Declutter + Organize - A DIY Job on a Budget
While we love what we do for people all over the Bellingham and Seattle, Washington areas here at The Orderly Space, we understand not everyone is able to take advantage of our services - especially those who live outside of this area (although, we’re willing to travel - send us an inquiry!). So we’re here to give you some expert advice so you can transform your home all on your own! Decluttering is the key to getting your home organized, so we’ve rounded up some of our favorite products and tips in order for you to achieve the home of your dreams on your time and your dime!
Create an index for your home
The first step is to map out how you want your home to function and where items will live - almost like a real-life file system!
For example: What room should batteries and light bulbs live in? The Garage? Linen Closet? Laundry Room? Consider the purpose of each room and the items typically used there.
Then, create a clear blueprint for your home organization to ensure your decluttering and organizing efforts in the following steps are seamless!
Break down your decluttering by room
Instead of viewing home organization as one huge project, break it down into smaller, more manageable tasks (it’s less overwhelming this way, trust us). Before you go on your Marie Kondo decluttering binge, make a plan and go room-by-room, beginning with the least emotionally charged spaces in your home. This approach allows for quick progress and a greater sense of accomplishment!
Here are a few simple starting points:
Pantry
Kitchen
Bathrooms
Linen closet
Laundry room
Group like with like
Sorting your items before you decide where they go can make a world of difference! It gives you time to see the items in front of you and mentally decide what makes the most sense for you and your space.
For every space you organize, you’re going to pull everything out, group similar items together, and relocate items that don't belong in the space you’re focused on. Try not to allow yourself to get distracted by organizing those items into their new space - give yourself permission to revisit them when you move onto that next space!
However, if you’re constantly finding new spaces for all the things you own, chances are…
Some of them are not bringing joy to your life.
You simply have too many things you don’t need.
Having too many items - whether that be clothing, shoes, or artwork - can actually lead to decision fatigue which is never fun! This is why taking the time to properly declutter your home from top to bottom is essential before you begin organizing.
Containment isn’t just for aesthetics
Sure, finding beautiful bins is one of the most fun parts of organizing your home! But proper containment goes beyond just aesthetics - it keeps your space organized by providing specific limitations for categories of items. It also reduces visual clutter (and the stress of all the visual clutter is probably what led you to wanting an organized home!).
The key to an organized home is a system that works throughout your space. At The Orderly Space, our team uses a few key items religiously when we assist in home organization. These items keep your space clean, uniform, and elevate the overall appearance of your home.
Get our favorite bin clips and labels directly from our Etsy store! These bin clips are a game changer for keeping anything in your home organized.
The multi-purpose bins from The Container Store are perfect for organizing spaces such as your home office and playroom!
Felt storage bins from Target are a lifesaver for storing toys, clothes, and linens!
Acrylic storage containers like these deep drawer bins are some of the most affordable organizing solutions you can invest in for your home. Use these under your kitchen sink for organizing cleaning supplies, in the pantry for canned goods, or in the bathroom for your skincare products - the options are endless!
Labels are your best friend
Once you’ve properly decluttered, sorted, and contained your items, it’s time to label! Labeling each area of your pantry, closet, home office, etc. is a great way to ensure your items go back to their designated homes once they’re done being used. It may take some time to get used to your new systems, but having a place for everything will make your home feel so freeing!
Enjoy your new space
The secret to organizing? Just start. Starting is the biggest hurdle you’ll face, but once you get that momentum going, it will be hard to stop! While it may take time, decluttering and organizing your home on your own budget is totally doable! Take our advice from this post and see how you can transform your space! All it takes is a little bit of time and patience.
What is your favorite budget-friendly home organization product? Let us know - we’re always looking for great ways to organize your space efficiently & effectively!
