It's a handy place to throw abandoned toys, dirty dishes, and smelly socks. And it can also double as an end table. Hide their alarm clocks, forcing them to dive under the bed to quell the racket. Capture small molecules of down time and do something useful. Those seconds in the elevator provide just enough time to compose a memo, read the paper, clip your toenails, or polish your shoes.
Car trips furnish a fine opportunity to catch up on chores.
Crochet a sweater. Sew runaway buttons onto shirts. Polish your silver. Just be sure to keep your eyes on the road. Add efficiency to grocery shopping.