How to Get (and Stay!) Organized At Home

Are you tired of living in a cluttered and chaotic home? Do you long for a space that is organized, tidy, and stress-free? As we head into the new year, getting (and staying) organized is a huge priority for many women. That’s why we chatted with Rachel Gitzen, a professional home organizer and founder of Rah and Co, to learn some easy tips to get organized at home this year. Here is what she had to say. 

How to Get Organized at Home 

1. Start with a decluttering session

Before you can truly get organized, you need to declutter. Take a day or a weekend to go through each room in your house and get rid of items you no longer need or use. Be ruthless and only keep what brings you joy or serves a purpose.

2. Create designated spaces 

Assign specific areas for different items in your home. For example, have a designated spot for your keys, a mail organizer for incoming and outgoing mail, and a dedicated space for your shoes. This will help you find things easily and prevent clutter from piling up.

3.Streamline your belongings

Do you have multiples of the same item that you don't really need? Consolidate them to save space and reduce clutter. For example, keep one set of measuring cups instead of three or four. 

4. Invest in storage solutions

Storage bins, baskets, and shelves are your best friends when it comes to organizing. Use them to store items that don't have a specific place, such as seasonal decorations or extra linens. Label each container for easy identification.

5. Implement a daily cleaning routine

Set aside a few minutes each day to tidy up your home. This could include making your bed, doing a quick wipe-down of surfaces, and putting away any items that are out of place. Consistency is key to maintaining an organized space.

6. Prioritize and categorize

Make a to-do list and prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance. Categorize them into sections like "home maintenance," "errands," and "organizing projects." This will help you stay focused and accomplish tasks more efficiently.

7. Streamline your belongings

Do you have multiples of the same item that you don't really need? Consolidate them to save space and reduce clutter. For example, keep one set of measuring cups instead of three or four.

8. Establish a "donate" and "sell" area

As you declutter, create designated spaces for items you plan to donate or sell. This way, you can easily separate them from the things you intend to keep and avoid them sneaking back into your organized space.

8. Utilize vertical space

Maximize your storage options by using vertical space. Install shelves or hanging organizers on your walls to store items like books, towels, or cleaning supplies. This will free up valuable floor and counter space.

9. Set realistic goals

Organizing your home is a process. It’s best to set small, achievable goals for yourself each week or month. Remember, your goals should be directed towards the overarching theme of making your life easier and more practical. Pinterest boards might be great for inspiration, but if your design choices aren’t pragmatic, they won’t be very helpful. Celebrate your progress and don't get discouraged if you encounter setbacks along the way.

10. Utilize a home organization planner

To stay on top of your organizing efforts, consider using a home organization planner like The Plan by Lauren Truslow. This plannerhas designated monthly home organizational focuses, an area to record and measure your spaces, and space to record your projects.

Remember, getting organized is a journey, not a destination. Designate one day per month to focus on one area, and you’ll be amazed at the changes you’ll make with consistent effort and dedication. Follow these tips, and soon, you'll enjoy a home that is clutter-free, organized, and a joy to live in. Happy organizing!