New Minimalist Lifehacks | One Less Item Ideas

foil hooks - amzn.to/2k7z40Q
clear cutting boards (place mats) - amzn.to/2jl8lAM
reusable paper towels - amzn.to/2k7FbCF
magnetic recipe holder - amzn.to/2iTlHE6
cord box - amzn.to/2kE9DUz
Windex bottles (for vinegar) - amzn.to/2gQvdmE
mini shelves (to suspend over stove or candles by bed frame) - amzn.to/2dluJpA
completely silent Seiko clock - amzn.to/2k7IoC2
Amazon battery charger - amzn.to/2khWRgY
Amazon AA eight batteries - amzn.to/2jtKVo8
Amazon AAA four batteries - amzn.to/2kJZNji
AA to C adapters (for Luminara candles) - amzn.to/2jl0Ud1
AA to D adapters - amzn.to/2jIaaqj
Amazon camera tripod - amzn.to/2k7xoon
Amazon laundry rack - amzn.to/2kJVJzA
Luminara candle - amzn.to/2jMjUgA
Luminara candle remote - amzn.to/2kJ1DF2
arrowroot powder - amzn.to/2k7FXPT
peppermint oil - amzn.to/2k7n0Nq
Seventh Generation unscented eco laundry detergent - amzn.to/2k7xf4f
Grab Green unscented eco laundry pods (clip coupon) - amzn.to/2axSiH1
Lenovo mouse/keyboard combo - amzn.to/2k7nLWx
laptop - Lenovo
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:D FIND ME HERE:
Facebook: / crmelody
Blog: www.thesimplebrief.com/
Favorite minimalist luxuries: www.thesimplebrief.com/lux
Twitter: / thesimplebrief
Instagram: / comrademelody (just created!)
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Summary:
Take off sprayer from Method all-purpose, put on hydrogen peroxide (hydrogen peroxide needs to be kept in dark bottle).
Reusable batteries + flameless candles, AA to C and D adapters - buy Amazon name brand first!
DIY dry shampoo - 2 Tablespoons arrowroot power or cornstarch + 1 Tablespoon cocoa powder (only if you have dark hair) + a few drops peppermint oil
Use cutting boards as place mats (and wash them in the dishwasher!)
Use hooks for foil/plastic wrap (aesthetic).
Hide cords (aesthetic).
Conveyer belt method: Specialize.
Focus on one project a day:
Choose category to declutter, make piles (give, sell, trash, recycle), take “give” pile to Goodwill, take pictures of “sell” category, write online ad, upload pictures and post.
Forgot to add: I keep two AA and two AAA batteries that are not reusable in the Amazon charger so that if my work equipment batteries die, I can switch it out until I recharge my Amazon ones.

[@Godsfavritone]

Hi Melody!! I love the battery charger idea. We have a battery box & now I can eliminate it. I also didn't know about the adapters for C & D batteries. Great tip!! I think exactly the way you do about the conveyer belt. Always do the same task all over the house before moving on to the next task. Highly efficient! Way to go for putting out yet another useful & fun video!!

[@shannoneg2000]

Omg... the cord box absolutely CHANGED MY LIFE! I live in a very small apartment, so my desk is in the living room. The cords were always such an eyesore! Combined with a few Command cord clips, the cords are now all but invisible! I've incorporated so many small changes in my home over the years since I started watching your channel and it's absolutely incredible the difference that they have made in the overall peace and serenity that I feel. Thanks for all the hard work that you put into your videos!

[@mel7127]

Melody! Please start a podcast or a coaching course, I can't get enough! I just moved and I can't emphasize how much learning minimalism strategies from you has made the process so much easier! You could call it "Even More Melody" lol

[@rainbowzimbo1258]

Thanks Melody, your tip on battery cartridges was a great one. I only have ONE item that take an AA battery, but have to purchase a four pack from Amazon. I bought one cartridge instead and I'm so happy I don't have three extra AA batteries in my drawer, I have used vinegar for years for all my cleaning. I pour 50ml vinegar into my spray bottle, add 1/2 tbspn Dr Bronner's Sal Suds and fill up to the top with water. This is in a 300ml spray bottle. I like lemon scent and pine, and I use a lot of organic lemons generally, so i cut the discarded lemon skins (after squeezing) and pop them in a mason jar half full of vinegar. Over time the vinegar extracts all the lovely lemon oils. I strain that after a few weeks and use that vinegar for cleaning. I also collect fallen pine and spruce from the forest floor and extract the pine oil as well. If it needs enhancing I add a couple of drops of pine or lemon oil. I love the Hydrogen Peroxide too. I keep it in a stronger concentration (40Vol) and dilute when required to 3%(10Vol). That way I only have to have a small bottle in the cupboard that lasts me much longer! I also pop our toothbrushes, sulca brushes and tongue scrapers in glass of H2O2 ad put it in a dark place for the day for the HO2 to do its sterilising magic)

[@laurac4576]

D and C battery case?! Oh. My. Gosh!! That is SO cool!

[@juliekostas7322]

These videos were such gems that made my Sundays... Miss your videos, Melody!

[@Ch_Noor72]

Pat is such an adorable sidekick!

[@jackiel5498]

The C/D battery adapter idea blew my mind! Haha! I had no idea there was such a thing, I am definitely going to purchase all of your battery recommendations.

[@mtm00]

I can understand your attraction to flame-less candles; however, I just love the sound a living flame brings into my space ... so I'll be sticking to real candles for a while yet. Apart from that: many thanks for the great tips and tricks.

[@mingo1359]

OMG, the C &D battery adapter is magical...Thank you!

[@cuteteko4157]

Every Sunday, I just always love to watch Melody's videos.

[@jummyberry]

Thanks for sharing. Great tips. I too hated cleaning the bathroom when I was younger.

[@Mondoshawn]

I made quite some progress with decluttering because of your videos. You are my favorite minimalist youtuber

[@EMFMiner]

I have never heard of those C/D cases. Many of our lights are battery powered, so rechargables make so much sense.

[@Thegratefulnurse]

Thank you melody working hard on this lifestyle. It's a challenge everyday but your videos keep me on track!! Have a great week!

[@judycorbitt4703]

Good morning Melody. I love your videos and look forward to each new week. Your comment on fairy lights being a little bright made me decide to send you a comment. Using command hooks ( of course) I put my lights behind my curtains. The LED lights don't get hot so it works great. I did my bedroom windows and made a curtain to match for over my bathroom mirror also. They are all on remote control. VERY SOFT LIGHTING. If you want I can try to send you a picture. Not very tech savvy. Thanks again Judy

[@MoreMelody]

Hey Judy, I love having fairy lights in the living room, especially for movie night on the floor. I also keep them behind the curtains in the living room and use hooks to keep them there! Great minds think alike :D In the bedroom, I use the two flameless candles because it's really delicate and warm light. Very dim. If I want bright light, I turn on my lamp with the flax shade, which filters the light in a softer way too :) I forgot to add, but I also take my flameless candles with me sometimes when I shower. It's very relaxing.

[@judycorbitt4703]

Thank you for responding to my comment. I haven't gotten my candles yet. They are on my Amazon wish list. My list is getting pretty long. Lol. Slowly getting rid of all my clutter. AMAZING! SIMPLY AMAZING! I keep looking for something else to toss out the door. You know... It's feels strange when I go in a store and there is absolutely nothing I want. Aaaahhhhh! The sound of peace! THANKS

[@briannab5296]

always a pleasure seeing Pat - he is so laid back :-)

[@jendrivesajeep6656]

That flames-less candle really fooled me. Great video. I'm excited about your channel:) Have a great day

[@weaver7249]

I love your channel and I have learned a lot. Thank you for sharing your videos.

[@paulah229]

I love all of your videos, but this one really got me. Probably because I just watched it and then....when I watch the next one, I will think the same thing about that one. lol What can I say....I just love your videos! Thank you so much for sharing your great ideas with us.

[@janetgrobstein5906]

Hi I Melody. My husband and I have been obsessed with your videos for years. My suggestion...do a Netflix series where you go to people's homes and get them going on minimalism. See Maire Kondo's series for the idea. But I would like your's much better because it would be so practical for so many people.

[@99rylee]

your kitty is adorable. cute and lovable and huggable and cuddly. ☺

[@angeladowney35]

Another great video, Melody. More wonderful tips!

[@sjfarrar1]

Great tips! I love watching your videos b/c you inspire me to keep streamlining all of my living space. It is now a nerdy addiction for me!

[@elenamerkoulova5377]

The hook tip is great! Thank you so much

[@ashleighmumford6764]

Can you do a video on Pat & the minimalist products you've found for him? His litter and box and food & toys?

[@apinchofhealthy]

I love your tips Melody! 💖👌🏻 I have slowly started implementing some of your past suggestions for reusable and multipurpose things, like the stainless steel straws (love!), all purpose gift wrap, paring down condiments, etc. There are some great tips in here too. More life hack videos, please. 👍🏻 These are my favorite!

[@voodle48]

These are terrific hacks. I really enjoy your videos Melody. keep them coming

[@glennamartin193]

Thanks for the tip on batteries!! I keep purchasing and they keep getting higher in price😅

[@MoreMelody]

So many less trips to the store, no battery storage, and great savings - I can't believe it took me so long to switch :D

[@GymClubHouse]

i think nickel-cadmium batteries (reminds me of radio shack from 1980s...) were poor quality back in the day (a generation - 30 years ago). i think the technology has improved now. alkaline was far superior. maybe it has caught up.

[@crissieburdette4654]

More Melody I'm so impressed with your channel. I grew up with whole family of hoarders (I hated it!), therefore lots of clutter paralyzes me and I can't even organize thoughts much less anything else. So now I need to have less visual items to feel organized. I appreciate how you talk thru your thought process for organizing. It really helps. I have a tip I've used for years. Rubbing alcohol is perfect for removing labels/glue residue, ink marks, and even permanent Sharpie markers! Even got a busted ink pen out of light carpet in kids room, w/o any damage! BTW the peroxide works for any blood on fabric...test small spot to assure it doesn't "bleach" it. It worked wonders on my hospital scrubs!

[@TheMeaghannWay]

Brilliant! the roll holders

[@ashleymac4762]

Love your kitchen!

[@Lashlove16]

This was you best video yet ... so many ideas to implement!!! I started using equal vinegar and dawn soap to clean the bathroom and it works great !!!

[@md4lyphe1]

Thanks so much! Your videos are always fun to watch! 😁

[@julie-laurebernard3278]

I really look forward to watching your videos every week! I watch each new video on Monday at dinnertime :)

[@gracielasandt4142]

Your videos are so informative, and your cat is adorable!!! Thank you. Great tips.

[@windandfire22]

Another idea is to minimize pens. Im switching to a FOUNTAIN PEN (reusable and high quality) and will only have to buy the ink in glass jars! #ZeroWaste #NoPlastic. Btw look up ideas on how to stop using KITCHEN PLASTIC WRAP. To store food i just use a plate on top or a jar. That would be one less item also and good for the environment :)

[@juliemix4806]

Lots of great tips. I'd forgotten about rechargable batteries. Need to look into those.

[@MalinaCC]

love the conveyor belt idea!

[@alyssaloyet7187]

Vinegar is also a disinfectant. its food safe so I use it on cutting boards and the kitchen counters

[@paisleyduck]

Great tips with the peroxide!

[@janelhagen89]

Thank you for the tips! This video has me really motivated!

[@Celesteception]

Great tips! Thanks :)

[@sweetbacioni3703]

awsome tips and unique. Thank you

[@SilviaN1]

Love the tip about the individual tasks, that you mention in the end of the video. It makes it so much easier to actually do something, instead of stopping before you even started, because the big project(s) seems to overwhelm you (me that is) :-)

[@MoreMelody]

It even helps when I divide out the Craigslist and eBay tasks. One day I'll photograph the eBay things to sell, the next the Craigslist things. Tasks like that, that aren't normal, take more energy and thought to complete, so I divide them up to make it a lot easier to get through :)

[@erinriordan6304]

Love the battery suggestion. Thanks for the great tips:-)

[@claireb5946]

Hi Melody! thanks for the great tips! you have just inspired me 😆

[@ladyspins9903]

Great tips ❤️❤️ Thanks, girl

[@sherrydeshazo3681]

Hi I subscribed to your channel and wanted to say I feel you are so informative and you give me inspiration to be a better cleaner. I have to admit I don't like it and feel it to be a chore but I know when I do it I feel relived and you gave me a perspective to see it as therapeutic. Thank you for sharing I wish that cleaning was my obsession instead of my obsession with handbags which lures me in like a big fish.

[@beautymyreligion]

awesome ideas, so many useful tips i'm gonna to give a try!

[@DansonforJoy]

Hi! I really needed to hear your "conveyor belt" tip! I have bags and bags of clothes I'd like to sell on eBay, but the process seems so daunting! Now I know how to approach it to get the job done. Thank you! :)

[@bellaangel7598]

I love your channel; amazing ideas. I can't wait to get the plastic cutting boards for use as place mats that can go in the dishwasher! That is genius; Many Thanks & Blessings:-)

[@kuchytapr]

Totally agree Melody.

[@marystahl]

Great ideas with batteries!!! AND dry shampoo.

[@carolinechoe]

I love the "no more foil/plastic boxes" hack! Also, I had no idea they had C battery cases that allow you to use AA's like that. I don't have a need for them yet, but if I do, that is something I'm going to remember since we already use rechargeable batteries. I'm also going to switch over to your DIY dry shampoo recipe once I'm done using the one I have right now. Thank you so much for these great tips!

[@juliannsadie6417]

Love your videos, they are very informative and your have great ideas!

[@sjfarrar1]

...and I just bought the rechargeable batteries/charger - great idea!

[@fiveonthego7476]

Some minimalism videos can get repetitive, just repeating the same ideas from other videos. This wasn't at all. I really like your content. Subscribing :)

[@countngal]

This is awesome! I never thought of peroxide for cleaning, Thank you so much :)

[@MoreMelody]

Your current all-purpose's sprayer may work with the hydrogen peroxide bottles too! I took off my Method sprayer after I finished the bottle, and it fit perfectly.

[@poolahpot]

More Melody Actually, so I've read, hydro peroxide needs to be kept in the opaque brown bottle/sprayer. Yes, they do sell it already in this type of sprayer at walmart and you can just keep refilling it. :)

[@KristanKremer]

Hi Melody! Really enjoying your channel. Could you do a video on how you use essential oils? I know there are a ton on KZbin, but it's hard to trust a lot when they're trying to sell their MLM brand or saying there's only one (expensive) brand that is the best.

[@annieheath986]

Kristan Kremer ...My other favorite is Christine Kobzeff. She has done some great videos on essential oils.

[@Zzzz9]

Going to try the dry schampoo

[@LazersNLeather]

I don't know if you've addressed these things before but I was wondering what you do with holiday decor? Do you not keep any or do you keep only the things you absolutely love? I have a lot of Christmas decorations that I love getting out every year but at the same time it seems like too much. It is in storage under our stairs so it's not "in the way" but just wondered what you do for that. Another thing is stuff from when you were a kid. I have cool art projects, things I've made/written, small items from trips that I collected..all things I love to go back to look at sometimes and possibly to show to my kids if I have any one day. Sometimes it feels silly to keep these things but at the same time they help me remember past events, do you keep anything like these items or do you not see a need for them? I am just not sure if I should keep them for forever or eventually get rid of them because they are pretty much sitting there collecting dust until I have the urge to go through it again! I have a hard time getting rid of old journals I wrote as a kid as well, it's weird and cool to see events from your life when you were a kid but the journals sure do stack up!

[@michellepate5612]

I've been using baking soda and dish soap in the dishwasher for several weeks- same results. Sprinkle baking soda on the bottom and squirt a little soap in the compartment. Too much and it will come out of the bottom, so just a little bit. Otherwise, you will get a nice floor cleaner, too. :)

[@jacquelinevictoriateer650]

The way she laughed at “Scrub in the tub” hahaha

[@lindaketner2509]

This was one of better videos. You are great with this kind of stuff and I am good to look for those batteries

[@cathycombs414]

Love all of the videos thanks.........just wondering? Doesnt the peroxide take all the color out? of things? if it comes in contact with certain things? Little concerned about that...or did I miss the part of maybe? mixing with water............thanks so much

[@mjbl4tube]

I love you channel I have learned a lot too! And I love the battery idea. I am buying that from amazon.

[@krissydeebeachgirl]

I no longer buy dishwasher pods. I fill the little compartment in the washer with vinegar and 3-4 drops of regular dishwashing liquid. You can't tell the difference when the dishes are done.

[@Izzy201967]

Thanks for your useful tip. Especially the battery idea. Can you send the link for the C battery idea? I also have led candles..lots of them in my living room and foyer.

[@nishaali4345]

you are the best melody

[@terrilynn8770]

Have you ever looked into Norwex cloths. They are great for cleaning especially windows no more window cleaned. Just water.

[@erakkovaatainen148]

Wow, so much kords. I barely have one or two of cords. Maybe we are a bit different minimalists. And this is nice. The only cords I have, are my laptop and phone cords when charging, otherwise using on battery. And my third is earphones to them. Like I say, I have no TV, printer, home theatre or speakers, because I already have a way... Laptop and phone is my TV, music player, and earphones are my speakers. The other electronics I have are mostly home-related - cooker, microwave, hoover, fridge-freezer, iron, washing machine. Also have electrical toothbrush and shaver. Also I feel so weird now, because I don't even have anything running on batteries, except my old clock on the wall, and it is here just because there's a screw for it from previous renter. But I do have cleaning products and shampoos, but I prefer to buy one. Like shower gel designed to head and body. Or cleaning product designed to everything in house. Very nice video, have also no dishwasher, I prefer to do it with my hands, and I see this as excess - because I already have ability to do that without certain item because I have working hands. Actually in my studio no place for it at all and that's how I learned to do it myself :) Nice video, thanks!! You may also ask what I do with washing machine, when I have hands, but it is a bit different since I have various clothes regardless my capsule wardrobe - but dishes I can do with hands after each meal. Like going to do now after my cup of tea.

[@MoreMelody]

It's for court reporting. I have two laptops, a speaker, and my steno machine just for that job. You're way more minimalist than me :)

[@erakkovaatainen148]

More Melody Yes seems so, but your lifestyle is just as good - it's all about what brings the value and joy for you. Happy weekend!

[@alifewithluna4134]

Melody, I always feel wiser after I watch one of your videos! I had no idea Amazon had their own line of products! Also, can you recharge energizer batteries or was that for show ? ( stupid question I know) Thanks again for an awesome video doll!

[@TulsaVIPhomes]

Love your tips! I wanted to share a tip that has helped me. Calling Salvation Army to pickup donations will keep you from having that dreaded donation pile lingering in your house/garage/car. Plus, having a donation date will be an incentive to find more to donate.

[@MoreMelody]

Love this tip, Heather!

[@AineSherman]

You always look so beautiful. Your videos make me feel better. Thanks.

[@TrendingTami]

Is the spray attachment on your peroxide from a different bottle? I am going to try using peroxide for sure!

[@lemonecricket8501]

Hello, I just found your channel. :) I don't understand some of you tips. How do you mix up the vinegar, and what can you clean with it? also wouldn't peroxide bleach/stain some things? I'm a bit lost ... sorry !!

[@Jane_Moss]

hello melody! what's your favorite scent of the Windex pump? I too am sensitive to smells so I trust your judgement! I'm excited to reuse them for my vinegar mixes :)

[@ajlazana9244]

LOVE YOUR VIDEOS! I am learning so much! I been minimalist since I was born, and was thinking I was the only one :) Where do you live?

[@LajjaGandhi]

Hi Melody! I really love your videos and ideas. your presentation is well balanced and your home is just lovely!! I'm working on becoming a tidy minimalist, and it's working quite well for me. My problem is that I live with a messy hoarder. Do you have any tips for dealing with that?

[@MoreMelody]

Hey Lajja, I'll make a video dedicated to just this topic, but for me, I separate out the things that they have from mine. So give the other person their own room or space (like a dresser or closet) in the house where they can clutter as much as they want, and then you also know where to take all their stuff that might end up left in other areas of the house. If all their things are stored in only one or two places in the house, then it's also easier for them to put back. Remember this tip: Make things really easy to put back (all in one or two spots only), not get out. So you can have a drawer or two in the living room for things that your kids or spouse like to have in that area, and then everything else they own in their own dresser, closet, or room.

[@LajjaGandhi]

Thanks! it's much more complicated though your suggestion is very logical. I'll wait for your video on this topic

[@arwendoan2753]

Love the tips! Also, where did you buy your dress? It looks very elegant. 😊

[@mshywing]

Hi Melody, I love your life hack videos. Thank you for all the inspirations! At 1:55 where can I buy the soap dispenser that dispenses the soap upward?

[@MoreMelody]

Hey, I got them on Amazon :) - amzn.to/2gQvdmE

[@chrisi8605]

mshywing try the dollar tree. it might be in the nail polish remover dispensing section

[@annie_jackson]

mshywing thank you! I've been on the lookout for one of these for my face toner.

[@bluemwa]

Where did you get the big wooden mirror? It's awesome!

[@denisetaylor3332]

Is the hydrogen per. Ready to use or do you dilute it? What % is it? Just in uk it's not sold commonly.

[@hittingtax2670]

Lemons are also a very practical cleaner and disinfectant.

[@Mapleshade0623]

So the battery charger recharges regular batteries or do you buy specific rechargeable batteries? Thanks! Love your videos!

[@Adylure]

It would be specific rechargeable batteries. Regular ones are just one and done things.

[@brittanynewland3890]

I just ransacked my apt. After seeing your videos.. I mean, I'm an organized person but I could definitely downsize a little.

[@oliviamoore9705]

Hi Melody! I'm obsessing over the flameless candle! I noticed the link on Amazon is for the "frosted" holder. Yours looks more clear which I prefer. Is yours different? I can't seem to find anything online except for a clear 3 wick by Luminara. Thanks! :)

[@jwc6444]

Do you use vinegar and water for cleaning glass?

[@username-jc2tp]

Melody, where can I find that push bottle in between peroxide and clear bottle?

[@CynthiaAva]

Where did you get your beautiful table?

[@lovemylife9023]

Thank you Melody too bad I can't use peroxide it leaves burns on my skin😣 But other tips are very useful.

[@ashleyr4260]

where did you get your table? I want one 😍

[@crispsaturday]

I'm surprised you use ceran wrap, I'm curious, what do you use it for? I was able to eliminate having to buy that ever again by placing a plate on dished instead of the foil.

[@tanmayyadav978]

How do you do this?? It is my absolute favourite. I'm perplexed...

[@lovemylife9023]

Thank you Melody too bad I can't use peroxide it leaves burns on my skin😣 But other tips are very 👍

[@gretchenjana6219]

what camera did u use?

[@lovemylife9023]

Thank you Melody too bad I can't use peroxide it leaves burns on my 😕 but other tips are very helpful 👍

[@MoreMelody]

It's okay, Nadia! I rarely use hydrogen peroxide. The only times I ever use it are for stains on panties, shower liner (but you can get a sturdy non-transparent liner at Target that goes in washing machine for only $10), and drains. However, vinegar and baking soda work great on drains as it is. :)

[@lovemylife9023]

Thank you 😊

[@annmarie4230]

You always look so summery.

[@melebird]

I like the sprayer cap on top of the hydrogen peroxide bottle. Where can that be bought? Thanks.

[@sammiecook6939]

The hydrogen peroxide tip is KING! Yes! Thank you.