Home is where the heart is, and therefore it is vital to have it organized and clean.
With work, social commitments, and daily responsibilities, we might find it daunting to find the time or even the energy for home organization and cleaning.
But, have you ever paused to ponder whether you could be missing on some insanely clever tips that have the potential to turn this daunting task into a breeze?
Here are the top five tips, collated just for you.
1. Organize thoughtfully – Each item has a ‘Home’
Clutter is often a byproduct of items not having a specific place. By categorizing items and assigning them their own ‘homes’, you’ll have an easier time finding and storing things.
This could be as simple as dedicating a particular drawer for all types of batteries or a specific shelf for your collection of cookbooks.
Assigning a home for every item within your broader category can help to greatly reduce clutter.
| Category | Home |
| Spare batteries | Drawer in the living room |
| Cookbooks | Shelf in the kitchen |
| Shoes | Rack in the hallway |
2. Clean regularly – Adopt the “Clean as you go” policy
One of the most crucial cleaning tips that can save you lots of time and effort is adopting the “clean as you go” policy.
Cleaning spills and messes as soon as they happen prevent them from becoming more stubborn.
Also, placing things back where they belong rather than waiting for them to pile up can save considerable cleaning time.
Some practical examples of this policy include:
- Washing dishes immediately after a meal
- Picking up clothes and putting them in the laundry bin right away
- Dusting off surfaces as soon as you see them gather dust
3. Repurpose space under the furniture
The space under your bed, couch, or cupboard is usually overlooked but can serve as excellent storage.
Boxes, drawers, and baskets of suitable dimensions can be used to store items that you don’t require daily.
4. Utilize vertical space
Walls provide vertical storage space that is often underutilized. Shelves, hooks, or wall-mounted organizers can help free up floor space.
For example, consider a hanging shoe organizer for your closet or vertical spice racks in your kitchen.
5. Embrace minimalism
Fewer things mean less mess. Evaluate your possessions and let go of items that don’t contribute positively to your life.
Regular decluttering, perhaps seasonally or biannually, can open up space and make cleaning and organization more manageable.
Ask yourself:
- When was the last time I used this?
- Does it bring me joy or fulfill a purpose?
- Can something else I own do the same job?
Don’t forget the psychological aspects
Maintaining an organized and clean home not only creates a welcoming environment for guests but also contributes to your happiness and stress relief.
So, embrace these tips and enjoy the process, not just the result.
FAQs
Q1. What is the best way to organize small items?
A. Use drawer dividers or small boxes to keep smaller items organized. Keep like items together.
Q2. How can I make cleaning less tedious?
A. Break down your tasks into smaller, manageable chunks. You might find it helpful to focus on one room or one type of task each day.
Q3. How often should I declutter my home?
A. This depends on your personal preference and the rate at which clutter accumulates. Some find it helpful to declutter seasonally, while others prefer a monthly or even weekly decluttering schedule.
