I think we all tend to get a bit of a mental block when it comes to organizing. We get it in our heads that we have to know how to organize each space exactly. We forget that we can organize any space without a detailed plan. Organizing isn’t all about pretty baskets and Instagram-worthy photos (although, I do love a well-organized pantry photo). Organizing is about using the space you have to better work for you. It is about having less stress as you know where your items are. Organizing is even about saving money as you don’t end up buying something you already own, just because you couldn’t find it!
With these tips, you’ll be able to organize any space without worrying about it being perfect or having to look up a special article on how to organize that particular space. While those articles are helpful and I love them as much as the next person, basic organizing only needs to follow a few basic guidelines.
Evaluate the space
The first tip to organize any space is to evaluate the space. You need to decide what you need the space to do. Obviously, you probably want your pantry to hold your food items. Maybe your linen closet needs to hold spare toiletries in addition to towels and sheets. You might have a storage room or basement that needs to store lots of different things. It may even be as simple as the junk drawer in your kitchen. Whatever the space is, identify what you want it to do. Without a plan, you will not be able to organize the space.
Empty the space and make piles
Once you decide what the purpose of the space is, you need to empty it out. As you empty it out, make piles. Bonus points if you have boxes to put your piles in. Sometimes you get interrupted while organizing so boxes make it easier to stop and come back. Have piles/boxes for things that will be going back into the space, things that will be getting relocated, things that will be being thrown out, and things that will be getting donated. You can even take it a step further and clean the space while it’s empty.
For things being relocated, take them to their new spot as soon as possible. That will help keep clutter from piling up on your counters, floors, etc.
Refill the space
This one can take a little more time. You may decide you want to go buy bins and baskets (often not necessary). Sometimes just getting rid of the items you don’t need can make the space work better with the need for containers. Or you may find you can use cardboard boxes you have to help keep the space organized. However you do it, get the space refilled as soon as you can. Just like relocating items quickly, you want to refill the space quickly to stop clutter before it can even start.
Focus on one space
This one can be really hard if you have been bitten by the declutter/organizing bug. Stay focused on one space at a time! Even when you relocate an item, don’t stop to work on that space. Stay working on the first space before you move on. This is mainly just so you actually complete the job! It can be easy to job from spot to spot. Don’t give into the temptation and stay focused.
Sometimes it is nice to read tips on how to organize a specific space. It can be really helpful to have ideas specific to the pantry or bathroom. But sometimes, you just need some basic ideas. With just these three tips, you’ll be well on your way to organize any space.
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