It’s a new year, and that means getting organized. Whether you want to finally tackle that one room in the house where everything seems to disappear, or you just want to organize here and there, here’s what you’ll need to do:
Purge and simplify
How much of this do you really need?
The very first thing you need to do is get rid of what you don’t need. The reason most of us are disorganized and cluttered is simply because we have too much stuff. Get rid of all the pens that don’t work, books you never read, art supplies you never use, and so on. If you have a lot of paperwork lying around, scan it and then shred it. If you’re really need a deep cleanse, go through your wardrobe and kitchen, too.
Drawer organizers
Drawers are scary places. To get them order, you can get drawer organizers with little spaces of all sizes for all your stuff. I especially like the ones for silverware, which tends to get all mixed up. Drawers for clothes are also useful, and can get smaller garments like socks from disappearing.
Under-sink shelves
I don’t know about you, but another area of clutter for me is under the kitchen and bathroom sinks. Shelves keep everything standing up and in its place, so when I need to grab a cleaning product, I don’t have to practically crawl under the sink to find it.
Shower caddies
If you don’t have a shower caddy, what are you even doing with your life? The shower can get crammed with bottles really quickly. A shower caddy keeps everything right where you need it. There are all sorts, from shiny metal ones that hang from the shower head, to ones that look like a shower curtain, but with pockets.
Attractive boxes/baskets
Do you have a pantry or closet full of stuff that’s in paper or plastic bags? Old containers? Ugly organization ensures you never want to organize again. Get some good-looking boxes and baskets, and you’ll want to make an area look good. It streamlines and transforms a space into something you’re proud of.
Use your walls
From mounted lights to floating shelves, your wall is a blank canvas that can be used to keep clutter off the floor. Again, you always want to think simple, so your walls don’t turn into a disaster area, but when storage is so visible, you’re much more likely to really think about what you want to keep in your life. Display books, pretty dishes, and more on your walls.
Get multi-purpose furniture
Furniture with storage built in can be a lifesaver. Ottomans that open up and reveal board games, coffee tables with drawers, and more are all clever ways to find space in your home. Get rid of unsightly, clunky plastic bins for something a bit more polished.
Get a good app tool
Your digital life can get just as cluttered as your house. A good app can keep things easy and simply. 24me is a task handler that puts everything in one place, including your calendar, accounts, notes, and so on. You’ll get reminders for bills to birthdays.
Emmaline Soken-Huberty is a freelance writer specializing in topics such as healthy living and cookbooks. She lives in Oregon with her husband. When not working, she enjoys reading, baking, and exploring nature.
