(NAPSA)—Every household has one—a catchall place to store items that don’t have a “home,” or a convenient spot to keep odds and ends at hand. But however you use your junk drawer, you should clean it out at least once a year to organize the chaos and keep the space functional. Here are some helpful items and tips to help you make the mostof this space. * Keep an assortment of spare batteries (www.energizer.com) close at hand to quickly replace dead batteries in your flashlight, remote control or alarm clock. Label new batteries with the purchase date so you can determine their age and effectiveness; unused alkaline batteries are good for about seven years. Most batteries are now mercury-free, which means deadorold batteries can be tossed in the trash. * Store a roll of duct tape to keep the all-purpose, waterproof tape handy for unexpected projects or repairs. Duck brand’s Flat Pack duct tape has a flattened core so it can fit easily into smaller spaces (www.duckproducts.com). * Keep writing instruments and notepads within reach for jotting down messages and phone numbers. Rather than hurriedly tossing these items back into the drawer, use a cutlery tray to form compartments to keep things organized. Don’t forget to toss in a small pencil sharpener so you don’t get caught in a pinch with a dull tip. * Rather than search out the toolbox for a quick fix-up, keep basic tools, like a screwdriver and pliers, in your junk drawer. The close proximity will make projects such as tightening the screw on an outlet cover or repairing jewelry easy and convenient. * A little super glue is sometimes all you need for quick fixes and minor repairs. Because of its compact size, new Loctite $.0.5. Repair” Super Glue (www.loc titeproducts.com) is ideal for junk drawers. With enough glue to tackle small projects, the product comes packaged in a foil pouch, keeping it fresh and helping to prevent it from leaking onto other items. * Take a peek at your take-out menu selection and discard those that are outdated. As you add moreflyers to the stack, be sure to get rid of outdated flyers with expired coupons. * Keep a few feet of string on hand to aid with chores around the house. A length of string can bind old newspapers and phone books for recycling or serve as a reminder when tied around your finger. * Get rid of the clutter! Junk drawers are an easy place to toss items that don’t belong anywhere else. Keep in mind: if you have not used the item in two years, then it might be timeto pitchit. Follow these tips to keep your junk drawer functional, organized and stocked with items that can come to the rescue in many projects, repairs or situations.
