Having an organized space is one of the best feelings, but getting there or finding the motivation to tackle a project can be daunting! My biggest piece of advice, start small (or hire us)! 😊 Each small project you finish gives you motivation and inspiration to keep going and leaves you more confident to go after larger spaces. Regardless of how big or small the space, here are my tried-and-true steps in organizing any space:
Step 1: Identify the Space
This seems silly, but it’s important! Rather than saying, “The Kitchen” focus specifically on an area. For example: the pantry, the refrigerator, the cupboards, or the junk drawer. This makes the thought of getting started in a space not feel as daunting. If you're struggling on what space to start with, think about what frustrates or overwhelms you the most – start in those specific spaces.
Step 2: Remove Everything
Start by clearing a space for items to be placed temporarily. Then, take everything out of the space, yes that means EVERYTHING! This helps you take inventory of what you have, remove old and/or expired items, and easily sort as your editing the space while also seeing your storage needs.
Step 3: Sort & Group
Keep: Items in good condition that you’ll continue to use regularly
Donate: Items in good condition, but you no longer need or use
Consign/Sell: Higher valued items or items in demand (if you're struggling with what to sell or donate, take a look at this article)
Toss: Anything damaged, chipped, stained, torn, outdated, expired, unusable, or simply not worth donating or selling
Relocate: Sometimes items end up in random places – now is your opportunity to make sure items are returned to their rightful homes and spaces
Step 4: Contain & Systemize
Put like items together – start with big categories then narrow down as needed. You may start with a category of "Makeup" then narrow it down to: Eyes, Face, Brushes, Lotions, etc.
Prioritize storage solutions with what you use daily vs. occasionally or seasonally
Place in bins, containers, boxes, baskets, or anything you already have in your home – it is NOT necessary to go out and buy more (you can, but repurposing works great too)
If you do purchase storage solutions – make sure to measure the space first!
Label – don’t skip this step! Labels can be simple or fancy, but this will be key in helping to maintain. Remember, the more specific, the better. You can also create a list of the contents and attach it to the storage or label.
Step 5: Refill the Space
Once everything has been contained or categorized in a system, it’s time to start putting things back into your empty space. Before you start, if you haven’t already cleaned out the empty space, make sure to do that first. Who knows when you’re going to have this space empty again, it’s best to start with a fresh clean slate.
Then, once you’re ready, start refilling and remember these tips:
Place your most frequently used items in the most accessible spots (and at eye level)
Keep categories together
Step 6: Maintain
This step is all about teaching your family, loved ones, or anyone who uses the space how to use the new system. You’re all in this together and it’s much easier to maintain if everyone is on the same page. Also, stick with it. Organization takes dedication, but I promise – it’s worth it!
Step 7: Change What's Not Working
Simply because something starts one way, doesn’t mean it has to stay if it’s not working for you! A fancy shoe shelf or space in your closet may look nice, but if you need to have a rack in the garage or a basket by the back door because that’s what works for you – than do it! Don’t hesitate to make adjustments to your systems to make your life simpler.
Let us know your tried-and-true tips or what works best for you by commenting below!
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