Clutter can make your home feel chaotic and overwhelming. It eats up valuable space, makes it hard to find things when you need them, and can even become a safety issue. Plus, with all that mess, the beauty of your home and its décor gets lost in the mix. But don’t worry—you can tackle clutter and create a living space that feels open, welcoming, and organized. Here’s how to make it happen.
Before you dive into cleaning up, start by taking photos of your space. This might seem odd at first, but it’s incredibly helpful. Photos give you a clear view of what needs work and help you visualize changes. Plus, before-and-after pictures are a great way to motivate yourself as you start to see progress. If you’re planning to donate items, having photos of those donations can also be useful for your records.
Take a close look at what you own. Be honest with yourself. Do you really need all those things? Ask questions like: When was the last time I used this? Do I actually love or need this item? Write down items that you haven’t used or even thought about in the last six months. Seeing your items listed on paper can make it easier to decide what stays and what goes. This list can also help you identify duplicates or things you’ve simply outgrown.
Now that you have a clear idea of what you don’t need, it’s time to get rid of it. Donate items that are still in good condition to local charities or give them to friends and family who could use them. For things that are too worn out or broken, toss them in the trash. If you have a lot of items to clear out, renting a small roll-away dumpster could be a smart option for a quicker cleanup. Clearing out clutter is the first big step toward reclaiming your space.
While many organizing experts recommend starting with storage areas like your attic or garage, it’s okay to begin wherever makes sense for you. If one room is especially bothering you or if you need to find something specific, start there. The important thing is to pick a place and get moving. Keep in mind, if you tend to hold onto items, tackling a main living space first might be easier so you don’t get stuck in old memories stored in attics or basements.
Clutter doesn’t build up overnight, so don’t expect to clear it out in a single day. Set a schedule that’s realistic and manageable for you. Maybe you spend an hour each evening on one small section or dedicate a weekend to a specific room. Stick to your plan as much as possible. Remember, it’s better to move at a steady pace than to burn out after a single day of intense decluttering.
Storage bins can make a world of difference when it comes to staying organized. For items you use regularly, clear containers with lids are perfect since you can see what’s inside without opening them. For seasonal items like holiday decorations or camping gear, larger, solid bins work well. Label each bin clearly so you can find what you need with just a quick glance. Smaller metal or woven baskets are great for pantry items, toiletries, or office supplies.
Don’t be afraid to look up organizing tips and tricks. The internet is full of free resources, from YouTube tutorials to home organization blogs. You can find creative solutions for just about any space or problem you’re facing. Check out your local library for books on home organization or see if your local hardware store offers free workshops. Gathering ideas can spark new approaches that suit your home’s needs.
Organizing is a lot easier—and more fun—when you have help. Invite family members or friends to join in. Fresh eyes can be more objective about what should stay or go, and extra hands make the work go faster. Plus, involving the family helps teach kids and other household members the importance of keeping spaces tidy and organized.
Look for clever ways to maximize the space you already have. Under-the-bed storage containers, corner shelves, and tall shelving units are great options for using up every bit of available space. If you’re trying to organize a small room, think vertically. Items like hanging shoe organizers, multi-tiered racks, and foldable storage boxes can add more space without making the room feel crowded. There are plenty of room organizers out there that look good and add a decorative touch to your home while being practical.
Keep Up with Your New System It’s one thing to declutter your space, but keeping it that way is another. Maintenance is key to ensuring that your hard work doesn’t go to waste. Set up reminders on your phone or jot down regular check-ins on your calendar: