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Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed by the clutter in your home? Well, you're in luck because today we're going to delve into some expert-approved home organization hacks that will simplify your life and declutter your space - because who doesn't love a stress-free living environment?
Now, before you dive in, let's address the elephant in the room. Not all of us are professional organizers, but that doesn't mean we can't learn how to organize our homes properly. The question is, where do you start?
Luckily, we've got you covered! Our hacks and methods are budget-friendly and don't require any fancy tools. You can use what you already have at home or pick up a few affordable organizing products to take your closets, bedrooms, bathrooms, and more to the next level.
Where Do I Start to Organize My Home?
One of the biggest hurdles to getting organized is knowing where to start. Here are some tips to help you begin:
- Start with one room or area at a time.
- Declutter first before organizing.
- Make a plan and set achievable goals.
- Enlist the help of a friend or family member for moral support.
How to Start Organizing Home
Now that you know where to start, let's dive into some practical tips and hacks for organizing your home:
Hack #1: Create a Donation Bin
A donation bin can simplify your life by helping you declutter and give back to those in need. You can create a donation bin by repurposing a cardboard box or purchasing a dedicated bin like the Iris USA storage bins. Keep the bin in a visible and accessible location, and add items to it as you come across things you no longer need. Once the bin is full, drop off the contents at a donation center or schedule a pick-up.
Hack #2: Get Rid of Clutter by Using the Four-Box Method
The Four-Box Method is a simple but effective way to declutter your home. To use this method, gather four boxes and label them "keep," "donate," "trash," and "relocate." As you go through your belongings, place items in the appropriate box. The "keep" box should only include items you use and love. The "donate" box can be filled with things in good condition that you no longer need. The "trash" box is for items that are no longer usable, and the "relocate" box is for items that belong in another room or space in your home. Check out the Bankers Box SmoothMove Classic Moving Boxes to assist with this hack.
Hack #3: Invest in Drawer Dividers
Drawer dividers can maximize your storage space and help keep your drawers organized. They are especially useful for kitchen utensils, office supplies, and clothing. Consider purchasing a set of bamboo drawer dividers for a sustainable and functional option. To use them effectively, first, remove everything from the drawer, then sort and group similar items. Finally, place the dividers in the drawer and adjust them to fit your items.
Hack #4: Use a File Organizer for Paperwork
Staying organized with important documents can be overwhelming, but a file organizer can simplify the process. Invest in a file organizer like the expandable file organizer to keep your paperwork in one place. Start by sorting your documents into categories, such as bills, medical records, and tax documents. Label each section of the file organizer accordingly and file your documents by category. Regularly purge and shred documents that are no longer needed to prevent clutter and confusion.
Hack #5: Use a Shoe Organizer for Cleaning Supplies
Cleaning products can take up a lot of space under your sink, but a shoe organizer can help maximize your storage. Hang an over-the-door shoe organizer with mesh pockets like the Simple Houseware overdoor door organizer inside your cleaning supply closet or cupboard door. Use each pocket for a different bottle, spray, or cleaning tool. You can also label each pocket for easy access and organization.
Hack #6: Keep Your Jewelry Organized with an Ice Cube Tray
An ice cube tray can be repurposed to keep your jewelry organized and tangle-free. The compartments are the perfect size for smaller items like rings, earrings, and small necklaces. Simply place your jewelry in each compartment and snap the lid in place to keep everything secure. The Doqaus ice cube trays are a great option for this hack because of their stackable design and snap-on lid.
Hack #7: Use Magazine Holders for Kitchen Supplies
Magazine holders can be used in the kitchen to save space and organize your supplies. They are especially useful for items like aluminum foil, plastic wrap, wrapping paper, and baggies. The Simple Houseware magazine holder is a great option for this hack. First, sort your supplies into categories, then label each magazine holder for easy access. Finally, place the holders in a cupboard or pantry for a clutter-free countertop.
Hack #8: Create an Entryway Command Center
An entryway command center can help you stay organized and prevent clutter from piling up at the door. Start by choosing a designated spot for your command center, then invest in a shelf or hooks like the mail holder and key rack. Use the shelf or hooks to store your keys, sunglasses, and other essentials. Consider adding a whiteboard or calendar to keep track of your schedule and appointments.
Hack #9: Organize Your Fridge with Lazy Susans
Lazy Susans can significantly optimize your fridge and shelf space, making it effortless to locate what you need. They are especially great for condiments, sauces, and small bottles. The Copco lazy Susan is a great option for this hack. Simply place the lazy susan on a shelf in your fridge, then group similar items together on each tier. You can also label each tier for easy access and organization.
Hack #10: Use a Tension Rod to Hang Cleaning Supplies
A tension rod can be used under the sink to hang cleaning supplies and make them easily accessible. Simply install a tension rod near the top of the cabinet, and use S-hooks to hang cleaning supplies like spray bottles, scrub brushes, and dustpans. The adjustable tension rod is a great option for this hack. This helps maximize space and prevents clutter under the sink.
Hack #11: Use a Pegboard for Garage and Tools Organization
A pegboard is an excellent way to keep your garage and tools organized and easy to find. Consider installing a pegboard like a wall control galvanized steel pegboard. Next, sort your tools by category, and hang them on the pegboard accordingly. You can also label each section of the pegboard to help find things easily. This helps maximize space and efficiency in your garage.
Hack #12: Use a Shower Caddy for Bathroom Organization
A shower caddy can be used in your bathroom to keep your toiletries organized and clutter-free. The Kincmax shower caddy is a great option for this hack because of its rustproof material and practical design. Use the hooks to hang the shower caddy from the showerhead, and categorize your toiletries by type. Alternatively, you can use a tension rod to hang a shower caddy on your shower curtain rod.
Hack #13: Keep Your Cables in Order with Binder Clips
Binder clips can be repurposed to help organize your cables and prevent them from tangling. First, gather all your cables together, and separate them by type. Next, use binder clips to secure each cable in a loop, and label each binder clip for easy identification. The binder clips come in a variety of sizes and can be used for this hack. This helps keep your workspace clean and organized.
Hack #14: Create a Charging Station for Your Electronics
A charging station can help you keep all your electronics in one place while charging and prevent clutter from cords and chargers. Consider creating a charging station using a charging dock like the Anker wireless charging station. Place the charging dock in a convenient location, and label each cable or charging station for easy identification. To keep your charging station clutter-free, consider using zip ties or cable wraps to keep cords organized.
Hack #15: Use a Hanging Closet Organizer for Toys
A hanging closet organizer can be used in a child's room to store toys and make them easily accessible by just hanging them on your kid's closet door. The Simple Houseware hanging closet organizer is a great option for this hack. First, sort your child's toys by category, then assign each pocket of the hanging organizer to a specific type of toy. For example, one pocket can be used to hold plush toys, while another can hold action figures. This helps keep your child's room tidy and clutter-free.
Hack #16: Keep Your Sheet Sets Together with a Pillowcase
Keeping sheet sets together can be a hassle, but using a pillowcase can simplify the process. First, fold your fitted sheet, flat sheet, and any pillowcases, then place them inside one of the pillowcases. The result is a tidy and organized set that's easy to find in your linen closet. Consider using colorful pillowcases like the Utopia bed pillowcases to help identify your sheet sets.
Hack #17: Use a Tackle Box for Sewing Supplies
A tackle box can be repurposed to store and organize sewing supplies like thread, needles, and scissors. Consider the Plano 2-tray tackle box for this hack. Sort your sewing supplies into categories, and label each compartment of the tackle box accordingly. This helps you know where to find your supplies and helps prevent them from cluttering your workspace.
Hack #18: Invest in Under-the-Bed Storage Containers
Storage space is always a necessity, and utilizing every bit of available floor space can be a game-changer. In addition to under-the-bed storage containers, a storage bench can serve as a versatile solution. Use under-the-bed containers to store seasonal clothing, extra linens or blankets, or sentimental keepsakes. Make sure to label each container and compartment clearly, and slide them under your bed or against a wall for easy access. This efficient use of floor space and the strategic addition of a storage bench helps maintain a tidy, organized living area.
Home Organization FAQ
What are the best products to use for organizing my home?
Organizing your home can help you keep track of your belongings, streamline your routines, and reduce stress. Here are some of the best products you can use to organize your home:
- Storage Spaces: Storage spaces are essential for organizing your home. There are many options available, including shelves, cabinets, and storage bins. Consider investing in versatile storage solutions that can be adapted to different rooms and purposes. For example, a cube storage unit can be used in a living room to store books and decorative objects, and then moved to a bedroom to organize clothes and accessories.
- Paper Towel Holder: A paper towel holder is a great addition to any kitchen or bathroom. It keeps your paper towel roll easily accessible and off the counter, freeing up space for other items. There are various types of paper towel holders, including wall-mounted holders, freestanding holders, and under-cabinet holders. Choose one that matches your decor and suits your needs.
- Drawer Organizers: Drawer organizers are a simple and effective way to organize small items in drawers. They come in various sizes and shapes to fit different drawers, and can be used to store everything from cutlery and kitchen tools to makeup and office supplies. Some drawer organizers are adjustable, so you can customize the compartments to fit your needs.
- Towel Rack: A towel rack is an essential item in any bathroom. It keeps towels off the floor and allows them to dry quickly, preventing mold and mildew. There are many types of towel racks, including wall-mounted racks, freestanding racks, and over-the-door racks. Consider the size of your bathroom and the number of towels you need to store when choosing a towel rack.
How do I choose what to keep and what to let go of?
Deciding what to keep and what to let go of can be a challenging task, especially when it comes to items that hold sentimental value or that you have held onto for a long time. Here are some tips on how to choose what to keep and what to let go of:
- Define Your Priorities: Ask yourself what is important to you and what you want to achieve with your storage space. Are you looking to declutter your home, make more space, or organize your belongings more effectively? Having clear priorities will help you make more informed decisions about what to keep and what to let go of.
- Consider the Frequency of Use: When sorting through your belongings, consider how often you use each item. If you haven't used an item in a year or more, it's likely that you can let it go. For example, if you have a junk drawer filled with old receipts, pens, and other miscellaneous items that you rarely use, it might be time to declutter it. Keep in mind that items that are seldom used can take up valuable storage space, so it's important to be honest with yourself about their value.
- Assess the Condition of the Item: Another factor to consider is the item's condition. If it's broken, damaged, or unusable, it's time to let it go. However, if it's in good condition and still serves a purpose, you may want to consider keeping it.
- Identify the Emotional Value: Items that hold sentimental value can be challenging to let go of. When assessing these items, ask yourself how important they are to you and whether they bring you joy or serve a meaningful purpose. If the emotional value outweighs the practical value, it may be worth keeping. However, if the emotional attachment is holding you back from letting go of clutter, consider taking a photo of the item to help preserve the memory.
- Maximize Your Storage Space: Once you've decided what to keep and what to let go of, consider how to best utilize your storage space. Use storage containers, shelves, and other organizing tools to make the most of your space.
How do I maintain my newly organized space?
Maintaining a newly organized space can be a challenge, but it's crucial if you want to keep your home clutter-free and organized. Here are some tips to help you maintain your newly organized space:
- Stay Disciplined: The key to maintaining an organized space is to stay disciplined. Make a habit of putting things back where they belong after using them, and avoid allowing clutter to build up again. Create a routine to tidy up your space regularly, whether that's daily, weekly, or monthly.
- Use Storage Solutions: One of the best ways to maintain an organized space is to use storage solutions. When everything has its own place, it's easier to keep track of items and put them away properly. Use storage containers, shelves, and other organizing tools to maximize your space and keep everything in order. For example, if you have a newly organized bedroom closet, use hangers and dividers to keep clothes sorted and organized.
- Get Rid of Unnecessary Items: The more things you have, the harder it is to maintain an organized space. Regularly go through your belongings and get rid of items that you no longer need or use. Donate, sell, or recycle items that are still in good condition, and for items that are broken or beyond repair place them in a trash bag to discard them properly.
- Simplify Your Space: The more clutter you have, the harder it is to maintain an organized space. Simplify your space by minimizing the number of decorative items you have on display and keeping things simple. This will make it easier to keep your space clean and organized.
- Make it a Habit: To maintain a newly organized space, you need to make it a habit. Incorporate daily or weekly cleaning and organizing tasks into your routine, and stick to them. Over time, it will become second nature to keep your space clean and organized.
Final Thoughts
Home organization is an essential aspect of simplifying our lives and reducing stress. Whether it's decluttering a closet space or utilizing empty wall space, there are numerous hacks that can help us maximize our living spaces and turn negative space into positive space. From using plastic bags and trash bags to keep our home organized to implementing drawer organizers and towel racks, there are various tools and techniques that can help us declutter our homes and simplify our daily routines. With a little creativity and effort, anyone can achieve a clutter-free and organized home that supports their lifestyle and brings them peace of mind.
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