Organizing your space can feel overwhelming, but breaking down a complicated project into smaller chunks helps. The following 8-step method, which we follow in our professional organization projects, can transform any space from a cluttered mess to a perfectly organized area. Expect to feel calmer and more efficient when everything is sorted and organized. 

From sorting and purging to labeling and stacking bins, we’ll walk you through each stage of the organization process. In the end, you’ll have a clean, aesthetically pleasing space with tons of functionality — a clean space will also boost your mood. Let’s get started!  

Take Everything Out of Your Area

The first step is to declutter by clearing everything out of the space you’re organizing. Having a clean slate makes it easier to visualize the space and is also less overwhelming. Take time to walk around the space and picture where you want items. Think about convenience and ease of access, and consider which items you want to part with. 

At this point, you’ll also want to do some light cleaning. Sweep, dust, mop, and wipe down shelves and surfaces. This is the best time to clean, and while it does add more time, you’ll be glad you did it later when everything is sorted. 

Categorize All of Your Items and Get Rid of Trash

Remember how we talked about which items you might want to eliminate? Sorting items is crucial to decluttering efficiently, so start grouping like items together. If you’re cleaning out a garage, for example, sort items like tools in their own pile and yard work-related items into a separate pile. Sorting items in piles will make it easier to make decluttering decisions and put things away later. 

As you’re busy sorting, look for items you don’t want or need anymore. If the item is broken, expired, or irrelevant, put it in a separate pile, which you’ll deal with later. If you’re even a bit unsure about keeping the item, put it in the pile for now. You can always change your mind.

Purge Items

When you’ve piled up enough unwanted items, it’s time to sort again. As you go through the piles, you’ll want to pull out items that you no longer need. Separate these items into three piles: sell, donate, or trash. Items that might fetch a few bucks should go into the sell pile, while other items that are still usable but lack resale value should go into the donate pile. Finally, the trash pile is for everything else. Broken items, items with missing parts, and expired items should go here. Pretty simple, right? 

Before you throw items away, make sure you’re following local laws and ordinances. Furniture should be taken to a landfill, or can be listed online for free pickup or scheduled for a donation pickup through the local thrift store, while some electronics, especially those with flammable lithium batteries, should be recycled at authorized locations — some retail stores such as BestBuy are good options for smaller electronics. 

Get Containers for Your “Groups” of Items

Now it’s time to start placing items from the sorted piles into containers. Containers save space, and they simplify the process of packing and unpacking items for a move since items are already packed up and ready to go. There are tons of different containers out there that range in looks and price. Target has basic but functional containers that are budget-friendly. If you’re looking for something more high-end, you can’t go wrong with the Container Store, just be ready to pay a little more. 

When you’re shopping for containers, it’s recommended to get ones that are easily stackable to allow you to store more items without taking up too much floor space. It’s also a good idea to get clear or semi-transparent containers. That way you don’t have to guess what items are in which containers. 

Label Containers and Shelve Them

Since you’ve already separated everything into piles, it should be easy and quick to store items together in containers. Label the containers as you finish putting items inside. You can take this a step further by using a spreadsheet or app to track your containers. With a simple labeling system, you can easily see where a container is and what’s in it. Some systems even implement QR codes to make it lightning-fast to find your items. 

While stacking containers is the easiest and most affordable option to organize them, it’s not the best long-term solution. Containers are less accessible when stacked, and those at the bottom tend to get damaged over time. Instead, we recommend implementing a shelving system to organize containers, which makes it easier to access items. If you have the space and the budget, shelves are the way to go. 

Make Adjustments That Work for You

After spending hours or even days sorting and organizing, the last thing you want to do is start over. Spend some time using the space and thinking through the organization. If frequently used items are hard to reach, consider making them more easily accessible. Likewise, items that you don’t use often can be relegated to spaces that are harder to access. And if the whole room feels off, maybe try rearranging the whole thing. It’s a hassle, but it will be worth it when all your items are properly stored and easy to access. 

Don’t Be Afraid To Ask for Help

Finally, ask for help if you need it. Undertaking an organizing project can take a lot of time, especially if you’re not experienced or have struggled with finding the right system for you. If you can’t find someone to help or don’t want to be involved, you can hire a professional organizer. A professional organizing company is the ideal partner; they have the expertise to transform your space. You only need to pick which items you don’t want to keep. The experts can do the rest. 

Create Your Dream Space With Luxury Outdoor Kitchens

Your space is now decluttered, organized, and ready for you to take on the day. Following these eight steps will help keep everything in its rightful place and ensure your space is enjoyable in easy to use. Although you can take on this project alone, you don’t have to. Professional organizing companies, like Clutterless Home Solutions, can take care of everything, from organizing your pantry to packing and unpacking items when moving. 
Ready to start your journey to an organized, beautiful space? Contact Clutterless Home Solutions today, and let’s bring your vision to life!

1. Take everything out of your area
2. Categorize all of your items and get rid of trash
3. Purge Items
4. Get containers for your “groups” of items
5. Put items into your containers and label them
6. Store like-items together in your space i.e. First aid kits with Band-Aids, and hair supplies with other hair supplies
7. Make adjustments that work for you
8. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.

There are a ton of good places to shop for bins & containers. For the lower to mid-range bins I would suggest Target, Amazon, Dollar Stores and online retailers! For higher-end products & furniture I would suggest the container store and Wayfair.

Ever tackled a messy room, a cluttered desk, or even a jumbled junk drawer and felt amazing afterward? There’s something incredibly satisfying about turning chaos into order. But why is organization important, and what is it about organizing that feels so good?

Let’s dive into the psychology, emotions, and even some physical benefits of why we love to organize — and get some tips on how to motivate yourself when you’re just not feeling it!

The Psychological Benefits of Organizing

Reduces Stress and Anxiety

When things are out of order, our minds tend to follow suit. Clutter can be overwhelming, and it’s not just about the physical space. Mentally, you feel like there’s too much going on, too much to keep track of. Organizing helps clear that mental fog by giving you a visual (and mental) sense of control. Being organized can improve mental health because it reduces stress, which helps you feel more balanced and at ease.

Increases Sense of Control

Speaking of control, organizing lets you take charge of your environment. When everything is in its place, you feel more capable of handling what life throws at you. Plus, with that sense of control comes confidence, and suddenly, you’re ready to take on the world — or at least, that closet!

Provides a Sense of Accomplishment

Ever stood back after organizing a room and thought, “Wow, I did that”? That’s the dopamine talking! Your brain loves completing tasks, and organizing gives you an instant hit of accomplishment. Whether it’s tackling a big project like a pantry or something small like your desk drawer, that feeling of “done” is one of the key benefits of being organized.

The Physical Benefits of Organizing

Boosts Productivity and Efficiency

There’s nothing worse than losing time trying to find something in a cluttered mess. Disorganization can be a time-suck, whether it’s an important document or your favorite sweater. By organizing your space, you save yourself the headache of searching for things, meaning you have more time to actually be productive. And who doesn’t love a little extra free time? This is just one of the benefits of home organization.

Improves Focus and Creativity

Clutter isn’t just bad for productivity — it’s also a creativity killer. When there’s too much going on around you, it can be hard to focus or think clearly. A clean and organized home or workspace can enhance your ability to focus and think creatively, which is crucial for tackling tasks efficiently.

Creates a Calmer Environment

Let’s be real: walking into an organized home feels like a breath of fresh air. Organized spaces are visually calming, and that sense of peace can affect your mood. You might even find yourself more relaxed and less irritable when your surroundings are neat and tidy. This is one of the most powerful benefits of being organized.

The Emotional Satisfaction of Organizing

Enhances Decision-Making Skills

There’s a difference between cleaning and organizing. Cleaning involves removing dirt, dust, and grime from surfaces, while organizing is about arranging items in a neat, logical order to maximize efficiency and space. Essentially, cleaning focuses on hygiene, whereas organizing focuses on structure and order. To do a good job organizing, you need to make decisions like what to keep and what to throw away or donate. Though these decisions are tough at the moment, you learn to prioritize, and it does get easier. Before you know it, you’ll be decluttering like a pro!

Cultivates Mindfulness

Ever find yourself zoning out while folding laundry or organizing your desk? That’s because organizing can be a mindful activity. It forces you to focus on the present moment, which is a great way to relax your mind. It’s like a mini-escape from the busyness of life, and this connection between organizing and mental health is key to feeling balanced.

Promotes Positive Energy Flow

You don’t have to be a Feng Shui expert to know that clutter blocks good vibes. Clearing out unnecessary items and organizing your space allows for a better energy flow, which can make you feel lighter, brighter, and more positive. A clean and organized home really does lead to a clutter-free mind!

Motivation Tips: How to Get Started When You Don’t Feel Like Organizing

We get it — sometimes, just thinking about organizing can feel overwhelming. But here are some fun ways to kickstart your cleaning mojo:

Set a Timer: Tell yourself you’re only going to organize for 10 minutes. You’d be surprised how much you can get done! Once you get going, you might even want to keep going beyond the timer.  

Turn Up the Tunes: Blast your favorite music and make organizing fun! Dancing around while you declutter can make the whole process way more enjoyable.

Listen to a Podcast: Take the time to learn something new or have a laugh while you organize; it can boost your mood and make the process seem less tedious.

Break It Down: Instead of tackling an entire room, start small. Maybe just focus on one shelf or one drawer. Small wins lead to bigger victories!

Visualize the End Result: Picture how amazing your space will look when you’re done. That mental image can be just the push you need to get started.

Reward Yourself: Set a reward for when you’re done. Whether it’s a snack, a favorite show, or a little online shopping, having something to look forward to can make the process more motivating.

Long-Term Benefits of Staying Organized

Prevents Future Clutter

The more you organize, the easier it is to stay organized. Building small organizing habits — like tidying up for 5 minutes before bed or sorting mail as soon as it comes in — helps prevent clutter from piling up in the future. This habit not only makes your life easier but also highlights the benefits of home organization.

Builds Confidence

Keeping an organized space not only boosts your mood but also builds confidence in your ability to manage things. You’ll start to feel more in control of your space, your time, and your life. And let’s be honest — who wouldn’t want that?

Clutter Home Solutions — Your Answer to a Cleaner and More Functional Home

So, why does organizing feel so good? It’s simple: organizing brings both physical and mental rewards. From reducing stress to boosting creativity and providing a sense of accomplishment, it’s no wonder we feel amazing when our space is in order. Plus, with a few simple motivational tricks, you can make organizing a fun and rewarding part of your routine.

Ready to take control of your space? Start small, stay motivated, and enjoy the good vibes that come with a clean and organized home! And if you need a little extra help, Clutterless Home Solutions offers professional organizing services to turn your clutter into calm. Contact us today to create a space that works for you!

Have you ever looked around your home or office and thought, “I need to get organized,” but felt completely overwhelmed by where to start? You’re not alone! That’s where professional organizing services come in. These services help you take control of your space, reduce stress, and create an environment that works for you. But what exactly does a professional organizer do, and how can they make such a difference in your life? Let’s dive in and explore the world of professional organizing services, why they’re beneficial, who can benefit from them, and what you can expect to pay for these life-changing services.

What Are Professional Organizing Services?

Professional organizing is all about bringing order to chaos. Whether it’s a cluttered closet, a disorganized office, or a chaotic digital space, professional organizers step in to help you sort, declutter, and create systems that keep your home functional and neat. But they don’t just come in, tidy up, and leave. A professional organizer works with you to understand your specific needs, lifestyle, and challenges, creating sustainable personalized solutions that are easily maintainable.

There are different types of professional organizing services available, depending on your needs. For example, home organizing might involve tackling the kitchen, closets, or even your garage. Professional organizers are more than just neat freaks — they’re experts in creating order and efficiency. They understand how to create systems that work for you, whether you’re a busy professional, a parent juggling a household, or someone going through a major life transition.

Why Can Professional Organizing Be Beneficial?

So, why might you consider bringing in a professional organizer? The benefits go far beyond just having a tidy home or office. For starters, there are significant psychological benefits. Clutter and disorganization can be a major source of stress. When your environment is chaotic, it can be hard to focus, make decisions, or even relax. Professional organizing helps to reduce this stress by creating a sense of order and calm in your kitchen, bedroom, or office. You’ll be amazed at how much mental clarity you can gain from simply decluttering a room!

Then, there are the practical benefits. When everything has a place and is easy to find, you’ll save time and effort in your daily routine. No more hunting for keys, important documents, or that one kitchen gadget you need but can never seem to locate. A well-organized space is also more functional — whether it’s a kitchen set up for easy meal prep or a home office where you can find what you need quickly, it makes your life run smoother. But the benefits don’t stop there. Professional organizing services can also help you create long-term habits that keep your space organized. Instead of falling back into old patterns of clutter, you’ll have systems in place that make it easier to maintain your newly organized space. This means less time spent tidying up and more time enjoying your life!

Who Can Benefit from Professional Organizing Services?

The short answer? Almost anyone! Professional organizing services can be a game-changer if you’re dealing with a specific organizing challenge or just want to make your space more efficient. Busy professionals often find these services invaluable. When your time is limited, the last thing you want to do is spend hours trying to organize your home or office. A professional organizer can step in and do the heavy lifting for you so you can focus on what you do best. Families, especially those with young children, can also benefit greatly. Keeping a household running smoothly is no small feat; professional organizing can help manage the chaos. From organizing playrooms to setting up family-friendly storage solutions, a professional organizer can create systems that work for everyone in the household.

Seniors, particularly those downsizing or transitioning to a new living situation, often find professional organizing services helpful. Moving from a long-term home into a smaller space can be overwhelming. Still, an organizer can help make the process smoother by sorting through belongings, helping you decide what to keep, and setting up the new space efficiently. Life transitions are another time when professional organizing can be particularly beneficial. Whether you’re moving, going through a divorce, or dealing with the loss of a loved one, these services can provide much-needed support during challenging times. A professional organizer can help you navigate the process, making it easier to move forward with a sense of order and control. And let’s not forget anyone who feels simply overwhelmed by clutter! If you’ve ever looked around your space and felt completely paralyzed by the thought of getting organized, a professional organizer can help you take those first steps and guide you through the process.

How Much Do Professional Organizing Services Cost?

Now, let’s talk numbers. How much does it cost to bring in a professional organizer? The answer depends on several factors, including the size of the space, the amount of clutter, and the complexity of the project. Most professional organizers charge by the hour, with rates typically ranging from $50 to $200 per hour. Some may offer package deals or project-based pricing, which can be more cost-effective for larger jobs. For example, Clutterless Home Solutions has several packages depending on the size of the job, with the smallest package offering one organizer for a full day for a fee between $1,000 to $1,600 — some of the more expensive packages cost a minimum of $3,550 for a full day and include three organizers.

Keep in mind that the cost can vary based on the organizer’s experience and location. An organizer with specialized skills or certifications might charge more, but their expertise can also make the process faster and more effective. You also have to consider the time it takes to complete the project – some organizers are one person operations, and take weeks to complete a large project, but larger teams like Clutterless Home Solutions can finish an organizing project within a day or two.

There may also be additional costs to consider. For example, if you need storage solutions, such as bins, shelves, or closet systems, these will be an extra expense. Some organizers also charge for travel time if you’re located outside their usual service area. While it’s not standard practice, some companies may charge for an initial consulting fee — we offer virtual project consultations for free. Despite the high cost, many people find that the investment pays off in terms of time saved, reduced stress, and improved quality of life. Plus, with the right systems in place, you can maintain your organized space long after the organizer has left.

Organize Your Space With Clutterless Home Solutions

Professional organizing services are more than just a luxury — they’re a practical solution for anyone looking to take control of their space and improve their quality of life. Whether you’re a busy professional, a parent, a senior, or simply someone struggling with clutter, these services can provide the support you need to create a more organized, functional, and peaceful environment.

So, if you’ve ever found yourself overwhelmed by the state of your home or office, why not consider professional organizing services? With the right help, you can transform your space — and maybe even your life! Ready to get started? Contact Clutterless Home Solutions today for a consultation and take the first step toward a more organized you.

Spring Cleaning is in the air! When it comes to home organizing, there is just something about getting the house clean and decluttered after being locked in due to the snow (and that can’t be a truer statement after this weekend!).

Decide What Matters Most

When it comes to cleaning and organizing, the most important thing to remember is to avoid feeling overwhelmed. If you start to feel anxious, I like to focus on one task at a time and complete it entirely before moving on to another.

If you’re cleaning the kitchen, start at the top and finish the entire space (I do advise to do the floors on each level last in order to maximize the cleaning time and effort!) before you move on.

If you’re decluttering or purging a closet, bring trash bags or containers and label where the items are going (trash, donate or consignment/sell) so there aren’t large piles of clothing on the floor around you.

Organization is a beautiful thing because it can be catered to the individuals needs and helps you find the things you need in your home!

Establish New Cleaning Habits

Set yourself up for success! A clean and organized home isn’t just about having a clean environment, but it actually changes your mental state.

Leo Babuta, a zen habits blogger, states that you want to “make it so easy, you can’t say no”.

Start with something small. When you make dinner, make it a habit to clean up the dishes before you go to bed. When you get home, always hang your jacket and keys in the same place.

Building these habits overtime can help you grow into being more organized.

Something my dad always said helps me set my standard for keeping a certain habit: “Leave the place as if you had never been there”. This has always been a good mantra for me keeping my kitchen clean!

Set A Timer

To keep yourself on track, set your organizing or cleaning time to a specific goal to stay motivated. Set your timer to 20 minutes and focus on one area to keep up the pace you’ve set to clean the house.

Giving yourself spurts of productive time can help keep projects manageable and keep you from feeling overwhelmed. This can also be a helpful way to break up the day when you’re working from home. Set a time to get up every 2-3 hours to complete a task or do a quick chore.

Letting chores and tasks build up can make the to-do list feel overwhelming, so breaking it down and setting a time limit can make the process manageable (maybe even fun?? or at least not tortuous).

One “easy win” you can achieve within this time limit is organizing the junk drawer. We like to clear out these spaces, add in some drawer organizers and dividers and call it a utility drawer!

Change out/Clean Your Shower Curtains

Something not many people think of is switching out your shower curtains.

You can either fill a spray bottle with vinegar and wipe down the plastic curtain or you can simply switch them out once a year. If you’re going to clean the curtain, I suggest taking it down from the rod (don’t want it to come crashing down!) and laying it out with the plastic side up. This will give you full access to clean and disinfect the surface.

You can also throw your actual curtain in the wash (if it’s fabric) — this will help make your bathroom feel fresh and new!

Closet Clean-up (Winter Items)

Since winter is drawing to a close, it’s time to start moving a few of your heavier sweaters out of rotation. Whether you do a seasonal switch-out or you have room to keep everything in your main closet (lucky!!), be honest with yourself about what things you wore this season (or even refer back to last season).

A good rule of thumb here is to ask yourself, “would I buy this item if I were at the store right now?” If it’s a no, then maybe it’s time to throw it in the donation bag.

If you need additional motivation, check out our blog posts on why it’s normal to get rid of things or our Ultimate Guide to organize your home in less than a month!

Clean up the Washer & Dryer

Another way to refresh this spring is to clean out your washer and dryer. If we want our clothes to stay clean, we should keep the washing machine clean and fresh as well.

I like to throw in a washing machine tablet in once a month and always keep the door to the washer open to keep the machine fresh. Another good tip is to switch over your laundry quickly after the cycle — leaving clothes in the washer can create a mildew-y smell that will be hard to get rid of.

As for the dryer, you can take your precision attachment to your vacuum and get deeper inside the lint trap. Another area you can vacuum is your dryer vent tube. Lint can accumulate here as well.

Clean out Your Purses

When you change your purse frequently, it’s good to go through all your different satchels and handbags to clear the items you’ve left in them. This can become a fun treasure trove of gift cards and change — you may even be able to take yourself out to dinner.

Cleaning out your purses can make changing out handbags feel like a new shopping experience!

In this closet we did, we categorized the purses into seasonal sections and used them as hanging decor! Check out some before and after photos here!

Paperwork, Paperwork… Paperwork!

Everyone dreads paperwork cleanup. This can be a good yearly cleaning activity to clear out old and outdated paperwork to keep your files updated.

The general rules of thumb for paperwork maintenance include: keep 10 years for business tax history, keep 7 years of tax history (all W2’s, donation receipts and helpful tax info), 1 year for paper pay stubs, 1 month for receipts, utility payments and withdrawal records.

*You can also keep your tax documents (W2’s and other tax forms) for longer to keep a financial record.

With the emergence of online documentation, you can cull down your paperwork into more manageable storage. I like to separate out my business and personal paperwork in these adorable file organizers from Target:

Change Up Your Decor

Another fun and exciting way to get motivated for spring cleaning is to change up your decor. A seasonal wreath or changing out pictures or paintings around the house can make your home feel fresh and new.

You can achieve this through changing out wall art and accent pieces on the coffee table, painting your walls a fresh color or creating an accent wall, or even by updating your pillows!

Squeegee Your Windows

What a difference clean windows can make in creating a new and clean space. The new light of spring is coming in and now that we have lighter evenings, you can enjoy the sunset through your spotless windows.

To take it another step further, you can also take this yearly spring cleaning event to scrub your blinds from dust and grime buildup and clean out the tracks of the windows.

After you’ve completed your spring cleaning, treat yourself to some fresh flowers and open up the windows to let in the sweet breeze.

Talk soon,

Clutterless Home Solutions Team

If you’re at a loss for what to give for Christmas this year (because none of us need more STUFF!), here are some fun ideas and experiences to make this holiday special. This especially works if you’re getting down to the wire and you haven’t been able to find that perfect gift for someone on your list.

We all know that it’s the thought that counts and spending time with your loved ones over something that may gather dust on the shelf 6 months from now shows that your gift is truly coming from the heart.

1. A Year’s Worth of Outings

Grab twelve envelopes, and in each one slip a piece of paper with plans for a free date/outing you can do together that month. At the start of each month in the new year, have the receiver open up the envelope to see what fun lies ahead for you two.

This could be the perfect gift for your significant other, or even one a parent/grandparent (I know my mom would love this!).

2. Put Together a Time Capsule

Grab a box with a lock, or at least a lid, and place in it fun memories from this year or years past, like popular clothing items, photos, tickets, or anything sentimental to the both of you. When done, make sure you write on top for them not to open until a specific date.

This gift could be fun with a child or grandchild because the memories will be adorable to look at even 5 years from then! It’s perfect and unique because it’ll just be memories for the two of you -or (grand)parents with each (grand)child!

3. Do Something They’ve Always Wanted to Do

This year for my dad, we decided to take a trip to a nearby observatory. I noticed that he was getting interested in astronomy and using his telescope at the house, so this could be a fun outing for the two of us (when restrictions are lifted, of course!). Gifts like these kinds of experiences are the ones that you remember forever.

This would be a great gift for someone who who eco-friendly and enjoys acts of service!

4. Let Them Have That Thing They Always Borrow

If your friend or family member is always “borrowing” a tee from you (read: stealing and wearing, 24/7), just complete the transition and give it to them. It’ll be the perfect inside joke between the two of you, and now they no longer need to ask your permission!

I did this with my best friend. She always admired one of my winter coats and since it wasn’t something I wore frequently in the winter months, I gifted it to her! She was so ecstatic — sometimes it’s best to get gift ideas from listening or observing the way people interact or look at something.

5. Offer to House-Sit

Whether they’re wrangling a puppy or taking care of a child at home, offer some sitting services by gifting them a night out on the town or a weekend away without having to book a sitter.

Give them the gift of time! Babysitters (good ones at least!) are hard to come by and schedule around an already busy schedule. Overwhelmed parents will definitely appreciate this one.

6. Food — Yum!

Cook a dinner or go full-on Martha Stewart and give baked goodies to all your friends. It’s a gift everyone will appreciate. Who doesn’t love cookies? And there’s a free pass because we are all wearing bulky sweaters.

One year, we made reindeer cocoa bags and cookies for all of our friends when we were in school and everyone loved the little homemade gift — and it was fun to put together!

7. Put Together Your Own Cookbook

Does your friend or family member like to cook? Bake? Mix drinks? If so, compile recipes you love, along with any treasured family recipes. Choose themes relating to his or her life and introduce each section of the cookbook with a little personalized note. If they went to school down South, include a Southern comfort food section.

My sister-in-law made the cutest gluten-free cookbook for my mom and it’s one of the gifts she has used the most since she received it! Plus you can make the excuse to scrapbook!

8. Make a book of Memories with StoryWorth

It’s time to capture your family stories! StoryWorth is this cool new service that sends an email to your family member (this could be a popular gift from grandchild to grandma/grandpa) with a question prompt. The gift receiver then responds to each email (and you get to read all about your family’s fun stories), and at the end of the year, the emails are compiled into a book that you get to keep.

You can learn more about StoryWorth here.

Perfect gift for grandparent from grandchild!

9. Go On a Picnic

Grab some cocoa, soup in a thermos and a blanket to get cozy and enjoy our beautiful Colorado winter! Tell your gift receiver you’ll organize an outing at your favorite park with a blanket, homemade snacks, and maybe a game or two to play on your picnic. Don’t forget to make a playlist for the outing to make it a little bit more special.

Perfect for a couple, a group of friends or family. Time spent together is the greatest gift of all.

10. Give the gift of organizing!

Nothing feels better than having a clean and organized home (we sure love it!). We have been gifting a TON of organizing lately for the holiday season and winter birthdays. Especially with so much time at home, people are starting to realize how much they hate clutter!!

We also believe (not because we are biased or anything), that organizing is the perfect gift for anyone!

Reach out to us here to chat more about giving the joy of organizing!

Talk Soon,

Clutterless Home Solutions Team

We have to limit the number of items in our homes

It is important for us to limit the number of items in our homes, because too many items lead to an increase in stress and clutter.

By having too many items in our home it can make us feel overwhelmed, frantic, and quite frankly like we just can’t get a handle of our things.

Ask yourself a question: how many items in my home do I really use frequently, or find joy in? 

The answer is probably only a few or a handful of items throughout your home, when the average American household has about 300,000 items.

Limit the number of items in your home to the things that actually bring you joy and happiness, and try to reduce the clutter in your home and in your mind.

You get to decide what you keep — it’s your home and your sanctuary

You are the master of your domain, and you get to make the decisions about what lives there.

If there are items that you have had for a long time that you haven’t been using and you’re pretty sure you won’t be using anytime soon, it’s time to get rid of them and someone else may be able to make use out of them.

You control your home and items in it, so it can be liberating to reduce the amount of clutter and actually make it into a place that you love to relax in, rather than it feeling like a storage unit.

If it’s just taking up space… do you really need it?

Have you ever looked around your home, and noticed how many things or items are just taking up space?

Do you really need four different waffle irons, or should you just save your favorite one and donate or sell the rest?

It’s easy for us to just keep adding items and clutter into our homes –accumulation is natural when you’ve lived in the same home (and with the same people!) for a long time.

There are several strategies you can try out to help keep your house clear of the clutter. Some people like the “one in, one out” method. Every time you buy something new, try to donate or gift something you haven’t used in a while.

Some people like to time themselves and organize or purge for a certain amount of time (I’ve heard of the 17 minute method), so they are always are of the things they have in their homes.

The major part of why clutter has become such a big stressor is because when it gets out of control, it can feel overwhelming — many of my clients complain they just don’t know where to start.

You are not going to hurt people when getting rid of gifts or unused items

When you get rid of gifts that you got from family or friends, you aren’t doing it to hurt those people. You are doing it to regain order in your home, and reduce stress and feel mental clarity.

By having less things in our homes we feel as if we are lighter, and it can give us a sense of freedom. 

By owning less stuff and having less clutter, this can help us reduce stress, and make us feel less burdened and overwhelmed.

This is important so we can focus on the crucial things in life, rather than trying to organize at home with 300,000 items.

Feeling sad or sentimental when getting rid of items is normal

We all have good memories when you inevitably find that box of high school memorabilia, or that feeling of nostalgia that make us feel attached, but it’s important to find new ways to enjoy your memories instead of storing them in a dusty box in the attic.

It can be difficult to get rid of these items that bring about thoughts of happy memories, but the memories that we have of them are what is important.

Many of our clients ask us how they can keep memorabilia or what we would suggest about how to store it.

I don’t know about the rest of you, but looking back on the things I kept from high school or college, the things that are important for me to remember now are different, just like your style changes are you grow and mature.

The best advice we can give you as you’re sorting through your memorabilia, is that if it makes you laugh or reminds you of a happy time, that it’s fine to keep it, but only keep those items that do! You can also limit yourself to one box for each “era” if you want to keep things simple.

Think about letting those items go to better use where people will cherish them more

Try thinking about how you are giving away these unused or cherished items to another person, and that they can use it to the fullest extent and fully enjoy it.

This is also a good way to get your kids on board for getting rid of toys they aren’t using anymore.

It can make the transition easier for everyone if you think about the benefits of giving someone else who could enjoy one of your extra waffle makers you have lying around.

Putting in your mind that donating or giving away items you aren’t using will be put to better use, can give you some happiness by knowing that it will be in better hands.

You can also think of people that could use the items or benefit from the item, and it can make you feel good by giving those items to someone in need of them.

It makes it easier if you have to move

This one is pretty simple — the less you have in your house when you move, the easier your move should be. Another perk of having less in your home when you go to move is that it will cost less if you have less to move!

Moving is a great excuse to get rid of things, but don’t wait until you have to move to do this!!

Making a habit out of purging items from your home when you no longer use them!

Minimalism can be a great thing & lead to a simpler life

By reducing the number of items in our homes, and adopting a more minimalistic attitude, you will see that you’ll lead simpler life with less stress.

This change can be difficult to implement, but with a bit of a learning curve, it can also be liberating at the end! When you realize you are keeping the items that bring you joy or are useful to you instead of holding onto everything you’ve ever accumulated, you start to feel like you have more freedom and time for the things you want to do!

Constant chaos and clutter can hold you back from being more productive, spending time on your hobbies, making time for friends or family and overall keep you majorly stressed out!

Clutter can drain your energy without you even knowing it.

Don’t be held back by how expensive something was… it’s time to let go (and maybe get some money back for something you actually want!)

Have you ever not gotten rid of something because you paid a bunch of money for it, even though you don’t use it?

The rule is always as follows: “If you don’t use it, haven’t used it recently and won’t use it in the future (be honest with yourself!), it may be time to get rid of it and create more space in your home for things that bring you joy, happiness or usefulness.

Don’t get stuck on how much you paid or how much it was worth, and rather ask yourself if it should still have a place in your home and whether your time and happiness are worth more.

“Just in case” is an excuse to hold onto things

Don’t live your life by the saying “just in case”  as this can cause you to keep silly items for way too long, just in case something pops up.

A lot of people use this as an excuse essentially to keep more things in their home. Let’s be honest. If you haven’t worn that cardigan that you may wear in this specific situation (that hasn’t ever happened), you can let it go — and get something for a more common scenario 😉.

If you are worried about making some money off of your items in your home, try using apps such as Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and Offer Up (we can also help with that!)

This can be a great place to start if you are looking to make some extra cash off of your unused or unwanted items.

As always, make sure that you are not scared of asking for help, and that you can learn how  to create a less stressful home, with items in there that bring you joy or usefulness.

If you don’t believe us, believe the Berenstain Bears!

Clutterless Home Solutions would love to help you organize your home in Denver, and we are always here to help, even if you just need to ask a question or just want to say hi.

Talk Soon,

CHS Team 

The first step to organizing your bedroom is to pull out all of the items in the room and put them into a pile on the floor.

You’ll really see how much stuff you have.

Don’t be surprised, the average American has over 300,000 items in their homes!

Bring out everything from your drawers, cabinets and shelves. Grab everything!  

As you pull things out, it’s efficient to categorize all of the items as you go.

This means grouping together all of the like items. Clothes with clothes, knick knacks with knick knacks, you get the point.

This is the important difference from the method we use at Clutterless Home Solutions and the KonMari Method (you can read more about why Marie Kondo is wrong here). These categories can even be categorized into smaller sections as you go through the process, but we will get to that later.

Make groups of all the books, hobby/extra curricular things, electronics, decorations, souvenirs, memorabilia, sport/workout gear and anything else you have stored away in your room. 

The more specific and smaller you can make your groups, the better organized your room will be at the end of today’s process. 

For example, if you have a “workout group” of items, then divide everything in it into individual groups of outdoor sports equipment, cardio equipment, and yoga equipment. 

Another example would be a “books group,” those can then be further sorted by genre. 

You may find that you have A LOT of things you don’t really use. 

Smaller categories will make your room easier to find things, quicker to put things away after use and overall better to function in.

For example, think about the amount of clothes you have between the drawers, shelves and hanging items (and the seasonal items!). One of the biggest complaints from our clients is that they feel overwhelmed by the project.

I don’t know about you, but I think a giant pile of clothes would be more overwhelming than helpful.

My opinion: the less, the better.

The more stuff we have, the more it clutters our brains. Physical clutter manifests itself into mental clutter.

By making groups of similar items, you will be able to easily see all of the items taking up space in your bedroom and start thinking about which ones you could do without (or if you have too many duplicates!).  

Remember this: you can’t organize clutter, so if you want your bedroom to truly be organized, you’re going to have to let go of some of the items that don’t use and things that don’t have special meaning to you. (Don’t skip this step!)

Next is you want to DEEP CLEAN your room (I mean everything: baseboards, sheets, closet, flooring & everything in between). It’s the perfect time to do so — the shelves are empty and the floor is clear (or you can do this in segments if you have things lying everywhere in their categories).

By doing this it’s like you have a FRESH START — you’ll thank yourself later.

Whew! Good job so far, pat yourself on the back.

Now we get into the 3 categories of decision-making: KEEP, DONATE, & TRASH.

Your things need to go into one of the 3 categories

1. Keep the items you really care about or serve a purpose
2. Donate ALL the items you think could help someone else
3. Trash the rest (this is liberating)

If you are having trouble doing this on your own, we are also decluttering coaches, and we are happy to help you make the decisions!

Now that your KEEP pile is much smaller, it’s time to start putting stuff away!

Put stuff back in a way that works for you. For example, if you know a certain system will work for you to keep your clothes tidy, use it! There is no right answer. Every person is different.

Use bins & storage cubes to put smaller items into to make them look better and more organized. Label the bins, & next time you go to look for something you’ll know where it is (don’t betray your future self, put your items back to where they came from!)

If you need more specific steps on how to organize your bedroom and your home, you can check out our blog on the ultimate organizing guide or our guide to organizing your entire home in 20 days!

The 3 deadly mistakes to avoid:

1. Not throwing away or donating enough things (too much clutter will create the endless loop of the clutter monster). Be honest with yourself here.

2. Not taking your time. Organizing should be simple, but is should not be rushed. (this is often overlooked – life is already so busy, we understand that you don’t always feel you have the time for organizing).

3. Not asking for help when you need it – We all need a little help sometimes. Organizing is not just an activity to add to your Pinterest board. It required tough decisions, some tears and a lot of physical movement. We are always here to support you, pick you back up, and be your own personal cheerleaders.

Talk soon,

Clutterless Home Solutions

Hello, Organizing Warriors!

You have made it to the final day in our series How to Organize Your Entire Home in 20 Days! We have been working our way through your home and decluttering the mess along the way.

This process has taken 3 weeks to complete and I hope you see how your hard work has been worth it (drink a nice glass of wine tonight and take a load off to appreciate your handiwork!).

We hope that this 20 day overhaul has left you feeling so much better, not only about the clutter in your home, but the clutter in your mind.

We also know that right now we need happy and healthy distractions from the crazy world we’re living in.

For today’s project, your car! It may not be a room in your house, but it’s a space that you spend a lot of time in and should feel relaxed while you’re there — we know how the usual Denver traffic can be anything but relaxing, so make your car your own personal oasis!

As always, the first step in the organizing process is to pull everything out of your car. This means empty your glove box, your center console and anywhere else you’re storing things in your car (everything that can be pulled out, don’t try to pull the actual car apart!).

Your car is an easy place for things to accumulate when you’re busy, always on-the-go!

The next step, as always, is to categorize your items. When all the items are categorized into groups, it makes sorting through the items much easier.

After you have categorized everything, take a break from the items because it’s time to clean the car!

First, wipe surfaces like the dashboard, steering wheel, door handle and middle console with disinfecting wipes. Then, vacuum the seats and floor (front and back!) in the car. Once you’ve vacuumed, use a glass cleaner to wipe the inside of the windows.

Next, take the floor mats out and wash those as well. Finish up by hanging a new air freshener in your car so it smells as good as it looks! If you want something more natural, we also like to put a small Tupperware of baking soda with your favorite essential oil with holes punched in the lid to create a fresh, subtle scent.

It’s always best to clean during the organizing process because there is nothing occupying the space and preventing you from cleaning those hard to reach places.

Once the car is cleaned, it’s time to get back to the stuff that came out of your car. There are only 3 options to sort these items: keep, donate or trash.

Items that you want to keep should be things that serve your family a purpose and you definitely will be using in the future. These are things like your vehicle’s user manuals, car insurance verification, and pens.

You can also keep a few emergency items in a plastic ziplock baggie in the case you ever need to floss and brush your teeth after lunch with a friend!

Items that need to be donated are things that are still in good condition but no longer serve a purpose for your family. These are things like a GPS if you use your phone’s navigational system and CD’s if you only use your phone for music.

Items that are trash are things that don’t serve your family any further purpose and wouldn’t serve anyone else purpose either.

These are going to be things like stained or torn seat covers and broken car phone chargers. Trash that easily gets left behind in your car are empty bottles, receipts, leftover food items, empty shopping bags and gum wrappers.

If you are having difficulty deciding on what items should be kept or donated, ask yourself questions such as, when was the last time someone in my family used/wore this item? Does this item still serve its original purpose for me? How many of this one item do I have and is more than one really necessary? Would someone else better benefit from having this item than I would?

By asking yourself these questions about items you aren’t sure of, you are opening your mind and being honest with yourself about the needs of your family. Any items that you keep but you don’t need will continue to add to the clutter in your car for no reason!

By giving away these items, you are not only clearing the mess from your house, you are also allowing someone else to use these items that may need them more than you.

After you’ve made the decisions on what items will stay in your car, it’s time to start putting them back.

Put important papers and information (car insurance, user manuals and maps) in the glove compartment.

Place items that you use more commonly (pens, hand sanitizer, chapstick and sunglasses) in the middle console.

Check out these console organizers that prevent your items from becoming a cluttered mess while you’re driving. Put items that aren’t used often (disinfectant wipes, jumper cables, umbrella and flashlight) in a bin and place that in the back of your car.

Just like in your house, it’s important for all the items to have a specific spot to ensure you can find items when you need them and once you have used them, you can easily put the item back.

Once you have put the items back in your car, it’s time to take care of the leftover items. These are the items that were in your car at the start of the process but don’t actually belong there.

This could be things like children’s toys, books, clothing and kitchen utensils. Go ahead and now place those items in your home where they actually belong.

Take note of who in your family the stuff mainly belongs to and have a conversation with that person on the importance of putting things where they actually belong to ensure your car stays clean and organized even after today.

If the stuff is mainly yours, set rules for yourself about how long items can stay in your car. Strive to never leave kitchen dishes in your car and always toss out trash when you’re going in at the end of the day.

Now you get to enjoy your freshly cleaned and organized ride!

If you are still feeling overwhelmed by your car (or any other room in your house!), please reach out to the Clutterless Home Solutions Team. We would be glad to help you get back on track!

Talk soon,

Clutterless Home Solutions