Kick Clutter to the Curb for Good in Your New Home!
Find Out How You Can Kick Clutter to the Curb for Good in Your New Home!
No one wants to spend hours each week cleaning the house. But conquering clutter is no easy feat if you’ve got kids, a messy spouse, or you’re simply a busy family.
“No one wants to create jobs for themselves the minute they’re home,” says Wendy Ellin, a productivity expert and author of Enough Is Enough, Get Control of Your Stuff. “Your home is there to create joy, and how much you enjoy it is contingent upon how you set it up.”
The key to an organized home is learning the art of containment—grouping like items in appropriate containers so it’s easy to put them away and find them when needed. Let’s explore tips for keeping the most challenging rooms clutter-free—for good!
The Entry
Even a tiny entry can stay organized with a divided basket for each family member near the door. Dedicate a section for mail, using a file folder split into categories like “bills to pay” or “RSVPs.”
“Clutter is the manifestation of indecision,” says Ellin. “Your entryway sets the stage for how you live. Having a place for everything is the first step toward a home you love.”
Add a mat for shoes and umbrellas. For junk mail:
“Go straight to the recycle bin,” Ellin advises. “Everything else should have an immediate home.”
Use a small table or narrow stand with a tin for keys if space is tight.
The Kitchen
This hardworking space needs smart storage. Use drawer separators and containers for junk drawers (think batteries, cords, or candles). Group cooking utensils in shallow containers, and dedicate shelves to specific items like baking supplies or coffee stations.
“Containers make all the difference,” says Ellin. “Almost everything in my home is stored in one.”
Maximize space with hanging shelves for pots or clear jars for dry goods. For chaotic pantries or fridges:
- Fridge: Use glass containers for prepped foods, drawers for proteins, and bins for condiments.
- Pantry: Group items by meal (breakfast, snacks), use lazy Susans for cans, and store heavy items low.
The Bathroom
Organize by category:
- Bath & Body
- Face
- Hair
- Dental
- Cleaning (keep wipes, shower spray, and toilet cleaner handy)
Use drawer dividers or containers to group items near where they’re used—like bath products by the shower or skincare by the sink.
The Closets
Start by purging unused items:
“If you haven’t used it in a year, donate it,” advises Ellin. “You can always replace things later.”
- Organize clothes by type and color; use shelves for shoes.
- Try the Marie Kondo folding method for drawers.
- Use over-the-door organizers for accessories and rolling carts for small items.
By embracing containment and intentional organization, you’ll transform your home into a joyful retreat—free of clutter and full of peace.
