7 Genius Tips to Make Your Bookshelf Less Cluttered, According to Organizing Pros

Maintaining an organized entryway, especially in smaller homes, can be a challenge but is crucial for a smooth daily routine and a clutter-free living space. Professional organizers offer practical strategies to transform a cramped entryway into a functional and aesthetically pleasing area. These strategies focus on maximizing vertical space, utilizing multipurpose furniture, and establishing clear systems for everyday items. One fundamental hack involves installing hooks on the walls. This solution is ideal for hanging purses, hats, and jackets, effectively clearing surfaces and reducing visual clutter. Organizers emphasize selecting aesthetically pleasing hooks that complement the home's interior style. For households with children, hanging hooks at both kid and adult heights encourages independence and helps children manage their belongings. A significant caution is issued against using standing coat racks in small entryways due to their space consumption and potential for clutter. Instead, a wall-mounted accordion rack is suggested as a more efficient alternative, providing multiple pegs for various items like keys, umbrellas, tote bags, and primary outerwear. Incorporating a narrow bench in the entryway, if space permits, offers a practical seating option for putting on shoes. Opting for a bench with integrated storage is particularly beneficial, allowing for discreet storage of items. Another underutilized space is the back of closet doors. Hanging organizers on these doors can effectively store shoes, slippers, and other accessories, keeping them out of sight yet easily accessible. Shoe management is a common entryway challenge. Regardless of the entryway's size, a designated system for shoes is essential to prevent clutter. Options include narrow shoe cabinets, lidded baskets, or simple bins. Modern slim shoe cabinets, some of which can be wall-mounted, can be styled to resemble console tables, offering both storage and a surface for small decorative items or a key tray. To maintain order, limiting the number of shoes kept in the entryway is recommended, with specific guidelines for individuals and families. Establishing a "drop zone" is critical for organizing frequently used items like keys, bags, and shoes upon entering the home. This consistent location, whether a shelf, table, or set of hooks, streamlines morning routines by ensuring essential items are always in their designated place. Mirrors also play a dual role in small entryways. Beyond their functional use for quick appearance checks, mirrors create an illusion of a larger, more open space. Multipurpose mirrors or framed art with built-in hooks, shelves, or ledges offer additional organizational benefits without compromising on aesthetics. Finally, managing mail and other papers is vital to prevent entryway clutter. A small wall file or a designated tray provides a specific place to contain these items until they can be processed, preventing them from scattering across surfaces. By implementing these expert-approved hacks, even the smallest entryways can become organized, functional, and welcoming spaces. #EntrywayOrganization #SmallSpaceHacks #HomeDecluttering #StorageSolutions #HomeDecor #ProfessionalOrganizers #ClutterFreeLiving

Decluttering a home effectively and maintaining its organization presents a significant challenge for many individuals. Frequently, common errors in decluttering practices go unrecognized, contributing to persistent clutter. Identifying and addressing these oversights is crucial for implementing proper organizational tools and preventing future disarray. This article highlights three prevalent decluttering mistakes and offers practical storage solutions available at Wayfair, starting from $10, to achieve a clutter-free living space. The first common mistake is neglecting vertical and corner spaces. Many individuals overlook the potential of empty walls, nooks, and crannies for storage, especially in smaller homes. Maximizing these often-ignored areas can significantly enhance storage capacity. Recommended solutions include wall shelves, corner cabinets, and narrow furniture pieces designed to fit into these spaces. Specific product suggestions from Wayfair include Ebern Designs Floating Shelves (from $34), Red Barrel Studio Four-Section Storage Shelf with Bins ($95), Bay Isle Home Rattan Corner Cabinet ($85), Gracie Oaks Floating Wall Storage Corner Cabinet ($103), Latitude Run Narrow Tall Storage Cabinet (from $94), Trent Austin Design Zubowski Corner Bookcase (from $157), Zipcode Design Girouard Three-Piece Floating Shelf (from $45), and Joss & Main Tall Floating Accent Cabinet (from $77). For example, the Red Barrel Studio Four-Section Storage Shelf, with its tall and narrow design and collapsible fabric bins, is suitable for various rooms, while the Bay Isle Home Rattan Corner Cabinet offers both chic aesthetics and ample storage at an affordable price. The second mistake involves not investing in multipurpose furniture. Multifunctional furniture pieces integrate different household needs, such as storage and seating, into a single unit, thereby reducing the number of items required and optimizing space. Wayfair’s furniture deals offer several such solutions. Examples include the Kelly Clarkson Home Noelle Upholstered Ottoman (from $126), a 17 Stories Wynny Lift-Top Coffee Table with Storage (from $83), an Ebern Designs High Platform Bed Frame with Storage and USB Charging Station (from $144), a Kelly Clarkson Home Emily Tall Wicker/Rattan Accent Cabinet (from $113), a Wade Logan Braedin Upholstered Accent Chair and Storable Ottoman (from $225), and a Barton Water-Resistant Wicker Storage Bench ($150). The 17 Stories Wynny Lift-Top Coffee Table, for instance, provides hidden storage for electronics and other items, while its scratch- and stain-resistant surface ensures durability. Finally, the third common error is having insufficient storage for all belongings. When there isn't enough dedicated space for items, clutter inevitably accumulates. Addressing this requires investing in appropriate organizers. The article suggests various storage solutions, starting from $10, to help contain clutter. These include Wayfair Basics Underbed Storage Bags (from $10), AllModern Avani Three-Piece Wicker Basket Set ($36), Sterilite Ultra Latch Storage Container Boxes and Lids (10-Pack) ($113), Birch Lane Milnor Large Seagrass Storage Basket ($69), Latitude Run Four-Tier Foldable Storage Bins with Lid and Wheels (Set of Four) ($70), Suncast Storage Cabinet ($193), and Martha Stewart Four-Shelf Hanging Closet Organizer with Bar ($50). The Sterilite storage container set, with its mix of 70-quart and 30-quart bins, is particularly versatile for organizing items of various sizes and can be used across multiple rooms. These products collectively aim to provide effective solutions for decluttering and organizing a home, with savings of up to 78 percent available on Wayfair. #DeclutteringTips #HomeOrganization #StorageSolutions #WayfairDeals #MultipurposeFurniture #SpaceSaving #InteriorDesign #HomeImprovement

Maintaining an organized home often involves adopting a balanced approach rather than strict adherence to order. Small, consistent changes can lead to lasting organization. This principle is reinforced by professional organizers who utilize specific items to ensure their homes remain both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Four professional organizers—Meghan Cocchiaro, Tracy McCubbin, Melanie Summers, and Lucy Milligan Wahl—shared their top 17 everyday organization solutions. These solutions focus on efficiency, accessibility, and clutter prevention, making them applicable to various areas of a home. Label makers, like the Brother P-touch Cube Plus Bluetooth Label Maker, are essential for identifying contents within storage containers, ensuring that items are easily located. Meghan Cocchiaro emphasizes its utility for both personal use and client projects, highlighting its ease of design via a smartphone app and its versatility for different bin sizes. Rotating organizers, such as the YouCopia Crazy Susan Divided Lazy Susan Organizer and the iDesign Recycled Plastic Lazy Susan Turntable Organizer, are praised for optimizing space in cabinets, craft areas, and laundry rooms. These items prevent items from getting lost in deep corners and improve access, whether for spices, art supplies, or laundry detergents. Lucy Milligan Wahl particularly notes the benefit of undivided turntables for laundry rooms, accommodating various bottle sizes. Drawer organization is tackled with products like the Fabsome Set of 6 Bamboo Drawer Organizers. Melanie Summers explains their effectiveness in dividing drawers in kitchens, bathrooms, and dressers, making them ideal for silverware, gadgets, and even vertically folded clothes. For laundry management, the Best Choice Products Double Laundry Hamper with Lid offers a practical solution. Lucy Milligan Wahl highlights its design, which allows for pre-sorting of clothes into two compartments and features removable bins for easy transport to the washing machine, all while maintaining a neat appearance in the bedroom. Clutter prevention is addressed with items like the Jonathan Adler Basketweave Square Tray, recommended by Tracy McCubbin. Placing it near the entrance provides a designated spot for keys, wallets, and sunglasses, preventing these common items from scattering. Rolling carts, such as the Amazon Basics 3-Tier Rolling Cart, offer mobile storage. Meghan Cocchiaro uses one to quickly clear art supplies and technology from her kitchen island, illustrating its adaptability for kids’ rooms, playrooms, home offices, and hobby areas. Clear plastic bins, like the Yihong Set of 6 Multi-Purpose Clear Plastic Bins, are championed by Melanie Summers for maximizing hidden storage under vanities and sinks. Their stackable nature and clear sides facilitate visibility and organization of cleaning supplies or first-aid kits. Kitchen efficiency is improved with items such as the Kobikobi 13-Inch Ceramic Cake Stand, which Tracy McCubbin uses to keep oils, vinegars, salt, and pepper within reach on the counter. Similarly, the Le Tauci Set of 2 Utensil Crocks keep frequently used cooking utensils accessible, especially in kitchens with limited drawer space. The YouCopia StoreMore Expandable Pan and Lid Organizer optimizes cabinet space by storing cutting boards and baking sheets vertically, making them easier to retrieve and utilize vertical space efficiently. To maximize storage in smaller spaces, the Simple Houseware 6-Pocket Over-the-Door Organizer is suggested by Melanie Summers for toiletries, accessories, or cleaning supplies, offering vertical storage with clear pockets for quick identification. General storage needs are met with Losyhu Set of 4 Wire Storage Baskets, which Lucy Milligan Wahl uses in her pantry for containing items, allowing for easy pull-out access and visibility. The Full Circle Ceramic Kitchen Sink Caddy helps contain sink-side clutter, keeping sponges and brushes tidy and allowing them to dry quickly. For garage or basement storage, the Mighty Tuff Pack of 3 Heavy-Duty Stacking Bins provide robust, stackable solutions for gardening tools, sports equipment, or muddy boots, designed for durability and easy cleaning. Finally, S-hooks, specifically the Dhylricher Set of 12 Closet Rod S-Hooks, are recommended by Meghan Cocchiaro for hanging various items like tote bags, belts, and hats on closet rods, utilizing vertical space effectively. For a polished look, the In Apple Pie Order Set of 8 Metal Clip-On Labels allow for stylish and easily updatable labeling on various bins and shelves, helping to define zones in pantries and linen closets. #HomeOrganization #DeclutteringTips #StorageSolutions #ProfessionalOrganizers #AmazonFinds #KitchenOrganization #BedroomOrganization #BathroomOrganization #SpaceSaving

This blog post from Better Homes & Gardens provides an extensive guide to decluttering and organizing various spaces within a home, offering expert strategies and editor-approved tips. The article is categorized under 'Housekeeping' and focuses specifically on 'Storage & Organization,' presenting a compilation of resources designed to help individuals transform chaotic areas into calm, functional spaces. It covers a wide array of topics, from general organization advice to specific room-by-room solutions. The content is structured to address common organizational challenges in key areas of the home. Dedicated sections are provided for bathroom storage and organization, kitchen storage and organization, laundry room storage and organization, closet storage and organization, and garage storage and organization. Each of these sections likely contains detailed articles and guides, offering practical tips and product recommendations tailored to the unique needs of that particular space. For instance, the kitchen section might delve into pantry organization, spice rack ideas, and ways to utilize cabinet space efficiently, while the closet section could offer strategies for maximizing hanging space, organizing shoes, and storing seasonal clothing. Beyond specific rooms, the article also includes broader 'Organization Tips' that can be applied throughout the home. These tips may encompass various decluttering methods, such as the 'Core 4 Method' for simplifying organizing, the '1-3-5 Decluttering Hack' for incremental progress, and advice on handling sentimental items. The post emphasizes practical approaches, including DIY storage ideas for spaces like garages and clever tools for tasks such as holiday gift-wrapping. It also highlights emerging home storage trends that experts recommend trying, suggesting modern and efficient ways to maintain an organized living environment. Further, the article addresses specific problematic areas, such as linen closets, advising on what items should no longer be stored there and offering professional insights into optimal organization zones. It also tackles common decluttering mistakes, particularly those identified by professional organizers, and provides actionable solutions. The importance of maintaining a clutter-free environment is underscored by suggestions for what not to keep in visible areas like bathroom counters and kitchen counters, and what items to declutter before seasonal changes or events like vacations. The post also features a 30-day declutter challenge, encouraging readers to systematically take control of their homes. Unique insights, like the 'FIFO method' for organizing and surprising uses for everyday items like zip ties, are also presented. Additionally, the article covers the concept of 'Clutter Creep' and provides guidance on how to address it, alongside advice on how to let go of 'aspirational clutter.' Important safety considerations, such as proper disposal of hazardous materials like gasoline, and insights from Feng Shui experts on kitchen storage, are also included. The article also provides practical solutions for storing items in clear bins, organizing bedding, and maximizing vertical storage, offering a comprehensive resource for anyone looking to enhance their home's organization and functionality. #HomeOrganization #DeclutteringTips #StorageSolutions #HomeImprovement #Housekeeping #RoomOrganization #DIYStorage #ExpertAdvice #HomeDesign

Decluttering a bedroom can significantly improve the appearance and spaciousness of the room. This process, while seemingly daunting, can be simplified by focusing on specific items that commonly contribute to clutter. Professional organizers Tina Horan and Nancy Yerkes, co-founders of Uncluttered Spaces, offer practical advice on what to remove to achieve a more organized and relaxing bedroom environment. One key area to address is exercise equipment. While home workouts are popular, keeping equipment like treadmills in the bedroom can lead to clutter and diminish the room's primary function as a space for relaxation. Horan suggests relocating exercise gear to a dedicated workout area to maintain the bedroom's organized and calm atmosphere. Another common clutter source is dirty dishes. Although occasional snacks in bed are permissible, allowing piles of dishes to accumulate can quickly make the room appear messy. Horan advises promptly removing and cleaning any dishes brought into the bedroom to ensure a consistently clean space. Mismatched socks are often overlooked but can consume valuable drawer space. Yerkes recommends discarding single socks that have lost their pairs and investing in new, matching sets. This simple step can free up significant storage capacity in dresser drawers. Old clothing that no longer fits or is no longer worn is another major contributor to closet clutter. Horan emphasizes the importance of regularly trying on clothes to identify items that should be kept or discarded. Maintaining a routine of evaluating one's wardrobe helps in organizing and maximizing closet space, preventing accumulation. The type of hangers used can also impact the visual organization of a closet. Yerkes suggests replacing mismatched hangers with uniform, sturdy ones to create a visually appealing and cohesive closet aesthetic. Bills, mail, and other documents frequently find their way into bedrooms, creating messy piles. Horan advises against processing mail in the bedroom. Instead, she recommends establishing a designated drawer or basket elsewhere in the home for incoming mail and documents to keep the bedroom free of paper clutter. Excessive bedding also contributes to clutter. While decorative bedding sets are appealing, having too many can occupy significant storage space. Yerkes recommends keeping only two complete sets of bedding: one for use and one for washing and rotation, ensuring practicality without unnecessary bulk. Finally, empty boxes and storage containers are often stored in bedrooms, consuming valuable space and creating an untidy appearance. Horan suggests breaking down these boxes and relocating them to a dedicated storage area such as a closet, crawl space, or basement. Smaller boxes, particularly those from appliances like phones or computers, offer minimal utility for storage and are best discarded to further reduce clutter. #BedroomOrganization #DeclutteringTips #ProfessionalOrganizers #HomeImprovement #InteriorDesign #SpaceOptimization #Lifestyle #StorageSolutions