on-hand and sparkling water (La Croix!) as a refreshing treat. There’s room for a canned drink inside the insulated pocket or the cooler pocket (ToteSavvy Deluxe only). If you’re using Deluxe you can also fit a medium size Lunchbots bento alongside the sparkling water. I pack my Lunchbots full of trail mix, fruit, and even a cut sandwich to keep my little ones full. Sunscreen is always in my bag and I like to carry lotion and a face stick. My go-to brands for sunscreen are Think Baby and Bare Republic. I only trust brands that use Zinc as their main ingredient for blocking UVA and UVB rays. A hat is another great item to have packed, especially ones made from fabric and lay flat.  A change of clothing is a big necessity for Spring and Summer. You never know when you’ll find a fun fountain to play in or get caught in the sprinklers. Luckily summer clothing is very light and thin so I can pack 3 outfits inside one pocket without an issue. PRO TIP: Choose something all-in-one like a romper or dress. My favorite romper to pack in my bag is by Rags. A lot of the styles are unisex and the size range is great. All 3 of my kids can wear these rompers and look super cool. I also pack a wet bag to contain wet/dirty clothing. I love the Portfolio bag by Logan and Lenora. The rest of my list if pretty basic. If your child is in diapers or Pull-ups be sure to pack those along with wet wipes. I carry wet wipes even though my kids are done with diapers because I use them to clean dirty hands and everything else. Me4Kidz makes a great first aid kit that fits nicely inside ToteSavvy or any bag. I’ve also made my own kit using a small pouch and filling it with bandaids, ointment, and medical wipes. That’s the list! It may seem like a lot but once it’s all packed up inside ToteSavvy it’s actually not overwhelming. Check out our list of ToteSavvy-approved handbags to find your perfect tote for summer!        We may earn a small commission from sales for the products linked in this post. No products were sponsored. All opinions are our own.
What's in my Travel Organizer

Inside ToteSavvy

What's in my Travel Organizer

by Mackenzie Kay on Jun 14, 2021
Hey y’all! I’m Sarah Eika Burke, dancer/choreographer based in NYC, and a mama to my baby boy Jack! Running from teaching classes to rehearsals, I always needed everything in my bag to be organized from clothes & shoes to cords & chargers. So naturally I started using ToteSavvy’s Travel Organizer the moment I became a mom! This organizer fits all of Jack’s things not only for weekend getaways, but also for the daily bouncing around.   Jack just turned 1 and we decided to hit the beach for a week to celebrate his first birthday (and the anniversary of my birthing day)! The travel organizer was perfect for packing beach essentials that could easily hang from a beach chair or umbrella for quick access. MY PACKING LIST Aveeno Baby Sunscreen Baby & Mommy Sunglasses (Babiators & Velvet Eyewear) Durio Reversible UPF 50+ Bucket Hat Extra Set of Cat & Jack SPF Swimwear (never know!) Extra Set of Clothes - especially for the days we would go straight to dinner afterwards (Brooklyn Cloth & Cocomoon) Pottery Barn Baby Hooded Beach Towel Lightweight Swaddle (for impromptu naps on the beach) Diaper Changing Essentials       THE BEST PART This organizer looks slim, but I promise it holds everything but the kitchen sink! There are also sections that zip up to keep things as sand-free as possible. Let’s be real though … mess is inevitable around a baby/toddler. Luckily, the fabric is super easy to wipe clean! For easy access, we would hang this from the umbrella or the back of my chair. And now that Jack is standing and starting to walk, it was fun to watch him waddle over to pick out items and help me put things back. Overall, this was a huge help for getting Jack’s things all in one place! I know I didn’t include any snacks in the organizer … that’s because there was an entirely different bag just for food & water because mama LOVES to eat too ;)   
Traveling with ToteSavvy

Inside ToteSavvy

Traveling with ToteSavvy

by Lauren Kutting on Jun 09, 2021
After a year of staying close to home, our family is ready for a change of scenery and a much needed vacation. As the founder of a company geared around organization, I take a lot of pride in packing my family's things in the most organized way possible. My carry-on bag always holds a ToteSavvy with a narrowed list of my top essentials, and my kids' outfits are neatly stored inside their own ToteSavvy Travel (our newly launched travel clothing organizer).  I've learned a few tricks over the years to help make our trips run smoothly––all of which I'm delighted to share with you. Let's break it down to show you how an expert organizer packs for a family trip.  MY CARRY ON PACKING LIST Chargers (phone, watch, laptop) iPad + headphones  Phone, wallet, keys Pens + notebook Makeup bag with (lip balm, rosewater spray, sunscreen, hand cream, mascara, cream blush, hair ties) Small jewelry case  Compact first aid kit Gum  Snack bars Water bottle Alcohol wipes (non-toxic for skin but also kills every germ) Extra masks (for whole family) KIDS CARRY ON PACKING LIST iPad + headphones Applesauce squeeze pouches + snack bars  Water bottle Alcohol hand wipes  Coloring book + stickers + pens Magnetic games New chapter book series (oldest is at this stage 🙌) Extra outfit Lovey or stuffed animal MiFold booster seat PACKING TIPS Let them carry their own stuff. Each kid carries their own backpack as a carry on. This trip they also each have a small rolling suitcase with all of their clothing and accessories inside. My kids have been carrying their own backpacks since the age of 2. Even if the backpack gets clipped on a stroller through the airport, it's still easier on the plane for them to have their own bag filled with snacks and games. Now that the youngest two are six, there's no stroller and they'll carry it all themselves.  A clothing organizer will make your trip so much easier. Planning kid outfits for a trip tends to be the easiest task when packing. The chaos that ensues every morning of your trip, however, is not. Using a clothing organizer will allow you to pack one outfit per pocket (I'm talking pants, top, socks, underwear/diaper) all rolled up into an easy-to-grab package for your little one. Instead of rummaging through your suitcase, they'll grab an outfit and leave the rest perfectly organized for another day.  Don't overpack. This tip is something I constantly struggle with because I love to have lots of options. With that said it's much easier to pack when you narrow your list to a capsule collection of items that all mix and match together. You likely won't wear that 5th pair of shoes anyway. This tip works for kids clothing too! Instead of the capsule idea, I pack one outfit per day (or just 7 outfits if we're staying longer than a week but have access to a washing machine). A week's worth of clothing is plenty! Bring a laundry bag. When clothes are dirty, throw then inside your laundry bag instead of your suitcase or the hotel room floor. This will give you a clear picture of what outfits are still usable and which are not. If you're using ToteSavvy Travel for your kids, place the dirty clothes back into the pocket they came from to keep everything contained. Keep it simple and keep it organized for a seamless getaway!
What's Inside My Change Kit: Founder Edition

Inside ToteSavvy

What's Inside My Change Kit: Founder Edition

by Lauren Kutting on Mar 29, 2021
and why I'm loving this minimalist setup Hi 👋. I'm Lauren, founder of ToteSavvy, and mom of three. My littles may not be babies anymore but that doesn't mean I don't use ToteSavvy products every day to keep my on-the-go life ultra organized. With the launch of our new Change Kit, I've LOVED trading my tote for this minimalist crossbody.  Generally, my trips out of the house are quick so I don't need to carry a lot with me. I like to keep it simple with the few necessities that I know I'll need, without the extras that weigh me down. The new Crossbody Change Kit is the perfect bag for achieving just that.  MY PACKING LIST alcohol wet wipes  disposable kid size masks cloth adult mask hand sanitizer lip balm hair tie sunglasses small card wallet keys phone THE BEST PART Our Crossbody Change Kit was designed to give you easy access to wet wipes by just flipping open the flap. This comes in so handy when you're carrying your baby and only have one free hand. Though I'm past this stage of motherhood, I can't help but adore this feature during a time when having sanitizing wipes at your disposal is so crucial. From wiping down the grocery store cart to giving that park bench a quick once-over, this feature helps me feel extra confident in my outings away from home.  Because the Crossbody Change Kit is made from a wipeable nylon material, the entire bag can be wiped with disinfectant wipes as well. I don't have to worry about ruining my nice leather bags which is a huge plus.    Shop our new style using the link below!  Shop Crossbody Change Kit  
5 things to consider when you’re organizing your kids’ playroom

Inside ToteSavvy

5 things to consider when you’re organizing your kids’ playroom

by ToteSavvy Team on Feb 01, 2021
Guest post by Tasha Saavedra, Aspire Organizing If you’re a parent, then you know that organizing your kids’ toys is not a “do it once and it’s done” kind of task. Between the constant influx of toys, their changing interests and growing developmental needs - it can almost feel like a never ending task. On top of that, you may find toys strewn all about your home without a good system in place to manage it all.  As the owner and lead professional organizer at Aspire Organizing as well as a mother of two young girls, I can totally empathize with you! The good news is that there are ways you can set up your playroom or toy area that will make this whole process just a little bit easier. So if you’re ready to start organizing your kids toys, here are some of the most important things to consider: What toys do you want within their reach vs out of reach? Carefully consider your child’s maturity, how messy the toy is and if you have any other younger children who it may not be appropriate for. This may be especially true for certain art supplies or ones that have small pieces. Utilize spaces that are higher up or stored things away in a closet if you don’t want them reaching for them without your approval. Put things at eye level and in easy to access bins that you want to encourage your kids to play with. Does your kid need to be able to see it in order to play with it? For some kids, if they can’t see the toy they simply won’t play with it. A true “out of sight, out of mind” mentality. If this is your kid, then use acrylic, clear plastic, or frosted bins to store their toys. This is often true for smaller children who are less likely to read the labels on bins. But if your child doesn’t need to see it to play with it, then consider if hiding the visual clutter will bring you more peace of mind. If that is the case, then go for a cute solid or woven bin. How will you contain small pieces and sets? It’s pretty hard to have a streamlined and organized playroom without the right toy storage and there are plenty of great furniture options out there - cube systems being one of our favorites! But many children's toys, games and puzzles have pieces that need to be stored together or as we like to call it “micro-organized.”  Think barbie clothes, lego sets, craft kits, game pieces etc. Two easy solutions include mesh vinyl zippered bags or small hinged clear boxes. These boxes work well from amazon, as do these. As for the zippered vinyl mesh bags, these are some of our favorites and this variety pack is very helpful, too! We ALWAYS keep zippered bags on hand at all times both on the job and in our own homes. There are an endless number of possibilities to use them! But before you buy anything always measure what you need to store! Will you rotate toys or organize them all? Some families find that setting up a toy rotation system in their home works well for their children. With toy rotations, you group your children’s toys into a couple sets and only make available one set of toys at a time. Then when you find your kids getting bored by their toys or after a pre-determined amount of time, you swap them out for the ones stored away. If you’d like to give this a try, be sure that you have the additional space to store toys, document what you’ve stored away (snap a pic or 2!) and have a calendar reminder set up to make the swap. Toy rotation isn’t for every parent or kid so give it a try if it sounds intriguing, but it’s okay if it is not your cup of tea. How will you categorize and label? Can your kids read? Will they read a bin label? Both are important questions to ask! No matter what you do - don’t skip out on labeling the zones you’ve created or all of your work will eventually be for nothing.  Use the broadest categories possible that are still specific enough to your kids needs.  Then either include a picture on the bin, a label from a label maker or if you’re feeling fancy order some cute custom vinyl labels from etsy and put them on a bin clip. This will save you, your kids and other caretakers so much trouble when it comes time to clean up. And it will make the system maintainable in the long term. Remember, you will need to update your labels when your kids’ needs change! What does your kid actually play with and what can you get rid of now? There is no way I could wrap this up without making a shameless plug to declutter and simplify your toy collection! There are countless articles out there summarizing the findings of studies which have shown that the fewer toys your child has, the more likely they will play with them AND the play will be higher quality. So go ahead, grab a box or two, label it “donations” and walk through your home right now to find some of those items. I promise you that they’re hiding (or in plain sight) somewhere! Be ruthless - it’s okay, you’ll thank yourself later. And remember, you’re the gatekeeper of your home and what enters it so be thoughtful about what you choose to add to your kid’s toy collection in the future!  If you’re looking for more organizing tips, be sure to follow us on Instagram and our other social platforms. Our DMs are always open and we’re here to help parents make life just a little bit easier!
easy ways to declutter fast

Inside ToteSavvy

3 Easy Ways to Declutter Today

by Lauren Kutting on Jan 17, 2021
The new year is here and we can't help but think about a fresh start for the year ahead. Last year wasn't what any of us expected (to say the least!) but that doesn't mean we can't look forward with a little optimism and a plan to make it truly the best year yet. One of the best ways to feel renewed and refreshed is to declutter. Whether it be cleaning out your home, office, car or even your mind, a few easy steps to bring order to your things will dramatically impact your mood and boost productivity. Keep reading to learn 3 easy ways to declutter today!    1. Clean Out Your Bag Your handbag is your home away from home and the most important item you carry when on-the-go. Our new world requires being prepared with a face mask, hand sanitizer, and anything else needed to keep us safe on the go. Keeping those items clean and organized within your daily bag is paramount now more than ever.  Utilize ToteSavvy bag organizers to keep your essentials safely tucked away yet accessible in an instant. You can designate one pocket for clean masks and another (or zip bag) for dirty ones. You can store your other essentials safely inside the remaining pockets.  Take the time (10 minutes max!) to dump everything out of your bag, throw away the trash, and reorganize within your ToteSavvy organizer. We promise this small task will feel incredible when you're on-the-go and need to quickly reach for an essential.  The end result not only looks pretty, it will keep you feeling together throughout your day.  Shop Bag Organizers   2. Declutter Your Living Area A home with kids is undoubtably a home that's messy 90% of the day. We're not here to judge (who has the time to tidy all the time??) but we do have a simple hack to help keep the clutter at bay. It takes less than 5 minutes every day and will keep you on track throughout the week so weekends can be spent enjoying family time instead of organizing.  Here's the trick. Purchase a cute bin (like this one by Pehr or this one from Target) to leave in your main living area like your kitchen or family room. Any time you walk through and see an item that's not put away (like a toy or clean clothing item) quickly pop it in the bin to keep your floors and counters clear. At the end of the day, take 5 minutes to find a home for everything in the bin. If the item doesn't have a home then you may not need it and can choose to donate or recycle the item.  If your home is multi-level, we suggest keeping one bin on the stairs for items that need to be put away upstairs!    3. Plan Outfits In Advance A stress-free morning really sets the tone for a happy and productive day. One of the best ways to streamline your morning is to plan your child's outfits in advance so they can quickly grab and go. This takes no more than 10 minutes on a Sunday to plan for the whole week ahead.  Our travel organizer is perfect for keeping prepped outfits grouped together and and easily accessible for young children so they can see each outfit and easily dress themselves. By allowing them to "select" their outfit in the AM you'll encourage their independent nature while keeping their look put-together. Plus, you'll put a stop to the morning power struggle instantly by using this little trick!    Pro tip! Roll each outfit together before placing inside its own pocket.  Shop Outfit Organizer    
The Organization Edit

Inside ToteSavvy

The Organization Edit

by Kara Neff on Jan 10, 2021
New year, new outlook, new order.  If you’ve been with us for a minute, it’s probably become self-evident that we are obsessed with organization. We like to think of it as our dirty little secret. In reality, (and not so ironically), it’s our especially orderly and unblemished code for everyday.  This is the piece of us that thrives with fresh starts, so we’re hopeful as we look towards a bright new year. For us, this means a chance at self-reflection, as well as a special time to reevaluate exactly how we’re living. The day to day makes such a difference in the big picture--be it a room where everything has a place, a closet with perfectly labeled bins, or a bag with a pocket for everything. And that’s the secret sauce to living well.  If you think about your spaces as a reflection of your mind, you’ll quickly start to realize the importance of organization--and the effects it has on your health. A messy room, for instance, might be a surefire sign of internal stressors. But we’re here to fix that. Because once you start to organize your life, you’ll start to feel the benefits. What better time than the new year to do exactly that? Here are all the stylish ToteSavvy pieces that make organization not only simple, but naturally intuitive.  ToteSavvy Bag Organizers ToteSavvy | Keep your diaper bag, work bag, or day bag precisely organized with our convenient bag inserts. An organized bag helps streamline your day, eliminating those stressful moments before you leave the house (you know the line: “where are my keys?!”). We’ve all gotten used to staying home, and keeping organized makes every outing easier.  Clothing Organizer Travel Organizer | It’s not just for travel. Streamline your morning routine by planning weekly outfits in advance. It helps to build confidence in toddlers by letting them select their own outfit for the day, while taking away the stress of getting dressed.    Crossbody Meets Change Kit Crossbody Change Kit | *Coming back in March!* Lightweight and easy to carry, our change kit is the perfect mini bag for keeping “just the essentials” always on-hand. Easy, effortless access to wipes just under the flap makes this bag an absolute must-have--not to mention the easiest way to keep your hands clean when out and about (without digging through your bag).  Don’t let a lack of organization get in the way of your plans for a bright, new year ahead. Usher in 2021 with the style-first essentials that transform your outlook from messy to functional--bonus points for fashion. Shop our full collection here! 
How to Road Trip with ToteSavvy

Inside ToteSavvy

How to Road Trip with ToteSavvy

by Kara Neff on Nov 02, 2020
The ins and outs of organized travel with the essentials to get you through every trip!  Preparedness, health, and safety are always top of mind, but now more than ever before they are paramount. As restrictions ease up and some morsels of normalcy are slowly reinstated, we’re seeking out real-life escapes when and where we--safely--can. What that currently looks like: road trips! Here’s the best part about taking road trips--the travel essentials that keep us organized on-the-go. Ready to make them your go-to, too? Keep reading for all the ways we love them!  Travel Organizer  Our travel organizer was made for road trips and long, worldly hauls, and we consciously-crafted every minute detail to make it the perfect fit for any and every adventure. Featuring 6 generously sized pockets, you can mindfully pack individual outfits, allowing you to easily grab at your convenience--and then return once dirty (keeping dirty clothes separate from clean ones). We added extra storage pockets for loose items, and a hook for the convenience of hanging. The result: seriously organized travel days with a little less chaos. And, frankly, everyone needs a little of that lately. Crossbody Change Kit  The perfect road trip companion, our changing kit lets you keep everything close (and by close we mean close--this bag sits right where you need it with an adjustable strap). But that’s only the start, because we added a thoughtful wipe window that lives directly under the bag’s front flap. Now, diapers and wipes are right within reach, no matter where you are. And that aforementioned trio of hand sanitizer, masks, moisturizer? They’re there too, neatly organized within the smart dividers inside that keep everything snug and easy-to-grab. Genius? We think so.    Travel may not be our top priority now, but our sanity certainly is. And sometimes, travel can be just the thing we need to escape reality. For keeping things in check? We’ve got some bags for that. Shop the full collection of our travel essentials here.   
Packing ToteSavvy Travel for Easy Weekday Mornings

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Packing ToteSavvy Travel for Easy Weekday Mornings

by Lauren Kutting on Oct 19, 2020
So you stay sane while your little one gains independence. Weekday mornings can be hectic––to say the least. Between getting your family dressed, preparing breakfast, and taking that split second for yourself, it’s 9 am in the blink of an eye. Our mission at ToteSavvy is to create products that make your life easier, which of course includes your morning routine. While our tote inserts keep your favorite bag precisely organized, ToteSavvy Travel, is the perfect solution to keeping your morning stress-free whether you’re on a family trip or in the comfort of your own home.  With six individual pockets and two transparent pouches, ToteSavvy Travel seamlessly allows you to organize nearly a week’s worth of outfits in advance, making getting dressed in the morning a breeze. As a bonus, toddlers can work on their independence within a structured framework. They are able to select an outfit from a pocket and have the opportunity to choose which they’d like to wear that day. This little bit of independence to get dressed and select their favorite style will help build confidence while keeping tantrums over what to wear at a minimum.   HOW TO PREPARE FOR YOUR WEEK 1. Select 5 outfits for your child and lay them out in front of you. 2. Layer the components of each outfit on top of each other and roll them together to form one outfit roll. 3. Place each outfit inside one of the 6 mesh pockets. 4. Since only 5 pockets will be filled, use the 6th mesh pocket for socks, underwear, or PullUps. 5. The 2 clear pockets on the bottom of the organizer can be used for sunglasses, hair bows, and other small accessories. 6. Once the organizer is packed, hang it inside a closet, on a doorknob, or really anywhere that’s convenient for you and your toddler. It’s amazing to see how this small amount of preparation can contribute to streamlining your morning routine. With everything we have to worry about these days, it will be nice to check one thing off your list before you even wake up ;)  
how to pack the travel organizer

Inside ToteSavvy

The Tips + Tricks for Packing ToteSavvy’s New Travel Organizer

by Kara Neff on Oct 12, 2020
Your newest travel accessory was meant for every adventure. Here’s how to pack it.   Our travel kit was born out of necessity when ToteSavvy founder, Lauren, realized that nothing like it existed. And with the need to save space once at her destination, but to keep efficient while on-the-go, she manifested a beautiful travel accessory that’s as stylish as it is functional. In every way utilitarian, the new ToteSavvy Travel Kit won’t just keep you organized, it will make every leg of your journey perfectly effortless. Here’s just how to do it:  ROLL OUT One of the biggest benefits of the Travel Kit: the organization factor. You can plan outfits ahead of time with the flexibility to compactly roll each up--including socks and underwear--and stash them into each of the the convenient mesh pockets.    SMALL WORLD  A seriously thoughtful design means that we didn’t overlook the small stuff. Because in a world with kids, the small stuff is often exactly what you can’t forget. Store things like hair clips, headbands, bow ties, tiny nail clippers, and more in the smaller, clear pockets.   KEEP IT HANGIN'  The Travel organizer allows for items like sweaters, dresses, and jackets to hang neatly in its designated garment bag section. Hard yes to anything arriving wrinkle-free.  HANG OUT The Travel Organizer fits perfectly over the inside of a closet or over the door, so that you never get hung up on the small stuff.  TALK DIRTY TO ME  After your outfits have been worn, you can pack them right back up in the pockets you brought them in. Separating them from the rest of your items means that germs, dirt, and more stay a safe distance away from the things you need to keep clean (even if you’re away for a full week).  Keeping organized while traveling is important to every mom. It eases the already inherent stresses of leaving your comfort zone, and the place that you’ve come to know better than the back of your hand. But a trustworthy product that’s been carefully scrutinized by a fellow mom? We’re really not sure it gets any better than that.   
Our Top Family Road Trip Hacks

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Our Top Family Road Trip Hacks

by Kara Neff on Sep 28, 2020
Exploration is such a crucial piece of learning about the world and ourselves. Which is just one reason amid a growing list that has left us dismayed by the current state of the planet. Travel, though a luxury, is an opportunity we take at any given chance to learn, to see, to understand. And without it, we haven’t felt entirely whole.   Cooped up indoors and restricted from the greater world outside our doors has made us all the more eager to travel the way we used to. But hesitant to jump on a plane, we’ve decided to opt for new modes of exploration. Enter: the road trip, our chosen mode of travel in 2020. It’s the more cost-effective way we’re seeing the world, as safely as possible, and on our own terms. Here are the travel hacks we’ve learned thus far. They might inspire you to pack a few bags and jump behind the wheel, too.  Little Comforts   Use suction window shades to keep sun out of little eyes Grab a backseat air mattress for longer stops when someone wants to nap (adults included) Come prepared with a car sick kit (think multiple Tupperware containers and small trash bag liners to contain any potential messes) plus disinfectant wipes and paper towels for extra clean-up Essential Entertainment Use a backseat caddy for toys and snacks  Keep a travel binder filled with art supplies and paper, and put pages in plastic sheets for dry erase fun Use shower caddy cups that suction to window for toys and other fun little things Create a family scavenger hunt Bites and Beverages Pack cupcake liners, poke popsicle sticks through the middle and catch drips to keep little hands clean Bring dollar store mesh bins for easy eating in the backseat  For toddlers, tie a string to their sippy cup so they can reel it back in if dropped And, Adults   Keep a bag, like our Change Kit, ready for quick trips out of the car. There’s room for a mask, alcohol wipes, lip balm, a small wallet, keys, and your phone. Read more about how to pack here. Bring a pillow, eye mask, and earplugs for the non-driver to get some sleep between driving shifts Bring a mini, hand-held vacuum to help keep the car crumb-free  And just in case you’re looking for the perfect tool for organizing your little one’s outfits on the road, stay tuned for a brand new product launching next week! 
ToteSavvy’s Take on the Crossbody––And Everything To Pack Inside

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ToteSavvy’s Take on the Crossbody––And Everything To Pack Inside

by Kara Neff on Sep 07, 2020
Meet the versatile crossbody bag that doesn’t require a baby to wear.  If you’ve been around for a while, you know we love a good bag. A durable tote or a classic handbag are essential to how we function not just as mothers, but as women. When efficiently organized, bags keep our lives in perfect working order. It’s for this exact reason that ToteSavvy has been the perfect complement to our fast-paced lifestyles. And when we think of our inherently busy schedules, albeit much slower now, we always take into consideration the practicality and utility of our pieces. Enter: ToteSavvy’s iteration of the classic crossbody bag that’s as essential to motherhood as it is to womanhood on the whole.  Not all bags were created equal, and our ToteSavvy Change Kit goes a level above. You don’t need a baby to enjoy its intrinsic values, like easily accessible pockets and interiors, or the thoughtful window panel for always on-hand disinfectant wipes and masks, and the adjustable cross-body straps that has go-anywhere (and everywhere) vibes. Style shouldn’t have to be a carefully thought-through affair all the time, and the pieces that make it easy to balance fashion and function are the double-duty aesthetic powerhouses that always work overtime.  Conceiving this bag got us thinking about consciously-crafted design, and how the perfect bag had to live up to our every expectation. Here’s what our packing checklist currently looks like:  ✅  Mask - Your new daily essential.  ✅  Disinfectant wipes - Always on-hand, now more than ever before.  ✅  Lip gloss - No one can see your lips, but hydrated they remain.  ✅  Cell phone - Perfectly-sized for our back exterior slit pocket.  ✅  Wallet - Ready to pay for your iced latte, and slips right back inside our divided interior pockets.  ✅  Hair ties - For hot days and fly-aways, keep this tucked right inside your bag.  ✅  Keys - Stashed neatly inside our roomy interior pocket (without ever getting lost).  Wherever the day takes you, just remember The ToteSavvy Change Kit is a statement bag first. What you put in it? That’s up to you!     
Change Kit + Mini = The Perfect Pair

Inside ToteSavvy

Change Kit + Mini = The Perfect Pair

by Lauren Kutting on Aug 24, 2020
With the launch of our new Change Kit, we're eager to show you just how versatile and helpful it can be. It's lightweight and compact, making it easy to stash inside your favorite tote, wear as a crossbody bag, or both!  If you plan to pack it in your tote to use solely as a changing kit, we suggest pairing with ToteSavvy Mini for the ultimate diaper bag combo. Continue reading to discover how we use the MZ Wallace Metro tote (medium size) to create a lightweight, sleek, and functional diaper bag.  Both ToteSavvy Mini and the Change Kit are compact organizers that work well on their own, but depending on your needs, work even better together. When paired together, you gain more space in your tote in addition to a hands-free option for diaper changes.  How to Pack Your Organizer and Change Kit Start by packing the Change Kit with all of your diaper change essentials. Diapers (3-4) Wet wipes Diaper cream Changing mat (included with Change Kit) Your Change Kit will serve as your hands-free way to change a diaper when out and about with baby. Wear the kit crossbody so both hands are free to hold your little one close and safely change their diaper. Never worry about placing your bag on the floor of a public restroom or at the end of the changing table only to be kicked off by strong little legs. The cherry on top is quick access to wet wipes without taking them out of your kit.    Once your Change Kit is packed, move on to ToteSavvy Mini. This is where you'll want to pack the rest of your mom and baby essentials. We like to pack: Bottle and formula (if using) Bibs or burp cloth Pacifier Outfit change Toy or teether Hand cream Aquafor Lip balm Nose Frida (the best nasal aspirator) ToteSavvy Mini will stay inside your bag, organizing every other essential for baby. When it's time for a diaper change simply grab the Change Kit and head off without disturbing everything else inside your bag.  ToteSavvy Mini and the Change Kit work flawlessly together to give you the ultimate diaper bag. Easily swap bags or keep them inside your go-to tote to confidently take on your day with your sweet little one.       
Inside Our New Change Kit

Inside ToteSavvy

Inside Our New Change Kit

by Kara Neff on Aug 17, 2020
See what’s always in our ToteSavvy Change Kit for every stage and age.  We didn’t just make a changing kit to make your time on-the-go doable, we made a changing kit to make every step of the way effortless. Packing efficiently is the best way to start any adventure off on the right foot. It’s a way of managing expectations, of ensuring preparedness, and about creating a framework around your agenda. Because when you’re well-prepared, you’re less inclined to sweat the small stuff--even the unexpected, including everything from spit-up to spilt milk. So no matter your family’s age range, we’ve got you covered. See all the ways we pack our changing kit for newborns, infants, and toddlers too.  NEWBORNS + INFANTS This stage is when having the essentials close at all times is paramount. And to have the parenting system down, you’ll want to pack properly. That means keeping about 2-3 diapers packed snuggly inside the kit, alongside wet wipes, the diaper cream of your choice, plus a small rolled onesie or a few pacifiers. Stash your Change Kit inside any bag to use as a full service changing kit (featuring easy access to diapering essentials while wearing it crossbody), or wear on its own as the most compact and minimalist diaper bag you've ever used.      TODDLERS + SCHOOL AGE KIDS By the time you reach the toddler stage with your child, you’ve pretty much got a handle on things. And though your Change Kit packing rituals won’t change that much, you still want to be mindful of the must-haves. To that end, we like to pack our kits up with the toddler necessities, like one Pull-Up, wet wipes (think disinfectant or antimicrobial hand wipes), snack bars, and any small, easy-to-grab toys that you can toss their way in the blink of an eye.  Once the essentials are taken care of, there's still some room for your keys, wallet, and cell phone. We recommend removing the changing mat and using the outer pocket as a quick spot to stash your phone.  The beauty of the ToteSavvy Change Kit is that it’s an easy, compact solution for holding everything you need, when you need it, wherever you are. And we love it even more because it grows with your family.   
Your Packing List for Safe Outings

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Your Packing List for Safe Outings

by Lauren Kutting on Jun 22, 2020
Venturing out of the house these days is no easy task. Quick trips requiring just your wallet, phone, and keys are practically non-existent. As we learn how to safely be in public, especially when bringing children along, there are a few must-have items to ensure you won't be putting yourself at risk.  Now, more than ever, it's important to have a well-stocked bag––filled with the essentials you know you'll need (even for a quick trip outside). ToteSavvy comes in handy keeping your essentials organized and in place so you don't have to fumble through your bag looking for the hand sanitizer.  WHAT TO PACK FOR SAFE OUTINGS Cloth masks - for yourself and your children (assuming they're of age to wear a mask) Hand sanitizer - a new must for leaving the house. Don't forget!  Water bottles - bringing water with you will eliminate the need to buy a bottle of water or find a drinking fountain (which most likely has shut off for safety anyway) Snacks - another good thing to have on-hand to avoid going into a store if you don't need to Wet wipes - always handy, even though they don't disinfect. You could easily swap these for Clorox wipes for surfaces, too! Sunscreen - for those  just in case moments when you get caught in the sun. Lip balm - a must for anyone who hates the feeling of dry lips! Our "safe outing" packing list can be adapted based on your needs and the ages of your kids (if you have them). If you have an infant, add in diapers, a bottle, teethers, and any other item you find essential. If you're packing for just yourself, consider downsizing to ToteSavvy Mini if you feel you don't need so much room.    ToteSavvy is extra helpful in that each item has its own pocket. You can designate a pocket for your clean cloth masks and another for your used masks. After removing your masks to wash, simply wipe the pocket with a disinfectant wipe to ensure it's clean and ready for next time.  Looking for a bag to fit ToteSavvy? Take a look through our handbag recommendations perfect for our inserts.       
Tips to Getting Your Nursery Ready

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Tips to Getting Your Nursery Ready

by ToteSavvy Team on Jun 15, 2020
Getting your nursery set-up just right can be exciting, yet also overwhelming. We turned to organizational expert, Lisa Jacobs from Imagine it Done for her tips on setting up your space for your newest arrival just right! Whether you are a first-time parent or expecting another, getting ready for the baby's arrival will be a life-changing, exciting experience. With so many changes to internalize over the 9+ months of pregnancy, the tasks for preparation can be as daunting as it is thrilling. Aside from the health and wellness factors, there are logistic decisions to consider in creating the nursery; the layout, decor, and of course the essential tools. Selecting from the latest and greatest products to make this chapter in your life thrilling and peaceful can be potentially overwhelming.   We typically see that soon-to-be parents are quick to buy clothing and decorative accessories before they consider the space, the furniture, and essentials for the nursery. Here at Imagine it Done, we urge you to carefully review the layout of the room for the placement of the crib, changing table, glider, side table, lighting, shelves, and of course the closet or armoire. Once the space is ready you will be calmer and at peace as you prepare for your little one’s arrival. You will take comfort in knowing that you and your baby will have a functional, playful, and safe nursery.   At Imagine It Done, our clients rely on us to guide them through this thrilling chapter, from conception to delivery. We provide essential information including a detailed list of organizational tips, products, and a large dose of comfort. I am a mom of 3 children. I too understand the fears, joys, and rewards experienced, especially during the first few years of the baby's life. In fact, I am, 34 years later happily involved in their grown-up lives.  It is so important to never forget how quickly time passes. In making their first home safe, functional, and peaceful these rules of order will undoubtedly impact them for a lifetime. An organized space is an organized mind is an organized life! Here are some tried and true Imagine It Done tips and tricks for getting the nursery ready: Choose a crib that will grow with the baby and can be lowered as the baby gets more mobile.  Blackout shades are a must to ensure the baby's room is dark for daytime naps. If installed shades are too much of an investment, temporary blackout shades will do the trick.  Invest in a changing table that serves as a dresser as well. Make space on the tabletop next to the cushion for go-to baby changing supplies. Be smart in setting up the baby’s closet to maximize space for a growing child. Invest in Elfa system shelving and baskets. This is the perfect, cost-effective solution to maximize vertical space and accommodate all clothing plus the supplies. Always leave room among the sections of the closet for future clothes as the baby continues to grow! Invest in Baby hangers. This will streamline the overall look of the closet and maximize hanging space. Choose a hypoallergenic rug. This provides the perfect surface where the baby can crawl and play. Add floating shelves for books and photos instead of a bulky bookshelf. Choose a rocker/ glider that coordinates with your decor and make sure it is the proper size for the room. How to properly set up the changing table: Top Drawer: diapers, wipes, and extra essential supplies (creams, thermometer, nail clipper, brush, medicines, etc).  Middle Drawer: rolled casual/everyday baby clothes (onesies, PJs), bibs & burping cloths.  Bottom Drawer: folded linens, swaddles & blankets.  Keep diaper pails and hamper on the side of the changing table to easily discard diapers and clothing without leaving the baby's side. For more tips and tricks to organizing your space, be sure to check out Imagine it Done online and instagram!
5 Steps to Cleaning Out Your Handbag

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5 Steps to Cleaning Out Your Handbag

by Kara Neff on Jan 20, 2020
The quick and easy steps to keep you totally organized for every season and every occasion.  Our bags are our life source--they hold it all together for us and keep us looking the part, too. But they can become overwhelmingly busy quickly so that we find ourselves in disarray. Amidst a flurry of old receipts, gum wrappers, lost mints, lost keys, lost pacifiers, bribery candy, loose change, lost hair ties (are we seeing a theme here?), and that chapstick we thought we’d never find again, it’s all too easy to forget that our bags are our most trusted allies--and the thing that carries us through life.  Up ahead, read the step by step guide to get down to the bottom of true organizational bliss.  THE STEPS  1. Empty the full contents of your bag onto the floor, laying it all out in front of you. Throw away trash, old receipts, old candy, etc. (and reference the above list for anything else that could possibly be caught in the abyss). 2. Think about only what you truly need inside your bag. Make sure that what remains are items that will be used daily (or even weekly)--nothing else. 3. Spread your ToteSavvy organizer open on the floor in front of you. Then, begin placing items on top of the pockets to best plan where they'll go, seeing what fits most intuitively to your frequency of use or item size.  4. Once pockets are planned, place your items inside their respective pockets and close your ToteSavvy. Make sure bulkier items aren't across from one another. More on how to pack without bulkiness in this video.    5. Slide your organized ToteSavvy inside your bag and it's ready to go! Keep your handbag tidy year-round by always putting items away in their proper pocket, and doing a monthly check to remove any unnecessary items.    ToteSavvy doesn’t just let us keep our sense of self. Slipping it into our favorite bags is just a really amazing perk. The real magic happens when we put it to use, letting this workhorse bag organizer do all the heavy lifting for an accessory that looks good and feels better. So take this opportunity to finally sift through all those lost and buried treasures at the bottom of your bag. The result: an essentials-only bag and the quickest route to a full-on organization that promises to keep your year in perfect balance.
Top Tips to Get Your Home in Order in the New Year

Inside ToteSavvy

Top Tips to Get Your Home in Order in the New Year

by ToteSavvy Team on Jan 06, 2020
New Year’s is a professional organizer's favorite time of year. Here at Done & Done Home, we love any opportunity for a fresh start and a chance to set up systems that will benefit us in the coming months.If you’d like to jump on the resolution bandwagon and get your home in order, we have a few tips to get you started. One of the most important things to remember is that organizing is a process, not an event.  So here are some general rules that will help you stay on top of things. Never Leave A Room Empty-Handed Through the course of a day, many of the items in our homes get relocated. Whether it’s your morning coffee cup or your child’s bucket of blocks, things end up where they don’t belong. Make a habit that every time you leave a room, you grab something and put it back where it lives. The same thing applies to going up and down the stairs if you have more than one floor. It may not seem like a big deal, but a 5 minute tidy will keep the clutter at bay.   Watch What Comes In The Front Door With the holidays behind us, now is a good time to commit to intentional consumerism. The main reason our homes get cluttered and disorganized is that we all have too much stuff. We like to apply the “one in, one out” rule. If you can’t pass up on a new pair of heels, another pair you already own has to go. Home decor, perfume, clothes, pet toys…whatever the item may be…if a new thing comes in, an old one needs to go out.   Do A Seasonal Edit No matter how careful you are, there will be things in your home that you no longer want or need. The changing of the seasons is a great time to go through your possessions. For example, if Spring has arrived, it’s a great opportunity to go through your winter clothes. Weed out the sweaters and scarves you didn’t wear and put them in your donation bin. Do the same process in all the zones of your home such as your pantry, linen closets, and medicine cabinets.Organizing doesn’t have to be an overwhelming task. Stay on top of the chaos by doing a little every day, be intentional with your purchases and go through your possessions every few months. And if you need a jump start or some assistance, we’d be happy to offer our expertise! Learn more about Done & Done on their site or on  instagram!