Simplify Your Space: Easy Home Organization Tips
Life can get busy, and our homes often bear the brunt of our hectic schedules. But with a little planning and some simple strategies, you can create a more organized and peaceful living environment. At Stephens Real Estate, we know how important it is to feel at ease in your home. That’s why we’re sharing practical tips to help you streamline your space and make daily life a little less chaotic.
Start Small and Build Momentum
Tackling an entire house might feel overwhelming, so start with one area. Katie Stutler, a Realtor with Team Stutler at Stephens Real Estate, suggests turning what might feel like a chore into a quick win: “Tackle one drawer, one basket, or one shelf in the fridge. It doesn’t have to be a big thing, but little steps can make a big difference.”
Embrace the Power of Decluttering
Clutter isn’t just about the things on your counters or floors—it can impact you mentally as well. Michelle Roberts-Freeman, a Stephens agent, explains, “Clutter affects people from the outside in. When you have clutter and disorganization around you, it’s hard to think straight, be effective, and stay focused. That’s why it’s so important to have systems in place for organization and cleaning.”
Go through your belongings and ask yourself: “Do I use this?” “Do I need this?” “Does this bring me joy?” Michelle adds another simple question to guide the process: “If I went to the store today, would I buy this again?” Donate or sell items that no longer serve you and keep only what adds value to your life.
Maximize Your Storage
Use clever storage solutions to make the most of your space. Consider:
- Baskets and bins for grouping similar items.
- Clear containers to see what’s inside.
- Vertical storage like shelves or over-the-door organizers to free up floor space.
Katie mentions even small moments, like waiting for your coffee to brew, as a great time to organize something small, like a tea container or drawer.
Establish Drop Zones
Designate specific spots for frequently used items like keys, mail, and backpacks. A tray by the door or a small wall-mounted organizer can keep these essentials in one place and reduce the morning scramble.
Use Labels to Stay Organized
Labeling containers, shelves, or bins helps everyone in your household know where things belong. It’s especially helpful in shared spaces like the pantry or bathroom.
Create a Cleaning Schedule
A consistent cleaning routine can prevent clutter from becoming overwhelming. Mindy Stutler, also part of Team Stutler, shared how a simple approach, like setting a timer for just five minutes each day, can help maintain order. She’s even passed this tip on to her college-aged son to help him stay on top of his own space. Katie echoes this advice, suggesting, “Turn on a song, set a timer, or use downtime during KU or Chiefs games to clean or organize. Even halftime is enough time to tackle a small project!”
Rotate Seasonal Items
Store out-of-season clothes, sports equipment, or holiday decor in labeled containers to keep your everyday spaces clear. Rotate these items as needed to ensure everything remains accessible.
Make It a Family Affair
Getting the whole family involved not only lightens the workload but also builds good habits for everyone. Mindy admits that while her home is tidy and decluttered overall, closet spaces and storage rooms can be challenging, making teamwork even more essential.
Don’t Forget Your Digital Spaces
A cluttered inbox or desktop can be just as stressful as a messy room. Take time to organize your files, delete unnecessary emails, and set up folders for better digital management.
Be Patient with Yourself
Organizing is a process, and it’s okay to tackle it bit by bit. Katie emphasizes the value of small, consistent steps over time: “It doesn’t have to be a big thing—it can be as simple as one drawer or one shelf.”
At Stephens Real Estate, we’re proud to be a part of the Lawrence community and to help families find spaces they love. Whether you’re settling into a new home or looking for ways to enhance your current one, we’re here to help every step of the way. For more tips and local expertise, visit us online or stop by our office in Lawrence. Let’s make your house truly feel like home!
