Company's coming in 10 minutes! Quick clean up ideas.

Let's face it.  As organized as you try to be, there are days....

When my family gets busy, the kitchen counter becomes a dumping ground.  The couch, the coffee table all seem to have things on them that don't belong there.

And let's face it, that's when someone calls saying they're stopping by.  My general theory is that if someone knows me well enough to drop by, it doesn't matter that things aren't neat and tidy.  However, there are those visitors who call and give you 10 minutes notice who you would rather they not know how bad it's gotten (extended family perhaps?).

For these situations, you need a quick fix.  Around here there are few cleverly-desguised items for this purpose.  In the family room, there are two storage ottomans that open to reveal storage.  One holds blankets, pillows, etc.  The other is the "quick, clean it up" temporary storage location.

In the entry hall are two baskets.  It's amazing how just tossing all the shoes in a basket can make it look like you cleaned!

Find what works for you.  It doesn't have to be expensive or fancy... just functional!