The 3-Inch Decorating Mistake Everyone Makes

Before you start figuring out a way to hide all the cords and cables snaking around the perimeter of your living room or home office, first consider what each one powers. Molly Graves, co-founder of the professional organizing company NEAT Method, says many of her clients miss this important step. "Take inventory of which cords are used for what. You may be surprised at how many cords are plugged in—for long-gone phones, cameras and TVs." Once you've weeded out your unused cords, then you can work on concealing the remaining ones via crown molding or this handy trick.