Get Organized! Storage and Efficiency Solutions for Every Space

Putting our homes in order has become something of a movement. People are letting go of the things they no longer need and organizing the things they choose to keep. Books, blogs, and home improvement programs have been devoted to the subject, and for good reason. Studies show that people are more relaxed and productive in an orderly environment. Being organized also has financial benefits — knowing what you have, and where it is, saves money by eliminating duplicate purchases.

Though organizing your home may seem like a daunting task, the long-term benefits far outweigh the upfront time investment. We’ve put together this guide to help you optimize every space, including step-by-step instructions for a perfectly organized closet.

Entryway

Keep the foyer tidy and welcoming by designating spots for all your gear.

• Coat racks, hall trees, and benches are a great solution for homes that lack a front closet.
• Storage benches are a convenient place to store footwear, and provide a place to sit while you tie your shoes.
• Pair a stylish console table with decorative boxes and baskets to corral keys, mail, and scarves & gloves.

Living Areas

It can be challenging to keep busy gathering places neat and orderly. Consider outfitting common areas with furniture that does double duty.

• Chests and trunks keep blankets and other bulky items handy, but out of sight.
• Stash seldom-used serving pieces, board games, DVDs and other media in accent cabinets and media cabinets.
• Display books, heirlooms, and collectibles in hutches or on decorative shelving.
• Keep refreshments organized on bar carts and wine racks.
• Choose television entertainment centers with plenty of space for media and components.

Bathroom

 The most-used room in the house can be a magnet for clutter. Periodically take inventory of toiletries and cosmetics, then toss anything that’s expired or no longer used. Choose efficient storage options for the things you keep.

• If your bathroom doesn’t have a linen closet, store towels, paper products, and other bulky items in a floor cabinet or linen tower.
• To reduce countertop clutter, install a medicine cabinet or wall cabinet to hold shaving supplies, toiletries, cosmetics, and medications.
• Choose a bathroom vanity to match your decor and hold everyday items. Some models have special options like drawer dividers, holsters for hair-care appliances, and built-in electrical strips.
• Corral soap, shampoo, and other shower and bath necessities in caddies.

Bedroom

A tidy, orderly bedroom can promote a sense of well-being and relaxation. Organize your space and reduce visual clutter to create a serene sanctuary.

• Many older homes have small closets, or none at all. Armoires are freestanding furniture pieces that provide a place to hang clothing.
• Organize folded clothes in a dresser. Try storing folded t-shirts on end, like file folders, to maximize drawer space and make it easy to find item you’re looking for.
• Nightstands provide a bedside spot for lamps, clocks, and personal electronics. Choose one with drawers or cabinet doors to stash books, magazines, and toiletries.
• Keep jewelry in a specialized chest or storage mirror to keep necklaces tangle-free and streamline dressing time.

Office

 Whether you’re a remote worker, or household manager, an efficient home office can make everyday tasks easier.

• Choose a desk with features to match the way you work. Some are equipped with built-in file cabinets, keyboard trays, and openings for power cords.
• Keep supplies and reference materials neatly organized and close at hand with office storage furniture.
• Filing cabinets have evolved beyond utilitarian metal boxes. There are furniture-quality models designed to fit every decor.

Garage

The garage can be a handy storage space, but if there’s no longer room for the car, consider getting rid of things you don’t need and organizing everything else. Sturdy shelving is ideal for tools, home improvement supplies, and sports equipment. Holiday storage containers keep decorations clean and in good condition from year to year.

How to Organize Your Closet in 5 Steps

If your closets have become a hiding place for household overflow, here are some tips to regain control and make the most of your space.

1. Empty and Clean Your Closet

• Remove everything from the closet
• Dust the closet shelves, walls and ceiling
• Sweep or vacuum the closet floor
• To maximize space, replace inefficient hanging rods with a new, customized closet system

2. Divide Everything From the Closet into Categories

• First, set aside things that belong in a different room or closet. Keep an empty tote nearby to hold these items until they can be put where they belong.   
• Divide the remaining items into four piles: Keep, Sell, Donate, Trash

3. Evaluate Each Item Honestly

• Before you put anything back in the closet, take a moment to honestly assess its value. Have you worn it in the past year? Does it fit well? Is it in good, stain-free condition? Do you love it? If you answered ‘no’ to any of those questions, it might belong in the Donate or Trash pile.
• Set aside anything that needs repair or tailoring. Clothing with broken zippers, missing buttons, or rips shouldn’t be put away or donated. If you can fix it yourself, move it to a designated spot near your sewing supplies. Bring complicated repairs or tailoring to a professional.
• If you added items to the Sell pile, ask yourself if you have the time, motivation, or know-how to hold a garage sale or sell through an online auction. If not, consider bringing those items to a consignment shop or donating them to a favorite charity.

4. Organize the Items You Are Keeping

• As you return hanging clothes to the closet, make sure they’re evenly spaced and all facing the same way. The right hangers can make your closet look and function better. There are hangers specifically designed to handle pants, skirts, slippery material, and accessories.
• Organize footwear on shoe racks or in speciality furniture pieces.
• If you have limited space, consider storing out-of-season clothing elsewhere. Vacuum-pack storage containers let you compress clothing, linens, and other fabric items so they take up less space. The contents are protected from dust, moisture, and insects.

5. Commit to Staying Organized

• Closet clutter can quickly creep back in. To keep it at bay, be mindful about clothing purchases and try the one-in/one-out method — every time you bring a new item home, chose an old item to sell, donate, or discard.
• Add a hamper to your closet plan to keep your closet and bedroom floor tidy.