top of page

General Organizing Tips

🧹 General Organizing Tips

  • Start small – Begin with one drawer, shelf, or area at a time to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

  • Declutter first – Don’t organize what you don’t need. Sort items into Keep, Donate, Trash, or Relocate piles.

  • Group similar items – Store like with like (e.g., all cleaning supplies together, all office supplies together).

  • Label everything – Labels make it easy for everyone in the household to find (and return) items.

  • Use clear bins – Transparent containers help you see what’s inside without digging through boxes.

  • Go vertical – Use shelves, wall hooks, and over-the-door organizers to maximize space.

  • Create zones – Assign specific areas for specific categories (e.g., mail station, snack zone, craft corner).

  • Keep “everyday” items accessible – Store frequently used things at eye level, and seasonal or occasional items up high or down low.

  • Follow the “one in, one out” rule – When something new comes in, let something go.

  • Maintain daily – Spend 10–15 minutes a day tidying up to prevent clutter buildup.

🥫Kitchen:

  • Declutter First:
    Remove expired food, duplicate tools, and items you never use before organizing.

  • Group by Category
    Keep similar items together — baking supplies, snacks, canned goods, spices, etc.

  • Use Zones
    Create zones for cooking, prepping, cleaning, and storing. For example:

  • Cooking Zone: Pots, pans, utensils, oils, and spices near the stove.

  • Prep Zone: Cutting boards, knives, mixing bowls near your counter workspace.

  • Cleaning Zone: Soaps, sponges, dish towels under or near the sink.

  • Maximize Cabinet Space:
    Use shelf risers, lazy Susans, and stackable bins to make the most of vertical space.

  • Drawer Dividers:
    Keep utensils, cutlery, and small gadgets neat and easy to find.

  • Label Everything:
    Clear labels help everyone in the household know where things go.

  • Use Clear Containers:
    Store dry goods (like flour, sugar, rice, or pasta) in clear airtight containers for visibility and freshness.

  • Keep Counters Clear:
    Only keep daily-use items (like a coffee maker or toaster) on your counters to maintain a clean look.

  • Rotate Items:
    Follow the “first in, first out” rule so food doesn’t expire in the back of the pantry.

  • Utilize Door Space:
    Add over-the-door racks for spices, wraps, or cleaning supplies.

  • Categorize Shelves:
    Dedicate shelves or bins for specific categories: snacks, breakfast items, canned goods, baking, pasta, etc.

  • Use Bins and Baskets:
    Contain loose or small items in labeled bins for easy access and tidy shelves.

  • Decant Dry Goods:
    Transfer bulk foods into matching containers to create a uniform, clutter-free look.

  • Use Tiered Risers:
    Store cans or condiments on tiered shelves so you can see everything at a glance.

  • Adjust Shelves:
    Move shelves up or down to better fit tall bottles or bulky items.

  • Store Snacks at Eye Level (for kids):
    Create a “grab & go” snack bin that’s easy for kids to reach.

  • Label Clearly:
    Use simple, consistent labels — either printed or handwritten — to make upkeep easier.

  • Check Inventory Regularly:
    Once a month, scan for expired or near-empty items.

  • Use Turntables for Corners:
    Lazy Susans are perfect for oils, vinegars, or sauces.

  • Add Lighting:
    Battery-operated motion lights make dark pantry corners visible and inviting.

👗 General Closet Organization Tips

  • Start with a Clean Slate:
    Empty the entire closet so you can see everything you own and start fresh.

  • Declutter First:
    Sort items into keep, donate, sell, or toss piles. Be honest—if you haven’t worn it in a year, it might be time to let it go.

  • Group by Category:
    Separate clothing into categories like tops, pants, dresses, jackets, shoes, accessories, etc.

  • Color Code:
    Within each category, arrange items by color (light to dark). It looks neat and makes getting dressed easier.

  • Use Matching Hangers:
    Uniform hangers instantly make a closet look more organized and help clothes hang evenly.

  • Maximize Vertical Space:
    Add a second hanging rod for shorter items or install shelves above for storage bins and off-season clothes.

  • Use Shelf Dividers:
    Keep sweaters, jeans, or handbags stacked neatly without toppling over.

  • Incorporate Bins and Baskets:
    Perfect for accessories, belts, scarves, or seasonal items.

  • Label Everything:
    Labels help maintain order—especially if multiple people share the space.

  • Utilize Door Space:
    Over-the-door organizers can hold shoes, bags, or accessories.

👠 Closet Storage & Maintenance Tips

  • Rotate Seasonally:

  • Store off-season clothes in labeled bins or under-bed storage to make more room.

  • Use Clear or Labeled Boxes for Shoes:
    Keeps pairs together and visible.

  • Hang Strategically:

  • Long items (dresses, coats) on one side.

  • Shorter items (tops, pants) on another, with space below for bins or shoes.

  • Use Slim Drawer Organizers:
    Perfect for socks, underwear, and jewelry drawers.

  • Add Hooks or Racks:
    Great for hats, handbags, or outfit planning.

  • Add Lighting:
    A well-lit closet makes it easier to see and maintain your system.

  • Invest in Quality Storage Solutions:
    Sturdy bins, velvet hangers, and drawer inserts make your system last.

  • Maintain Weekly:
    Do a quick tidy-up once a week to hang items back where they belong.

  • Keep a Donation Bag Handy:
    When you try something on and decide you don’t love it, drop it right into the bag.

  • Make It Pretty:
    Add a small rug, framed art, or scented sachets—when you love the space, you’ll keep it organized.

🧴 General Bathroom Organization Tips

  1. Declutter First:
    Toss expired products, empty containers, old makeup, and anything you no longer use.

  2. Group by Category:
    Keep similar items together — skincare, haircare, dental care, medications, cleaning supplies, etc.

  3. Use Clear Containers or Bins:
    Store products in clear or labeled bins so you can easily see what you have.

  4. Drawer Dividers:
    Use small trays or dividers for makeup, hair accessories, or daily essentials.

  5. Maximize Vertical Space:
    Add shelves or stackable bins inside cabinets or over the toilet for extra storage.

  6. Use Lazy Susans:
    Great for under-sink cabinets to easily access products stored in the back.

  7. Keep Counters Clear:
    Only keep daily-use items (like toothbrushes or face wash) on the counter.

  8. Use Matching Containers:
    Decant soap, lotion, or cotton swabs into matching jars or bottles for a clean, cohesive look.

  9. Label Everything:
    Especially helpful for shared bathrooms — everyone knows where things belong.

  10. Add Hooks or Towel Bars:
    Hang towels, robes, or even baskets to keep items off the floor.

🧼 Under-Sink & Cabinet Organization Tips

  1. Use Stackable Drawers or Baskets:
    Separate cleaning supplies, toiletries, or backup items.

  2. Install Tension Rods:
    Hang spray bottles from a tension rod under the sink to save space.

  3. Use a Pull-Out Organizer:
    Makes it easier to access items stored deep in cabinets.

  4. Keep Backup Stock Together:
    Designate a bin labeled “Extras” for things like extra toothpaste, soap, or shampoo.

  5. Protect the Base:
    Line the bottom of cabinets with a mat to protect from leaks or spills.

🪞 Linen Closet & Small Space Tips

  1. Roll or Fold Towels Neatly:
    Store by size or color to make your closet look tidy and intentional.

  2. Use Baskets for Categories:
    Group washcloths, extra toiletries, and cleaning supplies in labeled baskets.

  3. Add Shelf Dividers:
    Keep stacks of towels or sheets from toppling over.

  4. Over-the-Door Organizers:
    Perfect for small bathrooms — store hair tools, extra supplies, or cleaning items.

  5. Use Vertical Storage:
    A tall, narrow shelving unit can hold towels, bins, or decorative jars.

🌿 Maintenance & Style Tips

  1. Do a Monthly Edit:
    Check for expired products or half-used bottles you don’t need.

  2. Create a Spa-Like Feel:
    Add small touches like candles, plants, or a pretty tray for essentials.

  3. Keep a Donation or Disposal Bin:
    For unused or unwanted products.

  4. Wipe Down Regularly:
    Clean surfaces weekly to keep your space feeling fresh and organized.

  5. Keep Everyday Items Easy to Reach:
    Store backups higher or lower — keep only daily items in your most accessible spots.

🗂️ General Office Organization Tips

  1. Clear Everything Off First:
    Start fresh by removing everything from your desk and drawers before reorganizing.

  2. Declutter Ruthlessly:
    Toss old papers, dried pens, tangled cords, and anything you don’t use or love.

  3. Keep Only What You Need Daily on the Desk:
    Computer, notepad, favorite pen, and maybe a small plant or photo — everything else can be stored nearby.

  4. Create Functional Zones:

    • Work Zone: Computer, planner, daily supplies.

    • Storage Zone: Files, office supplies, equipment.

    • Reference Zone: Books, manuals, inspiration materials.

  5. Use Drawer Organizers:
    Keep pens, paper clips, sticky notes, and small tools neatly separated.

  6. Go Vertical:
    Add floating shelves, pegboards, or wall organizers to free up desk space.

  7. Label Everything:
    Label drawers, file folders, and bins so everything has a home.

  8. Contain Cords:
    Use cord clips, cable boxes, or ties to manage wires and chargers.

  9. Add Lighting:
    A well-lit workspace boosts focus — add a desk lamp or under-shelf lighting.

  10. Keep Personal Touches Minimal:
    A few inspiring items are great, but too many can become visual clutter.

📁 Paper & File Organization Tips

  1. Go Digital When Possible:
    Scan receipts, notes, and documents to reduce paper piles.

  2. Set Up a Simple Filing System:
    Use categories like To Do, To File, Reference, and Archive.

  3. Use Color-Coding:
    Assign colors to categories (e.g., green for finances, blue for clients, red for personal).

  4. Limit Incoming Paper:
    Open mail immediately, recycle junk, and file or act on the rest right away.

  5. Keep a “To-File” Tray:
    For papers you’ll organize weekly — not daily clutter piles.

  6. Shred Sensitive Documents:
    Regularly shred papers you no longer need but that contain personal information.

🖥️ Digital Organization Tips

  1. Declutter Your Desktop:
    Keep only shortcuts or current projects visible.

  2. Create Consistent Folder Names:
    Use clear, uniform naming (e.g., “ClientName_ProjectName_2025”).

  3. Back Up Regularly:
    Store important files on the cloud or an external drive.

  4. Unsubscribe from Unnecessary Emails:
    Reduce inbox clutter by setting filters and unsubscribing from newsletters.

  5. Set a Weekly “Digital Cleanup Day”:
    Delete old files, empty your trash, and tidy up your email inbox.

🪴 Maintenance & Productivity Tips

  1. End Each Day with a 5-Minute Reset:
    Put everything back where it belongs and prep for the next day.

  2. Use a Planner or Digital Task System:
    Keep track of deadlines and priorities.

  3. Keep Supplies Minimal:
    Only stock what you use regularly — store extras elsewhere.

  4. Add Plants or Artwork:
    A touch of greenery or inspiration boosts mood and focus.

  5. Revisit Every 3–6 Months:
    Do a mini declutter session to maintain your system.

bottom of page