How to Create a Handy Household Reference Binder
A household reference binder organizes important household information in one place so the entire household knows where to look for information. Organizing household paperwork also reduces the likelihood that you will lose important documents such as warranties and phone lists. While setting up a reference binder for your home will require a time investment in the beginning, over time you will reduce wasted time searching for documents throughout your home. Storing the binder in your kitchen or on a bookshelf in a common area of your home will ensure easy access to the information it contains.
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Instructions
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Label the front and side of a three- or four-inch, three-ring binder with a label stating "Household Reference Binder." A three-inch binder is sufficient to hold most reference material but use a larger binder if you have a large family.
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Place at least six pocket dividers in your binder. You will need extra dividers if you have a large amount of information to organize.
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Label dividers to fit categories such as "automotive," "warranties," "medical," "household repairs," "take-out menus" and "children's activities." Add additional categories to fit your family's needs.
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Organize household paperwork into stacks matching the categories in your binder. Throw out any outdated information or place it into your household files.
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Punch holes in the current paperwork you have sorted. Place the paperwork behind the dividers you have in your binder.
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File new papers in the pocket dividers as it comes into your home. Once a month, file the paperwork in the pockets into the binder. Clear out any outdated papers when you introduce new information into the binder.
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Tips & Warnings
Include a binder calendar at the front of your reference binder to keep track of birthdays, anniversaries and important appointments.
Do not keep password information in the binder if you plan on taking it outside your home.
