Rule #3--Stacking

Rule #3: limit stacks to three high.

More than three items in a stack makes it harder to take them out and put them away. Refer to Rule #1 to understand why harder is bad. The rule does not always apply: when the stacked items are identical, you can take off of the top and put away the same way. Stacks of cereal bowls, white t-shirts, or rolls of toilet paper are allowed to break the rule as long as the stacks are stable. Mixing bowls, different t-shirts, or craft supplies need to follow the rule so that the items are accessible. When items are especially heavy, they might better be limited to two or not stacked at all. I have large frying pans that are just too heavy to stack comfortably (I may be a little wimpy, but still).

While applying Rule #3 may reduce the capacity of your shelves and cabinets, you will find the spaces more functional. Since functional is our ultimate goal, give it a try to see if your life is better!

Stacking too many items makes it harder to take out the one that you want to use.