Imagine coming home after a long day and feeling instantly calm and happy because everything is in its place. No piles of laundry, no cluttered counters—just a clean, organized space that feels peaceful. Sounds great, right? Now imagine the opposite: chaos everywhere. Which would you prefer?
An organized and beautiful home isn’t just about looking nice; it actually makes life easier and less stressful. When your space is tidy, you can focus better, feel happier, and even get more done. I’ve felt the difference myself. Once, I spent hours looking for my keys in a messy house—talk about frustration! After I started organizing my space, life felt so much simpler (and I always knew where my keys were).
This guide is here to help you create that kind of home. Whether you want to organize one drawer or your whole house, you’ll find simple, easy tips to get started. Let’s create a space you’ll love coming home to—one step at a time. Ready? Let’s go!
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1. Decluttering: The First Step to Organizing Process
Why Decluttering Matters
Clutter is like that one friend who overstays their welcome—it takes up space, stresses you out, and makes life harder than it needs to be. When your home is filled with things you don’t need, it’s tough to find and enjoy the things you actually use. Decluttering isn’t just about tossing stuff out; it’s about creating space for what truly matters.
Marie Kondo, Founder of the KonMari Method: “Keep only those things that speak to your heart. Then take the plunge and discard all the rest.”
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How to Start Decluttering Process
Starting can feel overwhelming—after all, where do you even begin? The answer: one step (and one room) at a time. Trying to tackle everything in a single day is like eating an entire cake in one sitting—tempting, but not a good idea. Instead, take a room-by-room approach to keep things manageable.
Here’s a tried-and-true method: the “Keep, Donate, Discard” method. Grab three boxes or bags and sort items as you go:
- Keep: Items you use regularly or love.
- Donate: Things in good condition that someone else could use.
- Discard: Broken, expired, or worn-out items that have no place in your life anymore.
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Pro Tip: The 12-12-12 Rule
Feeling stuck? Try the 12-12-12 Rule: Find 12 items to throw away, 12 to donate, and 12 to put back in their proper place. It’s like a mini decluttering game that gets you moving without overthinking. I’ve used this trick in my living room, and it’s shocking how quickly things look tidy—and how satisfying it feels to hit those “12” goals.
Clea Shearer & Joanna Teplin, Co-founders of The Home Edit: “A system only works if it’s easy to maintain. That’s why we focus on creating intuitive, functional, and beautiful spaces.”
2. Create a Home for Everything
Ever feel like you’re always searching for stuff? That’s where this golden rule comes in: give everything a home. When every item has a designated spot, life gets so much easier.
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Assigning Specific Places for All Items
Start by deciding where each thing belongs. Keys? By the door. Mail? In a basket. Toys? In bins. Think about how often you use something—everyday items should be easy to grab, while less-used items can go on higher shelves or in storage.
Using Labels for Easy Identification
Labels are lifesavers. They tell everyone (not just you!) where things go. For example, label bins in the pantry so no one mistakes the sugar for the salt. Use a label maker for neatness or sticky notes for a quick fix. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later.
Jen Jones, Creator of “I Heart Organizing”: “Labeling is a game-changer. It not only looks neat but also helps everyone know where things belong.”
Pro Tip: Use Clear Containers
Clear bins are a game-changer. You can see what’s inside without opening them, making it easy to grab what you need. They’re perfect for cables, craft supplies, or even kids’ toys. Plus, they make cleanup faster because you know exactly where everything goes.
Dana K. White, Author of “A Slob Comes Clean” and professional organizer: “Start with the visible areas first. Seeing progress in the most noticeable spaces can motivate you to keep going.”
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3. Maximize Storage Spaces
No matter how much space you have, organizing it well makes all the difference. The key is to use smart storage tricks to make the most of what you’ve got.
Tips for Small Spaces
If you’re working with a small space, think up! Use shelves, racks, and hooks to make your walls do the heavy lifting. Add floating shelves for books or decor and hooks for coats, bags, or even kitchen tools.
Another hack? Furniture with built-in storage. Ottomans that hold blankets or beds with drawers underneath are lifesavers. My coffee table has hidden storage, and it’s perfect for hiding random clutter when guests pop over.
Image by habundgood
Optimizing Large Spaces
Bigger and more space can get messy, too. Use organizers for cabinets, drawers, and hall closet to keep everything in order. Drawer dividers work wonders for socks or utensils, and Lazy Susans make it easy to grab items from deep cabinets.
Also, group similar items together. Keep all your tools, clothes, or pantry items in one spot so they’re easy to find. It saves time and makes everything look tidier.
4. Beautify Your Home While Organizing System
Organizing tips doesn’t have to be boring. With a few simple touches, you can make your home look beautiful while keeping it functional.
Stylish Storage Space Solutions
Ditch the plain plastic bins and go for baskets, decorative boxes, or modular furniture. Woven baskets add a cozy vibe while hiding clutter. Decorative boxes look great on shelves and keep small items out of sight. Modular furniture, like storage ottomans or shelves, combines style and function perfectly.
I switched to matching baskets in my living room, and it instantly felt more organized and stylish. Plus, no one can tell they’re filled with random cables and board games!
Melissa George, Founder of “Polished Habitat”: “Combining form and function is key. Choose storage solutions that are both practical and aesthetically pleasing.”
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Add Greenery and Natural Elements
Plants can instantly brighten any space. Even a small plant on a shelf or table makes a room feel fresher and more inviting. If plants aren’t your thing, try adding natural materials like wood or woven accents to warm up your space.
I added a little plant to my entryway shelf, and it made that once-dull corner feel alive. Who knew a $10 plant could do so much?
Pro Tip: Stick to a Color Palette
Use a consistent color palette for your storage and decor. Matching baskets, boxes, and even labels in similar colors create a clean, unified look. Neutrals like beige or gray work well, but you can also add a pop of your favorite color.
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5. Maintain Your Organization
Staying organized doesn’t have to be hard. A few simple habits can help keep your home tidy and stress-free.
Daily Habits for Staying Organized
Put things back where they belong as soon as you’re done with them. Spend 5-10 minutes each day tidying up common areas like the living room or kitchen. These small actions prevent clutter from piling up.
I started using the “one-minute rule”—if something takes less than a minute to do, I do it right away. Hanging up my jacket or tossing junk mail feels quick and easy, and it makes a big difference.
Toni Hammersley, Founder of “A Bowl Full of Lemons”: “Cleaning and organizing are ongoing processes. Establish daily routines to maintain order in your home.”
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Schedule Weekly or Monthly Checks
Pick a day each week or month to refresh your space. Focus on areas that get messy, like closets or junk drawers. For me, Sunday mornings are perfect for tidying up while listening to music. It sets me up for a calmer week ahead.
FAQS
1. How do I start organizing my home?
Start small. Pick one area, like a drawer or a closet, and declutter first. Use the “Keep, Donate, Discard” method to sort through items. Once you’ve decluttered, assign a home for each item and consider using bins, baskets, or shelves to keep everything tidy.
2. What’s the best way to keep my home organized long-term?
Build simple daily habits, like putting things back where they belong and spending 5-10 minutes tidying up each day. Schedule weekly or monthly checks to reorganize any messy spots. Involve your family or roommates by dividing responsibilities through a chore chart or shared app.
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3. How can I organize my home on a budget?
Use what you already have! Repurpose shoe boxes, mason jars, or baskets for storage. Visit dollar stores or thrift shops for affordable storage options. Decluttering first can also reduce the need for expensive storage solutions. You’ll be amazed at how much you can achieve with creativity and minimal spending.
4. What’s the best way to organize small spaces?
Think vertically—use shelves, racks, and hooks to free up floor space. Choose multipurpose furniture, like ottomans with storage or beds with built-in drawers. Keep items grouped and stored in bins or boxes to reduce visual clutter and maximize efficiency.
5. Can organizing my home make me feel less stressed?
Absolutely! A clutter-free home helps clear your mind and reduces feelings of overwhelm. Studies show that organized spaces promote relaxation, improve focus, and even boost productivity. Plus, knowing where everything is saves time and frustration.
6. How do I make organizing look stylish?
Use baskets, decorative boxes, and matching storage containers to blend organization with decor. Stick to a consistent color palette for a clean, unified look. Add greenery or natural materials like wood and woven textures to make your space feel fresh and inviting.
If you love these ideas, don’t forget to pin the above image to your “Home and Garden” board.