The easiest way to clean a home is to not let it get out of control in the first place. However, if you're like me, your natural surroundings tend to look like something out of Mad Max and Thunderdome, so you may need to trick yourself into good habits. Though we've covered specific examples of how far proper organization can go before, below are some tips we've devised to promote a tidy space to call home:
1. Wrangle That Mail
Perhaps the number one smuggler of clutter in my apartment is mail: junk mail, coupons I'm not sure that I'll use, and sensitive mail that I can't discard before making a run to the paper shredder (which is four feet away, but still...)
There should be some type of container to sort mail into as close to the front door as possible. In order to sort the mail, this container must have some arrangement of compartments, or perhaps several separate containers in which to sort the various categories of mail. I already mentioned that my primary categories are 'junk', 'sensitive/destined for the shredder', and 'coupons'. Separating mail as you go allows you to do some of the work you'll have to do later, which can entice you to actually go through it later and dispose, shred, or file as needed.
2. Drawers, Drawers, Drawers
An entryway table is a staple in front hallways, as a handy place to drop keys, check a mirror, and...collect junk. The struggle to keep that surface space clear is being fought worthily by pieces of furniture with drawers. Note again, that 'drawers' is plural, to further allow sorting similar to the mail organization strategy in the first tip. My entryway features a sideboard. Though sideboards are made for holding dishes in the dining room, there is no rule that its use must be restricted (and even if there is, who cares!) The multitude of drawers allows me to separate pens and simple craft supplies like tape from, in my case, other heavy-duty crafting items, hats and scarves during the winter, and anything else I would like to keep accessible.
3. Bookshelves With A Purpose
If you live in a small space, you probably don't have the luxury of purchasing decorative items, as all of your space is taken up by pieces that serve a function. However, you would be surprised at how many people purchase pretty, functional items-dishware, keepsakes, etc., and then store them in a drawer. Not only does this mean you're losing out on the opportunity to display visually-stimulating items, but this also takes up storage space that could be used to organize more unsightly things like your random nail collection or that grocery bag of more grocery bags hanging off your pantry door knob (yes, the one with the bags that are falling out right now because your dog isn't using them at the pace you expected). If its pretty, display it, and put those dark hiding spaces to more efficient use.
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