Industry Insights

10 Storage Solutions to Organise Your Home Before School Holidays

Written by Bettina Diaz | Oct 23, 2025 5:45:00 AM

School holidays are just around the corner, and if you’re a parent, you know exactly what that means—chaos. Between the kids being home all day, toys multiplying in every corner, and the never-ending mess from craft projects or beach trips, the house can quickly turn into a disaster zone.

But there’s good news: with a few smart storage solutions and a little help from professional tradies, you can get your home organised before the madness begins. Whether you’re in a cosy apartment or a sprawling family home, these ideas will help you reclaim your space—and your sanity.

1. Start with a Declutter

Before you even think about new storage, start by decluttering. Go room by room and sort through the stuff you don’t need anymore—old clothes, unused toys, half-broken gadgets, school papers from three years ago (we all have them).

Here’s a trick: use the “keep, donate, toss” method. Anything that hasn’t been used in a year probably doesn’t deserve space in your cupboards.

If the job feels too big to tackle alone, you can always hire a handyman or rubbish removal expert through ServiceSeeking.com.au to help clear the clutter quickly. Many tradies even offer same-day services, which can save you precious time before the holidays hit.

2. Maximise Hidden Spaces

You’d be surprised how many spots in your home can double as storage if used creatively. Under-stair drawers, built-in shelving, and hidden cabinets under benches or beds are lifesavers for growing families.

A carpenter or cabinetmaker can help custom-design clever storage that fits your space perfectly—think pull-out drawers for shoes or built-in shelves that blend seamlessly with your interior. Not only does this keep clutter out of sight, but it also adds value and style to your home.

Pro tip: go vertical. Install tall shelving units in the laundry or garage to make use of all that headroom. Just make sure everything heavy stays on the lower shelves for safety.

3. Create a “Drop Zone” for Everyday Items

When the school holidays start, the front door becomes a hotspot for chaos—bags, shoes, hats, and sports gear everywhere. To prevent this, create a dedicated entryway drop zone.

It doesn’t need to be fancy. A simple bench with baskets underneath and a few wall hooks for bags can make a world of difference. Label baskets with each family member’s name to keep things organised.

If you’re short on space, a handyman can install wall-mounted hooks or small shelves to suit your home’s layout. It’s a small upgrade that delivers big returns in daily convenience.

4. Give the Kids Their Own Storage Stations

Want to keep your sanity during the holidays? Get the kids involved in organising their own stuff. Give them storage tubs or drawers for toys, art supplies, and books—and label everything clearly.

If your kids share a room, consider installing custom built-in wardrobes or shelving. A carpenter or joiner can design something practical that keeps each child’s belongings separate and easy to find. It’s a great way to teach kids responsibility while keeping clutter under control.

For younger kids, opt for open bins and low shelves so they can easily pack away their own toys—one less chore for you!

5. Make the Most of Your Garage

The garage often becomes the “catch-all” space—bikes, tools, beach gear, and random boxes all competing for room. Before the school holidays, it’s worth transforming your garage into an organised zone.

Start with sturdy shelving units or overhead racks for seasonal gear. Wall hooks and pegboards are brilliant for hanging tools or sports equipment. If you’ve got bulky items like surfboards or scooters, a handyman or garage storage specialist can install racks or ceiling mounts to free up floor space.

A well-organised garage not only looks better—it also saves you time hunting for things when you’re packing for day trips or family holidays.

6. Rethink the Laundry

Laundry rooms tend to be small, but they’re one of the hardest-working areas of any home—especially with kids around. Add storage wherever possible: overhead cupboards, slimline shelves, or pull-out hampers to sort clothes easily.

A cabinet maker can create a custom laundry setup that suits your family’s needs—like fold-out ironing boards or hidden drying racks. This makes the space more efficient and enjoyable to use (because, let’s face it, laundry isn’t anyone’s favourite task).

7. Organise the Outdoor Area

Summer holidays mean barbecues, pool days, and kids running in and out all day. Outdoor clutter—like garden tools, pool toys, and outdoor cushions—can quickly pile up.

Consider built-in storage benches for pool gear or shed shelving to keep everything tidy. A landscaper or carpenter can help design outdoor storage that’s both practical and weather-resistant.

You’ll be thankful when your backyard looks clean and inviting for those spontaneous family get-togethers.

8. Use Multi-Functional Furniture

If space is limited, furniture with hidden storage is your best friend. Think ottomans with lift-up lids, beds with drawers underneath, or coffee tables that double as toy boxes.

Many handymen or furniture assemblers on ServiceSeeking.com.au can help set up or modify furniture to suit your space. Small changes like these can make a huge difference to your home’s functionality, especially when the kids are home 24/7.

9. Set Up a Craft or Homework Station

The school holidays are the perfect time to set up a creative zone. A dedicated craft or homework area helps keep mess (and glitter) contained to one spot.

Install floating shelves or cubbies to hold supplies, and make sure there’s good lighting and comfy seating. A carpenter or handyman can help you mount desks or storage units safely—especially important if you’re using heavier materials.

10. Plan Ahead for a Smooth Holiday

The biggest key to staying organised is planning ahead. Do a walk-through of your home and identify problem areas—like overflowing wardrobes, messy play areas, or that cupboard you’re scared to open.

Once you’ve got a list, you can easily post a job on ServiceSeeking.com.au and get quotes from trusted tradies in your area. Whether you need a carpenter to build storage, a cleaner to help reset the house, or a handyman to install shelving, you’ll find professionals ready to help before the school holidays start.

Final Thoughts

A well-organised home makes the school holidays so much easier. You’ll spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying the break with your family.

By investing in smart storage now—and getting a few skilled tradies to lend a hand—you can create a calm, clutter-free home that’s ready for whatever the holidays bring.

So before the kids are home full-time, jump onto ServiceSeeking.com.au and book the tradies you need to help get your home in order. A few simple upgrades now can save you weeks of frustration later—and help you start the holidays feeling relaxed, not overwhelmed.