In the throes of our busy lives, maintaining an organized home can often feel like an uphill battle. Yet, a clean, clutter-free space not only looks appealing but also promotes a sense of calm, boosts productivity, and enhances our overall well-being. The good news is that home organization doesn’t necessarily mean investing in expensive storage solutions or spending hours cleaning.
With some simple strategies and a touch of creativity, you can keep your home tidy and organized. Here are 13 ways I keep my home organized that might inspire you as well.
1. Start Small
Starting small is key when it comes to home organization. Instead of trying to tackle the entire house in one go, focus on one area at a time. This could be a single drawer, a shelf, or a corner of a room. By breaking the task into small, manageable parts, you’re less likely to be overwhelmed and more likely to stick with it.
For instance, I started with the kitchen drawers, compartmentalizing utensils, and then moved on to the pantry, organizing items by type and usage.
2. Declutter Regularly
Regular decluttering is an essential part of maintaining an organized home. This involves going through your belongings periodically and discarding or donating items that are broken, outdated, or no longer useful. I usually schedule a decluttering session once a month to keep the clutter at bay. Remember, it’s easier to keep things organized when there’s less to organize.
3. Label Everything
Labels can be a game-changer in home organization. They make it easy to identify what’s inside a box, drawer, or container without having to rummage through it. This reduces the time spent on finding things and helps maintain order. I use a simple label maker to label storage boxes, bins, and even shelves. You can get creative with it, using different colors and fonts to make it visually pleasing.
4. Utilize Vertical Space
Often, we overlook the vertical space in our homes. Utilizing wall space for storage can free up floor space and make the room appear more spacious. Consider installing shelves, hooks, or wall-mounted organizers to store and display items. In my home, I use vertical space to store books, display art, and even grow indoor plants.
5. Store Items Where You Use Them
Storing items where you use them is a simple yet effective way to keep your home organized. It reduces the likelihood of items being misplaced and makes it easier to put things away after use. For example, I store the coffee mugs right above the coffee maker and the laundry detergent next to the washing machine.
6. Use Storage Containers
Storage containers are a great way to keep things organized. They come in various sizes and materials, allowing you to find the perfect match for your needs. I use clear plastic bins for storing seasonal clothing and decor, and smaller containers for organizing items within drawers.
7. Establish a Daily Cleaning Routine
Establishing a daily cleaning routine can help maintain an organized home. This doesn’t have to be time-consuming. It can be as simple as making the bed in the morning, washing the dishes after meals, and putting things back where they belong before going to bed.
8. Keep Flat Surfaces Clear
Flat surfaces like countertops, tables, and desks can easily become clutter hotspots. Keeping them clear not only makes the space look tidy but also enhances functionality. I make it a rule to only keep items that are necessary and regularly used on these surfaces.
9. Use Multi-Purpose Furniture
Multi-purpose furniture can help save space and keep your home organized. For instance, a storage ottoman can serve as a footrest, extra seating, and a storage space. A bed with built-in drawers can provide ample storage for bedding and clothing, eliminating the need for extra furniture.
10. Create a Landing Zone
A landing zone is a designated space for things like keys, mail, and bags when you walk in the door. Having a landing zone reduces clutter and makes it easier to find these items when needed. I use a small table by the front door as my landing zone.
11. Keep a Donation Box
Keeping a donation box in a convenient location encourages you to declutter regularly. Whenever you come across an item that you no longer need or use, you can simply put it in the donation box. Once the box is full, donate the items to a local charity.
12. Make Use of Unused Spaces
There are often unused spaces in our homes that can be utilized for storage. Think under the bed, over the doors, or even the space between the refrigerator and the wall. In my home, I use these spaces to store items that are rarely used, such as suitcases and holiday decor.
13. Be Consistent
Consistency is key in maintaining an organized home. Make it a habit to put things back where they belong immediately after use. Over time, these small actions become second nature and contribute significantly to keeping your home tidy and organized. Remember, an organized home is a continuous effort, not a one-time task.