How to Digitally Declutter: Organizing Photos, Documents, and Memories

Safeguarding your memories by keeping photos and important documents is wonderful. They can remind you of many emotional moments and wonderful people. However, like large antique furniture, these keepsakes are beautiful but take up too much space. You need to sort through all of these items before you can declutter without throwing away anything valuable. Luckily, it’s not hard to make your documents, photos, and videos last forever these days — all you need are a few digital backups. Yet, even digital files can become a disorganized mess. Soon enough, it can become hard to find a single photo in years’ worth of digital accumulation. Don’t worry, though. Just like digitization can make your physical space less cluttered, knowing how to digitally declutter can do the same for your computer.

Digitizing Old Photos and Documents

Physical photos are vintage, cool, and more emotional than digital files. However, that doesn’t mean they don’t have downsides. Realistically, like any paper document, they take up space. Also, they’re quite easy to damage, sometimes beyond repair. That’s why digitizing old documents and photos and learning how to digitally declutter is the right way to go. And if you decide to create a vintage album, you can always print new, high-quality copies of the original digitized photo.

Challenges You Might Come Across

There’s no downside to digitizing old photos other than the associated cost — but only if you decide to perform the task yourself. In that case, you’ll need to buy a scanner. You can use a basic flatbed scanner for photos and documents, but unfortunately, they’re far from cheap.

The cheapest scanners cost about $300, but don’t expect them to produce digital files of particularly high quality. Professionals use far more expensive equipment, and not everyone is ready for such an investment. Even if you put the matter of price aside, digitizing your media comes with an additional set of challenges, such as quality issues and data loss risk. Additionally, the process can take up a lot of your time, and it requires quite a bit of skill. Luckily, you can find lots of how-to guides, online courses, and expert blogs. A good place to start is looking into the Capture website, where you can find professional advice on data conversion and even order equipment you'll surely need.

Preparing To Scan

Regardless of whether you plan on scanning the documents and photos yourself or having someone else do it, you need to organize your content beforehand. This will allow you to sort your photos and discard anything you don’t necessarily want to scan or keep. Think of this as a digital spring cleaning that will help you keep everything tidy. Once only the most important images remain, you can organize them based on various criteria:

• The year they were taken

• Family members and other people in the picture

• The event they depict

This isn’t a strictly necessary step, but it will make organizing your folders far easier once everything is converted into digital files. You’ll quickly be able to reference how you organized your physical documents and photos.

Converting Older Formats into Digital Files

With today’s technology, you can convert almost any analog format into a digital file and keep it on a cloud storage platform. This goes for old VHS tapes as well. If you have any funny home videos, wedding recordings, or anything else you want to keep forever, now is the time to convert it.

Also, learning how to digitally declutter means more than getting rid of old VHS tapes. Think of all your old CDs and DVDs, which are slowly degrading and taking up space. You can also turn CDs into digital files without wasting any further space to store them anywhere. In fact, now is the perfect time to get rid of all old physical media and start keeping everything in a safer digital environment. Remember, CDs can get scratched, broken, or otherwise damaged. Extracting audio and video files from them has never been easier.

Organizing Digital Documents

Digitizing your documents, audio, video, and photo content is great. But if you don’t organize your newly created digital library properly, you’ll end up with a mess as big as before. Sure, disorganization doesn’t cost you space like physical clutter, but it costs you time.

Without a proper file structure, you’ll always need ages to find that one birthday video or photo from a cherished moment. That’s why you need to create an intuitive filing system. With it, you can categorize your digital content into logical categories, making it easier to find anything. Start with the broadest categories — like “Work” and “Personal.” Then, you can create subfolders in each main folder. Just make sure you’ve named all files consistently so you can easily search for anything specific in the future.

Storing and Backing Up

Scanned everything without losing quality? Great! Now is the time to organize your files into appropriate folders and make backups. As a rule of thumb, you should keep your files on a cloud storage platform rather than on your computer.

Or, at least, make a few backups in a place like iCloud or Google Drive. Otherwise, you’ll be far more susceptible to hardware failures and data loss. Plus, modern Internet connection speeds allow you to upload and download files quickly. There’s really no downside to cloud storage — other than the fact you might have to pay for more space.

Maintaining a Decluttered Digital Space

Now that you have a well-organized space for your digital files, you must learn how to maintain it. In other words, you need a regular maintenance routine to keep your files manageable and decluttered. For starters, set aside a few days each year to delete files you don’t need anymore and remove duplicates. You can also use this opportunity to create any additional folders and consider if existing ones need to be restructured.

Wrapping Up Your Digital Decluttering

With regular digital backups and cleanups, you’ll easily safeguard important files and keep your memories intact. Before any of this, though, you need to digitize your physical media first. After that, you can learn how to digitally declutter and maintain your file structure — on a hard drive or cloud storage.

5 Reasons to Personalize Your Home Deck

Your home deck is more than just an outdoor structure—it's an extension of your living space and a blank canvas waiting to reflect your personal style. Whether you’ve recently moved into a new home or are considering sprucing up your outdoor area, customizing your deck can transform it into a space you’ll love to use every day. From functionality to aesthetics, the benefits of personalizing your home deck are countless. Here are the top reasons why you should take the leap and make your deck truly your own.

Create a Space that Fits Your Lifestyle 

A personalized deck ensures that your outdoor area meets your unique lifestyle needs. Whether you enjoy hosting large gatherings or prefer quiet evenings with a book, your deck customization can reflect how you love to spend your time.

For those who enjoy hosting, consider adding built-in seating, a fire pit, or an outdoor kitchen area. A well-designed entertainment deck makes hosting seamless and enjoyable for both you and your guests. Adding features like string lights, a bar, or even a projector for outdoor movie nights can take your gatherings to the next level.

If relaxation is your top priority, focus on creating a serene and cozy space. Incorporate elements such as lounge chairs, privacy screens, or a pergola for partial shade. Adding textured rugs, plush cushions, and greenery helps create a tranquil retreat right in your backyard.

Enhance Your Home’s Curb Appeal 

Deck personalization adds visual interest to your home and significantly boosts its overall curb appeal. A thoughtfully designed and well-maintained deck becomes a key highlight that makes your property stand out.

Upgrading your deck's materials can make a striking visual statement. Options like composite decking or exotic hardwoods can create a sophisticated and polished appearance. For a more traditional look, combining natural wood with painted railings provides a timeless appeal.

Small details can have a big impact. Railings with intricate designs, custom planters, or bold color choices can inject personality into your deck. For a modern touch, consider incorporating sleek metal or glass railings.

Increase Your Home’s Value 

A customized deck is not only a personal investment but also a financial one. Outdoor spaces are highly desirable for potential buyers, and a personalized deck can significantly increase your home's resale value. 

Adding features such as weather-resistant materials, proper lighting, or built-in storage not only enhances the functionality of your deck but also makes it more appealing to prospective homebuyers. A durable and well-designed deck signals that your home is designed for both comfort and style. 

Potential buyers appreciate spaces that serve multiple purposes. With the right customizations, your deck can serve as a dining area, a kids’ play zone, and a relaxing lounge, showcasing its versatility.

Maximize Usable Outdoor Space 

Personalizing your deck optimizes your outdoor area, turning it into a multi-functional extension of your home. With purposeful customization, every square foot can serve a role, whether for practical use or aesthetic enjoyment. 

Adding functional elements like built-in benches, storage compartments, or planter boxes saves space while enhancing the utility of your deck. For instance, a built-in bench with storage underneath provides seating and a hidden spot to stow cushions or gardening tools.

A custom deck layout tailored to your space allows you to make the most of any size yard. Multi-tiered decks are great for sloped yards or separating distinct functions, like dining or lounging. If space is limited, clever design elements like retractable furniture or vertical storage can maximize your deck’s usability.

Reflect Your Interior Style Outdoors 

Your deck is a unique opportunity to carry your personal style from the indoors to the outdoors, creating an inviting and cohesive flow throughout your home. 

Design your deck to complement your home's aesthetics by matching indoor themes, colors, or design styles. For example, if your interiors have a modern vibe, bring that outdoors with minimalist furniture and geometric patterns. A rustic home can be extended outside with natural wood decking and warm-toned accessories.

Customizing your deck with personal touches helps tell your story. This could include artwork, photos, or family heirlooms arranged in a way that makes your deck an extension of who you are. Incorporate unique features such as vintage lanterns, handmade furniture, or even a custom-built statement piece like a swing or water fountain.

Final Thoughts

Personalizing your home deck is a rewarding process that goes beyond aesthetics. It ensures your outdoor space fits your functional needs, reflects your style, and enhances your home’s value. With creative design ideas, you can craft a space that merges beauty, functionality, and your personal touch. 

Need some guidance? Consult a team of designers from companies specializing in custom decks, such as BJH Contracting, who is ready to help you take your dream deck from concept to reality. Start designing the perfect deck for your new home today.

5 Home Construction Tasks You May Need a Contractor For

Many new homeowners think about tackling home improvement projects by themselves. While some tasks, such as painting a room or replacing cabinet hardware, might be perfect for a weekend DIY project, there are specific construction jobs that are just too much to do alone.

Whether it's due to the complexity, safety concerns, or the need for specialized tools, these five home construction tasks are jobs you may need a contractor for.

1. Foundation Work and Repairs

The foundation is a critical part of your home that holds the entire structure and ensures stability. Errors in foundation work can lead to significant structural issues down the road.

This type of work often involves the use of heavy equipment, such as excavators and hydraulic tools, which are not accessible to the average homeowner. Contractors also have the expertise necessary to recognize underground issues, such as soil instability or drainage problems.

2. Roof Installation or Replacement

While patching a few shingles might be manageable for you, full roof installation or replacement is best left to the pros. Roof work typically involves climbing ladders and working at dangerous heights. Professionals are trained and equipped to work safely under these conditions. A contractor will ensure that your roof is installed correctly to maximize its lifespan, providing you with peace of mind that your investment is protected.

3. Spray Foam Insulation

Spray foam insulation is a highly effective method for improving a home's energy efficiency. This material creates an airtight seal by expanding upon application, reducing air leaks, and helping to maintain consistent indoor temperatures.

The growth and future of the spray foam industry are largely dependent on the skills and knowledge of professionals. Contractors possess the necessary expertise and equipment to correctly apply the foam, avoiding common issues such as uneven application or underperformance.

4. Electrical System Upgrades

Electrical systems are intricate and hazardous to work on without proper training. Whether it’s rewiring your home or upgrading your breaker panel, this is a task where hiring a licensed electrician is always recommended.

Attempting electrical work without professional knowledge can result in electrical shocks, fires, or injuries. Contractors understand local electrical codes and ensure the job is safe and up to standard.

5. Structural Changes

Structural changes during a remodel can significantly transform a space but also come with inherent complexities. Many modifications require detailed planning, permits, and expert knowledge to ensure the integrity of the building is not compromised.

Structural projects may include reinforcing load-bearing walls, modifying support beams, or adjusting plumbing systems to accommodate the new layout. Engaging a licensed contractor is essential for implementing these changes safely and in compliance with local building codes.

With any home improvement project, you want the best possible outcome with minimal risk or hassle. A professional contractor not only gets the job done right but also saves you from the stress and strain of doing it yourself. These five home construction tasks you may need a contractor for highlight the importance of outsourcing challenging or dangerous work.

Car Organization Guide

We partnered with an auto assistance company for this post. The opinions in the post are honest. All reviews and opinions expressed in this post are based on our personal views. We are excited because we know you will love it.

A well-organized car can make daily commutes, road trips and errands significantly more enjoyable and stress-free. Just as homeowners strive to keep their living spaces neat and efficient, applying the same principles to their vehicles can enhance functionality and convenience. This guide provides practical strategies for decluttering, organizing essential items and maintaining a tidy vehicle, helping homeowners transform their cars into organized extensions of their homes. 

Decluttering Your Car 

The first step to an organized vehicle is decluttering. Over time, unnecessary items accumulate in cars, taking up valuable space and creating chaos. Start by removing all trash, such as food wrappers, receipts and empty water bottles. Next, take out any non-essential items that do not belong in the car, such as clothing, shoes and random household objects. 

Organizing Essential Items 

Once the unnecessary items are removed, it's time to categorize and organize the essentials. Every car should have designated areas for key items to prevent them from becoming misplaced or creating clutter. Consider using the following organization strategies: 

1. Glove Compartment — Keep only essential documents such as the vehicle registration, insurance papers, and owner's manual. A small pouch or organizer can help keep these papers neat and easily accessible. 

2. Center Console — Use this space for frequently used items like sunglasses, charging cables, and hand sanitizer. Small storage trays or dividers can prevent items from shifting while driving. 

3. Trunk Storage — Invest in a trunk organizer to store emergency supplies, grocery bags and car maintenance tools like jumper cables and tire inflators. Collapsible bins or storage cubes can help keep things tidy and prevent items from rolling around. 

4. Seatback Organizers — Hanging organizers behind the front seats are ideal for holding items like tablets, tissues, water bottles and kids’ toys. This keeps necessities within reach without cluttering the floor or seats. 

5. Under-Seat Storage — Utilize the space beneath the seats for storing first aid kits, travel blankets or extra shoes. Slim storage bins can slide under the seats for easy access. 

6. Door Pockets and Cup Holders — Maximize small spaces by using them for easy-to-reach essentials, such as snacks, wipes or spare change. Keeping these areas organized will prevent clutter from accumulating in high-touch areas of the car. 

7. Trunk Storage — Invest in a trunk organizer to store emergency supplies, grocery bags and car maintenance tools like jumper cables and tire inflators. Collapsible bins or storage cubes can help keep things tidy and prevent items from rolling around. It’s also a good idea to write down your nearest tow truck details or roadside assistance contact numbers and keep them in an easily accessible spot. Being prepared for a breakdown can save you valuable time and stress in an emergency.

Maintaining a Tidy Vehicle 

Once your car is organized, maintaining its cleanliness and efficiency requires consistency. Implement a routine to keep clutter and messes under control: 

• Weekly Cleanouts — Set aside time each week to remove trash and unnecessary items. A small trash bin or disposable bag in the car can make this process easier. 

• Monthly Deep Cleans — Wipe down surfaces, vacuum carpets and wash windows to keep the interior looking fresh. 

• Use Car-Specific Organizers — Invest in organizers that fit your vehicle’s dimensions and storage needs to ensure items remain in their designated spots. 

• Adopt the One-In, One-Out Rule — When bringing new items into the car, remove an old or unnecessary item to prevent clutter from building up again. 

• Encourage Passengers to Help — If you frequently have passengers, ask them to take their belongings and trash with them when they exit the vehicle. This small habit can prevent buildup over time. 

If your current vehicle lacks the necessary organizational space, you might consider searching for a more suitable option at public car auctions, where a variety of vehicles with nearly every storage configuration can be found. 

By following these simple yet effective strategies, drivers can turn their vehicles into functional and organized spaces. Whether used for daily commutes, long trips, or running errands, an efficiently organized car enhances the driving experience and reduces unnecessary stress. Implementing these tips will ensure that your car remains an extension of your home — clean, practical and always ready for the road ahead. 

Author bio: Reid Zaritsky is Senior Vice President of Capital Auto Auction, a family-run business since 1988 that focuses on finding the right vehicles for families of all sizes. Zaritsky has been with the company since 2009, and has a background in science and engineering.