6 Easy Tips For Organizing and Decluttering Your Home

Organization is a skill.  You either have it or you don't.  I grew up with an extremely clean and organized mom.  I'd say the environment she created and genetics both played a role in making me the clean freak I am.  I look forward to my weekly cleaning day when everything is made fresh again.  Even though this is a priority for me, I understand that some people don't always have the time or ability to keep their homes clutter free. I want you to experience the same joy and peace I feel in my home, even if it doesn't come naturally to you.  That's why I've created this list of home organization tips.  I believe one of the most important ways to live a healthy lifestyle is to clean out old clutter because it allows you to create a more convenient, minimalistic living space.

Tip# 1: Go Room to Room
This is something I do on a daily basis.  I walk to every room of my apartment and straighten up anything that is out of place.  You can apply this technique if you have a lot of clutter in each room to go through.  Maybe you're only able to organize one room a day and that's okay.  Don't put too much pressure on yourself to get your whole house done all at once.  By taking it one room at a time, you can prevent feeling scattered and focus on one space, mentally checking off each room as you go.

Tip #2: Take Everything Out of Storage Spaces
Whether you're organizing kitchen cabinets, a night stand, or a media console, you need to remove all the items inside to see what you've got.  First, create a clear space to lay out all your items.  Once everything is out, you can take the time to really think about what to keep and what you can get rid of.  You should also consider whether these items should stay where you had them or be relocated.  Another great way to make things more convenient is by being conscious of where things are placed.  For example, if you're going through your kitchen cabinets, put the gadgets you rarely use up high.  Items you use regularly should be positioned in the front where they can be reached.

Tip #3: Eliminate Multiples
If you have a lot of the same items, ditch the multiples.  It's smart to keep things like pens or light bulbs that you'll eventually be able to use up, but do you really need fifty pairs of socks?  This tip can also be applied to sentimental items.  Say you've got five pieces of jewelry from your grandmother. Keep your favorite one or two and give the rest away.  You'll still have the memory from that person and it will be even more special.  You shouldn't feel guilty about getting rid of things other people gave you.  It's unlikely they will even remember it and if they do, be honest.  If these items no longer serve you or are holding you back in some way, it's time to move on.

Tip# 4: Create Categories
Once you start going through each room, create piles of things that go together.  When you're done with your piles, place everything that will remain back into the storage space neatly.  An easy example of a category I created is product directions.  These are the little booklets that come with kitchen gadgets, vacuums, hair straighteners, and so on.  I always throw away the boxes the products come in and save the directions in case I ever need them.  I keep all of them together in a storage box in my closet so I know exactly where to find them.  To make it even easier, I organized all the booklets by category within the storage box.  Alphabetical order is another extremely helpful tool.  I did this with my DVD collection so whenever my husband and I want to watch something, it's very easy to find.

Tip #5: Sell, Donate, or Throw Away Unnecessary Items
Not too long ago, if you wanted to sell something your only option was a garage sale.  This is still a good option if you have a lot of items to get rid of.  But another good way to make a little extra money is to use eBay, Craigslist, or consignment shops.  I have successfully used all of these options. Get together with family and friends and do a neighborhood garage sale.  If you have things like collectibles that aren't very large, post them on eBay because you can ship all over the world and the buyer pays for shipping.  For larger items like exercise equipment or furniture, Craigslist is great because you can sell to locals.  If you decide on this option, I'd suggest meeting the buyer at a public place to ensure safety.  Consignment shops buy gently used clothes, shoes, and accessories from you. If the items aren't worth selling, donating is the next best thing.  Finally, sometimes things aren't worth your time and need to be discarded.  If you're going through a junk drawer and find worn out rubber bands or random q-tips, just put them in the trash.  Once you've successfully eliminated unnecessary items and put everything in it's place, it's important that you don't go buy all new things. Make a habit of tossing out old things whenever there is a need for something new so it doesn't build back up again.

Tip #6: Less is More
 An easy way to make your home look neater is to keep your counters as clear as possible.  When it comes to kitchen/bathroom counters, nightstands, dressers, dinner tables, etc., only keep out a few items you use regularly.  Everything else can be stored in cabinets.  This principle can also be applied to refrigerator magnets and wall decor.  The goal is to create a minimal look that is still visually pleasing, but not chaotic.

I hope this inspires you to start working on your own home.  By disposing of excess items, you will not only make your home healthier, but your mind will become calm and clear and you'll feel less stressed.  The less you have, the less there is to clean up!