Vanessa Hudgens has been a style icon of mine ever since her High School Musical days. Now we're both adults, it's not just her clothing style I obsess over anymore —  it's her interior style, too.

On her TikTok I spotted a set of beautiful woven organizers, which I think are such a clever way to hide away miscellaneous items while maintaining a room's style. I've asked interior designers why they so work so well, what you can use them, plus tracked down a very close match.

If you're looking for small space organization ideas that will blend seamlessly into your interior, Vanessa's solution is worth checking out.

Vanessa Hudgens is known for boho-chic looks (hello, Queen of Coachella!), which she has brought into her home with these clever organizers.

“These not only elevate the aesthetic appeal of her space but also serve a highly practical purpose,” says Nina Lichtenstein, principal designer and founder of Nina's Home Design.

The material brings in two of the year’s biggest interior design trends: sustainable design and coastal grandmother.

“Water hyacinth is celebrated for its durability and lightweight properties,” Nina explains. “Its natural, woven texture brings warmth and an earthy vibe to any interior, making it a favorite among those who seek to infuse their homes with nature.”

These also perfectly complement a variety of color palettes, ensuring that these organizers fit effortlessly into any decor scheme.

Because of this, you can use them in all different kinds of rooms when decluttering your home.

“For example, in the bathroom, woven baskets are ideal for storing extra towels, toilet paper, bath salts, candles, and other toiletries,” explains Rachel Stringer, design expert at Raleigh Realty. “They help keep countertops clear and make it easy to grab what you need, all while complementing neutral tile colors.”

She continues, “You could also use these as entryway storage, storing shoes, hats, gloves, scarves, and other seasonal items.” These help contain clutter and make it easy to grab what you need on your way out the door while adding warmth to the space.

You can also use them as a decorative accent in the home, adding warmth and texture to your space. Rachel suggests trying them on shelves like Vanessa, on coffee tables, and even on nightstands. 

Shop the look

Vanessa Hudgens' use of woven storage organizers is a masterclass in balancing style and utility. 

“Whether you're aiming to declutter, add a touch of nature, or simply infuse your space with timeless elegance, they’re a chic and functional choice,” Nina finishes by saying.

Want to carry on scouting out inspo from the actor-turned-influencer? I also found Vanessa Hudgens’ coffee maker, plus budget alternatives.

I'm always envious of Sydney Sweeney's closet because it's filled with gorgeous outfits I'd love to wear. But, it turns out that I'm also in awe of the dressing room space itself.

I've asked interior designers why the Anyone But You and Euphoria star's space works so well, and they're as in love as I am. They've delved into warm textures brought in by features such as the wooden panels, the honey-colored drawers, and the boucle stool, and explained how to replicate the look at home.

Whether you're looking for bedroom ideas that integrate getting-ready areas or have a whole room like Sydney (jealous, if so!), her space offers tons of inspiration.

Sydney Sweeney's closet effortlessly blends together form and function with elegance and efficiency. 

“This stunning space, with its wall-to-wall mirrored doors featuring sleek round black inset handles, is as much about aesthetics as it is about utility,” explains Nina Lichtenstein, principal designer and founder of Nina’s Home Design.

“The mirrors, beyond providing a full view for outfit checks, ingeniously expand the room’s perceived dimensions and enhance the natural light,” she says.

This is a clever way to make a small room appear bigger, especially when placed near windows like Sydney’s closet, as this will bounce light around the room.

As well as doing this, she has chosen bright and warm Scandi-style colors throughout. “The closet's multi-toned wood floors are a striking feature, their vertical planks elongating the room and adding depth,” Nina says.

The wooden hues are varied, such as on the contrasting drawers that add to the cohesive color palette.

“The use of off-white and honey keeps the space from feeling monotonous while providing the functional value of ample storage,” explains David Silva, interior designer at HomRem LLC.

He also loves the roundness of the boucle stool, which provides a great contrast against all the clean lines throughout the room. “It helps keep the room from feeling too rigid, and is placed in a way to invite occupants to have a seat.”

“I would take it a step further and get one with storage to make your space less cluttered and more functional,” David adds.

All of this is given a serious glow-up with the multiple light sources, including perimeter ceiling lighting, which make sure the space is always well-lit. “This lighting, combined with the reflective surfaces and light color palette, keeps the closet bright and welcoming,” Nina says.

Shop our Sydney Sweeney closet edit

Sydney Sweeney's closet is a perfect blend of chic functionality and personal flair

“It’s a beautiful reflection of her impeccable style and is an inviting space to get ready and take selfies,” Nina finishes by saying.

Looking for more sophisticated celeb home storage inspiration? I also love Gigi Hadid’s office, which is filled with simple and sleek solutions.

Finding out what not to throw out when decluttering will come in useful whether you're doing a full spring clean or are tidying just one room.

We've asked cleaning pros what they always advise clients not to throw. Some of these are seriously surprising, from spare parts and tools to sentimental items. They have also helpfully recommended how to organize these instead.

If you're decluttering your home, putting aside these items will ensure you don't get rid of anything important.

What not to throw out when decluttering, according to cleaners

We don't often say this, but it's time to put down your best cleaning supplies and be a little more careful when decluttering.

Our pros have recommended products that might come in useful when organizing these items, which we have shopped wherever possible.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article. 

1. Sentimental items

The pieces that pull at your heartstrings have to be the most important items to take care of when you’re decluttering your drawers and other areas of your home.

“Sentimental items should be curated with care. Instead of storing everything, select pieces that truly reflect significant memories or achievements and consider displaying them instead of hiding them away,” suggests Yessica Bello, cleaning expert at Bello’s Cleaning.

“For collectibles, clear display cases or dedicated shelves can highlight their value and keep them organized,” she says.

A product Yessica has found particularly useful is The Container Store's Clear Stackable Document Box for organizing various categories of paperwork and precious documents. “Its transparency allows for easy identification of contents without needing to open each box, and the stackable feature saves space while keeping everything orderly,” she adds.

2. Important documents

When you’re faced with stacks of paper when cleaning, it can be easy to panic and throw them all away. This is a big no-no, though, as they’re key things not to throw out when decluttering.

“Important documents such as passports, legal papers, and insurance documents should always be spared from the purge,” explains Eliana Coca, cleaning expert and owner of E.C. House Cleaning.

“For these, I recommend a secure filing system like the SentrySafe HD4100 Fireproof Safe and Waterproof Safe on Amazon, as it’s excellent for keeping documents protected from damage.”

Organizing these by category in a fireproof and waterproof container ensures they are safe and accessible. 

3. Emergency supplies

While we do recommend getting rid of ‘just in case’ items you’ve had for years and not used, we also advise keeping hold of key items.

Eliana continues, “Emergency supplies like first-aid kits, flashlights, spare batteries, and backup chargers are essential, especially in unforeseen circumstances.”

She continues, “These items should be consolidated in an easily accessible, designated area of the house.”

Her top tip? Storing such items in a clear, labeled bin (the Shelfshaper Storage Bins from Amazon are made from thick, BPA-free plastic and come with a roll of labels) to maintain organization and ensure that in an emergency, everything can be found quickly.

4. Spare parts and tools

Working out what not to throw away when decluttering extends beyond untidy items — it extends to things you’ll need in the future, too.

“Miscellaneous screws, bolts, and tools may clutter up your space, but they're invaluable when something needs fixing,” explains Emily Adams, cleaning expert at NW Maids.

She recommends organizing these items in a toolbox (the Hyper Tough 19-inch Toolbox from Walmart has two lid organizers and is made from heavy-duty construction) for easy access. 

You can also consider donating excess tools to community repair shops, secondhand stores, or makerspaces.

5. Old electronics

Have you been decluttering your living area and found wires for things you don’t use anymore? You can remove these from your home — but make sure you sustainably do this.

Emily says, “Old electronics like chargers, cables, and obsolete devices shouldn't be tossed in the trash due to environmental concerns.”

“Instead, recycle them through certified e-waste recycling programs or donate them to organizations that refurbish electronics for those in need,” she explains.

6. Personal care items

You’re probably going to be faced with lots of boxes and bottles when you’re decluttering your bathroom cabinets. So, it’s worth remembering that the big things not to throw away when decluttering are items you likely keep in these.

“Personal care items such as prescription medications, eyeglasses, and contact lenses should be carefully organized and never thrown away,” Eliana says.

“Using a specific drawer or cabinet organizer helps keep these items in order and readily available,” she adds.

A good piece of advice from Eliana is using a multi-tiered organizer (the Felizhouse Bathroom Organizer from Walmart will fit under your vanity, is made from a safe material, and is easy to assemble) so that everything has its place, reducing clutter and maintaining order in these crucial areas.

7. Quality cookware

You might have invested in the best non-stick pans and cookware and found yourself teeing them up as things to throw away when decluttering. Whether you’re on a budget or not, it’s a good idea to not let your dollars go to waste.

“Quality cookware and utensils may seem worn or outdated, but they can often be refurbished or repurposed,” Emily explains.

She advises polishing stainless steel pots and pans, sharpening knives (the The Original Tumbler Rolling Knife Sharpener from Amazon is Bobby Berk's knife sharpener and has a diamond disc), or donating them to someone in need. If anything is beyond repair, ensure you recycle responsibly.

By thoughtfully preserving items while still maintaining a decluttered home, you can ensure important items are protected.

“This approach to decluttering emphasizes practicality and preparedness, integrating with the overall cleanliness and function of the home environment,” Eliana finishes by saying.

For those wanting to make their homes sparkle even more, finding out the things people with clean homes have in common may come in useful.

For anyone who has a drawer of doom, Bobby Berk's decluttering hack using a numbered system is an easy and genius way to transform it.

The interior designer and former Queer Eye star uses the 10-10-100 decluttering method, spending 10 minutes decluttering 10 items, and repeating until he gets to 100. We've asked cleaning and home improvement experts why it's so effective and exactly how to do it yourself.

When learning how to declutter your home, it includes tackling those pesky drawers, so trust me, as a dedicated declutter myself, you'll be thankful for a roadmap through it.

Bobby Berk's decluttering hack is a must-try for anyone with unorganized drawers

Using Bobby Berk's decluttering method will completely transform how you approach decluttering drawers in your kitchen and beyond, experts say.

“Bobby Berk's 10-10-100 decluttering method is indeed a game-changer for anyone looking to streamline their space effectively,” says Tommy Mello, home improvement expert and founder of A1 Garage Door Service.

"By repeating this process until you reach 100 items," he adds, "you'll significantly reduce clutter.”

Bobby Berk’s decluttering hack is so soothing to watch, so it makes sense that it actually is relaxing to do. 

“This method divides the daunting task of decluttering into manageable 10-minute increments, making it less intimidating and more achievable,” explains Eliana Coca, cleaning expert and founder of E.C. House Cleaning.

She continues, “By focusing on removing 10 items every 10 minutes, this approach ensures continuous progress and reduces the likelihood of burnout.”

For anyone wanting to find out how to declutter when feeling overwhelmed, breaking it down into bite-sized chunks is a seriously smart move, and the 10-10-100 method gently guides you without the 'bite-size' being arbitrary and hard to pin down.

With Bobby Berk's number-led decluttering hack, it's really clear what you should be doing, how long for, and how much of.

How to do Bobby Berk's decluttering hack

In terms of getting started on the 10-10-100 method, begin by setting a timer for 10 minutes just like Bobby does, and then quickly gather items that you no longer need or use.

Eliana says, “The choice of which items to remove can be made swiftly to maintain momentum. For instance, start with obvious choices like outdated magazines, old mail, or unused kitchen gadgets.”

She adds that as you advance, the decisions might get slightly tougher. “This is where the quick time frame helps in making decisive actions without overthinking.”

As you declutter, you can also separate items into categories such as donating to secondhand furniture stores, recycling, or trash. 

“This makes it easier to dispose of items responsibly and ensures that things don't end up back in your living space,” adds Tommy.

While decluttering, our pros also advise not to forget to clean as you go.

“Cleaning supplies such as microfiber cloths and the best vacuum cleaners can also help maintain cleanliness as you declutter,” Tommy adds.

For a smooth decluttering session, Eliana suggests picking up storage bins with labels (the Bright Creations Storage Boxes from Walmart are easy to clean and eye-catching), as these are crucial for categorizing items efficiently.

She also says to choose strong trash bags that can hold plenty of weight, such as the Hefty Ultra Strong Bags from Amazon that are made from 50% recovered materials (20% post-consumer recycled materials and 30% reclaimed scrap material from the brand's manufacturing process).

What you need to do Bobby Berk's decluttering hack

From the best cleaning supplies to the best organizers, there are lots of useful items that will make following Bobby Berk's decluttering hack even easier than it already is.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article. 

Meet the experts

Applying this method when decluttering will ensure you don’t get stressed out and will leave you with sparkling results. 

“By embracing Bobby Berk's 10-10-100 method and incorporating these steps into your decluttering routine, you'll not only achieve a more organized living space but also experience the benefits of increased productivity in your home life,” Tommy finishes by saying.

If you’re as big a fan of this interior designer as we are, you might also want to check out Bobby Berk’s knife sharpener.

Knowing what things to get rid of first in your kitchen cabinets is key for getting this area of your home scrubbed up properly.

We've quizzed cleaning pros on what you should wave goodbye to first to ensure a smooth process when revamping this space. From larger items like broken cookware to smaller pieces like expired pantry goods, you'll be surprised at how much can go.

By being ruthless, you’ll end up with even more storage space for your food and cookware. This is why knowing the things to get rid of first in your kitchen cabinets is so crucial when decluttering your kitchen.

The most important things to get rid of first in your kitchen cabinets

Gather up your best cleaning supplies, as it's time to wave goodbye to these things you should get rid of first in your kitchen cabinets.

Our pros have recommended buys throughout to help you do this, which we have shopped throughout.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article.

1. Damaged cookware

Yes, you might be attached to your favorite pan — but if it’s not working as it should, it should be a thing you get rid of first in your kitchen cabinets.

“To declutter, start with any cookware that's damaged, such as non-stick pans that are peeling or pots with missing handles,” says Eliana Coca, cleaning expert and founder of E.C. House Cleaning.

“Donating or recycling these items responsibly can significantly free up space, making your kitchen more functional and aesthetically pleasing,” she adds.

We recommend investing in a good-quality pan, such as Our Place’s Perfect Pot that’s ideal for families and meal-prepping.

2. Mismatched containers

Isn't it so annoying when the lids and containers don't match up? If you’ve found yourself frustrated with this cabinet conundrum one too many times, it could be time to go through your collection.

“Start by going through your stash to identify any that don't match up, then check to see if any of them are recyclable,” says Rhonda Wilson, quality lead cleaner at FreshSpace Cleaning.

“Most plastic containers and lids can be recycled, but it's always best to check your area's recycling guidelines just to make sure,” she adds.

If you’ve got rid of these and found you don’t have any left, get a set of the best kitchen storage containers instead, such as the bestselling Ailtec Glass Food Storage Containers from Amazon.

3. Half-empty cleaning supplies

When cleaning your kitchen, you might have fallen in love with a particular product and kept buying it over and over again, while forgetting you still have some left to use. We aren’t judging — we’ve been there too.

“When it comes to cleaning products, I've seen many cabinets cluttered with an array of half-used supplies that take up valuable space,” Elena explains. “Combining the contents of nearly empty bottles and properly disposing of any that are outdated or no longer needed can help declutter the space under your sink.”

You can also make sure to buy multi-purpose or concentrated cleaners that can handle a variety of tasks to reduce the number of bottles cluttering your cabinets.

“I like to use Mrs. Meyer's Clean Day Multi-Surface Everyday Cleaner on Amazon, which is highly efficient for day-to-day wipe downs,” adds Kelly Salas, cleaning expert and founder of Sierra Vista Maintenance.

4. Duplicate appliances and utensils

Trust us, you don’t need that many small kitchen appliances and utensils cluttering up your cabinets.

Kelly explains, “It's common to find duplicates or rarely used gadgets taking up precious cabinet space, which is why they're things to get rid of first in your kitchen cabinets. I advise going through these items and keeping only those that serve multiple purposes or are used regularly."

If you end up with items you don’t need but still work, such as one of the best coffee makers (the Ninja Specialty Coffee Maker on Amazon is one our favorite all-rounders, FYI), gift to friends or donate them to secondhand stores like Goodwill.

5. Worn out kitchen towels

One of the things to get rid of in your kitchen cabinets which may be taking up unnecessary space are surplus kitchen towels.

“They can get a little worn out after a while. It's totally normal, but it's important to keep an eye on them and replace them when necessary,” Rhonda explains. "Old and frayed towels are less effective in protecting you from small burns."

Be sure to replace any old kitchen textiles with high-quality options that are durable, heat-resistant, and easy to clean, such as the Homaxy Kitchen Dish Cloths with over 19,000 five-star reviews on Amazon.

6. Spices

You might not get through spices too quickly, but hanging onto old ones for years is a big no-no, according to cleaning experts. 

Eliana explains, “Spices lose their flavor over time and can make your dishes taste bland if they're too old. Go through your collection, discard anything that’s expired or hasn’t been used in over a year, and organize what remains in a clear, accessible manner."

For this, Elena suggests going for uniform spice jars with labels (we like Amazon's Choice Netany Spice Jar set), as these will not only keep your spices fresh and organized, but having them to hand in clear jars will make cooking easier.

7. Chipped glasses or mugs

If you see any cracks or chips in your glasses or mugs, they’re officially things to get rid of first in your kitchen cabinets. 

Rhonda says, “Wrap them up carefully in newspaper or paper towels  to prevent any sharp edges from causing injury, and to keep any broken shards contained. Once you've wrapped them up, put them in a sturdy trash bag and tie it up securely to prevent any spillages or accidents.”

Don’t want to throw away your favorite mug, even if it’s a little broken? You could always repurpose it as a planter or stationery holder. Alternatively, treat yourself to a new one (we have the Peeking Animal Mug from Urban Outfitters in our carts).

“Kitchens can become more streamlined, efficient, and enjoyable spaces for cooking and gathering when your cabinets are organized,” Kelly finishes by saying.

If you’re looking to modernize your cabinets, you might also want to know the outdated kitchen cabinet trends to avoid. 

Investing in purse storage ideas that keep your collection safe, organized, and in good condition is well worth it. Whether they’re costly or not, you want them looking their best — they can make or break an outfit, after all. 

From chic purses and designer bags to chunky holdalls and slimline clutches, different shapes and sizes can make finding space tricky, particularly if your collection is on the larger side. We’ve quizzed the pros for their top tips, to ensure you store yours in style. 

Storing purses behind closed doors is a practical option, but if you’re wondering how to organize a bedroom to showcase your style, we’ve got plenty of chic 'on show' ideas, too. 

Purse storage ideas 

Combining organization and aesthetics is a great tactic, particularly when organizing a small bedroom. Whether you prefer yours to make a style statement or remain clutter-free, we’ve got savvy closet organizers and bedroom storage ideas to suit both. 

1. Use shelf dividers

Create a bespoke storage solution for your purses using clear shelf dividers. These Brightroom™ shelf dividers from Target are made from soft fabric and include built-in accessory hooks, handy for storing small shoulder bags or even organizing jewelry. Adjust them to fit different sizes and shapes to maximize shelf space. 

“Grouping the purses by color will help you to quickly find what you are looking for. You could even incorporate other clothing and accessories, such as sunglasses and hats,” says professional organizer Lauren Saltman, founder of Living. Simplified.  

2. Let them hang

“You want purses to maintain their shape, so avoid stacking bags on top of each other at all costs”, says personal stylist Erica Ball. “If you’re lacking shelving space, use a cubby-style hanging organizer to keep your collection neatly contained and off the floor, or opt for this sturdy acrylic purse hanger from The Container Store to keep your everyday bag within easy reach”. 

3. Show off your prized purses

If you’re organizing a walk-in closet, or you’re looking for a way to add pizzazz to your bedroom shelf ideas, why not make a display of your favorite bags? Whether it’s a stunning embellishment, a unique design, or a fancy shape that’s caught your eye, give it pride of place on this luxe acrylic handbag display stand, from The Container Store. 

“Mix and match sizes, shapes, textures, and prints for an eclectic display that's as dynamic as your personal style,” says Heather Goerzen, Design Director at Havenly. 

4. Protect purses with dust bags

Pricier purses require an extra level of protection to keep them in tip-top shape, as well as any out-of-season purses or those you don’t use regularly. Prevent them from gathering dust (literally) by investing in dust bags, like these from The Container Store. They come with an integrated label holder so you know what’s where. 

“Add support inside each handbag by stuffing the duster bag with tissue paper or purchasing custom inserts (such as these purse pillows, from The Container Store). Doing so will ensure the bag doesn't crease or lose shape over time,” says Ashley Murphy and Marissa Hagmeyer, co-founders of Neat Method.

Rotate bags at the start of a new season, to keep your style — and your bedroom ideas — looking fresh. You may also want to use dust bags when organizing shoes if you don’t have space for boxes. 

5. Create cubbies

Cubby-style storage is useful for organizing purses individually or by category, depending on the size of your collection. Commission bespoke shelving or consider investing in a cubby-style unit and positioning it on the floor of your closet. 

To maximize space, line each cubby with a clearline divided handbag cube, from The Container Store. The dividers can be arranged to hold four smaller bags, or two medium bags, or removed altogether, so you can adjust accordingly as your collection grows. 

6. Use bins and baskets

If you haven’t got the space (or the budget) for a cubby unit, line existing shelves with baskets and bins to create a similar organization system. Opt for fabric-lined designs to prevent damage, or ideally clear plastic so you can see what’s inside at a glance. 

Choosing lidded designs means you can stack, but it can look a little messy. For a sleek storage option, we love these SONGMCIS stackable shoe boxes from Target; technically designed as a shoe storage idea for small spaces, they work equally well for purses. 

7. Make walls work harder

Utilizing vertical space is a great small bedroom storage idea, and has the potential to add aesthetic value to your small bedroom ideas, too. 

“Incorporate decorative hooks along a wall to create a stylish yet practical display for your handbag collection”, suggests Heather. “Opt for unvarnished brass finishes for a sense of character and patina, antique black or bronze for a timeless effect, or more whimsical hooks to infuse your space with personality.” 

If you want to take things one step further, Heather recommends using a pegboard organizer. “You can customize the layout to accommodate bags of varying shapes and sizes. Add a touch of glamor with metallic hooks or incorporate shelves and baskets for smaller accessories,” she says. 

Utilizing walls is also a great way of keeping your favorite purses close to hand when organizing a small entryway. Combine with small entryway coat storage ideas to ensure a stylish exit.  

8. Use the back of the door

Don’t forget the vertical space on the back of a bedroom door either – or your closet doors, for that matter. You can create plentiful purse storage opportunities using anything from simple Command Hooks to over-the-door hanging organizers. 

“Choose one with baskets to hold bigger bags, or opt for a slimline design, like this Rebrilliant over-the-door shoe organizer from Wayfair, to stash smaller purses and wallets,” says Emily Lambe, Deputy Editor at Real Homes.  

9. File away wallets and clutches

For slim-line styles such as wallets and clutches, a simple file divider, like this MDesign plastic purse divider from Amazon is perfect. Similarly to the file fold method when organizing clothes, it keeps them upright so you can see everything at a glance. “We also love that it allows you to grab one item without disturbing the rest,” adds Ashley. 

Depending on the size of your bags, this storage idea works well when organizing a dresser. Line a deep drawer with Gorilla Grip slip-resistant drawer liners from Amazon, to hold your divider in place. 

10. Make use of under-bed storage space

Free up space in your closet by stashing lesser-used purses in the dead space under a bed (rather than in the attic) so they’re close by and convenient should you need to access them in a hurry. 

Easy-access roll-out drawers, like these from Walmart are great, but if you’re limited on floor space, investing in a space-saving ottoman-style bed frame is well worth it; as well as purses, you can use them to store shoes, out-of-season clothing and bulky linens, too. 

If you haven’t got space under the bed don’t panic — choose stylish ‘on show’ storage to compliment your room’s decor, instead. 

“We love to repurpose vintage trunks or suitcases as purse storage solutions”, says Heather. “Not only do these timeless pieces add a touch of nostalgia to your bedroom decor, but they also offer ample storage space. Stack them artfully at the foot of your bed or alongside a dresser for a touch of vintage-inspired elegance”.  

FAQs

How do you store bags in limited space?

If decluttering your purse collection is not an option (we feel you) then implementing space-boosting bedroom organizers is your best bet. From purse hooks and over-the-door organizers to shelf dividers and under-bed storage, there are all manner of options, depending on what storage space you have available to you. 

It’s tempting we know, but resist the urge to cram your purses — the last thing you want to do is damage them. Instead, consider splitting your collection. Dedicate prime storage space to your most frequently used purses, and store seasonal/occasional purses elsewhere.

How do I organize my purse collection? 

“If you have a medium to large collection of handbags of various sizes, then having an organizational system set up in your closet will help you know what you have and prevent yourself from buying duplicates going forward,’ suggests Lauren. 

“The simplest way to keep track is to use an app that allows you to include a photo, manufacturer, purchase price, color, size, and occasion. Beyond that, you'll need an actual storage system that allows you to see what you have," she says. 

So, if you’re dealing with limited space and a growing purse collection, fear not. By rethinking your closet organization — and reshuffling your clothes storage ideas – it’s perfectly possible to make space for purses a plenty and keep them in perfect condition, too. Phew! 

Familiarizing yourself with how to organize a dresser is well worth the effort. From clothes to cosmetics, bras to belts, they’re expected to hold an awful lot of ‘stuff’, and drawers can quickly descend into chaos without an efficient system in place. 

We’ve quizzed professional organizers on their top tried-and-true hacks for achieving orderly dresser drawers that look neat and (with a little upkeep) stay that way, too. 

It can be hard to know where to start when deciding how to organize a bedroom, but a dresser should a priority. As somewhere you access every day, savvy storage, effective organizers and simple systems are the key to smooth mornings.

How to organize a dresser like a pro

Removing everything from your dresser before you start organizing is one of the best bedroom organization tips we can offer. Not only does this give you a clear idea of what you have, but also of the space you’ve got to work with. 

Take the opportunity to measure your drawers so you have dimensions to hand for divider shopping. Since they're empty, give them a good clean.

1. Decide what you want to keep

In the same way you would when decluttering a wardrobe, gather every item of clothing you plan to store in your dresser — including those in the laundry basket. 

Work through each item one by one, and decide what you want to keep. Decluttering clothes can be an emotional process, but it’s important you’re strict with yourself. 

"Go through each item and inspect it thoroughly," says says Chicago-based home organizer Jessica Litman, founder of The Organized Mama. 

Ask yourself: does it fit? Is it in good condition? Have you worn it in the last year?

"If the answer is no to any of these, it’s probably time to say goodbye," Jessica adds. "Be really honest with yourself, there’s nothing worse than wearing clothes that don’t make you feel good anymore."

2. Group items into categories

When organizing a closet or dresser that’s home to a varied array of items, categorizing makes it so much easier to find what you’re looking for. 

A popular method is to organize clothes by garment type; shirts together, pants together and so on. Alternatives include by season, or by purpose, including: work, casual, and office for example. 

Drawer dividers such as the set of two Bamboo Expandable Drawer Dividers from Brightroom™ at Target come in handy. If you use your dresser for storing more than just clothes, consider grouping items by function: make-up, skincare, jewelry, and accessories, and using drawer baskets to keep things in order (we like the Mainstays set of five flexible storage organizers from Walmart).

If you’re incorporating your makeup or skincare stash into (or on top of) your dresser, consider investing in a lazy Susan. This mDesign Spinning Lazy Susan Makeup Turntable Storage Center available at Amazon, has five high-sided compartments so you can keep cosmetics neatly categorized. 

3. Plan where to put things

When organizing a dresser, think about which items you use most regularly and in what order you use them. Fill top drawers with those you use first and work your way down, with bulkier clothing such as jumpers and jeans stored at the bottom. 

Ideally, you’d assign a single category to each drawer, but if you’re limited on space, it’s fine to combine. To make it as efficient as possible, think about items that sit well alongside each other, or that you tend to use or put on at the same time. Jewelry and makeup, underwear and socks, for example. 

"Take the shape and size of your drawers into account, too," says Emily Lambe, Deputy Editor, Real Homes. "Shallow drawers lined with dividers or caddies are practical for organizing smaller items, such as skincare and accessories, while deep drawers are better suited to storing neatly stacked clothes. Use the BAMEOS expandable bamboo drawer dividers to keep items in place."

4. Store bulky clothing elsewhere

Bulky items (such as denim jeans or woolen jumpers) tend not to do well stored in a dresser. The fabrics don’t breathe well and they take up too much, plus they’re hard to get in and out. Hang them up using slim or spacesaving hangers (we recommend the Magic Pants multi-layer hangers from Amazon) or or fold them neatly on shelves as part of organizing a closet, to free up space for smaller, more drawer-friendly items, such as t-shirts, gym gear or pajamas. 

These Scentennials Store lavender scented drawer liners, available at Amazon, can help to keep clothes smelling fresh, but avoid using any type in drawers dedicated to delicates as the oils can stain. 

5. Find the right fold

Rifling through layer after layer to find what you need will soon results in neatly folded piles of exploding into mess, stopping dreams of a beautifully organized dresser in its tracks.

“If you only do one thing to organize your dresser, file fold”, say Ashley Murphy and Marissa Hagmeyer, co-founders of NEAT method. “File folding is the practice of folding your clothing to the height of your dresser drawer, then arranging them in upright rows. This not only saves you space, but allows you to see everything you have at a glance”. 

6. Arrange clothing by color

For an organizational approach as pretty as it is practical, Ashley and Marissa advise arranging your file folded clothes by color. 

“This makes it even easier to locate specific pieces. Not only that, but it elevates the overall aesthetic of the dresser contents and identifies where you may own unnecessary excess”, they say. 

This technique is well worth bearing in mind when organizing a walk-in closet, or if you use open bedroom storage ideas, such as a clothing rack. It makes for a much more coordinated feel, particularly if you color-match your hangers. 

The Lomani colored steel non-slip clothes hangers from Amazon come in a variety of pretty pastel shades and are durable, making them worth the small outlay.

7. Divide things up

They may start off neat and tidy, but clothes can quickly become jumbled when organizing a dresser. Using dividers (such as the multipurpose drawer dividers from Wayfair) to compartmentalize larger clothing categories helps keep things in order, plus you can arrange items with efficiency in mind — lesser-used items towards the back of the drawer, frequently used towards the front. 

“Using drawer dividers can also help with creating space limits”, says professional organizer Michelle Urban, founder of The Organized House. “A space limit is when you dedicate a specific area for your things, and once that area fills up, it's time to purge and eliminate. It’s a great technique for avoiding clutter and helps to maximize space in a small bedroom."

Expandable versions with rounded edges, like the OXO good grips drawer dividers from Bed Bath and Beyond are best when organizing clothes, particularly those prone to snagging. 

8. Employ the best organizers

As well as dividers, there’s a vast array of item-specific bedroom organizers out there that can help to keep dresser drawers neat, tidy and well-ordered, so think about what you’re storing and invest in the best ones for your purposes and needs. 

Sectioned organizers such as the Poeland honeycomb divider, available on Amazon, are great for containing smaller garments or socks and undies, as well as smaller accessories such as ties and belts. 

For deeper drawers, consider investing in versatile stackable storage such as the CHANCETSUI Stackable drawer organizer set, also from Amazon. It comes with 11 storage bins of different shapes and sizes. 

9. Use boxes and bins to corral smaller items

Corralling smaller, more light-weight garments into containers is a clever clothes storage idea, particularly in lower-down dresser drawers, as you can pull whole categories out and have a proper look without having to crouch down. 

Clear boxes and bins (such as this set of clear acrylic drawer organizers from The Container Store) are ideal as you can see what’s where (and they’re easy to clean, handy if you’re using them to store makeup), but if you’d prefer to use fabric, woven or lidded versions that’s fine too – just be sure to label them clearly. 

Always measure your drawer carefully beforehand; these Brightroom drawer organizers from Target come in a variety of shapes sizes so you can create a bespoke storage system to fit your space.

10. Clear clutter off the top

It’s hard to relax in a cluttered space, so you’ll need to keep surfaces clear if you want to create a calm feel in your bedroom — including your dresser top. That doesn’t mean you can’t utilize the space, though. The trick is to store in style.  

“The top of a dresser is an ideal spot for jewelry storage ideas or stashing makeup. Consider a stylish box or a pretty trinket tray to keep go-to pieces at the ready”, says professional organizer Britnee Tanner. Our pro guide on how to organize jewelry delves in further.

To avoid clutter building up, reserve on-show surface space for items you use everyday and stow lesser-used pieces out of sight. If you’re storing multiple items, clear, stackable containers make it easy to find what you need quickly. We like this simple four-drawer stackable set from Walmart. 

FAQs

The benefits of organizing a dresser so it’s well-ordered go beyond enjoying the aesthetic of a neat and tidy space. It also enables you to pick the perfect outfit quickly and easily, making for a relaxed and enjoyable start to the day, rather than a stressful one. Now you're in the zone up, our pros have revealed the five things organizing experts never do in small bedrooms. 

Hidden wall storage ideas are on our wish-list for sure. If you've ever imagined having your own Hollywood-style secret storage spot hidden in plain sight, these savvy ideas are for you, especially if you've recently bought your first home and looking for great ways to maximise your storage space. 

We've spoken with designers who have all executed brilliant hidden wall storage ideas in clients homes to find out how you can do this in your space. From sliding panels to clever door mechanisms, there are so many ways to enjoy these clever storage spots.

When finding small space interior design ideas which won't make your place look untidy but will expand how much you have, thinking outside the box — and inside the wall — is a smart move.

Hidden wall storage ideas from the pros

If you're searching for small space storage ideas, rolling up your sleeves and going for creative wall solutions is a good choice, especially for those living in smaller homes where floor space is at a premium and usually in short supply.

Where our designers have suggested particular types of products, our expert shoppers have sniffed out matching picks where possible to help shop the guide.

1. Look under the stairs

You don’t have to live under the stairs like Harry Potter, but you can certainly make use of the copious space it can provide.

“Making the most of storage opportunities underneath the stairs is a detail that should never be overlooked,” explains Valerie Helgeson, lead designer and founder of Design Directions.

She suggests concealing the access to storage by disguising it with millwork, giving the space architectural detail, and keeping the space from being interrupted by an awkward door. 

“For example, we used push-to-open hinges on this hidden door to access the bar area we created underneath this new staircase,” she says.

By doing this, no unsightly door knobs or cabinet pulls were needed.

2. Tap into the attic

If going into your attic feels like heading on a trip to Narnia, make it a magical journey instead of a hazardous one by creating a concealed door to it in a room with close proximity and access.

“Create a hidden access door to unused attic space is ideal for storing boxes, sporting equipment, or infrequently used bulky items,” suggests Ayten Nadeau, principal designer and founder of i-Ten Designs.

This also applies if your attic eaves begin around the edges of a bedroom and currently are dead space waiting to be utilized.

Ayten did this in the dressing area above. “Concealed behind a freestanding mirror, the attic access seamlessly integrates into the overall design of the closet,” she explains.

If you’re renting and already have a hidden wall door, you can go one step into making it a secret space by placing one of a brilliant full-length mirror (such as the fun Orren Ellis Lighted Full Length Mirror from Wayfair) in front of it.

3. Go swish with sliding doors

We do love modern small bedroom ideas, and one of the best ways to add contemporary storage is by choosing wall panels that slide.

“Sliding panels are one of my favorite stylish solutions for hiding storage areas,” says Artem Kropovinsky, interior designer and founder of Arsight.

He adds, “When closed, they can integrate with the wall, providing a sleek, minimalist style.”

You can DIY these in your own space by measuring up your walls, cutting panels to size, and installing track panels at the bottom (this Outwater Sliding Door Track Set is Amazon’s Choice).

4. Try techy, motorized panels

Have you ever imagined having your own spy-style storage zone? We can’t promise this will open up to a secret lab, but we can say it will look and feel cool to use.

“When it comes to a more high-tech solutions, motorized panels that uncover or cover storage areas with the press of a button introduce a technological aspect into the room,” explains Artem.

Consider the Graywind Motorized Sliding Panels on Amazon, which come in 18 different colors and have a remote control for smooth operation.

5. Push open the wall

If you still have physical DVDs and games in your living area (it’s always fun picking a movie from an in-hand collection), keep them neatly stashed away with a smart push-close door.

“We added much-needed storage space in this media room behind the sofa with concealed jig hinge and push-close doors,” says Gaia Guidi Filippi, principal designer and owner of Gaia G Interiors.

She continues, “From here, we hid the seams by covering the whole wall in this gorgeous burl wood wallpaper to make everything look intentional.”

This is an idea you could easily do yourself, with the help of a jig hinge such as this Milescraft Euro Hinge Jig on Amazon which is Amazon’s overall pick.

6. Hide behind wall art

You may have already brought gallery wall ideas and budget-friendly wall decor prints into your space — but you can take these a step further by making them multifunctional, as well as fab.

Artem explains, “Hidden cabinets behind paintings or mirrors provide a two-in-one solution. They contribute to the aesthetic quality and offer a discreet storage space for things you would like to hide.”

To do this, simply find a plain cabinet with a flat surface (or remove the handles) and superglue on a wall art print the same size. How easy, right? A few of these would work well as small bedroom storage ideas, too.

7. Utilize wall framing

Adding wall framing to your blank spaces can make a small space look luxe and can be utilized for your hidden wall storage needs, too.

Valerie explains, “Using the space between wall framing for hidden storage is a trick we frequently employ. In a traditional 2 x 4 framed interior wall there is typically a void of 3.5 inches, but a lot can be stored in a cabinet 3" deep, such as cosmetics, toiletries, medications, and jewelry.”

Valerie also suggests adding a hinged mirrored door to the front of the cabinet, which can act as a full-length mirror and double the function.

For those with a little extra budget, you could always get hidden wall storage ideas built-to-order for your place to ensure they truly fit perfectly.

Artem finishes by saying, “Such products can be made to suit the decor of the room and, therefore, the storage will be almost unnoticed.”

If using walls is your new favorite design trick, you may also be into these small bathroom wall storage ideas.

Great tips on decluttering are more vital in a small space than any other as mess can build quickly here. The flipside (a good one) is compact spaces are easier to declutter than large ones as you simply have less stuff to get through. 

We've spoken to organizing, decluttering, and style experts for house-wide tips on decluttering, ranging from which storage is worth investing in, how to create 'families' of items, and even when to tackle decluttering sentimental items.

This guide will help you learn how declutter your home, with 30 awesome tips that are not only smart, but easy to implement across multiple rooms and storage spaces across your home, too.

30 tips on decluttering from the experts

Our experts demystify decluttering with  easy-to-follow tips and small space organization ideas. When space is at a premium, you want to be sure that every inch of your home has a clear purpose, and that every item deserves to be there and with this guide, you're sure to nail it.

We've also curated carefully selected products to shop to help you implement the expert advice, and only include products with at least 4.5 stars out of 5, as indicated by shoppers who've bought the items from the retailers included.

1. Good mindset

This tip applies whether you're decluttering a small apartment or a much bigger space. To maximize your chances of decluttering success, take a moment to get in the right mindset. 

Marcia Sloman of Under Control Organizing explains that getting into the right headspace for decluttering will help you avoid overwhelm. 

"If music inspires you, turn on something upbeat but not distracting," she says. "Whatever room you’re ready to declutter, visualize your intended result and work toward achieving that result."

2. Set goals

Before you start decluttering, it's a good idea to set some goals. "Clarify what you want your home to represent for you and your family," says professional organizer of Thee Tailored Life, Ashley Hines. "Whether it's about leading a healthier lifestyle, saving time, or reducing expenses, having a solid and personal 'why' empowers and helps you stay focused."

If you don't live alone, involving the people who live with you in your decluttering mission may help you set and achieve realistic goals, and with keeping your newly decluttered space from quickly descending into its prior state. 

Having more eyes on the goal will also help you pick up the warning signs it's time to declutter your home before it gets overwhelming.

"Involving other household members is essential for accountability, receiving support, and fostering a shared vision," says Ashley.

3. Set a timer

To avoid getting bogged down by the task ahead of you, break down the task into manageable chunks and start with one room, focusing on how to declutter a small living room first, for example.

"Select a space to declutter and set a timer for 20 minutes," advises Marcia. "How much did you declutter in 20 minutes? Can you go longer? Remember to set aside 'put-away-time' after all of your items are sorted out and ready to be placed in their new homes."

4. Have the end in mind

Before you start throwing things away, it's a good idea to have a plan for where items you no longer need will go, Ashley advises. You may decide to donate unwanted items for example, or resell luxury goods. 

Use strong trash bags to keep your items separate, or put some good storage baskets into play such as this Best Choice Products multipurpose seagrass set of four organizers from Target.

"Knowing that your belongings will benefit others or support your family values can make it easier to part with them," explains Ashley.

5. Start small

"Even with a small space, tackle one area at a time, and start with an easier area," advises Janet Bernstein, professional organizer and owner of The Organizing Professionals. 

Janet recommends starting by decluttering kitchen drawers or organizing a bathroom cabinet. "This will give you a feeling of accomplishment and encourage you to continue," she says. 

Founder of Making Space Organization, Katie Riedel, agrees. "Creating small victories with areas that are less intimidating builds the foundation and the momentum to tackle more difficult places," she says. Starting with a larger room first often ends "in frustration and failure", she adds.

6. Take everything out

One way to ensure you don't miss anything while decluttering your home, is to take everything out of its normal space. So if you're decluttering the bathroom, for example, take everything out of there and put it on the floor or bed in another room (use black bags such as Hefty ultra-strong multipurpose large trash bags from Amazon underneath your items to catch any spills).

"Whether you're doing your desk drawer, your closet, or organizing a nightstand, take everything out," says Rachel Winter, of Happy Home Organizers.

Once you've got everything out, "look at it with fresh eyes, and give it one purpose, whether that's housing holiday dishes, off-season clothing, or school paperwork," says Katie. "This avoids it becoming a catch-all and helps make long-term maintenance easier."

7. Clean it too

With everything out of its usual place, this is a great chance to clean, and reach those areas that are usually covered in clutter. 

"Clean out the small space by wiping everything down (try the Clorox Scentiva bleach-free multipurpose cleaning spray from Walmart) and vacuuming and dusting," advises Shantae Duckworth, owner of Shantae-ize Your Space.

Once your lint-free microfiber cloth is ready for the laundry bin, make sure you know how to wash microfiber towels without ruining them.

8. Start with low-hanging fruit

To avoid overwhelm and get started on your decluttering missions, Katie suggests starting with "low hanging fruit, such as decluttering trash, duplicates, or anything that hasn’t been used in the last year."

Start with the easy stuff: trash. Have a garbage bag on hand to toss anything you know you can't donate. Have a basket (this plastic Mainstays large decorate basket from Walmart will work well) or trash bag ready for items to give away, donate or sell.

"Look for things that are broken things or old things that are ratty," adds Rachel Winter, professional organizer. "Start with just a pile of paper, and just start shredding. You've got to trim the fat. By doing that, all of a sudden, the room starts to feel lighter."

9. Clear visible surfaces

Tricia Guild, founder of luxury furnishing group, Designers Guild recommends decluttering visible surfaces and focal points of a small living room (such as that fab mid-century modern coffee table) as a good starting point. 

But make sure you don't go too far, or you could sacrifice the cozy feel of your space. "It’s important not to tidy away the home accessories that bring comfort and warmth into our homes," Tricia says. "Keep things simple, but cozy."  

10. Categorize in groups

Before you start deciding what to keep, donate or sell, several of our experts recommend dividing your items into categories. "If you try to make decisions each time you discover an object, you'll be forced to make the same decision, over and over again," explainers founder of Let Your Space Bloom, Amy Bloomer.  

She gives an example. "Let's say you are cleaning out a closet and discover 25 belts. Rather than make a decision about each belt you find when you find it, it's most efficient to wait until all of the belts have been discovered and distributed into a pile. This strategy has saved a lot of time and decision making brain power for my clients."

Once you have a group of the same items together, it becomes easy to make decisions about whether each has a purpose, where they can be repurposed, donated or sold. 

Shantae is also a fan of this strategy, and gives another example. She says, "If you were decluttering a small bedroom, you might start with your drawers, move onto your shoes and then your sweaters." 

By breaking it down into smaller categories, you stay focused on the task and avoid becoming overwhelmed.

11. Discard expired items

One easy way to make headway in the bathroom or declutter kitchen cabinets is to get rid of items past their expiry date. 

"In the kitchen, prioritize clearing out expired and neglected food items, including spices", advises Ashley. "Money is often wasted on food tucked away in cabinets, pantries, and refrigerators. Additionally, expired foods can lead to unpleasant odors and unwanted pests."

12. Keep essentials

In a small space, you need to be ruthless when deciding what to keep. 

"Remember that you are paying for every square inch of your home, so it's important to not only know how to maximize space in small living rooms and other rooms you have, but to only keep what you truly need," advises Jamie Hord, founder of Horderly.

Anything broken beyond repair or you know doesn’t fit your lifestyle should be let go.

13. Ask hard questions

If you're struggling to make decisions, you may need to ask yourself some hard questions. "It's easy to say yes to keeping everything, but do you really use it?" asks Jamie. "Do you have better? When is the last time you've used it? Is it overused or damaged?"

If you're still not sure, avoid decluttering mistakes and think about the items you really want to keep. "Consider the emotional connection you have to certain items around your home and hold onto those that make you feel good and contribute to calmness," says Tricia.

Janet has a simple rule that may help you make decisions. "If you don't love it, need it, or use it, then let it go. Repeat this to yourself frequently if you have a difficult time parting with possessions," she says.

How much joy an item brings is the perfect parameter for bringing in new items too, and the foundation for dopamine decor.

14. Tackle keepsakes last

When you're categorizing your items, there's one you should keep till last. "If you encounter keepsakes early in the process, then save those for last," says Amy. "This category of items often evokes lots of emotions and isn't worth doing until all of the other categories have been reviewed."

By then, you'll have a better idea of how much space you have and you can decide to  keep, donate or find suitable storage solutions, whether it's blanket storage ideas or Amazon closet organizers and then stash your precious items somewhere safe.

15. Find a home for everything

According to Rachel, the key to staying organized is finding a home for every item and remember similar items could live together. 

"Your pens live with your pens, pencils go with pencils," says Rachel. "Can a scotch tape live in the same drawer as the scissors? Yes. Can the staples live with rubber bands? Sure. But you don't want to put your scissors in with the paper, or you'll never find them," she says.

Make sure that the homes you're assigning are sensible, though. "The floor or the kitchen counter don't count as a home. And just because a hairbrush is sitting on a dining room table for two weeks, that doesn't mean that's where its home should be – that's just clutter," she says.

16. Identify prime areas

There are certain areas of your home that should be considered "prime real estate," advises Katie. These are areas that you access frequently. 

For example, in the kitchen, the prime real estate might be easy access shelves, cupboards and drawers, where you'll need smart kitchen storage ideas. "They should contain your most frequently used items. Seldom used items can live in a nearby closet or less accessible high cupboard," Katie explains.

Our pro organizers have also delved into how to organize deep pantry shelves and how to organize a small pantry.

17. Determine spatial zip codes

Amy think it's useful to think in terms of 'spatial zip codes' for your items – grouping them in clusters and giving them their own zone. First, you need to determine how many members of each family of categories need a spatial zip code, then decide what that family of things is used for and where it makes sense for them to live.

She gives an example: "in a kitchen, all of the things needed to make and enjoy a cup of coffee should live in the same zip code. It’s simple logic but it’s revolutionary when it’s orchestrated in an intentional and thoughtful manner."

18. Get rid of kitchen gadgets

"Consider parting with small appliances and even the best kitchen gadgets if you no longer or never use, even if you once had good intentions when buying them," suggests Ashley. "Whether it's an air fryer, pressure cooker, or fancy chopper, it's perfectly fine to declutter your kitchen of items that are not practical."

Whilst smaller brilliant kitchen gadgets can also be useful tools, they're if they're ones you can live without and rarely see the light of day, considering getting rid of them by way of donating, resale or gifting.

"Only keep what you absolutely need and use and consider if you need the fancy gadgets or if your space is more valuable," says Jamie.

19. Make everything visible

One of the biggest problems of a cluttered home is that you can't find anything, so making sure that your possessions are all clearly visible can go a long way to making it more liveable. 

"I have a no digging policy," says Rachel. "With every drawer you pull open, you should be able to see everything clearly. Everything should be easily visible and accessible so you can get to it easily without digging around."

The best shelf dividers and drawer organizers provide savvy solutions to help you get on top of this.

20. Get drawer dividers

One of Rachel's top tips is to use drawer dividers such as Homemade Living bamboo dividers from Amazon. "If you don't have dividers or drawer organizers, things are just mish-mash, just slipping and sliding and a total mess," she says.

These can be bought fairly inexpensively but can make a big difference, and will also help you ensure your items are visible and accessible. 

21. Put a limit

It's not just gadgets in the kitchen that need to be curtailed. Mugs and water bottles are another category that tend to accumulate quickly. 

"These items are frequently given as gifts, adorned with inspirational quotes and mantras," says Ashley. "Establish a limit for these and declutter kitchen cabinets holding those you no longer use, maintaining a clutter-free kitchen space."

Keeping just one water bottle per family or household member will help keep clutter at bay.

22. Edit display items

When decluttering a living room, you should also think about items you want on display. "Living rooms often contain collections, such as inherited pieces or knick knacks," says Katie. "Choose a few special pieces to display, and store, donate or sell the rest."

With this approach, you’ll be more likely to notice and appreciate a few key items on a shelf, without the visual distraction of additional clutter, she adds.

23. Get clever storage

If you don't have the right storage solutions for a small home, then no amount of decluttering is going to tidy up your space. 

"Containers are great to use in small spaces, as they give you a parameter for how much space you are willing and able to allocate to a category of items," explains Katie. 

Rachel swears by clear shoebox containers (such as the Rebrilliant stackable clear shoe boxes from Wayfair. She says, "I use them inside dresser drawers as they they act as drawer dividers. I use them under kitchen sinks, under bathroom sinks in laundry rooms and garages. They just bring instant order."

In the bedroom, under-bed storage bags (Amazon basics fabric storage bags are rated highly by shoppers) can help keep things neat. "Consider multi-use furniture, such as an ottoman with storage to reduce visual clutter and help keep your space organized," says Ashley.

Marissa Hagmeyer of NEAT Method also has some tips. "Enclosed free standing cabinets (such as the classic storage cabinet from Pottery Barn) and bookshelves are great ways to add storage in a home that lacks closets and cabinets. If it’s time to replace a furniture piece, look for options with hidden storage."

24. Use vertical space

Utilizing vertical space is another great way to get more from a small home. Janet recommends adding shelves, risers (such as Reds wood shelf risers from West Elm or shelf baskets, while Marissa suggests adding hooks, stacking bins, floor baskets and more to maximize every last inch of storage space, specifically within closets.

The hallway is another space that can benefit from vertical storage. Adding hooks to the walls (if you're renting, try heavy duty Command classic metal look wall hooks) is one way to do this and we have plenty more small entryway storage ideas.

25. Utilize dead cupboard space

In a small kitchen where space is often at a premium, there are a few clever ways you can get more the space, particularly by using dead space at the top of cupboards. "I love the can risers, those mini bleachers (such as the Better Homes and Gardens expandandable racks from Walmart) or shelves for cans. They're a great product," says Rachel.

Rachel also recommends getting a lazy Susan or turntable, and says these are particularly useful when organizing a spice cupboard. 

26. Label everything

If you don't already have a label maker, now might be the time to invest (try the highly-rated and budget-friendly Phomemo Bluetooth rechargable label maker from Amazon).

"Labeling maintains the organized system," says Rachel. It helps you remember where each item should live, and helps you find things easier. You don't have to label everything. 

Most people will know where their cutlery should live without needing a label, for example, but labels can be particularly great for tasks like organizing a small pantry or an office.

27. File fold items

When you're putting items back after a thorough declutter, be mindful about how you are storing them. Marissa suggests file folding clothing and linens. 

"Save space in your drawers by folding clothing, then placing them in upright rows with the fold facing up. This not only saves space in your drawer, but allows you to see everything in one glance."

Slim hangers (such as these non-slip slim hangers from The Container Store) in closets is another way to save space. "Store more clothing per closet rod by replacing bulky tubular and wooden hangers with slim options that save space," says Marissa.

28. Accessorize smartly

To elevate your space and give it a fresh start, Tricia recommends keeping hold of key accessories. "When decluttering, we need to think about keeping statement pieces that add to our space instead of causing a sense of stress."

She notes that pieces like patterned cushions (such as these Shibori emerald cottons cushions from Designers Guild) can introduce an exciting energy that doesn’t dominate a small space. 

"Try to incorporate patterns that soothe and energise the room at the same time. A great way to add scale to living rooms is by using smaller, subtle elements like accessories, and cushions are a go-to for comfort and dynamic design," she says. 

29. Use the one in one out rule

To maximise your chances of keeping your home clutter-free, Rachel suggests adopting a 'one in, one out' policy, where when you buy or receive one item, you give something else away. 

"Things have to leave," she says. "Things have to be donated or go to the trash. Because if not people wind up with clutter, there's too much stuff. A lot of times I'll talk to my clients about their home has to lose weight." 

Adopting a regular 'one in, one out' policy helps stop the home from becoming too cluttered.

30. Keep at it

"Decluttering is not a one time event, but a continual practice and habit," says Katie. "Make a game out of it, challenging yourself to declutter five items per day for a month. Then, dig even deeper and try to find 10 things. You’ll be surprised how achievable (and fun) this can be."

Ashley also suggests getting into a decluttering routine for any room that fits your lifestyle, whether it's daily, weekly or monthly. "For example, you can establish a weekly pantry reset where you replenish food, discard expired items, and tidy up containers to keep the space organized," she notes.

Once you've blitzed your decluttering list, learn about the living room decluttering mistakes experts never make. 

Smart blanket storage ideas ensure they’re easily available when the temperature drops, but won't clutter up your space the rest of the time. Even smaller blankets can take up plenty of room when they’re not in use and crowd out other useful items.

Professional organizers are used to the challenge of storing voluminous blankets and experts in advising on the ways to tidy these away in rentals, apartments, and small first homes. Here, they share 13 great blanket storage ideas with Real Homes.

If you're in search of small space storage ideas, we’ve got plenty to share including utilizing racks, vacuum storage bags and pretty baskets, making these blanket storage ideas neat but functional.

13 blanket storage ideas from the pros

Whether you want to grab a blanket in the living room, or pop them among your bedroom storage ideas, here are our experts' tips for blanket storage ideas that will eliminate cozy-item clutter. if you have too many blankets, first edit down your collection.

To help you make the most of their advice, our expert in-house shoppers have also gathered budget-friendly and high-quality products to consider.

1. Invest in a blanket rack

Make yours a decorative feature as part of handy living room storage ideas or in a bedroom. 

“Blankets themselves can add texture and color to a space,” says interior designer Chantelle Hartman Malarkey. “Storing blankets in a way where guests can see them is my favorite.

Chantelle says a blanket rack is her top way to store blankets and we like the Frenchi Home blanket rack from Amazon, which is freestanding and can be positioned wherever is convenient in a room for maximum flexibility. 

She adds, "They make the room feel inviting, warm, and cozy and create easy access for guests. Showing off blankets on a rack is such a great addition to a room visually, as well, helping create a theme and style — it's practical and aesthetic."

2. Opt for a ladder

If propping a blanket storage solution against the wall is convenient, a ladder is a great alternative to a rack, and perfect for a small modern living room as it occupies less floor area.

“Storage ladders are real space savers: they use the vertical space and blankets become part of a decoration while using nearly no floor area,” says interior designer Artem Kropovinsky. “They also give blankets a chance to breathe, avoiding the smell of damp."

3. Bring in a basket

Add a natural touch to a bedroom or a touch of texture to a neutral small living room with a basket for blanket storage. 

“Baskets give some style and are perfect for air circulation therefore the blankets do not go stale,” says Artem. “They are versatile, portable and they can add to your room decor.”

Opt for an open design with one of our best storage baskets, or a deep version (such as the rollable mobile wicker storage basket with lid from Wayfair) which can accommodate several blankets, and be moved easily to where items are needed.

4. Use under-bed space

When you’re organizing under the bed, consider making space for blankets there, using a purpose-made container that’s easy to slide or on wheels so it’s easy to move in and out to tidy away or access a blanket. 

“Under-bed storage containers (such as this Rebrilliant metal under-bed storage set of two from Wayfair) are space-saving, ideal for storing additional or seasonal blankets,” says Artem.

5. Depend on an ottoman

Storage ottomans provide generous space for blankets and a whole lot more inside, while adding color, pattern if you want it, texture, softness, and utility to a room.

“Storage ottomans work as a two-in-one solution keeping the blankets handy and also offering extra seating,” says Artem. “They protect blankets from dust and are ideal for living rooms or bedrooms.”

We like the Winston Porter Foronda upholstered storage ottoman from Wayfair, which comes in eight classic colors to complement your chosen palette for the room.

6. Display blankets on hooks

Gorgeous hook designs for entryways (as seen here) needn’t just be a solution for coats and bags. They’re perfect as wall storage for blankets, too. 

“Aesthetically pleasing hooks are space-saving alternatives converting blanket storage into a visual component of the room,” says Artem.

7. Store where it’s needed

As we’ve noted already, blankets can add an accent of color, introduce pattern, and provide contrasting and appealing texture to a room, and that’s why storing one on the bed can be a great way to refresh a small bedroom or add to your modern guest bedroom ideas. 

Fold the blanket into thirds lengthwise then lay it across the foot of the bed so it drapes evenly at either side. Be sure to use a blanket that repeats colors from elsewhere in the room for a pulled-together look. 

We're fans of soft throws such as the Sophie floral faux throw from Anthropologie which are comfy and gorgeous.

8. Protect it with a vacuum bag

For long term blanket storage, opt for good protection. If they’re sizeable — or you’re looking for smart small bedroom storage ideas — storage that compresses voluminous blankets are particularly handy. 

“Vacuum storage bags (such as the variety pack flat vacuum bag set from The Container Store) are ideal for storing bulky blankets,” says cleaning and organizing expert Karina Toner. 

“They compress the blankets, making them easier to store in closets or under beds, helping save space and keeps blankets protected from dust and moisture.”

9. Create a blanket station

If you like the idea of being ready to make everyone cozy for movie night, and you want to maximize space in a small living room, consider making a blanket station for stashing them. 

“Create a designated spot in your home for blanket storage,” says Karina. “Whether it’s a corner of the living room or a decorative brilliant storage basket, having a designated spot encourages everyone to neatly fold and return blankets after use, keeping them organized and easily accessible.”

10. Opt for linen closet storage

Find space for blankets when you’re organizing a linen closet and you can keep them in great shape over the summer when the heaviest versions aren’t required. 

Put blankets away clean (and make sure you wash a wool blanket with care to avoid shrinkage). 

Spread each out on a flat clean surface and fold in half lengthwise, then fold in half the opposite way. Fold again as necessary. The aim is to create a square-ish shape compact enough to stack on a shelf. You might need to use ties around bulky blankets to keep them in a compact package, or shelf dividers such as these gray fabric ones from Brightroom at Target.

Stack blankets in the closet and add a dryer sheet (we love the fragrance of these Mega dryer sheets in lavender and vanilla bean from Calm on Amazon) to the space to keep the atmosphere fresh.

11. Think ease of access

If your small home doesn’t have a linen closet, then pro organizer Amélie Saint-Jacques of Amelie Organizes is a fan of keeping blankets where they’re needed.

“If there is no linen closet, I like storing off-season blankets in the room where they are used,” she says. “In a living room, you might use a shelf behind a closed door of the entertainment center, a storage ottoman, or a decorative basket. In a bedroom, you could store the blanket on a closet shelf or in a bin under the bed.” 

The best storage furniture for small homes and apartments can help you add space to stash items to any room.

12. Let a trunk double up

Get yourself a trunk or another style of storage chest and it will double duty. First, it’s the ideal place to tidy away blankets when they’re not in use. Secondly, it’s a clever coffee table alternative in the living room. And it is the light items like blankets that you want to put in one of these as lifting them out won’t be hard work on your back.

Of course, a trunk (the Ludlow rectangular trunk end table at Pottery Barn is a bestseller) can also be a hard worker in the bedroom, where a small version is a nightstand alternative as well as location for blankets when they’re not in use.

13. Make a blanket seating decor

Make like a stylist and upgrade a small living room by dressing up seating with the blanket rather than putting it away. 

Folding a blanket for a chair or sofa is like folding it for the bed: start off with thirds lengthwise. But for seating, you’ll now need to fold in half across the width so it’s rectangular in shape. Then arrange over the end of the sofa or your best armchair.

And if you like the idea of a more relaxed look, fold the blanket in half, hold by the middle and drape over the edge of the seat, arranging the sides until it’s super inviting.

FAQs

Blankets are an essential for getting cozy and for style, but you might want to add a weighted blanket to your selection, too. Users swear by them to reduce stress, enhance sleep quality, and create comfort. They’re not hard to care for either, and you can wash a weighted blanket in a washing machine or by hand.

If your bedside table is a jumbled mess of items, learning how to organize a nightstand can help you feel calmer before sleep and improve the aesthetic of your sleep space.

We've spoken to professional organizers to find out how you can ditch the mess that's accumulated in this small area and create a sleek nightstand where everything has a home.

This six-step guide will tell you which bedroom organization tips you need to sort your nightstand, how to approach the task, and the items you should be storing in this nifty little space.

How to organize a nightstand like a professional

Our experts are professional organizers, helping hundreds of clients achieve the peaceful bedrooms they yearn for with clever bedroom organizers, storage solutions and advice on how to organize a nightstand from the years they've spent doing it.

Alongside our pros' easy-to-follow guide, our expert in-house shoppers have curated useful buys.

1. Define purpose

Before you start learning how to organize a nightstand, consider what you want the purpose of your nightstand to be. Is it solely for items you might want while you're in bed, is it acting as an overflow closet, or simply a small bedroom nightstand you style for aesthetics?

"Determine ahead of time how you want the nightstand to feel — minimal, beautiful or functional — and what types of items you want it to contain. These could be things you use at bedtime such as a book or a lip balm," says Katie Riedel, owner of Making Space Organization. "I typically limit nightstand items to chargers, magazines, a book, a notepad, and pen."

Your nightstand could contain go-to items for your bedtime routine, or you could use it as an extension of your dresser or closet.

Ashley Murphy, co-founder of NEAT Method, says, “For the most functional use of space, we don’t recommend using your nightstand to store items unrelated to the bedroom." 

Amy Bloomer, founder of Let Your Space Bloom, stresses that there are no right or wrong answers here. 

"You want to create a central repository for items you may use as part of your bedtime routine," she says. "For some, that could mean many items and for others, it's a clear surface. The right answer is what works best for you."

2. Take everything out

The next step is to remove all the items from your nightstand. You may be tempted to skip this step, but Katie stresses its importance, aligning with what we know about the things organizing experts never do in small bedrooms. 

She says, ”Starting with a clean slate always prompts the inevitable 'a-ha' moments like finding a lost item, realizing how many duplicates you have, or just seeing the empty space with a fresh perspective.”

Ashley agrees: "Start by pulling everything out of your nightstand until it is completely empty. This will allow you to visualize everything and begin categorizing in order to identify any excess."

You might like to keep a handy basket (this set of five WeThinkStorage rattan baskets from Target will work well) or small strong Hommaly trash bags from Amazon nearby to help you organize your bedroom.

3. Start on the surface

There are a few ways you can proceed once everything is out of your nightstand. Amy suggests starting with the items that live on the surface of your nightstand as these are likely to be your nightstand essentials. 

"Then if there are shelves or drawers, review those next in sequential order," she advises — especially important when learning how to organize a small bedroom and its various elements.

4. Purge and sort

With everything out of your nightstand, it's time for the purging and sorting stage. Sort your items by putting them into categories. Books go together as do hand creams for example, and then decide which items you no longer need.

Be realistic at this stage. "You don't need eight hand lotions in your nightstand," says Rachel Winter, founder of Happy Home Organizers. "And, how many pair of readers do you really need?"

Rachel adds that deciding on the items you want to keep in your bedside storage, be it in your favorite Urban Outfitters nightstand or a nifty nightstand alternative, will be down to personal taste. 

"In my nightstand drawer, I like pen and paper — those are my go-tos — but it's personal taste," she says. "Everybody's different. There's no right or wrong in terms of what you're going to keep inside of your nightstand. This stage is all about what you need and what you use."

Aim for being able to find what you want easily and quickly when you need it.

5. Consider storage

Before you add items back into your nightstand, consider whether the space could be utilized better. "Add elevated brilliant drawer organizers and dividers to provide boundaries within drawers and prevent items from shifting," suggests Ashley.

Drawer organizers, such as these Royal Craft Wood extendable dividers from Wayfair can be helpful to subdivide the space so each item has a distinct home. 

Katie says, baskets and boxes can also help keep things tidy. "Conceal visual clutter on open shelves using decorative opaque baskets or stacking boxes," says Ashley. 

Other small bedroom storage ideas you might want to consider are trays for the top of your nightstand (we love this beautiful scalloped marble look tray from Anthropologie), or even upgrading your nightstand to one with more drawers or storage built in.

6. Put items back

Once you've purged and sorted your items, then thought about storage options and the best drawer dividers and organizers, you can intentionally add back in the items  in line with your initial vision and nightstand purpose. 

Our experts have a few tricks for making the space look good and work smartly. "Allow books you’re reading to double as decor underneath a small picture frame or stem vase," says Ashley.

Katie suggests having some areas that are more functional, with other areas focused on style. 

"If you have hidden storage such as a drawer, I’m focused more on function than style. But, for open shelving (we have rounded up the best renter-friendly shelving) and the top surface, simple pretty decor such as a lamp or a houseplant can really add to the atmosphere," she says.

Be careful not to add too much to the top of your nightstand, though. "Limit the number of items located on top of your nightstand and lean into a clear space in order to encourage a calming visual in your bedroom," says Ashley.

And remember that your nightstand doesn't need to look like it belongs in a catalog. The most important tip from Amy is to style your space to reflect your personality

There are some things that you may not want to add back to your nightstand. 

Shantae Duckworth, owner of Shantae-ize Your Space avoids putting her cell phone on her nightstand. She says, "Doing so will create a habit of that being the first thing you grab in the morning instead of getting up and getting your day started without your cell phone." 

The overall goal, according to Shantae, is to keep your nightstand as clean and as uncluttered as possible. "Your nightstand is connected to your bed. It should be a place of serenity and tranquility, and you want to invite that into how you present your nightstand." 

Organizing your nightstand will mean no more fumbling around in the early hours for that lipbalm or wading through lots of junk you don't need cluttering up your drawers. Now you're in the sorting mood, our shopping experts have compiled the best bedroom organizers to help you maximise your storage.

Knowing how to organize deep pantry shelves ensures you're making best use of your space, whilst helping to streamline cooking and avoid overbuying. For space-starved homeowners or renters, pantries are prime kitchen real estate and maximizing its utility is a must.

We've spoken to the professionals about how they organize deep pantry shelves, so you can understand exactly how to approach the task, optimize every square inch of space and the clever industry tips the pros use to sort out messy pantries.

If you’re on the hunt for ways to organize a kitchen so cooking for one, two, or a hungry crowd is stress-free, these 10 expert strategies for organizing deep pantry shelves will make your essentials easy to locate, track for refills and more.

How to organize deep pantry shelves

Organizing a pantry is easier if you have deep shelves (typically, pantry shelves are around 12 to 16 inches deep) and these 10 tips from professional organizers and interior designers will help you get the most from this brilliantly functional storage area.

1. Go see-through

The issue with pantry shelving ideas when the space is deep is that it’s easy to lose track of what’s in there. But choose clear containers and your view is much improved.

“Clear containers are super helpful when looking for something specific, which you almost always are when entering the pantry. They're very helpful for keeping track of exactly how much of each item is left and and when to purchase more,” says interior designer Chantelle Hartman Malarkey.

“This helps avoid overbuying and therefore overloading your pantry with a ton of bulk purchases. Clear containers (such as The Home Edit by iDesign stacking pantry bin from The Container Store)  let you see what’s inside and also help the space look clean, uncluttered and help you see way in the back.”

2. Opt for multiples

How containers fit together matters, whether you’re organizing a small pantry, or a large one with deep shelves. 

Chantelle says, “Get multiple containers and bins in the same size so you can stack them together (such as these Brightroom™ stackable lidded plastic containers from Target), or in front of each other easily to create rows for deep pantries.

“This allows you to fit more items on the shelf instead of trying to mix and match containers together that create a cluttered puzzle. Not only does it look nice, but it’s the best use of space and the way to go if you have deep shelving.”

3. Label up

A concern with investing in containers that fit deep shelves is losing track of expiry dates. “If your containers allow, add expiration dates to the outside of the container for what’s inside since you are tossing the packaging,” says Chantelle.

“There is no way you are going to remember when things expire, so save yourself this hassle and add the dates to the labels. This allows you to keep food up to date in your pantry and nothing gets lost in the back.”

Using easy-peel labels such as MESS food labels for containers from Amazon will make it a breeze to swap out and update cannister info without that goopy, sticky, glue we all hate. 

This way, decluttering a pantry won’t mean having to toss out expired foodstuffs you'd forgotten about.

4. Copy the supermarket

When organizing deep pantry shelves with items that can't be decanted, take inspiration from supermarket techniques for your kitchen storage ideas. 

“Place items back to front, with the oldest items towards the front, and the newest towards the back,” says certified professional organizer Sara Bereika. “For example, if you have canned goods, store them one in front of another with the labels facing out."

After you've been grocery shopping, put the newest items you've brought home at the back of your pantry shelves. This will make it more natural to use up the oldest items first and avoid waste. Plus, you’ll always know what you have at a glance.

5. Try a lazy Susan

Another way to avoid access issues on deep pantry shelves is to add clever pantry organizers, and a lazy Susan is a top choice.

“Lazy Susans help you get the maximum use out of the shelf depth,” says Mary Jo Contello, owner of Organized by MJ.  “You can get lazy susans (such as the non-skid Copco lazy Susan from Amazon) from 10-20 inch diameters,” she says.

Bear in mind you’ll need to get the order right on a large lazy Susan. “You will want to put the most used items on the outside and any overstock or less used items in the middle,” adds Mary Jo.

6. Divide with function in mind

Deep pantry shelves are really useful for storing bulky kitchen items, so consider adopting a strategy of dividing food items from your best small kitchen appliances and allocating dedicated space to each.

“You might consider putting appliances and less-used entertaining pieces in the pantry, and utilize cabinet space for oils, spices, and other smaller items that could get lost in the pantry,” suggests Mary Jo.

7. Focus on access

Reaching the back of deep shelves can be tricky, especially when they’re the highest or lowest in the set. If you’re maximizing space in a small kitchen, you won’t want to squander their potential for a lack of access.

“I recommend installing pull-out shelving, as this makes everything easily accessible,” says professional organizer Amélie Saint-Jacques of Amelie Organizes. 

“If that is not feasible, then consider deep bins (such as the clear iDESIGN Linus large deep drawer bin from The Container Store). “That way, you can pull out a bin onto the countertop to access the grouped pantry items and put it back when you’re done."

You can also make use of bleacher-type shelving (such as this nifty expandable Expand-A-Shelf three-tier organizer from The Container Store) in the back, so you can at least see those items furthest away, no matter how small they are.

8. Optimize middle shelves

When organizing kitchen shelves including in the pantry, make the most of the valuable middle area as these are the easiest to access, especially when the shelves are deep.

“Use the middle shelves for your most commonly used foods (breakfast items, canned goods and snacks) and put less often used items up high or low,” says Elsa Elbert, founder of Composed Living. “I use the bottom shelf for large, bulky or heavier items, and the top shelves for backstock of lighter things, like paper towels.” 

9. Create zones

Just as you would when you’re organizing a small kitchen, consider zones to maximize the usefulness of deep pantry shelves. 

“Creating zones is essential,” says Elsa. “It’s much easier to see what you have when all similar items are grouped together. Some of our favorite categories are baking, snacks, dinner, breakfast, sweets, spices, oils, and backstock.”

10. Avoid overfilling

There’s a temptation to overfill deep pantry shelves just because there’s a whole lot of storage space there. But that won’t make items easy to access, so swerve overfilling to help avoid feeling overwhelmed by small kitchen clutter. 

To curb the lure of packing out every inch of your deep shelves, add other smart storage solutions to the pantry. 

“The inside of pantry doors can also be used for storage,” says cleaning and organizing expert Karina Toner.  “Install door organizers to hold spices, small jars, or cleaning supplies. This can help free up shelf space and make items more accessible.”

Once your deep pantry shelves are well organized, it’s much easier to reduce food waste in your home. If you're in full organizational flow, use our expert fridge organization ideas next to keep the food in there fresh, too. 

Learn how to organize a walk-in closet if you have the luxury of a dedicated space for your clothes and optimize its true potential. Get it right, and you’ll wind up with an inspirational dressing area that’s as beautiful as it is practical. 

How you approach the task will depend on the size of your walk-in closet, and how messy it is. We quizzed the pros on their top tips to ensure an overwhelm-free process, savvy storage and space-boosting buys — plus a stylish finish. 

Thinking practically is one thing, but when it comes to organizing a bedroom, you’ll want to consider aesthetics too and avoid strewn shoes, haphazard handbags, and piles of crinkled clothing.

How to organize a walk-in closet like a pro

Of course, it goes without saying that you don’t need a lavish walk-in closet to leave the house looking perfectly primped. If your closet goals are still in the making, rest assured, even organizing a small closet with lots of clothes can still be done in style. 

1. Streamline your collection

When it comes to fashion, capsule collections are trending, and we can see why. Not only is it better for the environment to have less stuff, but it's also easier to keep organized.

Professional organizer Heather Aiello, founder of The Organized You, says, "Work through your clothing, shoes and accessories item-by-item, setting aside pieces you no longer want, need or wear to discard or donate."

This can be an emotional process, but it’s important you be honest with yourself. If you haven’t worn something in over a year, it might be time to let it go.

2. Group items by type

One of the easiest ways to organize a walk-in closet is to group similar items together. 

"Grouping garments to create distinct zones within your walk-in (just like you would when organizing a small bedroom) not only maximizes the utility of your closet space, but significantly reduces time spent looking for things", says professional organizer Shannon Krause, co-founder of Tidy Nest. 

Shelf separators work well for zoning. Try the Brightroom™ sheld dividers in light gray from Target, which come highly rated by shoppers.

For most, categorizing by item is a popular choice; pants, jeans, sweaters, undergarments, jewelry and so on. Another option is to categorize by activity; casual wear, occasional wear, workwear, and gym gear.

You could even take things a step further and color-coordinate within your clothing categories. It might not be the most practical, but it’s pretty pleasing on the eye, something to consider if your hanging rails are on show!

3. Group by frequency

Next, consider which  items you wear most often when deciding how to organize a walk-in closet. Positioning your everyday essentials in the most accessible spaces will not only make your life easier, but cause less rummaging, and therefore mess.

“Line a top shelf with a set of streamlined bins (such as these Graciadeco collapsible fabric closet boxes on Amazon) to stow away occasional or out-of-season items, or store them outside of the closet altogether to free up space”, suggests Amanda Wiss, design expert and founder of Urban Staging and Urban Clarity.

When packing away clothes longer-term, experts advise using breathable bags made from linen or cotton to protect them from moths, or vacuum storage bags, such as these Cozy Essentials Store 20-pack space-saver bags from Amazon, with over 55k great reviews.   

4. Give thought to how you store things

When it comes to awesome clothes storage ideas, knowing what items to fold and what to hang is more important than you might initially think. Not only does it make a difference space-wise, but also helps your clothes to remain in tip-top condition. 

"I recommend clients use drawers for things like socks, underwear, and t-shirts. Some people also like to fold their pants up and stow them away, which is fine. Use your hangers (Kalimdor space-saving hangers from Amazon will increase hanging space) to hang sweaters, dresses, suits and jackets, as well as nicer blouses and button-ups," says Amanda.

When folding, most experts recommend using the ‘file fold’ method, which involves placing items vertically, a bit like papers in a filing cabinet. It’s preferable to stacking as you can see everything at a glance, and makes access easier, too.

"Take it a step further by adding drawer dividers (we recommend the Container Store's expandable drawer dividers for customizable zoning) to offer boundaries between rows," recommends professional organizer Ashley Murphey, co-founder and CEO of Neat Method.

5. Invest in a DIY closet system

While bespoke storage is the ultimate dream when organizing a walk-in closet, it’s pricey, and not always feasible if you’re looking for budget bedroom ideas, or renter-friendly closet organization tips.

A shoppable walk-in closet-system is the next best thing, if you don’t mind a little DIY, that is. 

Experts recommend opting for a customizable kit, like this budget-friendly Rebrilliant Marivic closet system from Wayfair. Ideal for organizing small spaces, the shelves are adjustable, and there’s two rails included, so plenty of storage configurations to play around with. 

This is just one of a plethora of options out there, including wall-mounted (Home Depot's tower wall mounted six-shelf system gets four stars from shoppers) and freestanding, so be sure to consider both budget and layout, as well as your specific storage needs, before investing.

6. Maximize vertical space

The vertical space in your walk-in closet has all manner of storage potential, just waiting to be realized, but before you start buying every space-boosting closet organizer under the sun, take the time to consider your specific storage requirements.

If you’re short on shelving, a box-style hanging organizer (like this one from Walmart), creates a similar effect without having to drill into walls, while mounting dual rods will double your hanging space. 

When clothes fall short, line the floor space directly underneath with stackable storage boxes. These drop-front shoe boxes, from the Container Store have a clear front, so you can see what's inside. They’re a great shoe storage idea for small spaces. An over-the-door pocket organizer works well, too.

Wall-mounted hooks and rails are great when deciding how to organize jewelry, scarves and ties, or for something more versatile, try a customizable pegboard, like this one from Wayfair. Line it with baskets for storing smaller items like hair clips and cufflinks. 

7. Designate a place for purses

If purses are your thing (we feel you), you’re going to need to find somewhere safe to store them, both big and small. 

Stack them individually inside clear containers lined along an empty shelf, or use a dedicated purse organizer such as the Zober large handbag organizer from Amazon. Purse hooks are also handy, and can be used for other items like belts, caps, and scarves, too. 

8. Line shelving with baskets and bins

The key to a well-organized walk-in closet is ensuring everything has a home, right down to the very last sock. Baskets and bins are brilliant drop zones for anything and everything. 

Clear designs are practical as you can see what’s inside, but if they’re on show, choose stylish designs to suit your scheme. This two-pack of mDesign bedroom closet storage organizer baskets Target are super versatile, and come with a slot for labels.

9. Divide drawers

Drawer dividers are invaluable for keeping items in place. Adjustable versions are a good bet for utilizing every inch of space, but depending on what you’re storing, some designs come with specific compartments designated for socks, underwear, bras, ties, and more.

If you’re short on drawers, consider investing in a freestanding unit, such as the Amazon Basics fabric four-drawer organizer unit . The fabric drawers come in white or gray, it won’t break the bank, and you can take it with you when it’s time to move on somewhere new. 

10. Keep systems simple

Ben Soreff, professional organizer at H2H Organizing recommends shop-bought organizers for awkwardly shaped items like belts, ties and hats.

He says, "But do avoid anything too gimmicky. Focus on ease of use. If your walk-in closet organization system is too complicated, you simply won't keep up with it and everything will end up in a heap on the floor."

We've all been there... 

11. Create a stylish display

From beautiful bags to statement shoes, some pieces are just too pretty to hide away, so consider incorporating some open storage ideas to keep them on show. 

Be as creative as you like with handbags arranged in size order on shelving, beautiful necklaces hung from decorative wall hooks, a freestanding clothing rack (we like this sleek and compact Costway bamboo garment rack clothes hanging rack with shelf from Target) dedicated to your dreamiest dresses. 

Note that direct sunlight can cause colors to fade over time, so be sure to position on-show pieces away from windows if possible.

12. Choose the right hangers

Don’t underestimate the importance of your hangers — choosing the right ones could make all the difference when organizing a closet, not just in terms of looks and space, but the condition of your clothes, too. 

“Investing in uniform hangers is a quick and easy way to give your closet a facelift,” says Shannon. “We recommend a slender profile, like these non-slip velvet hangers, from The Container Store. Bulky plastic or wooden hangers take up unnecessary space while wire hangers can easily damage your clothes, plus they look messy.” 

13. Keep surfaces organized and clutter-free

If you’re lucky enough to have countertops included in your walk-in, or space to fit a vanity in a small bedroom, you’ll need to keep surfaces as clear as possible to avoid a cluttered feel. 

Shannon adds, “When organizing a vanity, store a few of your most frequently-used — and most aesthetically-pleasing — items on the top, neatly contained on a decorative tray (we love how gorgeous this marble scalloped tray from Anthropologie is). 

"This creates a sense of intention and adds a touch of elegance to the display. You can always switch them up now and then for a fresh new look."

If you haven’t got space for a vanity, you can always use a deep shelf to create a DIY dressing table.

This stylish vanity organizer from Wayfair has three separate trays so you can categorize your essential skincare, makeup, brushes, and perfumes. It also has a handle, so you can move it into the bathroom or bedroom depending on where your mirror is. 

14. Deal with dirty clothes

Losing floor space to piles of laundry is easily avoided with the simple addition of a brilliant laundry hamper. 

Position a standalone basket beneath a rail of clothes, or invest in a rolling unit with two laundry drawers, like this one from Amazon, so you can sort clothes as you go. 

15. Keep on top of closet maintenance

A quick tidy once a month along with a couple of re-organizations twice a year should keep your walk-in neat and tidy. Pre-season is a good time to revisit. Anything that’s not been worn since your last clear out, donate or get rid. 

Alternatively, Heather recommends decluttering as you go. “Keep a basket handy that you can throw unwanted items into there and then’, she says. “If you put something on and don’t like it, or it no longer fits, there’s no point hanging it back up”. 

This is a great way of keeping on top of clothing when organizing a kid’s closet — they whizz through sizes like nobody’s business — or organize a closet with lots of clothes.

If your walk-in closet dreams aren’t quite a reality just yet, know that a lot of these tips are just as effective in small bedroom closet ideas, too. It’s good to have goals, but remember, it’s not the size of your closet that matters, it’s what you do with it that counts! 

Clever comforter storage ideas are a must so these bulky items can be put away tidily when they’re not in use. Whatever size the bedroom, a comforter can take up more than its fair share of storage due to its large volume.

Professional home organizers know all about storing this room’s essentials and they've shared plenty of ingenious ideas. They’re used to coming to the rescue of homeowners and renters, and especially those who don’t enjoy generous space to put things away.

Our pros have shared 10 great bedroom storage ideas for this pesky comforters to keep your room as spacious as possible.

10 comforter storage ideas from our panel of experts

Clever small bedroom storage ideas and solutions will resolve the conundrum of where to store a comforter that's not in use, especially as we move from the chilly winter to milder spring and swap our our bedding. 

We've asked organization pros for their top tips and tricks, and provided matching items carefully selected by our expert shoppers to help you shop the guide.

1. Centralize supplies in a linen closet

Gathering like-with-like can make life at home easier and if you have a linen closet, it's is the perfect for comforter storage. 

“Ideally, if there is a linen closet we want to get all bedding in that space,” says Mary Jo Contello, owner/organizer at Organized by MJ in Houston. "A great tip is to dedicate each shelf to a room or bed size.You can add a dryer sheet to keep it smelling nice and fresh. I recommend storing comforters when they have been cleaned so they are ready to use." 

Bear in mind  you can wash a down comforter, although it does require more patience than cleaning one with a synthetic filling.

2. Use a vacuum bag

Space-saver bags aren’t just useful when you’re storing a comforter in the linen closet, though. Also known as vacuum bags, they can shrink a comforter down so it fits in all sorts of places where it wouldn’t otherwise go. 

Designs like the Variety Cube vacuum bags from The Container Store just require you to use a brilliant vacuum cleaner to take the air out and suddenly there’s a whole lot more places around your home you can use to store a comforter.

We also like the Cozy Essential Store 20-pack vacuum storage bags on Amazon, which come highly rated by more than 55,000 shoppers. Pop your comforter in, attach your vacuum nozzle to the hole, and watch it compress down into a fraction of the size like magic. You can use the surplus for out-of-season clothes storage to free up space in your closet.

3. Claim under-bed space

Failing to organize under the bed means foregoing a valuable storage opportunity for a comforter (among plenty of other items). 

“If you do not have a linen closet, the next option is to store in the room the bedding is used in,” says Mary Jo. To keep the comforter in good condition put it into in a low profile under bed storage bin or a vacuum bag, she suggests.  

4. Keep it weathertight

Sometimes you need to store items away from the living spaces of a home. In the case of a comforter, be aware of the need to protect it well if that’s the case.

“If you don’t have room in the home for storage and it goes to storage, garage, attic or basement, I would recommend storing in a weathertight bin,” says Mary Jo. “This type of bin will keep bugs out and keep the comforter nice and fresh.”

This six-pack Sterilite 64 quart latching hinged see-through plastic stacking storage container tote from Amazon in crisp green is perfect for the job.

5. Maximize closet space with dividers

If you think you don’t have any space to spare in a bedroom closet, think again. Just like drawer organizers, closet shelf dividers can make storage furniture ready to accommodate more, including, in this case, a comforter. 

They’ll partition a single shelf where items tend to topple onto one another into neat nooks. They’ll provide flexibility in future, too, although building in partitions is also an option if you’re sure about the closet layout you prefer.

“Closet shelf dividers (these cheap and cheerful acrylic clip on HONSREO shelf dividers from Amazon are perfect for the job) keep comforters neat on a shelf and easy to find, and eliminate shelf chaos,” says interior designer Artem Kropovinsky.

Bear in mind that you might need to shrink comforters down to fit the shelf along with everything else that has to go there, but that’s where vacuum bags (see above) come to the rescue.

6. Hang it up

Use hanging options for comforters as a savvy small apartment storage ideas, especially if they are lightweight. There is a reason bedding stores display their samples this way, and it's not only space-saving but visually quick to find what you need so you can use a clip hanger in your closet. Use metal clip heavy duty hangers from Homecube USA on Wayfair for the job.

Otherwise, Artem suggests, “Small space solutions include over-the-door organizers that utilize the door space to hold lighter comforters or throws in a very useful manner."

Alternatively, opt for a clothes rack (such as the Simple Houseware double metal clothes rail from Walmart) to drape it over. One of these is perfect for a guest bedroom as well as your own, making it easy for the sleeper to move the comforter to the bed. 

7. Bring in a basket

Think storage baskets if you have a little floor space available. “Wicker baskets  provide a nice aesthetic and also allows comforters to breathe, and are perfect for putting in the bedroom for easy access,” says Artem.

Try the FIYAMMY Store large lidded rattan basket on Amazon. It's gorgeous, has 13 different size configurations to choose from and sturdy to boot.

Since a bulkier comforter is likely to bulge, the best way to make it neat to go into a basket is to lay it out on a clean surface, fold in thirds along its length, the roll. Secure near either end with matching cords before putting it into the basket.

8. Keep it in an ottoman

It’s worth finding space for a storage ottoman in a bedroom if you can, since it not only adds space but is also perfect for perching on to pull on your jeans.

“If you are hoping to store the comforter in the bedroom itself, then I love a trunk (this see-through trunk from Urban Outfitters is modern and fun), storage chest or ottoman situation at the foot of the bed,” says interior designer Chantelle Hartman Malarkey. 

“This is a great storage solution that can also serve as a decor item — genius. And it makes it very easy for guests to add the comforter to the bed if they are looking for an extra layer.”

9. Opt for flexibility

Small bedroom storage ideas can feel in short supply, so being flexible about where items — including a comforter — can open the door to more solutions. But if you don’t want to end up lifting containers around, think designs with wheels, or ones that will easily slide across your bedroom floor.

You could pick a shape that fits under the bed like the Sterilite clear view underbed storage bin from Target, which can easily be wheeled elsewhere when you need to fit something else there. 

Alternatively, opt for a deeper design with a more compact base that could occupy space in the lower part of a closet in a bedroom or entryway.

10. Keep it in plain sight

A comforter may not need to be tidied away into a bag, basket, or closet. Keeping it out in the bedroom can be a great solution. 

When you’re arranging furniture in a small bedroom, think about including a chair or a bench at the end of the bed. Fold the comforter and it can be stored on either of these. What’s more, it will be right at hand if a sleeper is cold in the night.

A comforter has a role to play in ensuring you get a good night’s shut-eye and you’ll also need to know how to choose sheets for beds to sleep well. If you're open to the idea of upgrading to the best linen sheets you can afford, it will absolutely be worth the spend. 

And if you’re going to college, there are a host of tactics you can use to make a dorm bed more comfortable, too. 

Learn how to organize a vanity so your cosmetics and toiletries remain neat, tidy, and easy to find. Sounds simple enough, but with all manner of different-shaped bottles and brushes, tubs, and tubes to account for, it’s no mean feat.

Luckily, we’ve got experts on hand who've their professional organizing secrets, along with a few smart buys, to help you keep makeup mayhem to a minimum. 

If you nail how to organize a vanity properly, you'll also free up a bit of storage space — always handy when organizing a small bedroom. 

Here’s how to organize a vanity 

If you’re thinking a vanity is a luxury, reserved only for those with oodles of space, know this; it’s perfectly possible to fit a vanity in a small bedroom. The square footage it takes up is minimal in comparison to the benefits it brings. 

Extra storage and surface space, not to mention the joy of getting ready without roommates or family members banging on the bathroom door… it’s a no brainer, really. 

Having said that, you will need to keep it well-organized if you want it to remain an asset to your small bedroom, rather than an eyesore. 

1. Get everything out in the open

When organizing bathroom drawers, or of any kind, it’s always a good idea to get everything inside, out. This will give you a clear idea of what space you have to work with and what items you want to keep, and fit back in.

Take the opportunity to give shelves and drawers a wipe down (if you’re on a roll, consider deep-cleaning your small bedroom at the same time) and measure up in readiness for any small bedroom storage ideas you might enlist. 

If you’re after a fresh feel, consider using drawer liners such as these lavender scented drawer lines from Scentennials Store, available on Amazon, will add a nice whiff and look pretty to boot.

2. Check expiry dates

Now you can start streamlining your vanity stash. As with organizing bathroom cabinets, getting rid of empty bottles and containers is a good starting point, but you’ll need to assess your half-full ones, too — beauty and skincare products don’t last forever. 

“Look for the jar symbol on makeup, skincare, haircare and other toiletries," say Ashley Murphy and Marissa Hagmeyer, founders of Neat Method. "The date shown indicates how long an item lasts from the date it was first opened. Toss any that are past their prime in order to clear space for items you’re using regularly."

It’s important to trust your instincts. Anything that doesn’t look or smell right, get rid, regardless of the expiry date. We know it’s annoying to toss items that are barely-used, but it’s really not worth the risk — skin irritation and breakouts are the last thing you want!

3. Assess brushes and tools

They don’t expire as such, but brushes and beauty tools certainly do suffer from overuse — flannels, sponges, and exfoliating cloths, too. If yours are looking a little past their best, it might be time to invest in new ones. 

These Paula's Choice reusable cotton and bamboo makeup removal pads on Amazon come in a pack of 11 and are machine washable, making it kinder on the environment. Get into the habit of cleaning them every week going forward — our laundry experts have covered how often to do laundry.

In shallow drawers, use dividers or organizers to keep your brushes and tools separate. Alternatively, line a deep drawer with heavy canisters and store them upright. A non-slip drawer liner, like this one from Amazon, should help to keep them in place when opening and closing. 

4. Group like-with-like

Before you start putting things back, experts advise you group what’s left into categories. From makeup and toiletries, to jewelry and hair care, vanities are expected to hold a varied array of items, so this will ensure they stay neat, tidy and well ordered. 

Make sure to learn how to organize jewelry to avoid tarnishing and tangles on your fave accessories.

“Keep all your makeup in one spot, your skincare items in another and your hair care products in a third. That way, you’ll always know where to find what you need”, says professional organizer Michelle Urban, founder of The Organized House. 

Once you’ve done this, you’re also in a good place to decide how best to store things. We’d advise waiting until this point to invest in any vanity or the best bathroom organizers, so you don’t waste money on storage you don’t need.

5. Store extras elsewhere

If you’re someone who likes to store back stock toiletries, that’s fine — just be sure they’re not taking up prime real estate in your vanity. 

“Gather all extras together and place them in a labeled bin when organizing a linen closet, or under the bathroom sink if there’s room,” suggest Ashley and Marissa. 

Make sure any makeup you’re storing — whether opened or not — is positioned in a cool, dry place to ensure it lasts as long as possible. 

6. Designate a purpose to each drawer

To help your routine flow smoothly, experts advise ‘zoning’ a busy vanity, in the same way you would when organize closets with lots of clothes. Consider your routine, and assign your everyday prime position — usually the top drawer.

For the remaining drawers, experts recommend assigning a single category of items to each, if you can — haircare, beauty products, jewelry, and so on. Not only does this make things easier to find, but it also makes storing them easier (like items tend to sit more neatly alongside each other). 

When arranging your drawer layout, position frequently used items at the front, and stash lesser-used items towards the back. This results in less rummaging, and consequently less tidying for you. For even easier access, try stacking items upright using makeup storage such as this Mdesign makeup organizer tray from Target. 

7. Divide and conquer

Your vanity drawers might start off looking neat, but if you don’t employ dividers of some kind, it’s not going to last. 

“We like to use containers and dividers that are easy to wipe down, as beauty products inevitably spill”, says professional organizer Shannon Krause, co-founder of The Tidy Nest. 

“There’s all manner of different options on the market, but if you’re looking for a DIY option, we’d recommend repurposing small cardboard boxes and mason jars”. 

If your drawers are deep enough, professional organizer Mary Jo Contello, founder of Organized by MJ, recommends using a rotating lazy susan, such as this Mdesign roundtable storage tray from Amazon. 

Mary explains, “The compartments are great for grouping smaller like-items, and you can access what you need without having to rummage around and risk knocking things over."

8. Use clear containers

When you’re short on getting-ready time, the last thing you want is to waste precious minutes looking for things. Use clear containers to not only easily see your products, but make it more likely to use them before they expire. 

Stackable containers are a great use of space, either inside your vanity, or on top of it. We like this Casafield cosmetic and jewelry display case from Walmart; the drawers pull right out, so you can have a proper rifle through. 

9. Keep the top looking tidy

Clutter doesn’t exactly help us unwind, so when it comes to styling ‘on show’ surfaces in a bedroom, experts recommend taking a minimal approach.  

“Store a few of your most frequently-used — and most aesthetically pleasing — items on the top of your vanity, neatly contained on a decorative tray. This creates a sense of intention and adds a touch of elegance to the display, worthy of a bedroom. You can always switch them up now and then for a fresh new look,” says Shannon.  

This good-looking Bellwood three-compartment organizer from Wayfair has different levels to categorize essentials. We love that it comes with a handle, so you can do your makeup elsewhere if the lighting isn’t working for you.

If you’re short on drawer space, stylish baskets are handy for keeping your less ‘sightly’ essentials close to hand without sacrificing a stylish scheme. Don’t forget a mirror, either — these vanity mirrors are ideal for perfectionists! 

10. Make use of the surrounding wall space

Adding shelving either above or next to your vanity adds valuable storage, not to mention offer up a potential styling opportunity — think pretty perfume bottles or products decanted into good-looking containers (we like these frosted cosmetic jars, from Amazon) lined up neatly in a row. 

Depending on your needs, there’s likely a vertical storage solution to cover it. However, if it's jewelry storage ideas you're after, don’t don’t underestimate the humble hook. Hanging necklaces and bracelets creates a sparkling display, and keeps them tangle-free. 

11. Customize storage solutions to suit

“Whether it’s cosmetics, toiletries or beauty tools, it’s important you have the right storage to suit items in kind. Not only is it more efficient in terms of organization, but it’s more visually appealing, too”, recommends professional organizing and decluttering expert Barbara Brock. 

If budget allows, you could consider bespoke inserts for your various items, but shop-bought versions work just as well. They’re also less costly to customize should your needs change over time, or if you’re looking for renter-friendly closet organization tips. 

This multi-compartment drawer organizer, from Wayfair, is great for keeping smaller items neat, while chunky canisters keep brushes and tools neatly contained, for example. Experiment with different solutions, and combine what works for you.

12. Maintain organization going forwards

“Regular declutters are the key to maintaining good organization”, says Shannon. “Take the time to assess your inventory. Throw expired products and ensure you’re storing essential items only. 

Frequent edits like this not only streamline your collection, but allow you to reclaim valuable space within your vanity”. 

FAQs

It’s important to remember that there’s no ‘right’ way to organize a vanity. Designs vary, and how you choose to utilize yours is personal, so pick and choose what works for you. If you simply don’t have space in your bedroom, don’t panic — the same techniques work just as well across bathroom vanity ideas, too. 

If your favorite accessories are often jumbled, learn how to organize jewelry and keep precious necklaces, rings, earrings, bracelets, and more protected and tidy.

We've spoken to professional organizers and jewelry experts for their best tips on how to keep necklaces tangle-free, which items to keep in your collection, and how to organize your jewelry to avoid tarnishing.

This five-step guide will expertly kick off your small space organization ideas and help you whip your jewelry collection into shape, sharpish.

How to organize jewelry like industry experts

Our experts are either professional organizers or work in top jewelry stores in the US, making them well placed to help you learn how to organize your precious accessories, with the best organization products and jewelry storage solutions.

Where they've suggested storage ideas, expert shoppers at Real Homes have picked highly-rated quality matching products to help you shop the guide.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article. 

Step 1: Make your preparations

Ashley Hines, professional organizer from Thee Tailored Life recommends starting with your end goal in mind when decluttering a small space.

She says, "Decide where the jewelry you declutter will go. Whether through giving to family or friends, donating to local thrift stores, or a resale process for luxury items, it helps to have a game plan."

You'll need to assess the current state of your jewelry collection, so take note of any issues you regularly encounter. For instance, are your necklaces tangled or your items tarnished?

Identifying the problems will help you filter appropriate solutions and pick multi-functional storage furniture that works best for you in step four of our expert guide. 

Ashley adds, "Bring all your jewelry in one place to see and evaluate everything you've accumulated. It's also a good opportunity to thoroughly clean the existing bins, boxes, and organizing systems."

Step 2: Declutter

It can be hard letting go of jewelry, but be prepared to say goodbye to pieces you no longer need, use, or love when the warning signs it's time to declutter your home are upon you (one is not being able to find what you need — sound familiar?).

When figuring out how to organize jewelry, Ashley says, "Be honest with yourself about items that no longer serve you. Accessories accumulate quickly so notice what you wear. It's OK to stick with those."

If any of your jewelry has sentimental value but you don't wear it, reimagine its use. You could turn a family heirloom ring into a necklace for instance, or frame a treasured necklace to display as part of an inspirational gallery wall idea.

Ashley adds, "As you are decluttering, sort into common groups such as trash (broken or tarnished jewelry you won't repair), recycle (check your local garbage policies to see if it applies), donate, sell, and keep."

If you've been hanging on to a borrowed item from a friend or loved one, make plans to return it. You may also identify jewelry that needs to be cleaned or repaired during the process. Set this aside into an action group so it doesn’t get lost in the mix.

Step 3: Categorize

Ashley advises categorizing your jewelry for efficiency, into groups that make sense for you. This might mean organizing them by frequency of use (daily or special event) or type (rings, necklaces, bracelets, and so on). 

Having some small boxes, such as this set of five Mainstays Drawer Storage Baskets from Walmart on hand will help, though any small cardboard boxes or egg boxes destined for the recycling will do the job in a pinch.

"Everything should have a designated place," Ashley says. "Consider the flow and accessibility of items within your space. Everyday jewelry should be easy-to-reach in a drawer or small box. In contrast, formal jewelry may be stored away differently, since it involves less frequent use."

Keep your metal jewelry as separate from each other as possible, too.

"As with most things we buy, it’s best if you can display and keep them as they were in the store," Ashley adds. "I’ve never purchased jewelry from a store and seen them piled up on each other."

Keeping metals separate will ensure the longevity of your jewelry, as will regularly cleaning your valuable items, whether it's taking them to a jewelry store, or cleaning at home using a specialized solution such as the Connoisseurs Precious Jewelry Cleaner for gold, diamonds and precious stones available at Target, which comes with a drip tray and soft-bristle brush, and is highly rated by customers.

Debbie Fox, of Fox Fine Jewelry, has a simple and budget-friendly solution to avoid tarnishing and tangles.

She says, "Store your jewelry in zipped baggies (if you have lots, this 120 piece set of Wegoup Plastic Resealable Bags from Amazon will work a treat). Any size works, but the smaller sizes are more convenient. Zipping jewelry up reduces the amount of oxygen reaching it and will greatly reduce tarnishing."

To kick tricky tangling to the curb, leave a small amount of the chain zipped out of the baggie. Simple, but effective.

Step 4: Pick storage solutions

Once you know which items of jewelry you are keeping, select the best storage for your purposes and space. Ashley recommends considering a few elements when making your selections, aside from the most obvious one: your budget.

She says, "Do you have flat surfaces such as countertops or drawers (these stackable Frebeauty Jewelry Trays from Amazon would work well) to organize your jewelry? Do you prefer hidden or visible storage solutions?"

You can also pick your storage based on the material or aesthetic look that matches your bedroom ideas, such as a pretty marble-look Resin Ring Cone from Anthropologie or a wall hung option such as this hanging Boxy Concepts Wall-Mounted Necklace Holder from Amazon(you can drill it to the wall, or use the strong adhesive it comes with).

A consistent look will help minimize visual clutter.

Ashley adds, "Creative options are endless. I've seen clients intermix their jewelry with art or frames on walls, or have items on display similar to a department store in glass-topped drawers."

You could also try cheap, easy-to-install wall hooks near your vanity or dresser such as these damage-free adhesive clear Command Hooks available on Amazon for east access and tangle-free storing.

Our expert shoppers have carefully selected some jewelry storage options to get you started.

Step 5: Maintain the mess

Once you have your jewelry sorted, maintain the momentum to avoid clutter accumulating. 

Ashley says, "Decluttering and organizing are ongoing processes, not one-time events. Develop a routine for decluttering your jewelry and maintaining your organized space, but make sure this honors your lifestyle."

Consider the one-in-one-out rule to keep your jewelry manageable. Our experts have covered things people with organized small spaces never do for further professional inspiration. 

Getting your jewelry organized will streamline the space it takes up to store, but also helps keep your favorite pieces to hand, and formal wear protected. It's a triple-win, if you ask us.

Now you're in the organizing mood, expand your energy to the rest of the room, and learn the things organizing experts never do in small bedroom.

It may not be one of your favorite tasks, but learning how to organize a bathroom is well worth the effort. From towels and toiletries, to cabinets and under-sink spaces, getting things in tip-top shape makes for much simpler bathroom routines. 

Despite best intentions, clutter can build up fast in a bathroom. In our experience, the more streamlined your systems, the easier they are to stick to — a bit like a skincare regime. We’ve quizzed the pros on their top organizational tips, and thrown in a few of our own tried-and-tested ones, too. 

Every bathroom comes with its own requirements and challenges but it boils down to what works for your household. However, there’s a few small space organization ideas that work across the board.

How to organize a bathroom like the pros

Before you start organizing, decluttering a bathroom is a good idea. Bathrooms tend to play host to various items with expiry dates. Think make up, toiletries and cleaning products. 

We bet you’ve got a few lurking that are well past their best, along with empty bottles, broken brushes perhaps a grubby cotton wool pad or five (no judgment from us, don’t worry). 

Toss the trash and set aside those items you want to keep. Whilst surfaces and cabinets are clear, take the opportunity to clean a bathroom thoroughly, too — don’t forget to give grimey products a quick wipe before putting them back.

With everything clear, you’re in a great position to work out which organizing systems and bathroom storage ideas will best suit your stash, and your space.

1. Group like items together

Grouping your bathroom products means you can find what you need in a hurry, plus it’s easier to keep things neat — the less rifling you have to do, the better. 

How you categorize items is up to you, but sorting by product type (toners, make-up removers, shower gels, body lotions, etc) makes sense, particularly if you have a fair few of each. If your collection is a little more restrained, consider categorizing more generally: face, body, kids stuff, and so on.

If you’re sharing a small bathroom with a roommate or you’re organizing a family bathroom, professional organizer Shannon Krause, co-founder of Tidy Nest, suggests giving everyone their own space. 

She says, “The bathroom experience is personal, so it’s nice for each family member to have their own dedicated basket, cubby or drawer. Everyone has their own organizing style as well, so this allows for some personalization. 

"If you’re organizing a small bathroom, we recommend investing in a tall storage tower, like this one from Amazon, and giving everyone their own shelf." 

2. Prioritize access according to use

Keeping favorite products front of cabinet — and front of mind — means you won’t forget about them, plus, it makes your life easier day-to-day. 

“Reserve the drawers or shelves closest to your sink for daily essentials. Ideally you’d keep bathroom countertops clear, but a stylish basket or a multi-section acrylic organizer (like this one, from Target) is fine if you want to keep makeup and skincare close to hand”, says professional organizer Lauren Saltman, founder of Living. Simplified. 

Bulky items that you use regularly such as hair dryers, stylers, electric razors, and toothbrush chargers, should be designated a deep drawer and given their own section. These specialized deep drawer dividers, available at Amazon, are great for keeping everything in place. A floor basket is also a good option. 

“Occasional items and backstock can be relegated to less accessible positions, organized under a bathroom sink, for example, or even relocated elsewhere altogether”, Lauren adds. 

3. Give toiletries some space

One of the things people with organized bathrooms never do is overload their storage. As tempting as it is to get all those unsightly essentials behind closed doors, ease of access needs to take priority. 

Ben Soreff, professional organizer at H2H Organizing, says"They may look nice lined up neatly, but if they’re so jam-packed you can’t actually pull them out, it defeats the point. When organizing a bathroom cabinet, we advise our clients to line shelves with clear plastic bins and organize them into categories. 

"That way, you can take the whole lot out, find what you need, then replace it without risk of a product avalanche."

The same goes when organizing bathroom drawers; dividers will quickly become your best friend. Opt for bespoke inserts or choose adjustable designs to avoid winding up with dead space. 

'Removing packaging where you can is a good space-saving hack, but be wary of doing this if you’re organizing a medicine cabinet — one tablet looks the same as any other once it's out of the box', says professional organizer Dee Middleton. 

4. Let towels hang out

Assuming they’re the stylish fluffy kind, having your towels out on display can add a luxe feel to a bathroom. While it’s fine to fold and stack clean towels, hanging ones you’re currently using is a much better — and more hygienic — towel storage idea, so try and incorporate options for both into your bathroom ideas. 

A wall-mounted towel rack frees up floor space, but if you’ve got the room, we love a towel ladder. It’s not always easy to inject personality into your bathroom decor, but a practical-yet-stylish design, like this leaning one from Wayfair which comes in five colors, ticks the box. 

If you haven’t got a linen closet, wire baskets, like chic golden versions from Target, are useful for storing clean towels. They keep them neat whilst allowing them to breathe, plus they’re close to hand for when you need them. 

Line a shelf with two or three for a hotel-inspired look, just be sure to familiarize yourself with how to fold towels neatly if they’re on show. 

5. Utilize under-sink space

Organizing under a bathroom sink isn’t always straightforward. With hard-to-reach corners and plumbing to account for, you might need to enlist a few different bathroom organizers to ensure you’re making the most of the space — a ‘bespoke’ storage system, if you will. 

Stackable containers are great space-savers, along with ergonomic racks; these have the benefit of pulling right out so you have a proper rifle through. For awkward nooks and tight corners, Lauren recommends including a Lazy Susan into your system. 

‘Choose one with built-in dividers so you can organize products by category. I like this clear rotating Lazy Susan with dividers from Walmart — the raised sides will keep bottles and jars in place when it’s spinning, plus means you’re less likely to knock things over when you reach in and grab what you want," she says. 

You could also mount a wire basket, or simple Command Hooks (the black finish of these adhesive plastic heavy duty double Command Hooks from Amazon is perfect) to the back of the cabinet door. This idea works when organizing a vanity, too.  

6. Make walls work harder

Row upon row of shower gels and shampoos lining the sides of your bath or your shower floor just isn’t practical. Aside from increasing your trip risk, it just looks down right ugly. The solution, according to pros, is to put your walls to work. 

“Installing towel hooks or racks onto the back of your bathroom door, on the wall next to your shower, or even on the shower itself (if you have glass paned walls) keeps things neat, whilst freeing up space inside cabinets and vanities. An over the shower caddy or stick-on shelving can also be useful for holding your in-shower toiletries”, advises Amanda Wiss. 

To truly maximize on wall space, multipurpose storage is the way to go. This stylish  wall mounted bathroom cabinet from Wayfair also features a shelf and towel rack. 

If you’re designing a bathroom from scratch, consider adding recessed shelving into shower walls or next to the bath to create a dedicated spot for your essentials. 

7. Put pretty products on show

If you’re organizing on open shelving, you’ll need to factor in aesthetics as well as practicality. Think of ways you can combine storage and style; neat stacks of washcloths and groups of pretty toiletries, alongside a nice bathroom plant, for example. 

"Elevate the look of cotton balls, q-tips and face pads by removing them from their original packaging and placing them into matching canisters, like these from Amazon. With their stylish bamboo lids, they double up as decor sitting out on the bathroom counter", say Ashley Murphy and Marissa Hagmeyer, the co-founders of organizing company Neat Method.

8. Use clear containers – and label everything

Quick and easy access is key when it comes to organizing a bathroom, so opt for clear bathroom storage so you can always see what you’re looking for — labels help, too. 

"We like to use plastic containers that are easy to wipe down because inevitably something will spill", says Shannon. "If you’re placing them in a drawer, add clear, self-stick bumpers to the bottom of the organizer to prevent it from sliding around as it shuts". 

9. Keep surfaces clear – and clean

It’s tempting to leave your everyday items out on the side, but it’s a slippery slope. Cluttered countertops do not give soothing, spa-like vibes, plus it makes your bathroom much harder to navigate, let alone keep clean. 

“If you’re going to store items on the counter, be sure to do it with intention to avoid an untidy look. Consider using a Lazy Susan to group like-items; we’d suggest selecting one with high walls, like this one from Amazon, so the products stay put while you’re spinning", says Shannon.

Keep a bathroom trash can nearby too, so you’re not tempted to leave rubbish lying around. 

10. Tame toilet rolls

Running out of toilet paper is the stuff of nightmares — if you want our advice, keep a hefty stack close to hand at all times. 

No vanity to store them in? No stress – there’s plenty of toilet paper storage ideas you can employ to keep those rolls from rolling. The simplest, and in our opinion, most stylish, being the humble basket. Position it within close proximity, on top of the toilet cistern or on shelves above it. You can also try this freestanding unit from Wayfair. 

FAQs

So now you’ve got your bathroom organization nailed, why not take it one step further and add a few luxury touches to make your bathroom feel like a spa? Think scented candles, fancy hand soap and fluffy robes. 

Don’t hold back — investing in that relaxed, laid-back vibe makes for a more relaxed, laid-back you… and that’s well worth the spend, if you ask us! 

See how to organize a bathroom closet full of medicine, towels, and even your random collection of travel-sized products that you keep on hand. With so much versatility, this storage area is prone to clutter and disorganization. 

Bathroom closet organization starts with categorizing your items and expands into finding the best storage solutions. This can look like placing things in designated bins on a shelf or getting even more specific with turntables and clear acrylic organizers for smaller items. 

Whether you are organizing a small bathroom and looking for ways to maximize space, we’ve got you covered with these expert-approved tips.

How to organize a bathroom closet

The best bathroom organization ideas for a closet depend on your space’s design and overall size. However, there are a few universal tips and tricks for keeping toiletries neat and tidy. 

To learn how to organize a bathroom closet the right way, we tapped four home organizing experts for their insights and advice. See what they had to say about that pesky bulk toilet paper purchase, overflow of hygiene products, and what to do about all of those mini travel-sized formulas, ahead.  

1. Create zones

Before getting into the specifics of organizing, Britnee Tanner, a professional home organizer in Utah, says to think about creating zones within your bathroom closet to make things more functional and maximize your space. 

“It can be helpful to think about each shelf as a zone to contain different categories of things. For example, it helps to have one shelf dedicated to linens like washcloths and towels,” says Britnee.

For smaller items, incorporating storage baskets, like these woven storage baskets from Amazon, on shelves to zone things can be useful, especially when you don’t have enough shelf space for lots of different categories. For example, one shelf can contain three baskets (aka, three zones) with first aid supplies in one, extra toiletries in another, and your toilet paper backstock in the third basket. 

2. Use a turntable

It can be a little tricky to organize toiletries in a small closet says Britnee. To counter this, Tanner recommends first taking inventory of how many toiletries you have and their various sizes. 

From there, look for bathroom organizers so they aren’t floating around on a shelf. “I like to use turntables for tall hair and skin care products,” Britnee notes. Turntables, like these non-skid turntables from Amazon, also work well for small containers of toiletries, such as an acrylic cup that holds your extra hair ties and bobby pins.  

Similar to toiletries, medicine can also get messy while in storage. A turntable (or several turntables) works well for this category because you can easily see what you have and reach for your vitamins and medications without making a mess of things. 

3. Remove toilet paper packaging

When storing toilet paper, it helps to keep a basket or toilet paper storage caddy, like this storage container from Amazon, near your toilet so that you don’t run out. 

That being said, if you purchase toilet paper in bulk, you’ll likely be left with lots of overflow. In that case, Tanner says to remove the toilet paper from the store packaging to make organization easier. 

“Oftentimes, wrapping creates an organization barrier. Remove the plastic wrapping so that you can easily fit rolls on a bathroom closet shelf,” says Britnee.

4. Utilize containers for feminine hygiene products

Feminine hygiene products are another toiletry item that can create clutter and be hard to contain. According to Britnee, they’re much easier to take inventory of when they’re organized in containers, instead of floppy bags or mismatched boxes. 

“Acrylic containers are great because you can see when you need to buy more,” she adds, noting that bins with lids can also be useful and allow you to utilize vertical space. 

To up the ante, professional organizer Michelle Garb says to use a turntable with multiple dividers “so that you can keep all your feminine hygiene products in one place while accounting for the different sizes and types you might need throughout that cycle.” 

The iDesign rotating turntable available from Amazon is an excellent option for this storage hack. 

5. Roll up your towels

If you have enough space in your bathroom closet to store extra linens (including bath towels, hand towels, and washcloths), Jackie Pittman, a professional organizer and founder of Chez Nous Organizing, says to ditch the traditional towel folding method and, instead, opt for a rolling technique. “This not only saves shelf space but also adds a touch of visual interest to your closet,” she notes. 

Depending on your closet, smaller linens like hand towels and washcloths might become easily unraveled with this method. So, instead of rolling and stacking them together, consider getting a small basket or bin to house the rolled-up towels together and keep things nice and neat. 

6. Utilize door space

In cases where a bathroom closet doesn’t exist or is too small to cover all of your needs, Jackie says to utilize door space (either your actual bathroom door or the front of your bathroom closet door). “Install hooks or an over-the-door organizer for items like loofahs, hairdryers, or even extra storage for smaller items,” she explains. 

Over-the-door organizers come in several different designs and styles. You can even find over-the-door shelving which works well for bathroom toiletries and backstock of cleaning supplies, toilet paper, and more. 

7. Label things as much as possible

Since bathroom closets can be home to a variety of items, professional organizer Olivia Parks says that labeling is a simple yet powerful way to keep things orderly. “It not only designates a specific spot for each item but also makes it easier for other household members to contribute to maintaining the organization,” she explains. 

When labeling your bathroom closet, Parks says you can opt for a method that works best for you. Some prefer using handwritten labels, while others like printed tags. “Labeling itself instills a sense of discipline and structure in the use of space,” Parks adds. 

You can even try a label maker, like this handy Bluetooth printer, available on Amazon.

8. As much as possible, opt for clear bins

While baskets and other storage containers can work well in a bathroom closet, Olivia says to consider opting for clear bins, like these stackable containers from Amazon, as much as possible. “This approach eliminates rummaging through containers to find what you need,” she explains, noting that this approach also lets you see the contents quickly, saving you time and reducing clutter. 

If you can’t upgrade all of your organizers, Parks says to ensure the items you use daily are stowed away in a clear container, as this can streamline your routine and keep everything neatly in sight. 

9. Fill items from the back to keep a consistent rotation

“I think it’s important to keep the bathroom closet in constant rotation, or things will get lost in the back,” says Garb. With this in mind, she recommends filling items such as toilet paper or tissues from the back so that they are in neat rows. 

By looking at your shelving space in rows — sort of like the refrigerated section at a grocery store — you can ensure that items don’t get lost amongst themselves and have a better idea of what might require a restock the next time you are out running errands. 

10. Add a bin for your travel-sized products

When organizing your bathroom closet, don’t forget the travel-sized products and other essentials you might use while on vacation, such as miniature appliances, a portable water flosser, and even pill organizers. 

Depending on how you have your items organized, keeping all of these together in a labeled bin can help ensure everything you need is together for easy packing. 

FAQs

Where do I start when organizing a bathroom closet?

“The best way to organize your bathroom closet and create a system that sticks is to take everything out first, then categorize your various toiletries, linens, and hygiene products,” says Britnee. 

From there, consider which categories you use the most and create a designated zone for those at eye level, then fill in the rest of the shelving with the other categories.

 “Contain loose, smaller items in stacking or pull-out bins so you can easily grab them when you need them,” Britnee adds, noting that labeling bins with their corresponding category for extra clarity is also helpful.

What should I keep in a bathroom closet?

Bathroom closets can be an excellent storage space for a variety of items. While some of your everyday products might be better suited for a medicine cabinet or even countertop organization, Britnee says bathroom closets work particularly well for storing extra toilet paper, hygiene products, skincare formulas, and hair products. “Additionally, you may want to keep your go-to medicines and first aid supplies on a shelf,” she notes. 

If you have the space, bathroom linens such as bath towels, hand towels, and washcloths can also work well in a bathroom closet. This type of storage often makes these essentials a lot more accessible and easier to grab. 

When organizing your bathroom closet, our experts recommend first creating zones for specific categories to make everything a bit more functional. Whether you choose to organize with clear acrylic bins, baskets, or turntables, having your everyday items at eye level can also make the closet a little more accessible, no matter how much space you have to work with. 

Bath towels, hand towels, and washcloths can also work well in a bathroom closet (if you have the room). To make the most of your space, consider rolling these bathroom linens up instead of folding them and placing smaller towels in bins or baskets to keep everything neatly together. 

Learning how to organize a half bath the right way can make all the difference in a tiny space. 

Unlike a traditional bathroom, which typically features enough space for shelving, a half bath is often made up of only 16 to 20 square feet. This means filling your bathroom with organizational tools, like large shelves or plastic bins, just isn’t an option. 

To add to the challenge, most half baths are also linear, with the sink facing the toilet or even side-by-side with the toilet. But don't stress — organizing a small bathroom can be pretty simple if you have the right advice.

How to organize a half bath

We asked organization pros for ten ways to help keep your half bathroom looking fresh and organized. Their bathroom organization ideas are actually pretty easy to implement, even if your commode looks more like a shoe box.

1. Over-the-toilet cabinets or shelves

If the space above your toilet is free, this can be the ideal place for storing what you need in your half bath. With a plethora of over-the-toilet storage shelves on the market, like this minimalist shelf from Urban Outfitters, there are plenty of options to create the bathroom you want. 

A great place to store bath towels or extra toilet paper, these shelves often come with cabinets or sliding drawers as well, making them an indispensable storage option for your small space. 

2. Cut back on hand towels

Hand towels in a half bath, which is typically used by guests, are a must. However, because hand towels are so often used, they can really pile up.

Instead of going overboard on hand towels, consider taking a minimalist approach by only placing one to two towels on the sink and changing them out as needed or every few days. This frees you up with more space for other sink necessities. 

If your cabinet is overflowing with linens, it may be time to declutter your small bathroom.

3. Limit space-stealers

When adding personal touches, anything that takes up too much space, such as knick-knacks, is going to make your half bath feel cluttered and overwhelmed. 

Instead, consider changing out existing elements, such as door handles, or adding some peel-and-stick-wallpaper (we love this floral wallpaper available on Amazon) to inject some personal style into your half bath without compromising space. 

4. Utilize under the sink

When it comes to storage space you may only have the cabinets underneath your sink to work with. Because every square inch of a half bath is precious space, make sure to keep the under-sink space organized and use lid-covered bins or shelves.

Interior designer Artem Kropovinsky goes one step further to add more space. "Lazy susans inside cabinets," Kropovinsky advises. "Thorough and a very intelligent idea for hair products or skincare."

5. Find the perfect sized rug

A bathroom rug can be both a fun, personal touch as well as a necessity. Although every bathroom, especially if the half bath has a shower or tub, should have a bathroom rug, adding a rug or bath mat that's too big can make the room feel cramped.

By measuring your small bathroom, you can find the right rug for your space, whether it's rectangular or even tiger-shaped like this fun bath rug from Urban Outfitters.

6. Utilize in-shower storage

Many showers have built-in shelves or spaces to place shower caddies that can allow for extra storage. 

A great space to store any of your bath supplies, including bath bombs or other items you may not use on a daily basis, a shower shelf can be your secret weapon for storing more items in your small half bath. 

7. Try floating shelves

Maximize your vertical space in your half bath by installing floating shelves, like these minimalist shelves from Amazon, to store the necessities you need. From storing cotton balls to extra toothpaste, floating shelves are a great, stylish way to keep your items organized without sacrificing excess space. 

"Floating shelves can be installed just about anywhere and are great for small bathrooms. You can use them to store plenty of small items like toiletries and wash clothes," says Artem.

8. Keep cleaning supplies nearby

"It's always best to store cleaning supplies where you need them rather than having to carry them around the house," advises professional organizer Lindsey Mahanna. 

A great way to keep those items organized in a small space is by finding an area where you can group them together. Avoid buying bulk cleaning supplies as those products can take up too much space in your limited-space bathroom. 

9. Let the light shine in

Although opening a window won't technically add more square footage to your small half-bathroom, more natural light will make your space feel bigger. 

Instead of relying on ceiling lights to create a mood, consider using transparent drapery or window treatments, like these sheer curtains from Amazon, that allow more light to flow through. 

"The biggest impact you can make in a small space is to add more light. This can be tricky in a bathroom where privacy is essential, but some sheer window treatments can be enough to let in some light while keeping the view obstructed," says Artem.

10. Replace outdated items

Even with the most limited space, it's important to make your bathroom feel like it showcases some of your personal design style. While you may not have room for tons of knick-knacks, replacing your outdated bathroom accessories with ones that reflect your personal style will help the room feel put together.

Although it's a great solution to choose minimalist decor to highlight what space you do have, it's not necessary to strip everything away. To add a bit of style, consider adding a few decor pieces including plants, colorful curtains, or a shag rug. 

FAQs

From utilizing the little open space you have to make the most of your existing storage options, there are plenty of ways to create a half bath that stays organized and clean. 

Overloading your W.C. with items you may never use is one of the biggest things people with an organized bathroom never do. So keep your belongings to a minimum and make sure you love every item in your bathroom.

Knowing how to organize bathroom drawers effectively is vital for maximizing every inch available, especially when storage space is at a premium.

Whether your drawers are packed with skincare products, bath bombs, or clutter you haven’t been able to face, our experts have four simple steps to help you shift unnecessary items and reclaim wasted bathroom space.

Complete with how to select the right drawer organizers to declutter a bathroom, our four-step guide is your ticket to streamlined storage.

How to organize bathroom drawers like a pro

Naturally, you want to make the most of the drawer space you have, but knowing how to do that isn’t always as straightforward as it may seem. Our professional organizers have shared their best tips for organizing a small bathroom and transforming it into a more functional space. 

1. Declutter each drawer

Start with deciding what to get rid of, advises professional organizer Kim Correy. 

Kim recommends decluttering each bathroom drawer individually, and says, “Work on one drawer at a time and sort items into categories, such as shower and bath products, cleaning products, and so on.” 

Next, decide what to keep, looking at each category and the items within it. Items with regular use can stay, whilst those which aren't are should head to the trash. A good litmus test to apply is whether or not you've used an item in the last six months. If not, be bold and throw it in the trash. 

2. Assign items

Once you know which items you’re keeping, decide on which bathroom storage ideas are best for your space.

Kim says, “Assign a new home for each category and item, being mindful to keep it closest to where it is most often used.” 

When choosing what to put in each drawer, she also recommends using a "what makes sense approach". If, for example, it doesn’t make sense to store your spare toilet rolls in the drawer closet to the toilet because it's too shallow, swap things around. 

Assign items to spaces where they fit and are easy to access, boosting function - a vital resource in bathrooms.

3. Use drawer dividers

Interior designer, Alex Robinson says, “To keep your bathroom drawers well-organized, use drawer divider systems (such as these expandable bamboo drawer dividers from Amazon). 

“These nifty organizers are a practical and budget-friendly solution to keep various items neatly separated and within easy reach.”

She explains with these sorts of dividers (such as easy to set up bamboo dividers from Amazon with inserts and labels) in place, it’s easy to create efficient designated spaces for different products and overall, a much more ordered space. 

When selecting drawer organizers (such as a set of acrylic drawer organizers in various sizes from Amazon ), both our experts recommend customizable designs, or ones  made specifically for a certain drawer type.

These shallow sliding drawer bins from Wayfair are made for taking advantage of drawers with healthy vertical height, whilst these foldable drawer organizers from Bed, Bath and Beyond are suitable for taking advantage of the whole depth in one go.

4. Opt for stackable storage

“Additional bathroom storage solutions such as stackable containers (consider sets such as a 10-piece acrylic stackable set from Amazon) or trays (such as these mountable drawers from Wayfair) are another great solution for keeping deeper bathroom drawers or cabinets neat,” explains Alex. 

“Stackable containers (such as these stackable drawer organizers from Amazon) provide a versatile way to store smaller items, maximizing the drawer space efficiently.”

Pull-out trays can be a game-changer for deeper drawers, making it easy to access items stored at the back without any fuss or the need to tip everything out. 

The key to organized bathroom drawers is effectively implementing the right storage solutions. Alex says, “By combining drawer dividers, stackable containers, and pull-out trays, you can create a customized and well-organized bathroom space that suits your specific needs and style.”

Now that you know how to organize your bathroom drawers, take some time to declutter the bathroom as a next step and watch your bathroom functionality soar.

Finding out the things organizing experts never do in small bedrooms is always useful when you're tidying up your place. 

We've gone straight to the pros to find out what they always avoid. From bulky furniture to storage no-nos, there are some real surprises coming up. We also got their alternative ideas so you can get started on smart solutions.

Whether you're looking for small bedroom ideas or just having a cleanout, keeping your space beautiful starts with great organization. Keep these in the back of your mind now, and thank yourself later.

Things organizing experts never do in small bedrooms

When organizing a small bedroom, knowing what to swerve is just as important as knowing what you should do. Where our experts have suggested helpful products to help fix any mishaps, we've also found matching buys.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article. 

1. Overcrowd the space

We get the logic of adding every furniture piece you can fit into your small bedroom for function. You want to make the most out of the little space you have but overcrowding things isn’t the best idea.

“In a small bedroom, selecting appropriately sized furniture pieces is essential to maximize available floor space,” says Hashi Mohamed, president of Ivy Cleans.

Instead, edit down your pieces and — if possible — switch up any tired items for multifunctional furniture, instead.

For example, Hashi recommends a going space-saving platform bed with built-in storage (such as this Red Barrel Studio platform bed from Wayfair), rather than opting for a luxe king-sized bed (as lovely as they are).

“I always choose nightstands with drawers and storage benches versus furniture with open shelving,” says Lara Duffy, professional organizer and owner of Lennox & Co Organizing.

We also like to use storage ottomans in bedrooms, as they’re a stylish way to quickly stash away items.

2. Overuse decor

We love decorating small bedrooms with treasures and trinkets, but going over the top on these is a big no-no for organizing experts. 

Hashi explains, “Organization experts always avoid excessive decor or excessive personal items on display. Keeping the room tidy involves being selective about decorative elements and minimizing the number of personal items on open shelves or surfaces.”

If you don’t want to throw the decor away, you could always move these to different areas of the home or even donate them to secondhand furniture stores so someone else can give them a new lease on life.

3. Store items under the bed

In a small bedroom, the logical thing to do may appear to be hiding items under the bed. Unfortunately, this can be a big small bedroom Feng Shui mistake.

“Whatever is stored there affects us while we sleep, which can have big implications in our lives,” says Dr. Hannah Yang, certified Feng Shui practitioner and founder of Balanced Awakening.

She says it’s best not to have anything under the bed, but this is not practical in a lot of small space situations.

“Instead, some good things to keep under the bed in an organized manner are extra bedding and towels or off-season clothing,” she adds.

Hannah suggests opting for a bed with drawers below for storage. We have this Ivy Bronx bed from Wayfair on our wish list, as it’s giving us serious hotel vibes.

“I also recommend avoiding storing anything under the bed with an emotional charge like old family photos, souvenirs from the past, or anything with an obvious sleep-disruptive quality,” Hannah explains.

Have a clear out of items under the bed to keep your space organized and to keep the good energy going.

4. Neglect vertical storage

When it comes to small bedroom storage ideas, the only way is up for us, as vertical space utilizes the room’s capacity a lot better.

Hashi says, “I always advise against neglecting vertical storage opportunities. I recommend wall-mounted shelves, hooks, and floating nightstands to free up floor space and keep essentials within easy reach.”

Lara agrees, also suggesting choosing tall bookshelves over smaller ones (we like this Bamjoy bamboo bookshelf on Amazon), as well as picking wide storage pieces.

5. Have excessive clutter

When you’re moving through the bedroom to sleep or to get ready, you might not pay attention to the amount of items you end up dropping on surfaces. These can massively add up, though.

Lara explains, “Don’t let clutter build — instead take 5-10 minutes every day to clear it out so it doesn’t overwhelm you or your space.”

If you’re in a hurry, you can declutter your small bedroom by carrying a trash bag around, quickly scooping anything out-of-place into it, and then putting it in the kitchen to sort through for recycling later. These heavy-duty 30 gallon trash bags from Amazon would do the job nicely. 

Alternatively, pop a storage box to one side as a drop zone for items you'll put away later, or sort through once every few days instead of leaving them dotted around. This hand-woven wicker one on wheels from Wayfair would work well without taking up too much floor space.

By opening up the space with these tips, your room will feel fresh and fabulous. “Ultimately, the goal is to create a serene, organized, and welcoming atmosphere, even in the confines of a small bedroom,” Hashi adds.

Another way you can enhance this space is by brightening up your small bedroom, as this will allow more light in and make it look spacious.

Calling all organization lovers: you need to see Zooey Deschanel's pantry, ASAP. 

The New Girl star posted a TikTok insider her gloriously organized pantry, full to the brim with snacks, cooking ingredients, condiments, and more. We certainly wouldn't mind having some dedicated snack drawers like Zooey.

If you spend hours browsing Pinterest for the best ways to organize a kitchen, look no further. We break down how to recreate her storage set-up in your own space.

Inside Zooey Deschanel's pantry

Zooey shared a look at her meticulously organized pantry on TikTok while showcasing an impressive snack drawer. Complete with baskets, turntables, and dividers, she nails the best way to organize a pantry.

How to recreate Zooey Deschanel's pantry

There are some pretty simple steps you can take to recreate Zooey's snack paradise. First, if you're pantry doesn't already include them, it's time to install some pantry shelves to keep all your food at eye level. If you're working in a small space, some floating shelves like these basic shelves from Wayfair should do the trick.

Next, you're going to want to invest in some great pantry organizers to get your space under control. We love the gorgeous mesh and wire storage baskets Zooey uses, like these Hearth & Hand storage baskets from Target. Then add some turntables, like this set of four turntables from Amazon, for all your sauces and condiments.

Last but not least, store your dry ingredients in some aesthetically pleasing jars, like this glass canister from Target, and grab some drawer dividers for your snack station.

Best pantry organizers

We think Zooey would approve of these gorgeous pantry organizers and storage baskets. After all, your pantry not only has to function well, it has to look good too! 

Prices were correct at the time of publishing.

Zooey puts some great kitchen organization hacks to use in her walk-in pantry, like using chalkboard labels (we like this set of 162 chalkboard labels from Amazon) on her storage jars and baskets so she can change them when needed. 

Once you're done sprucing up your storage space, it's time for a well-deserved reward. Break open that snack drawer!

Figuring out how to organize under the bed can feel like a job you want to keep on the back-burner forever. Whilst it might be a space that's out of sight, keep it firmly in mind to avoid hap-hazard misuse of this potential-filled area.

Easily forgotten, it's a magnet for clutter and mess. Think odd socks, crumpled tissues, and mounds of dust. Although challenging to keep tidy, our panel of expert organizers say it's entirely possible, and a great space for storage solutions.

Our six expert-approved tips for making best use of the space under the bed will make sure you have an organized bedroom. 

How to organize under the bed

According to professional organizer, Leslie Kilgour, the underbed area are prone to clutter. She explains, “It can become really messy if not organized."

Whether you install built-in under bed storage solutions or get creative with a DIY approach, our experts know it’s possible to maximize this space and get on top of the mess once and for all with the right bedroom storage solutions. 

1. Start by decluttering

Before you can organize things, it’s worth dedicating time to decide what to get rid of. Having a good purge will help reclaim vital space.

Leslie says, “The first step in organizing under the bed is to take everything out from underneath it.”

Cleaning expert, Karina Toner agrees, explaining that it pays to assess each item’s necessity. She says, “Discard or donate items that are no longer needed or used.”

By sorting through the items under your bed, you’ll make the process of decluttering your small bedroom a far easier affair. To make the process a little faster, set up two large crates to toss items into, one for things you want to kee, and the other for the bits you’re happy to get rid of. 

2. Clean and assess

Under the bed is one of those areas in your bedroom that you’re probably forgetting to clean, so it’s worth giving it a once over before you start organizing. 

Leslie says, “When everything is out from under the bed, sweep or vacuum, and then start assessing how much space you actually have.” 

It’s important to consider factors like how wide and how high your bed frame is and determine how much room there is to work with before committing to any placement or storage solutions.

To ensure you map out the area correctly, grab a tape measure (this 16 foot self-locking tape measure from Amazon should do the trick) and get the exact sizes. 

3. Categorize items

Before storing items, group them together sensibly to maintain order going forward. them. 

Leslie advises, “Categorize items based on how much you use them, and how often you will have to pull them out from under the bed. 

"Put frequently used items towards the front of the space to ensure easy access, while seasonal or infrequently used items can be stored towards the back.”

4. Use the best storage solutions

Leslie says, “Investing in storage solutions such as under-bed bins (such as this rattan-style under bed storage caddy from Pottery barn), drawers, or vacuum-sealed bags (these Amazon Basics vacuum storage bags come with an easy-to-use hand pump) is the next step. 

"These containers help make best use of space under the bed and keep items neatly organized and protected from dust or damage. Make sure to clearly label all containers, which will make it effortless to locate specific items when needed.”

Containers with wheels (such as this wooden under bed wheeled storage container from Bed, Bath and Beyond) make for easy access and manoeuvrability. Use shoe organizers (like these under bed shoe organizers from Walmart) with compartments to store shoes neatly under the bed. This prevents shoes from cluttering the floor and keeps them easily accessible.

Vacuum-sealed bags are perfect for storing bulky items like bedding or seasonal clothing, reduce space requirements and protect items from dust and moisture.

For storing smaller items and accessories, Karina recommends using under-bed drawer organizers to set designated spaces, and keep items ordered. 

When choosing organizing tools, Leslie adds that a key factor to consider when choosing them is whether they will be seen or not. She says, “If they are not able to be seen, I recommend using plastic bins with tight covers; you can use storage bins (such as this lidded plastic storage bin from Target) of all sizes, depending on what you are storing.

“If the storage will be seen, use some baskets, and store items in vacuum sealed bags in the baskets. I've seen people use cardboard boxes too, but those can wear out and rip over time, so I wouldn't use them.”

Any items that are not visible don't need aesthetic appeal and you can easily repurpose a cardboard box you already have at home. Cut it down to size for customizable free storage.

5. Take advantage of every inch of space

Karina says, “Maximize any vertical space under the bed by using stackable storage bins or drawers. Create a custom bed skirt with built-in pockets (we like this clear 16-pocket bed skirt organizer from Amazon as an easy alternative to a custom-made one) for additional under-bed storage."

Leslie adds, “Using bed risers (such as these easy-to-fit bed risers from Amazon) is a great hack for storage. I love to use these in dorm rooms or small studio apartments."

You can store everyday essentials here for easy access, and store less used items under the bed. 

Leslie says, “The best way to keep a space organized is to really think about the best use of it, choosing carefully what items it would be most beneficial to store there.”

Now you've nailed how to organize under the bed, do a thorough check for small bedroom mistakes to free up floor space and conceal away the messy things you'd love to hide from view.

Learning how to declutter a small entryway and executing it like a pro will result in a sense of peace and calm every time you walk through the door. 

Your entryway sets the tone for your space, and keeping it clutter-free allows you to streamline its functionality and feel welcoming to boot. Our experts share tips on getting the task done, with organizational tools like key hangers, clever storage and secondary drop zones.

Delve into the 10 ways our pros recommend to achieve a stylish, decluttered, and organized small entryway.

How to declutter a small entryway

From understanding how you want to use your small entryway space to figuring out which organizational tools will get you there, our expert-led tips on decluttering and organizing your home's small entryway will make this task a breeze.

1. Start fresh

First things first — when it comes to decluttering your small entryway, you need to start fresh. This means removing every item, shelving unit, plant, rug, shoe rack, or decoration from your entryway space in order to properly take stock.

Many people tend to tackle decluttering by going object by object but instead of focusing on each of the elements in your entryway, get a clear idea of what your space looks like without stuff.

For professional organizer Lauren Saltman of Living. Simplified., this is the first step.

She says, "Pull out all the items, categorize them, and remove as much as possible from the space. We need to be thoughtful as to what we keep there. During the winter, your summer sandals and water shoes should be stored elsewhere, along with beach towels, sand toys, and gardening supplies."

2. Decide on rugs

A small entryway rug at the entrance of your doorway can serve as both a functional and aesthetic choice for your entryway space. An runner, such as this neutral flat-woven rug from Ruggable, can serve as a space for you to remove your shoes, or as the first decor piece anyone sees when they step into your home. Its low pile also makes it a good choice for high-traffic areas.

However, the wrong rug — such as one that’s too big in size, or one that constantly needs cleaning — can have the opposite effect, and make your space feel more cluttered. When deciding whether or not to utilize an entryway rug, consider how you will use it on a daily basis and whether it’s serving your needs or getting in the way. 

Lauren adds, "Be thoughtful about any type of rug you place on the floor. It should be easily washable for all the wet weather messes."

3. Find a shoe solution

When it comes to crowded entryways, shoes can be the biggest culprits. If up routinely remove your shoes right at the door, consider the best solution for storing shoes away neatly. It will go a long way to help declutter a small entryway.

A great shoe rack, like this three-tiered, easy to assemble metal rack from Amazon, can make all the difference. 

4. Store jackets elsewhere

It can be tempting to dump your jacket as soon as you step through the door, whether that’s on a coat rack or a bench. However, an overabundance of outerwear can be the reason your small entryway feels cluttered. 

Instead of storing jackets and sweaters in your entryway, consider finding space in your closet, packing away in an ottoman bed, or a dedicated clothes rack like this portable garment rack available on Amazon. This will free up more space in your small entryway.

Professional organizer Juliana Meidl adds, "When you have limited space in an entryway, only keep items you use on a regular basis. When the seasons change, swap out accessories you no longer need. You can also look to create a secondary drop zone in your home, for instance, a place in the kitchen to keep your keys."

A wall organizer, such as a metal one with hooks from Target is a handy item to store mail, keys, glasses, and bags elsewhere without cluttering up your entryway.

5. Lighting is key

If your entryway lacks proper lighting and is difficult to navigate because of it, this is the perfect storm for first making a mess, and then letting it accumulate. "Good lighting is key in a small entryway because you don't want to be searching for your keys and other valuable items in the dark. It also makes for a much more welcoming atmosphere when you walk in the door after a long day," says interior designer, Artem Kropovinsky.

Install a wall light or lamp, such as this slimline black arched floor lamp from Wayfair mini lamp from Target, to brighten your space and help you spot things you need to put away. If you don't have any sockets nearby, a handy rechargeable strip light such as this motion sensor closet light from Amazon will work brilliantly. 

6. Toss what you don't need

Many times, the entryways of our homes can serve as a temporary storage space for all kinds of items — gardening supplies, rain boots, car cleaning supplies, and all types of random household goods. 

"It may be difficult, but tossing items you don't actually use is the best way to clean up the look of your small entryway. All that extra stuff just gets in the way and will make your daily routine more stressful," says Vivianne Chow, interior designer and founder of Viv and Tim Home.

Instead of letting these items pile up near your doorway, consider sorting through them and tossing what you don’t need. Whether you choose to donate these items or list them for free on your neighborhood social media page, getting them out of your house means freeing up space for items you want to look at everyday. 

7. Spark zen

The renowned organizer Marie Kondo, tidying up legend, is famous for asking the question “Does this item spark joy?” When decluttering and organizing your entryway, consider also asking another question, “Does this item spark zen?”

Entryways are our first impression on a daily basis of our own homes. Understanding which items in your entryway contribute to your zen can be a good way to embrace your overall space in a way that will make you feel relaxed and happier each time you walk through the door. 

8. Swap gallery walls for mirrors

Mirrors are fantastic in small entryways for many reasons. They make your space appear larger than it really is and small entryway mirrors provide a way for a last-minute outfit or make-up check before leaving home. 

"Mirrors can add a lot of dimension to any small space as they reflect light and really open things up. Attach a mirror to the wall to help elongate the room," says Kropovinsky.

Gallery walls on the other hand can sometimes feel cluttered, especially in a small space. Swap your medley of frames, pictures, and posters for one hanging wall mirror. We love this round Threshold mirror available in two colors from Target for making a statement in a small space. 

9. Embrace feng shui

Feng Shui is an ancient Chinese practice that can help you arrange your home in a more harmonious way, including guidance on the best places to put furniture (including entryway tables), mirrors, and other items. 

Balance, symmetry, and using natural materials are all ways to incorporate more small entryway Feng Shui into your small entryway. 

"Feng Shui can be really helpful in a small entryway as this room is really functional. You want the energy to be balanced as you're constantly coming and going," says Kropovinsky.

10. Cull excess storage items

Oftentimes, we may feel getting organized means going on a shopping spree for new storage solutions — clear bins, hooks, boxes, and shelves. Rather than choosing to fill your shopping cart with a haul of random storage options, take a long look at what storage tools you actually need. When it comes to shelving, hooks, or anything else, sometimes less is more. 

"Don't get overwhelmed by all the organization products on the market these days. Most people don't need more than a couple of storage boxes or dividers. You don't have to spend a lot to make a big impact," says Chow.

In an entryway closet, for example, using plastic dividers (like these transparent shelf dividers available on Amazon) instead of bulky bins is a great way to minimize overusing storage products which can (ironically) make your space feel more cluttered. 

You can also repurpose any nice boxes you've been gifted items in, or have a clear-out elsewhere, and use up newly-emptied storage boxes you already have in your home.

What to shop

There are plenty of ways to create a decluttered entryway that makes you and your guests feel welcome in your home. From keeping out the things minimalists never have in a small entryway to investing in the best organization products, simple tidying can make a big difference. 

Whether you need a complete reorganization or just to rid yourself of the items that have piled up, creating the space that works for you is essential to your desired home's design overall. 

If you’re fed up of wasted space at home and wondering how to create under-stairs storage, you’ll be pleased to know there are great options, whether you own or rent. 

In a bid to say goodbye to unused space, we’ve spoken to design and organization experts for their best tips on making the most of those difficult-to-use under stair areas. 

From ideas for under-stairs storage and renter-friendly hacks, our experts have covered all bases. 

How to create under-stairs storage

Understanding how to best utilize the size and shape of the space you have is essential.

Professional organizer, Amy Bloomer, says, “Under the stairs can be a super space for storage. The secret is figuring out how to efficiently utilize the square footage, given the tricky angles and ceiling lines," regardless of the design of your stairs. 

1. Install shelving

A simple way to take advantage of wasted under stair space is adding shelves.

Finding shelving to fit an awkward space can be challenging. Amy says, “If budget isn't a concern, install custom shelving as an optimal way to maximize both vertical and horizontal space.

“If you are looking for a more economical approach, measure the length and height of the walls and order metal shelves (these adjustable shelves from Amazon are genius) that fit the dimensions well.”

For rental properties, where drilling or fixing items to walls aren't possible, cleaning and organizing expert, Karina Toner says, “Opt for freestanding or modular shelving unit that don't require permanent installation (this freestanding expandable metal rack from Wayfair is sturdy and visually appealing). This allows for flexibility in adjusting the storage layout without damaging the rental property.

“Floating shelves (such as these no-drill, peel and stick floating shelves from Amazon will hold up to 15 lbs) are versatile and can be easily installed without causing damage to the structure. They also provide a sleek and contemporary way to showcase items.”

2. Fit pull-out drawers

Add to your under-stairs storage with drawers beneath your stairs or shelves (we love these freestanding angled pull-out drawers from Wayfair). These can either be custom-made or freestanding, depending on whether you own or rent, as well as your budget. 

Karina explains, “Utilize the triangular space under stairs with pull-out drawers. These are versatile and can be customized for various items, from shoes to seasonal items.”

Alternatively, for rental properties, she says, “Consider pre-built under stair drawer units that are easy to install and remove, making them suitable for rental properties. These drawers offer practical and concealed storage.”

Or, for a more budget-friendly approach to storage, Karina suggests using storage cubes (such as this 10-cube storage organizer rack from Amazon). She adds, “Storage cubes are customizable and can adapt to various under stair configurations. They are easy to assemble and disassemble, making them renter-friendly.”

3. Add doors to create a closet or pantry

If you're staying put for a while, or have a lovely landlord who'll let you make some more long-lasting changes, fitting doors to the front of that triangular space under the stairs could usher in a whole new storage era. 

Karina suggests converting the space under stairs into a small closet or pantry. She says, "This is an excellent option for storing cleaning supplies, vacuum cleaners, or even non-perishable pantry items.

“Create hidden storage nooks with hinged panels. These can be seamlessly integrated into the staircase design and provide discreet storage for smaller items.”

If fitting doors isn’t an option, Karina suggesting hanging curtains or using tension rods for a makeshift partition. "This not only conceals storage items but also adds a touch of style to the space," she adds.

Got extra space under your stairs? This might be the perfect time to make a den under your staircase for your kids. They will love it!

Knowing how to organize kitchen drawers is vital for ensuring you’re able to make the most of the space you have. 

To make the process as seamless as possible, we talked to organization experts who’ve shared their best tips for sorting out kitchen drawer contents, as well as how to keep them ordered going forward.

From how to choose what to get rid of, to the best products to pick to whip your kitchen drawers into order, our experts have covered all bases. 

Here’s how to organize kitchen drawers 

Believe it or not, with the right approach and a little help from our experts, organizing kitchen drawers can be a total cinch, the key being to declutter your kitchen drawers first. 

1. Start by emptying each drawer

According to professional organizer, Amy Bloomer, the first step is to, “Empty out the contents of all drawers”, to help beat small kitchen clutter. 

To make the process easier, it’s worth setting up two boxes (these versatile cotton rope woven small baskets from Amazon come in 10 colors and are versatile for use all over the home), one for items you know you want to keep, and one for items that you need to go through. 

2. Decide what to get rid of

The next step is to think about what to part ways with. 

Professional organizer, Shantae Duckworth advises, “Discard duplicates, broken tools, or items that haven't been used in ages.”

When it comes to choosing what to get rid of, be brave and firm with yourself. Don’t hold onto items you no longer need, as they’ll only leave you needing to declutter your kitchen. 

Make sure to avoid kitchen decluttering mistakes that will hinder, not help sort things out.

3. Categorize your items

For easier organization, it’s worth taking the time to sort items into groups. 

Cleaning expert, Karina Toner says, “Group similar items together, creating categories based on function. This makes it easier to find and maintain order.

Shantae adds, “Categorize the remaining items into groups such as utensils, gadgets, or baking tools, and so on.” 

4. Plan where to put things

Amy says, “After you have created categories and edited all items, create a system for putting things back into place based on where things are most conveniently placed. For example, store forks, knives, spoons, etc. in a drawer near the dishwasher to make it easy to put things away after they are clean.”

We love this expandable bamboo cutlery drawer utensil organizers from Amazon in coral, though it comes in eight other colours. An item like this will make keeping all your cutlery in check easy as pie. 

Shantae says, “Arrange frequently used items towards the front for easy access. Consider the layout of your kitchen and place items strategically based on their frequency of use. 

“Utilize smaller containers (like these compact, non-slip drawer organizers from Amazon) within the drawers for items like rubber bands or clips, preventing them from creating clutter. Labeling can further streamline the organization, making it clear where each item belongs.”

Karina says, “ Place frequently used items in easily accessible locations within the drawers. Reserve top-tier drawers for essentials and daily-use items. Designate drawers for specific purposes, such as a baking drawer or a utensil drawer. This streamlines the organization process.”

5. Implement the right storage solutions

In order to keep your drawers neat and ordered going forward, it pays to add effective storage solutions. 

Amy says, “Use drawer organizers (such as this set of 5 flexible drawer organizers from Walmart will come in handy ), dividers, and grippy drawer liners (like this non-slip drawer liner from Amazon) to help keep items in place.”

Karina suggests, “Utilize adjustable or custom-fit drawer organizers to create dedicated spaces for different items. This prevents overcrowding and maintains a tidy look."

6. Label storage caddies

Karina says, “If using containers or bins, label them to keep your kitchen organized and ensure everyone in the household knows where items belong. This encourages consistency in maintaining the organization.”

You can either opt to buy a roll of labels (like these self-adhesive labels from Amazon) and use a marker pen to write on them, or you can invest in a label maker (like this handheld label maker from Target that comes highly rated by shoppers). 

Now that you’ve organized your drawers, schedule regular maintenance sessions to declutter and re-organize drawers. This prevents the accumulation of unnecessary items and helps keep your home clutter-free. 

Next, tackle how to organize kitchen shelves, before decluttering the pantry.

It's a household space with vital functions but if you're wondering how to declutter a bathroom, chances are, there are too many items and it's all getting under your feet.

Despite being a small room, the bathroom can easily turn into a clutter-filled mess. Take back control with our five-step expert guide, with tips on implementing a clearing system, smart bathroom storage ideas, and being ruthless when sorting.

Whether you’re decluttering a small bathroom or an ensuite our organizing professionals know exactly how to help you reclaim the space. 

Here’s how to declutter a bathroom

The reality is most bathrooms don’t have the luxury of generous square footage, so knowing how to make the most of every inch you have will keep clutter at bay. Our expert organizers have dished plenty of tips on how to organize a small bathroom.

1. Go through everything

A logical starting place when decluttering a bathroom is to sort through it all.

Shantae Duckworth, professional organizer, says, “The first thing I always tell clients is to work through everything in the bathroom first. Take every last item out, throw it in bins, or toss it on a table and go through everything.”

Whether it's a spa-style bathroom or a more luxurious bathroom, chance are it's full of items you have long-since forgotten about so it’s worthwhile emptying every cabinet, drawer and storage basket.

2. Ditch old toiletries and cosmetics

Don’t hold back when you're clearing out. Be ruthless and unforgiving of every item in your cabinets or bathroom vanity. 

Shantae says, “Toss any rubbish, including expired beauty items, out of date medication, or empty shampoo and shower gel bottles."

If putting things in the trash brings a pang of eco-guilt, organizing expert, Amy Bloomer, has a tip. “If the products you no longer want are very old," she says, "they are probably unusable, so empty the contents into the trash, and recycle the containers wherever possible.”

Amy also recommends scouting for near empty shampoos and soaps, old nail polish, or half-empty product samples you’ve collected from hotels and beauty counters and quietly hoarded ever since.

3. Group by type

To make grouping items a little easier, set out a plastic bin for each group type and pop things in as you go. If your bins will be sticking around for the longer term, add labels for continued clarity and ease. 

Shantae says, “Once all garbage and expired items are gone, organize the remaining ones by type: beauty, medicine, hair and so on. Then you can look at the space you have in the bathroom and decide what you can do with it.”

The professional organizer likes to sort items by type in her own home, keeping a drawer for hair items such as brushes and daily hair care, with rubber bands, bobby pins, and clips nestled inside the drawer in a small bin brushes. You can use drawer organizers and dividers too.

Shantae advises thinking outside the box about what needs to stay in your bathroom. She adds, "If you have excess hair items or appliances you only use occasionally, store them in another space. Your bathroom is the place you start your day, so you want it to feel fresh, clean, and stress-free.” 

4. Organize your towels

Keeping hold of your best bathroom towels is surprisingly common. Admittedly, towels can be expensive, so when you buy them you may not want to let them go without a fight, even if they are years old. But holding onto ratty towels won't serve you well. Be brave and chuck them out. 

If it's still hard to let them go, Amy says, “Donate old towels to local animal shelters and zoos instead." We can certainly live with that.

With the remaining towels you display in your bathroom, Shantae warns to be mindful of whether they really need to be there. “Obviously, you will have a hand towel near the sink, but you don't have to store towels in the bathroom. 

“Keep extra ones in the linen closet, a plastic bin under the bed, or on a towel rack. I also take this approach on items for guests; store them in a plastic bin and only take out when needed.”

5. Utilize the storage you have

Most bathrooms have some built-in storage, so make sure you’re utilizing that space. 

Professional organizer, Leslie Kilgour says, “It's really important to maximize vertical storage. Install shelves or cabinets on the walls to store towels, toiletries, and other necessities, keeping the floor clear and creating a more spacious feel.”

6. Put storage solutions in place

Leslie advises installing floating shelves, (such as these chic white and gold floating shelves from Amazon) above the toilet or sink, providing valuable storage without taking up floor space. 

Additionally, consider mounting a tall, narrow cabinet or a set of hooks (for rented spaces these self-adhesive door hooks from Amazon work perfectly) on the door to keep towels, toiletries, and accessories within easy reach. 

Finally, using wall-mounted storage solutions like corner shelves (such as this ladder corner shelf from Wayfair that comes in gray or white) or cabinets can help keep the floor clear and create an illusion of a larger, more organized bathroom.

Leslie adds, “Drawer dividers (such as these wooden drawer dividers from Wayfair), over-the-door hooks, and under-sink caddies (like these handy under sink caddies from Amazon) can work wonders for keeping your small bathroom tidy and efficient."

Drawer dividers in a small bathroom play a vital role in saving time and space. They separate cosmetics, grooming tools, or toiletries, making it easier to locate what you need quickly. 

“By keeping these items neatly organized, you maximize the use of limited drawer space," Leslie says, "prevent clutter, and ensure everything has its designated place.

This efficient system not only saves time during your daily routine but also maintains a sense of order, making the most of your small bathroom's storage potential.”

Professional organizer, Leslie Kilgour says, “In a limited space, such as a bathroom, excess items can quickly lead to chaos. By decluttering, you create room for the essentials and maintain a sense of order.”

For best results, the process should be split into two stages: the actual steps of removing clutter, followed by putting in place adequate bathroom storage ideas and a system to ensure that clutter doesn’t start to build up again. 

Now you're in the sorting mood, give decluttering your small bedroom a whirl.

Whether you’re storing a batch cook and need to know how to organize a small freezer better, or you’re stocking up on supplies and imminently running out of room, our expert guide on sorting it out is jam-packed in all the right ways.

Regardless of how small your freezer is, organizing and maximizing every last inch is doable. We've spoken to a panel of experts who’ve shared their best advice for clearing out your freezer and transforming it into a more ordered space. 

Knowing where to start when organizing a freezer can feel like a mammoth task, but with the right approach, it’ll be a breeze. 

How to organize a small freezer like the pros  

Organizing a freezer and knowing how to freeze food can feel like a challenge, but our cleaning specialists have shared plenty of tips for getting started, from strategically emptying out your freezer, to utilizing storage containers to maximize space. 

1. Empty your freezer

Before you defrost your freezer, move everything out. Cleaning expert, Hashi Mohamed, says, "Begin by emptying all the contents of your freezer onto a clean surface. This step allows you to assess what you have and ensures nothing gets overlooked during organizing.”

If you're worried about frozen food spoiling, add reusable cold packs (this set of two ice blocks from Target would work well) to a cooler (such as this extra large cooler box from Amazon) and place frozen foods inside to ensure they remain at the right temperature. Or, if you've got a fridge freezer, transfer your frozen foods into the fridge to keep them cool. 

2. Check expiration dates

Hashi says, “As you go through the items, check their expiration dates. Discard any items that are past their prime or unidentifiable. Be particularly vigilant with items in the freezer for an extended period."

Any items that haven't been correctly stored or labeled, make sure to toss out. In terms of storing frozen foods, from freezing milk to freezing potatoes, it's crucial to know how long each item can be safely stored for. 

As a rule of thumb, meat and fish can usually be safely frozen and stored for up to two months, dairy can be frozen for up to three months, and vegetables for up to 12 months. Any longer than this and food quality may be impacted or freezer burn (caused by water evaporating from food) may occur. 

3. Group similar items together

Hashi says, “Categorize the remaining items into groups, such as meats, vegetables, frozen fruits, and prepared meals. This step helps you see the quantity of each category and makes it easier to organize.”

Michael Gottron, cleaning expert, suggests, “Consider investing in clear storage bins (we like these sectioned storage bins from Amazon) or for grouping items, making it easier to identify and access contents.” 

"Utilize stackable containers to optimize vertical space, ensuring items are easily visible and accessible. Consider adding shelf dividers to keep things neatly separated."

4. Be smart about labeling

Micheal says, “For added organization, label containers and arrange items by category or meal type." 

By taking the time to identify items (we'd recommend using this handheld label maker from Target to make the process easier), you'll be clear on how long to keep frozen foods for and when it's time for it to go in the trash. 

5. Maximize the space you have

To make the most of the room in your small freezer, avoid wasting precious inches unnecessarily.  

Hashi says, “Arrange items strategically, with smaller items and bags flat to make stacking easier. Use shelves, drawers, or bins to create organization within the freezer.”

You can also decant items from their store-bought packaging and pop into reusable and dishwasher-safe silicone storage bags, reclaiming the space packaging would have wasted (these reusable silicone bags from Amazon would work well). 

Hashi adds, “Make it a habit to review and organize your freezer regularly. Aim to use older items before adding new ones, and periodically defrost your freezer to maintain efficiency.

“Following these steps ensures food items are stored efficiently, and minimize waste. A well-organized freezer saves you time and money by helping you make the most of the food you have on hand.”

Once you know how to organize a small freezer, the task becomes far easier to tackle and keep on top of moving forward, meaning not an inch of space goes to waste. In small spaces in particular, it really does make a difference and add up to better function in your appliance.

Now that you've learnt how to organize a small freezer, you might feel the urge to deep-dive into how to clean a freezer like a pro.

Knowing how to organize corner cabinets will help make fantastic use of that tricky space. Otherwise, these awkwardly shaped spaces can become an unintentional clutter-fest.

If yours has ended up a graveyard of forgotten items, our experts are on hand with game changing tips on the best way to organize your corner cabinets, and reclaim every inch of usable space.

To make organizing your kitchen cabinets a little easier, we’ve spoken to a panel of home organization experts, who’ve shared five easy steps to whip that messy corner cabinet into order. 

 How to organize corner cabinets — 5 quick steps

If you’re going to make the most of corner cabinet space and organize a kitchen, don't neglect the corner cabinets, no matter how tricky or tardis-like they are.

Professional organizer, Leslie Kilgour says, “Organizing corner cabinets can be a game-changer in maximizing storage space and maintaining a clutter-free space.” 

1. Empty the cabinet

That corner cabinet might be tricky to reach, especially if it's tucked away on a lower level, but taking out everything currently hiding in there is essential. 

Leslie says, “Begin by removing all items from the kitchen cabinet, taking note of what's essential and what can be discarded or relocated.”

Set up plastic bins and use one to place items you’re keeping, and another for the bits destined for the trash. You might find it helpful to allocate a temporary spot in your kitchen for anything you'll donate or sell on.

Professional organizer, Shantae Duckworth adds, “I like to have a garbage bag (such as one of these tie-top tall trash bags from Amazon that come with a fresh scent) near me to ditch any garbage or broken items.” 

2. Group like items together

For professional-level organization, move similar things together to allow for better oversight of what you have floating around in the corner cabinet abyss, and to help you spot any duplicates.

Leslie says, “Group similar items together and designate specific areas for different categories, like pots and pans, small appliances, or pantry items.” Steps like this will help to keep your corner cabinets neat and ordered going forward, too. 

For easier organization, use smart storage option, such as these transparent segmented closet bins from Target.

3. Invest in the right tools

Expert organizer, Amy Bloomer advises utilizing organizational tools so items are easier to access and nothing gets lost in the back.

Leslie adds, “Invest in specialized corner cabinet organizers, such as rotating trays (like this four-pack of lazy susan organizing caddies with handles from Amazon) or pull-out shelves (such as these easy-to-fit, no drill slide out shelves from Amazon), to optimize accessibility. 

You can also make use of any vertical space by installing stackable shelves or organizers (such as these stackable kitchen boxes from Target) to make the most of the cabinet's height. Consider clear containers or bins for items like snacks or smaller kitchen tools to enhance visibility. 

4. Label items

Leslie says, “Labeling shelves or containers (using a device such as this handheld label maker from Target) adds an extra layer of organization. Arrange items strategically, placing frequently used items towards the front for easy access. 

5. Be smart about what you store

Shantae says, “Knowing what to store in corner cabinets can be tricky. I have clients who use this space to store wine glasses or nice dishes, cleaning supplies, spices, books or even small appliances.”

Whatever you choose to keep in yours, having your corner cabinet free well organized will make it a key functional space. For more organization advice, our experts have also delved into how to organize your small pantry. Next stop, ahoy!

Leslie says, “Regularly review and declutter the contents to ensure the cabinet stays organized over time. With these steps, a once challenging corner cabinet can become an efficiently organized and accessible space in your kitchen.”

Now that you've organized your cabinets, you might be looking for some kitchen cabinet color inspiration to brighten up the space. 

When tackling an overflowing space, there are some kitchen decluttering mistakes it’s best to avoid. It may seem like an obvious job but you may actually be making the task harder on yourself without knowing it.

To give you a helping hand, our panel of professional organizers reveal all of the most common mistakes to avoid when decluttering your cooking space. So you can make sure you're doing it right the first time, and not have clutter stack back up.

Save yourself the effort and learn how to declutter a kitchen the right way — your kitchen will never look better. 

The kitchen decluttering mistakes to avoid making 

To make the process of organizing a kitchen easier, cleaning expert, Laura Smith says, “Break decluttering into smaller tasks and set realistic goals to avoid overwhelm.”

The good news is you don't have to take on the whole task by yourself. She adds, “Include family members in the process to meet everyone's needs. Not only is this important to lighten your workload, but if the family is involved in the decluttering process, they will be less likely to contribute to clutter in the future.”

1. Failing to do an initial evaluation

Once you start decluttering your kitchen, it’s natural to want to speed ahead. But one mistake you don’t want to make is cracking on before evaluating the depth of the task at hand. 

Laura says it’s important to properly evaluate the space. She says, “Begin by assessing your kitchen space, identifying cluttered areas, and prioritizing based on frequency of use.”

It may help to write out a list of tasks to action, like this kitchen cleaning checklist which helps break down a huge chore into manageable steps.

2. Forgetting to create zones

It's much easier to navigate your kitchen if everything has a place. Laura says, “Divide your kitchen into zones like cooking, baking, and storage to tailor your decluttering efforts. This can be tricky, as people love using their whole kitchen for every task, but the result will always lead to clutter if areas aren't prioritized properly.”

You can divide the space up based on where you store appliances. For example, the section of your countertop with a stand mixer may become the baking station, while your air fryer may be where you cook dinner.

3. Not emptying cabinets, drawers or the pantry

Check every drawer and cabinet to look for things to get rid of. For decluttering success, Laura says, “Empty cabinets, discarding or donating items not in use. Consider shelf organizers (we like these clear plastic kitchen bins from Amazon) for optimal vertical space utilization.” 

“Check food expiration dates (including the dates on spices), group items, and use storage boxes (such as these clear food containers from Target) for visibility. Consider pull-out shelves (we like these sliding drawers from Amazon) for convenience.” 

It can help to organize what you do and don't need. “Empty utensil drawers, sort items, and use dividers (such as these wooden bamboo drawer organizers from Target available in multiple sizes) for orderly placement. Have a designated drawer for silverware, utensils, and miscellaneous items."

Interior designer and home organizing expert, Robin Aebischer, adds “Assess each item's utility and bid farewell to those that no longer serve a purpose.”

4. Failing to clear countertops

Leaving countertops full of every small kitchen appliance you own could make it more difficult to clear up. 

Laura says, “Clear countertops by retaining only essential items. If you have multiple duplicates of utensils, it's time to store them long-term, or donate them.”

Throw your air fryer or small blender into a cabinet to make space on the countertop. You may feel inclined to cook more if you have an open space you can easily utilize. 

Robin adds, “Strip counters of non-essential appliances and decorative trinkets. Embrace a minimalist aesthetic to accentuate the functionality of your kitchen workspace.”

5. Neglecting your fridge and freezer

It’s easy to forget that your fridge and freezer may need decluttering too, as they’re hidden away. Remember to give it a glance and ditch that old frozen casserole or those freezer-burnt popsicles.

Laura says, “Discard expired items, organize shelves by category, and utilize clear bins for grouping. Use a sharpie to mark dates on perishables.”

Luckily it's not too hard to declutter a freezer if you break it down to a few simple steps.

6. Stockpiling under the sink

It may not be the most essential area but don't forget to organize under the kitchen sink to improve function. No one wants to be rummaging through cleaning products, only to be met with an avalanche of items you don't want, or can't use.

Laura says, “Dispose of outdated cleaning products and use bins or trays to organize supplies.”

If you're unsure what to get rid of, ask yourself when was the last time you used each product? If it was over six months ago, it's time to toss. If any of these items are within reach of pets or little ones, double-check their toxicity and keep them locked away. We like these quick and easy 3M adhesive cabinet drawer door latches from SKYLA HOMES, at Amazon.

7. Using the wrong organizing products

You can declutter all you like but if your kitchen has too much stuff, or you don’t have the right products in place to actually organize what’s left, you’re going to struggle to keep your kitchen looking neat and clutter-free. That’s where the right storage solutions come in handy. 

Laura says, “Utilize pull-out shelves to maximize cabinet space and provide easier access. Drawer dividers can also be used to keep utensils and tools organized, while airtight, clear containers work well in the pantry for freshness and visibility.” 

Use doors for extra storage (we like this damage-free mesh wall cabinet door organizer from Wayfair), and group similar items together with baskets or bins for a cohesive visual look.

Robin says, “Elevate your kitchen's organizational prowess with elegant storage solutions. Consider pull-out shelves, rotating trays, and stackable containers to optimize space and ease accessibility.”

Cutting down on the products you're storing in your kitchen not only make it look better, but increases functionality by freeing up surface space. Robin says, “A clutter-free kitchen not only enhances aesthetics but also fosters efficiency and a sense of tranquility.”

So even if you work through your kitchen one area at a time, as long as you manage to effectively declutter the space, the end result will be worth the wait. 

If you’re feeling motivated after learning all about the kitchen decluttering mistakes to avoid, decluttering your home from top to bottom might just hit the spot.

When planning how to declutter a fridge, follow in the footsteps of our professional organizers and breeze through the process in six simple steps.

Our experts share tips to whip your fridge into shape fast, including how best to categorize your items, utilize smart storage caddies, strategic labelling and more.

With the help of our pros, it’ll be easier than ever to organize a fridge. Grab a trash bag and get stuck in. 

Here’s how to declutter a fridge

Organizing a kitchen and making sure your fridge is clutter-free should be at the top of your list if you constantly find yourself struggling to fit your groceries in there. 

Decluttering your fridge will also improve air flow and boost not only the energy efficiency of the appliance, but keep your fresh produce from going bad too quickly. 

1. Empty and assess

First things first. Professional organizer, Leslie Kilgour says, “Empty out your fridge, removing all items and placing them on your kitchen counter. Tackle the door and condiment chaos by prioritizing essentials and discarding expired items.” 

2. Categorize items

Leslie says, “Next, categorize the items into groups like fruits, vegetables, dairy, and condiments. Consider investing in clear storage containers (we like these storage containers from Amazon) for a visually pleasing and organized look. Don't forget to label leftovers to avoid the mystery dish situation.”

As with the fridgescaping trend, for easier organization, cleaning expert, Karina Toner advises allocating zones in your appliance. “Create these for specific categories such as fruits, and vegetables. This makes it easier to locate items and maintain order." 

It also pays know how best to store different food types in your fridge, as well as whether you should wash fruits and vegetables before storing them. 

3. Clean the fridge

Once empty, deep clean your fridge, working from top to bottom, and removing each shelf and drawer to clean inside — don't forget the sides and top.

Wash the removable elements in warm soapy water (we like to use Dawn dish soap from Amazon for this) with a non-abrasive dish cloth (these cotton fruit and stripes dish cloths from Target are pretty and machine-washable). Once cleaned, leave to fully dry, before returning.

For the inside of the fridge, use a mixture of baking soda (we like to recommend this Arm and Hammer baking soda from Target) and lemon juice (which will not only clean but also deodorize the space) mixed with warm water. Once clean, make sure to dry the fridge entirely using paper towels.

4. Use shelves and drawers smartly

Make the most of your fridge’s shelves and drawers, popping items you use most within easy reach. Nobody wants to dig around multiple times a day for the oat milk.

Leslie says, “Arrange your shelves strategically and place frequently used items at eye level for easy access. Consider using drawer dividers for produce organization.”

To avoid wastage, store newer items at the back and older items towards the front to help use everything before they expire.

“Use the fridge door for items with a longer shelf life," Karina adds, "such as condiments and sauces. Door storage is ideal for items that don't require consistent cooling.”

5. Invest in fridge storage

To keep your fridge neat and ordered, getting your hands on the right storage can be helpful. 

Karina says, “Use clear containers (a pack of five airtight food storage boxes with lids from Amazon would work well) for leftovers and pre-prepared ingredients. This enhances visibility and reduces the chances of forgetting items.”

She also advises that labeling (these reusable labels from Amazon are highly rated) is an important step for a more organized space. Karina says, “Label containers and shelves to designate specific areas for different food items.”

You can also note expiration dates or jot down the day you cooked something, so leftovers don't go to waste for lack of information on whether it's still safe to eat.

6. Establish a routine

Now you've nailed the steps for how to declutter your fridge, make sure it stays clutter-free and properly organized in the longer term to avoid the need for another big clearing out session. 

Keeping to a cleaning and decluttering rota will be helpful in maintaining the orderly status moving forward.

Leslie adds, “Maintaining a clutter-free fridge is all about implementing simple yet effective habits. Establish a routine for monthly check-ins to maintain the newfound order.

"These consistent practices will not only keep your fridge clutter-free, but also make it a more functional and enjoyable space in your daily life.”

Now you’ve got your fridge into shape, you might be wondering whether it’s as easy to organize your freezer.

When figuring out how to declutter a small living room, working fast will reduce the stress. And, once you've blasted through this task, your living room will be perfectly neat and ordered and a perfect spot to relax in.

We have eight expert-approved tips to get your compact living room sorted, with our panel of professional organizers diving into decluttering a small living room, including maximizing space, utilizing vertical storage, and making smart furniture choices. 

Thanks to our experienced pro organizers, it’s easier than ever to declutter a living room and make the most of the space you have. 

Here’s how to declutter a small living room

Professional organizer, Shantae Duckworth says, “Living rooms are the eyes and souls of the home. It’s one of the places where the family gets together. 

"It’s the space that allows everyone to wind down from the realities of life. But when the space is cluttered, it doesn’t allow for that peace and tranquility."

Our experts are ready to dive into organizing a living room.

1. Remove any rubbish

Brenda Scott, professional home organizer, says, “Gather and remove all garbage, recycling and dirty dishes. This may seem obvious, but easy clutter should be tackled first because it allows you to see the real clutter in the space.”

To make the task easier, have a trash sack (such as these tie-top black sacks available from Amazon) in hand as you clear, so you can easily toss rubbish in as you being clearing your small living room.

2. Clear all surfaces

As we move in and out of rooms, and are busy living our lives, it's easy for our belonging to clutter up surfaces, especially around your small living room. Remove all belongings from coffee tables, windowsills, fireplaces, or any other surfaces and put them away.

Brenda says, “If surfaces are cluttered with an assortment of many small items, including knick knacks, vases, picture frames, plants, candles, it leaves no room for setting a drink or plate down, or entertaining others. 

“Clearing the space will let you breathe and relax without fretting that something will get knocked over, broken or ruined. It also makes cleaning much easier and takes less time.”

If keeping surfaces neat is a struggle, consider investing in a multipurpose organizer, like this two-tier turntable organizer from Amazon, available in four colorways.

3. Evaluate and prioritize

Before removing items from your small living room, evaluate what’s in there and prioritize what you actually need to keep in the space.

Shantae explains, “You have to envision how you want your living room to function for you and your household. Is the living room going to be a place that doesn’t have any toys or personal projects, or is it gonna be a multi-functional space with zones established for each person using it?”

If you're living alone, that will be easier to suit to your preference, but if sharing the space with a partner, child, relatives or friends, take into account their needs and any communal sub-zones, and what is getting in the way of allowing space for all.

Brenda says, “Too many pillows and throws crowd seating and leave no room to sit. What's the point of having a couch where you have to remove pillows and blankets if someone wants to sit down to enjoy your company? They end up on the floor, and become a trip hazard. One simple throw over the arm or back of a chair, and two corner pillows should suffice for decor.”

If you find yourself with excess throws or cushions that you need to store, using these vacuum storage bags such as this 20-pack of assorted sizes from Amazon could offer a smart and damage-free space-saving solution.

4. Decide what to ditch

Choosing what to get rid of when decluttering can be hard. Make the process easier, cleaning expert Karina Toner recommends using the Marie Kondo Method. Karina says, “Apply the KonMari method by asking if each item "sparks joy". If not, consider parting with it.”

She also recommends thinking about frequency of use, adding ,“Keep items you use regularly and consider donating or discarding items that hold no purpose or sentimental value.”

5. Categorize items

Karina says, “Categorize belongings into groups such as keep, donate, or discard. This helps streamline the decluttering process.” To make it easier to keep things ordered, consider using storage crates (such as these stackable plastic storage boxes with lids from Amazon) for each pile."

Shantae advises to build on the zones, creating ones for all the items you wish to keep in your small living room. She says, "If you have small kids with an excess amount of toys, determine which ones you want to keep in the living room and create a particular zone the whole family knows the children’s toys are to be stored."

If your living room is where you keep your mail, have a specific spot and dedicated storage box (a rustic wood mail caddy box such as this one from Amazon would work nicely. For the lovers of throw blankets, use a storage ottoman (we love the seven color options on the Langley Street Upholstered Ottoman from Wayfair, or dedicate a space, even if its a corner, or under-sofa space to neatly fold them away at the end of the day.

For life clutter that accumulates through the day or week, pop a dedicated basket in the doorway so you have somewhere to toss any items that don’t belong in your small living room, ready to be put back in their rightful place when you have time (or it's full). Adorable Olli Ella Dollhouse handwoven rattan baskets from Anthropologie come in three colors and are a fun, playful take on storage all can enjoy.

6. Maximize vertical space

If there’s one area where space isn’t often limited, it’s the vertical planes of your home.

Karina says, “Use wall-mounted shelves or floating cabinets to maximize vertical space, keeping the floor clear and creating a sense of openness.”

For rental properties, vertical storage space can be enjoyed with the use of no-drill floating shelves (we like these peel and stick shelves from Amazonwhich hold up to 8 lbs) or by placing freestanding vertical storage units against the wall. 

7. Be smart about storage

Karina says, “Utilize the space under sofas for discreet storage (this woven storage basket from Pottery Barn would fit well under a high rise couch) using low-profile containers or baskets to keep items organized."

Don't forget to check Facebook Marketplace and other low-cost or free second hand online spaces for cheap items, and to avoid buying new if not necessary.

Save your money for the bigger storage solutions worth spending on. “Invest in multi-functional storage furniture and tables to optimize space," Karina adds. "For example, a storage ottoman can serve as both a seat and storage space. 

"Use nested tables (such as this modern circular Kate and Laurel Ulani metal nesting table set of two from Amazon that can be stacked when not in use, providing flexibility and saving space.”

Coffee tables with lift up tops (the Sauder Palladia lift-top coffee table from Target is lovely in the vintage oak finish), or drawers and shelving and other multipurpose furniture with built-in storage are a smart move for decluttering small living rooms.

“Side tables with drawers and shelving are better than a standard four-legged table because of the same reason," says, Brenda. "Hiding things out of sight is a great way to have a clutter free living room. You might not have less stuff but you don't have to see it."

8. Take visual appeal into account

A key aspect of decluttering your home is taking the visual aesthetic into account. 

Karina explains, “Opt for minimalist decor to create a visually uncluttered space. Choose a few statement pieces rather than overwhelming the room with numerous decorations.”

To reduce visual clutter gather all toys, books, remotes into a basket or drawer, container, basket or bin, Knowing where an item's home is can reduce down things being left out randomly.

Shantae adds, “Baskets are a great decorative piece that also acts as a barrier for visual clutter. It’s also a great way to involve your kids with keeping up with the living room, because they know they can just put things in a designated basket. It also makes tidying the living room a quick process.”

Neat and ordered living spaces create joy, so even if you focus on just one area of your living room at a time, the outcome will be a positive one. If, after decluttering a small living room, you’re wondering how else you can enhance the space, delve into the things interior designers never have in small living rooms. 

It's very easy to make small entryway storage mistakes, but when you haven't got a lot of space, you can't afford to be waste an inch of it. Even just a couple of bloopers can clutter the space and make it feel overwhelming.

There's no need to stress, though. We've got the lowdown from interior designers on mistakes they often see in small homes. From a lack of personalization to shoehorning in larger pieces than a space can take, our pros have seen — and solved — plenty. 

When searching for small entryway ideas, getting your storage game on point is smart. Keep these in mind, nip any small entryway mistakes in the bud and your place is sure to look more stylish. 

Small entryway storage mistakes

When choosing the best small entryway storage idea for your space, it's handy to have the hard-no list on the go, too. 

As well as asking experts what not to do, we've gathered professional solutions and brilliant buys to match.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article. 

1. Forcing in larger furniture

This is a message for all those who have fallen in love with a piece of furniture at the store and found it doesn’t fit properly. Don’t try and force something that’s not meant to be, people.

“The biggest mistake you can make in any small space is trying to force larger pieces to fit where they don't make sense,” says Kathy Kuo, interior designer and CEO of Kathy Kuo Home.

She adds, “There's no one way to design a particular space, but going smaller, or choosing minimalist entryway design tends to work.”

For example, Kathy says if you don’t have enough room in your small entryway for a full console table, you can use a narrow one, a smaller side table, or even a nightstand instead.

2. Underestimating vertical space

You may have placed a couple of hooks on your walls and called it a day in terms of small entryway storage — but utilizing vertical space is a top trick for making a small entryway appear bigger.

“One of the most frequent mistakes I see is underestimating the benefit of using vertical space,” says Artem Kropovinsky, interior designer and founder of Arsight.

He says, “Use walls hooks, shelves, and slimline storage units to make the most out of available space without making everything look crowded at floor level.”

Using a combination of these will allow for plenty of space for all your different-sized items.

“These can efficiently contain wearable accessories like hats and scarves and even serve as a display for decorative pieces like indoor plants,” says Ricky Allen, interior designer and director of Ever Wallpaper.

By having your outerwear and accessories all in one place, you won’t lose track of your favorite pieces, making the journey out of the front door a lot smoother.

3. Not personalizing for your needs

Whether you’ve gone overboard with storage solutions or haven’t got enough, not considering what you, or the people you live with actually need for entryway storage is a mistake.

“Considering the needs of your household when choosing storage options is crucial,” says Ricky.

He continues, “For instance, families with young children may find storage ottomans more useful, as they can house bulky items which may be over spilling in individual storage boxes.”

Equally, if you’re only living with your partner and have a huge storage unit, you may want to whittle this down to just a small basket each.

4. Using standalone benches as storage

We’re big fans of small entryway benches as they provide a useful place for sitting down and tying shoes before leaving — but if you’re using yours as a dum ping ground, this is a big no-no.

“The bench at the front door often ends up being a place to put coats, bags, and other things,” says Tommy Mello, home improvement expert and founder of A1 Garage Door Service.

He explains, “This not only throws off the space's visual balance but also makes it harder for the bench to do its main job, which is to provide a convenient place to sit.”

Instead, going for a bench with built-in storage is a better solution, as you can store everything inside this and reduce visual clutter. This is a win-win in our books.

5. Choosing open woven baskets

While woven baskets may seem like a great  entryway organization fix, they can become part of the problem if you use them indiscriminately.

Tommy explains, “They can become cluttered and give a disorganized look, which may leave a chaotic impression on you and your guests. Instead, look for concealed storage or baskets with lids, as these will allow you to store all your necessary items without a messy finish.”

If you have some woven ones left over, you could always repurpose them as living room blanket baskets, as they’ll look much chicer like this.

The key to solving the storage mistakes in your hallway is making sure clutter is off the floor and as out of sight as possible. Having mess is one thing minimalists never have in small entryways, and their homes look so much better for it.

We get it — figuring out how to organize a small pantry that’s overflowing with stuff is rather tedious. But, taking the time to neaten up the space is definitely better than spending hours searching for ingredients every time you cook. 

If you’re going to make the most of your pantry, it really does pay to be organized. Avoid tearing your small pantry apart trying to locate one item by getting it properly ordered with our six savvy expert tips.

Organizing a pantry isn’t just about finding cute storage solutions but knowing which methods to use, and how to layout the space you have, so let’s get the basics squared away. 

Here’s how to organize a small pantry  

If you're going to keep your small kitchen organized, take the time to give your small pantry a clear out and ensure you're making the most of your space, regardless of how compact it may be. 

1. Empty the entire pantry

The first step to organizing a small pantry is to focus on having a good clear out. Professional organizer, Amy Bloomer says, “Empty the entire space of all contents and be sure to throw out any expired food."

This step not only allows the space needed for a deep-clean later, but provides a good opportunity to figure out if you're current setup is fit for purpose. 

Cleaning expert, Karina Toner says, "Assess the condition of your shelves, inspect for signs of pests, and address any maintenance needs before restocking.”

2. Do a thorough clean

Once the pantry is empty, give it a good clean, working from top to bottom. 

Amy says, “Clean out the pantry space before putting anything back using a vacuum (such as this powerful Miele vacuum from Amazon) for crumbs, solid wastes and wipe down shelving and floors with a cleaning solution (we like this Clorox multi-purpose cleaning spray from Amazon) to remove dust and sanitize.”

3. Decide what stays

Admittedly, choosing what to keep and what to get rid of can be tough. Karina advises, “Conduct a thorough assessment of each item's usability and relevance. In addition to discarding expired items, evaluate the frequency of use and personal preferences. 

"Consider donating unopened, non-expired items that may benefit others, aligning with sustainable and charitable practices.”

4. Nail the layout

Knowing how to layout your small pantry to maximize the storage space it offers is crucial.

Karina says, “Be strategic. Consider the ergonomic aspects of pantry usage, keeping frequently used items at eye level, heavier items on lower shelves, and seasonal or less-used items on higher shelves. This thoughtfulness enhances accessibility and user experience.”

5. Create zones

A great way to keep a small pantry neat and ordered is by creating zones. Amy explains, “Do this with categories of food, storing sauces together, condiments together, individually wrapped snacks together and so on.”

Karina advises specific activity-based zones, too. "Designate a baking zone, a snack zone, and a meal preparation zone," she says. "This approach fosters a highly organized and specialized pantry."

You can also boost aesthetics and functionality of your zones with a collection of clear containers (such as these air-tight food storage containers from Target). Delve into various shapes and sizes to accommodate your range of food staples. 

“Optimize every inch of available space by incorporating adjustable shelving (like these adjustable pantry shelves from Amazon)," adds Karina. "This versatile solution accommodates the mixed nature of pantry items. From the tallest cereal boxes to the smallest spice jars, the ability to adapt shelf heights ensures efficient use of vertical space.”

6. Keep items within reach

If there's one thing that's going to make a mess, it's attempting to find items you use regularly, that are currently buried in the back, or underneath other pantry stock.

To combat this issue, Amy says, “Items that are most frequently accessed should be most easily accessible.”

You can embrace a one-in, one-out system, keeping a close eye on expiration dates and placing older products at the front. Karina adds, "This proactive approach minimizes food waste, ensures optimal product use, and aligns with sustainability practices.”

To help others in the household use your pantry effectively without creating mess, Amy says, “Label, label, label, to make it easy for all family members to maintain the organizational system.”  

To ensure your pantry remains a valuable tool in your mix of kitchen storage ideas over the longer term, it's essential to put these expert organization strategies in place.

And, when your small pantry organization is complete, learn how to organize kitchen shelves to stop their mess being siphoned off elsewhere.

It might seem like a straightforward task, but living room decluttering mistakes can slow you down. Naturally, you want a space that’s neat, but if you can’t seem to nail it and your living space feels more cluttered than ever, our experts are on hand.

Living rooms are often one of the most used spaces in our homes, and as a result, end up quickly becoming cluttered. We spoke to professional organizers, who've revealed common decluttering mistakes, including tackling a whole room all at once, hanging on to items for too long, and more great insight.

If decluttering your living room has you in a tizzy, our panel of experts have shared nine top decluttering mistakes to avoid. 

Living room decluttering mistakes to avoid making  

The process of decluttering your home, regardless of the area you’re focusing on, can feel like a lot to tackle, leaving us prone to putting it off. But, as our experts tell us, with the right strategies in place, decluttering your living room can be both quick and easy.  

1. Tackling the whole room

Professional organizer, Leslie Kilgour says, “One common mistake is attempting to tackle the entire room at once.”

If you pull everything out in one go, in order to take stock of what you have to sort through, having the space overloaded with items makes the decluttering process harder to manage. 

Leslie advises, “Instead, break the decluttering process into smaller, manageable tasks, focusing on one area or category at a time. Another misstep is not having a clear plan before starting. Take a moment to assess your goals and envision the desired outcome for your living space."

2. Hoarding unnecessary items

Look, we get it. There are items it can be hard to even think about getting rid of. But hoarding isn’t the answer. Leslie says, “Avoid the temptation to hold onto items for sentimental reasons alone; strike a balance between sentimentality and practicality by keeping items that truly enhance your living environment.”

Professional organizer, Amy Bloomer pinpoints old DVDs, CDs, and books as items that are commonly hoarded. She says, “Donate these to a secondhand store or music reseller for reuse. You may also mail your media to a company like the CD Recycling Center of America or GreenDisk.”

In terms of book hoarding, Amy says it’s best to only keep your favorites, donating any others. A great alternative to keeping hold of physical books you may want to reread is to treat yourself to a digital book device (the glare-free paper-like display of the Amazon Kindle makes it a regular buyer hit, and store your books digitally, saving space.

Cleaning expert, Karina Toner adds, “The temptation to accumulate unnecessary items is a challenge to resist. Regular assessments and purges of decor and furnishings ensure the living room stays fresh and aligns with its evolving aesthetic.” 

3. Buying organizational items before you’ve decluttered

Picking out stylish storage solutions for your living room can be fun but don’t rush to buy storage before you declutter.  

Leslie says, “Resist the urge to buy organizational products before decluttering. It's more effective to understand your needs first, and then invest in storage solutions that cater to those specific requirements.”

4. Forgetting to clear tables

Amy says, “Do not let coffee table clutter accumulate, such as old mail, magazines, and so on. Paper clutter is incredibly invasive and builds up very quickly.  

“I encourage my clients to deposit all catalogs and junk mail into a recycling bin before entering their homes. Place magazines where you will read them and commit to recycling them immediately after doing so. If there is any information that you want to save, take a picture of it and move on.”

Cleaning expert, Karina pinpoints the surfaces of a living room are often multi-functional, serving as focal points in the space. She says, "Overcrowding these areas can make the room feel chaotic. A mindful selection of meaningful items, arranged with intention, ensures a curated appearance without overwhelming the space.”

5. Keeping old blankets and pillows

Unless they’re getting used, there’s no point holding onto worn-out blankets and pillows, as all they’re doing is clogging up valuable space. 

Amy says, “Bring old blankets and pillows to your local animal shelter or zoo and donate them.”

Once you've chucked out your old ones, treat yourself to a new throw or two for your living room. 

6. Holding onto broken items

We all have items we hold onto because we plan on fixing them at one point or another. But it’s important to know at what point it’s time to let the item go. 

Unless you’ve actually started fixing the item, Amy says, “With the exception of sentimental items, donate broken things and let someone else take the time to mend them.”

You might think that once fixed, the items you're holding onto will serve as an easy upgrade for a small living room, but if you've been kept them for more than a month, it's time to say goodbye. 

7. Failing to house items that belong elsewhere

According to Amy, it’s vital to redistribute items that belong elsewhere in the home. She explains, “A well-placed bin can help to contain items so they don’t take over. For example, I encourage clients to keep a basket (like this woven storage basket from Amazon) at the bottom of their stairs. This becomes the “catch-all” for things that have migrated downstairs or are out of place."

Amy suggests making it part of your routine to return your items to their intended home. She adds, "Once a day, preferably in the evening, make it a habit to put back everything you’ve accumulated in the basket. It won’t take long and it will help to maintain clear, calm spaces before retiring for the night.”

8. Overlooking functionality

Karina says, “A common decluttering pitfall is neglecting the functionality of each item. While aesthetics are crucial, it's equally essential to ensure each piece contributes to the usability of the space. This involves a thoughtful curation that merges style with practicality."

When buying new items for your living room, consider doubling up on their function, carefully selecting furniture to store clutter for instance. Try an ottoman stool to provide guest seating and a handy place to stash blankets or magazines. We like the Everly Quinn round velvet storage ottoman from Wayfair for the great space underneath and four colorways.

Karina says investing in furniture that serves multiple purposes is a savvy strategy. Alongside ottomans, consider tables with built-in shelves. The WLIVE wood lift-top coffee table on Amazon has ample storage, is budget-friendly and rated highly by shoppers.

Karina adds, “Each item's functionality should undergo a careful assessment. If it doesn't contribute to the room's purpose or your comfort, it may be time to let it go. This ensures every item serves a meaningful role in the living space.

“Striving for aesthetic harmony involves choosing items that complement each other in terms of color, style, and texture. This meticulous approach creates a cohesive and visually pleasing living room that reflects a well-thought-out design.”

9. Failing to maintain clutter

Leslie says, “Overlooking the maintenance aspect can lead to a rebound of clutter. Establish routines and habits to keep your living room organized after decluttering, ensuring a long-lasting, serene space.”

Consider popping a repeating reminder in your calendar at a cadence that suits you, as a smart way to build this into your life around other responsibilities.

Now that you're aware of living room decluttering mistakes, you’ll want to keep on top of the mess to stop it creeping back. We've delved into the warning signs when it’s time to declutter your home. 

You may think small entryway coat storage ideas can't be done, but we're here to tell you they can. Even in this tiny space, you can still hang up all your favorite jackets, making it a breeze to get out the door in style.

We've spoken with interior designers who are brilliant at space-saving solutions to find out how they keep coats in an accessible place in entryways, while at the same time not cluttering it up. 

If you're looking through small entryway ideas and can't envision how all your jackets are going to fit in yours, we've got you covered like your favorite fluffy fleece.

Small entryway coat storage ideas

With the right tips and tricks, small entryway storage doesn't have to be a squash and a squeeze. We've also rounded up some helpful buys to help you get going with our expert's advice as soon as possible.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article. 

1. Use wall hooks

For those who are dealing with a teeny tiny space (we relate), you probably don’t have a lot of floor space. This is why you’ve got to look up, instead of down.

“Using vertical space is especially useful for those with narrow entryways,” explains Artem Kropovinsky, interior designer and founder of Arsight.

He continues, “Outerwear can be stored on wall-mounted hooks or a tall coat rack.”

You can also use these to elevate your entryway style — in a little space like this, every finishing touch counts.

“If you can find ones with eye-catching details, all the better. You can also try storing your off-season coats elsewhere in your home if you can,” adds Kathy Kuo, interior designer and CEO of Kathy Kuo Home.

For every season change, it’s worth decluttering your entryway by taking stock of the coats you have in it and seeing if you need them or not.

2. Hang up a pegboard or statement wall piece

We love pegboard ideas, as they’re so versatile and can store a lot in a small amount of space. 

“A great idea to make use of wall space is installing a pegboard or statement wall piece, which allows for customizable storage options you can move around,” says Ricky Allen, interior designer and director of Ever Wallpaper.

He continues, “These add an interesting design element to your entryway, while also being very functional.”

As well as placing coats on these, you can also put keys, umbrellas, hats and anything else you may need to grab on your way out. This way, everything will be in one place, saving you from a last-minute dash for essentials.

3. Bring in an entryway bench

Choosing furniture with multiple purposes is always useful when decorating a small entryway.

“I like to place an entryway bench with storage below coat hooks and shelves,” says Ricky. “This not only provides seating while putting on shoes but also helps maximize the limited space in a small entryway and keep it organized and clutter-free.”

Ricky suggests choosing a bench with a cushion or cover to complement the overall design of your entryway. 

You could even fold up coats you aren’t using in these, so you can easily get them if the weather takes an unexpected turn — it’s prone to doing this, after all.

4. Decorate with over-the-door organizers

Whether you’re living in a house or a cozy apartment, chances are you have a door in your entryway opening up into another room.

Artem explains: “You can utilize the rear side of this door by placing a hanging over-the-door-organizer or thin hooks, for a smart way to store light jackets and accessories.”

It’s not just coats you can use this trick for — you can even store hats in your small entryway with it. With an organizer with pockets, you could even hang shoes this way, too.

5. Combine with a console table

The art of small entryway coat storage isn’t just in how it’s placed, but what is positioned alongside it.

Artem says, “When placing coat storage solutions, I always try and combine these with a lower shelf console table to add extra sparkle to the space. This offers a designated place for decorative details, while the lower shelf acts as extra storage.”

For example, if you’ve hung up your coats, you could place a console table on the opposite side of the entryway, so it’s quick for you to turn and pick up whatever you need.

The key to clever coat storage in hallways is picking solutions with strength and style. Coats can be cumbersome, but you can blend them into your entryway decor by being mindful of these two aspects.

Now you've sorted your jackets, you might want to sort out your heels and boots. These small entryway shoe storage ideas are perfect for slipping into your space.

It's time to figure out how to declutter a freezer when you struggle to find what you're looking for in there, or can't close the door. 

One minute your freezer is empty, and the next, each drawer and shelf is overflowing with frozen food. No worries though — our expert declutters have stepped in with six steps to tackle the tundra in your kitchen.

To give you a helping hand dealing, our professionals know exactly how to get an overflowing appliance decluttered, a key task when organizing a small kitchen. 

How to declutter a freezer like a pro

When organizing a freezer, professional declutterer Shantae Duckworth says, “Clearing out your appliance is an essential part of keeping your kitchen in great working order, and it can help you save money by allowing for bulk food shopping and freezing."

1. Prepare for the task

When dealing with any small kitchens that have too much stuff, preparation before the task will serve you well.

Prepping the area and gathering the items you need will stop ice from your freezer melting over the floor, and prevent your frozen food from unwittingly defrosting and going to waste. 

Shantae says, “Start by gathering necessary supplies such as a cooler (an insulated portable cooler from Amazon would work well) with smart tools to keep things cold (these non-toxic slimline ice packs from Amazon are highly-rated), garbage bags, and cleaning materials.”

You might also consider old towels or rags for any unexpected spills, gloves to keep you hands warm while shifting lots of frozen foods, and boxes to group similar items into.

2. Empty your freezer

Organizing expert, Kelleigh Beckett says, “Switch off your freezer and take everything out. You'll want to be speedy here to keep your food from thawing.” 

Place frozen food into your pre-prepared cooler with ice packs to keep things cold while doing the rest. If your freezer has lots of ice built up, place a tray or bowl under the freezer and use a pallet knife to gently chisel it off. That old towel will come in handy to catch any additional drips. 

3. Group frozen items

For easy grouping, Shantae says, “Lay items on a clean surface, categorizing them as you go. This provides a clear view of what you have and makes it easier to decide what to keep.”

On deciding which bits to throw away, she adds, “Go through each item and check for expiration dates. Discard anything past its prime or with signs of freezer burn. This step ensures you only keep items that is safe and enjoyable to consume.” 

For ease when searching for things later, opt for color coding your freezer items categories y with bright stickers (removable freezer label from Amazon work well) or a label maker (like this handheld label maker from Target) for more specific information inclusion. 

4. Clean the freezer

Step four of how to declutter a freezer is giving the appliance a thorough clean.

When cleaning a freezer, Shantae says, “Wipe down shelves, clean spills, and ensure everything is in good condition before placing items back in.” This be checking shelves are secure and drawers moving freely on their runners.

For easy cleaning, Kelleigh says, “Just mix a little warm water with some dish soap (we recommend Dawn dish soap from Amazon ) or a dash of baking soda (we like Arm & Hammer baking soda from Amazon). No need for any commercial cleaners or harsh chemicals.”

Don't forget to clean removable shelves and drawers separately, allowing them to first come to room temperature before washing to avoid cracking.

Kelleigh stresses the importance of drying it off really well. “You don’t want any water hanging around when you turn the freezer back on," she says, "or you'll end up with an unwanted mini ice age in there.”

As a finishing touch, place an open box of baking soda or a natural deodorizer to absorb any lingering odors.

5. Invest in organization tools

Now your freezer is clean and clear of clutter, the next step is deciding how you’re going to organize the space going forward. 

To make storing food easier, Shantae says, “Optimize your freezer space with stackable containers (like these plastic containers from Target highly rated by shoppers). Invest in clear bins or baskets to easily group similar items. This not only makes it easy to locate what you need but also prevents items from getting lost in the depths of your freezer. 

“Label each container for quick identification and consider using different colors for various categories. The stackable design maximizes vertical space, creating a neat and accessible storage solution.”

For making it easier to know where each category of item is stored, Shantae advises designating specific areas to categories such as meat, vegetables, and frozen meals. This way, you'll always know where to go for your items, and makes putting groceries away more efficient. “

6. Keep your freezer clutter-free

Once you’ve decluttered your freezer, the last thing that you want is for it to get in a mess again, so knowing how to keep it free of clutter going forward is important. 

To keep an eye on frozen goods, Shantae says, “Create a list of items and their expiration dates, attaching it to the freezer door or a nearby surface. This not only helps you keep track of what you have, but also prevents overbuying or forgetting about items buried the back. 

“Update the list regularly and use it as a quick reference when planning meals. By maintaining an inventory, you'll reduce food waste, save time, and keep a well-organized freezer at all times.”

Amy Bloomer, professional organizer, adds, “Declutter your freezer at the beginning of each season and after major food-centric holidays and celebrations. This keeps space available and ready to receive the tastes of the new season.” 

When it comes to decluttering your freezer and keeping it clutter-free, Kelleigh says, “Remember, the secret to a freezer that serves you well is keeping up with it. A little regular maintenance goes a long way in managing space and making sure your food stays good and tasty.”

Now that you’ve decluttered and cleaned your freezer, keep going and move onto cleaning your fridge next. 

It's time to work out how to declutter a pantry when your shelves are overflowing, making this space more a hindrance, than help.

With pantries often being shut away behind a door, the clutter can quietly creep up on us. Our expert organizers have come to the rescue, revealing eight tips to get things back in order. 

To help you declutter a pantry well, and keep it neatly squared away, we’ve spoken to a panel of pros for their help in organizing a small kitchen. 

Here’s how to declutter a pantry 

Organizing a pantry can be a far easier job than you might think — with the right approach, that is. Our experts, who declutter and clean homes for a living have shared brilliant tips to help you nail this task.

1. Remove the clutter

When organizing a small kitchen with too much stuff, clearing out the area you're working on should be your first step so you can take stock of all you have there.

Cleaning expert, Karina Toner says empty all of your pantry shelving whether they are used to store plates in your small kitchen, or full of dried goods.

She says, “Start with systematic emptying of every nook and cranny in the pantry. This approach not only reveals the full scope of your inventory, but allows sets the stage for a revitalized space.”

Consider the functionality and sentimental value of any item. Be brave and consign anything needed to the trash, for recycling or donation, as applicable.

2. Get rid of expired items

Don’t make the mistake of holding onto expired items. Karina advises, “Transform your pantry into a haven of freshness by meticulously checking expiration dates. Discard expired items, keeping only products at the peak of their shelf life, to promote safety and quality.”

Amy Bloomer, professional organizer and founder of Let Your Space Bloom, believes removing expired spices is important. She says, "They are often solidified and unusable. Throw the contents in the trash and recycle the containers.” 

3. Group similar items together

For easier organization, Amy advises grouping similar items together, and removing any cardboard packaging for easier access.

She explains, "Items most frequently used and accessed should be stored in opaque containers (such as these clear food storage cannisters from Wayfair) so one can “throw and go”, as well as reduce time putting away groceries.”

You can also boost your decluttering process by categorizing items at a micro-level. For instance cluster similar ingredients like flours, sugars, and extracts. Karina adds, "This nuanced categorization streamlines the organization and retrieval of items.”

4. Reduce plastic containers

These often end up in pieces, or mixed up. Amy advises, “Recycle any lidded containers without matching tops, and edit your collection to include only those that are actually used.”

A versatile and longer-lasting alternative to plastic food storage are glass ones (such as this highly rated set of glass containers from Target). 

You can also recycle rogue please lids where possible and stock up on reusable adaptable stretchy silicone lids from Amazon that can be stretched to fit across wide range of food storage container sizes and shapes.

5. Get rid of non-essentials

To keep your pantry clear and clutter-free going forward, Karina says, “Embrace a minimalist ethos by distinguishing the essential from the non-essential. Consider your culinary ventures, lifestyle, and dietary preferences to curate a pantry that mirrors your needs.”

Doing so will free up space and give you the room you might need to explore new cooking or baking ideas.

6. Recycle broken appliances

It's easy to toss broken appliances into the back of the pantry (out of sight, out of mind, and all that). However, Amy advises taking the time to get dispose of them safely, rather than allowing them to nab crucial pantry storage inches. 

While it’s fine to store appliances in working order in the pantry, it’s best to remove any damaged or faulty ones. Amy says, “Find a local Best Buy, and drop them off as they recycle most appliances for free.” 

7. Clean the pantry inside and out

Now you've organized your pantry items, it's time to clean things. From the floors to the shelves, every inch of your pantry should be spotless before you start adding items back in.

If the shelves have dust and other debris on them, use a handheld mini vacuum cleaner rather than sending the dust flying into the air only to resettle minutes later.

Karina says, “Elevate the cleansing ritual by utilizing specialized cleaning solutions (this Lysol all-purpose cleaner from Amazon should do the trick) to rid shelves of accumulated grime and residues," she says. "This extra step not only enhances cleanliness but also gives a renewed vibrancy to your pantry.”

Once you’ve cleaned the shelves,  remove any other dust or dirt from the areas surrounding around the pantry, followed by vacuuming (this Miele vacuum from Amazon is known for its suction power) and mopping the floor (this Bissell Power steam mop from Target is highly-rated by thousands of users for its effectiveness). 

8. Use organizing tools

To make the most of the space you have, use smart storage and organization tools.

Amy says, “Lazy Susans (like these storage turntables from Amazon) are one of the most fun and functional tools for keeping spaces organized. Acrylic ones (such as a 9-inch two-tiered turntable from Amazon) are an especially helpful visual clue to restock when needed.

“Use clear jars or containers to store flours, pasta, sugars, seeds, and cereals. This storage strategy helps to prevent spoilage and helping you keep tabs on what items are running low. Use long acrylic bins (like these handy storage bins from Amazon) to turn deep pantry spaces into drawers."

Karina advises unleashing the full potential of your vertical space with stackable containers (like these clear stackable containers with lids from Amazon). "Imbue this strategy with a touch of creativity, assigning specific containers to diverse pantry categories for a visually appealing arrangement."

She also recommends incorporating a labeling system (this highly-rated mini label maker with QWERTY keyboard from Amazon would do the trick) and including helpful information such as purchase dates, suggested usage, or pairing suggestions

FAQs

How do I stop clutter building up again?

Karina recommends doing regular clutter checks. She says, “Work a routine of pantry inspections into your schedule. Regular assessments will help identify and address potential clutter triggers."

A word of warning for those partial to a good deal. Karina says, “Exercise restraint during sales or promotions to avoid excessive stockpiling. Balance the thrill of a good deal with the commitment to a clutter-free and purposeful pantry.”

Having a delightfully clutter-free pantry will help you save money and reduce waste. Organized spaces are better for your wallet, and the environment.

To continue your clearing-out journey, our experts have delved into how to declutter kitchen cabinets and how to declutter your kitchen drawers. You'll hit the decluttering trifecta in no time.

When tackling how to declutter kitchen cabinets, doing it quickly will ease the strain of this mammoth task. The good news is, once it's done, your space will be blissfully organized.

We have plenty of expert tricks to get yours sorted sharpish, with our panel of professional organizers revealing their industry tips, including utilizing label makers, grabbing great storage and being ruthless in your trashing of dud items.

With our experienced pros it's easier than ever to declutter a kitchen. Grab a trash bag and a box for donations, and let's get cracking.

How to declutter kitchen cabinets

Organizing a small kitchen and getting your cabinets spick and span shoots to the top of the priority list when you're staring down a tsunami of tupperware everytime you open a door. Instead, bask in organized bliss with our six expert-approved steps to declutter your cabinets.

1. Tackle one cabinet at a time

The first step for decluttering kitchen cabinets is to swerve the mistake of attempting to sort everything all at once.

Kelleigh Beckett, organization expert, says, “Tackle one cabinet at a time to keep you from feeling swamped. Empty one, clean it well, and decide what goes back.”

For any items stored in the wrong place for a while, set them aside neatly (we like using the woven storage baskets available in five colors from Amazon)) until you’re working on the right home for it.

2. Decide what to get rid of

Figuring out what to get rid of may not come easy to all, especially if you're concerned about needing it in the not-too-distant future, or feel guilty throwing away the money you spent on the item creep in.

Certified professional organizer Jean Prominski says, “If people don’t use something for over a year, it doesn’t automatically mean it should go. It may just mean you need a better organizational system so it’s easier to access. 

"Or it might be a needed nudge to invite some friends over for a dinner party and use that beautiful serving ware. Tap into your intuition to see what you really need to keep, and what can be decluttered.”

Kalleigh advises checking for duplicates, and ask yourself if you really need those three whisks and five ladles. "Be brave," she adds, "and say goodbye to things that unnecessarily take up space."

3. Invest in the right storage solutions

The right kitchen storage solutions are vital when decluttering your kitchen cabinets and keeping them organized.

Kelleigh advises, “Use organizers (we like handy clear bins from Target) or pull-out racks (such as these two-tier trays from Amazon) to double your space."

Drawer dividers are great for keeping small items where they should be, whilst see-through baskets (such as these clear all-purpose storage bins from Target) are a functional and budget-friendly investment . 

Don't forget to make use of vertical space in your cabinets with matching and truly stackable storage containers from retailers like Amazon. Not only do they look great, but are perfect for getting dry foods such as and pasta, cereals, and other dried goods, neat and ordered, without losing any vital inches to mismatched containers.

4. Use labels

If you’re going to keep your newly decluttered kitchen cabinets organized, using a label maker (such as this portable Bluetooth label maker from Amazon) to mark what's in your different storage containers is worthwhile.

Jean says, “Use labels to help you remember where things go." They will also hopefully prevents others in the household putting things back in the wrong places, causing clutter to creep back in.

If you find tasks like this overwhelming or tedious, Kalleigh says, “Set a timer and pend just 30-45 minutes at a time decluttering. This keeps you focused and prevents burnout.” 

5. Clean your cabinets

It wouldn't really be a fresh start when decluttering kitchen cabinets, if you didn't give the empty shelves a good clean. 

With elbow-grease at the ready, ese a multipurpose cleaning wipe (such the Amazon Basics cleaning wipes) or a microfiber cloth and antibacterial cleaning spray (we like the Method multi-purpose cleaning spray from Amazon) to wipe each cabinet out. Don't forget the backs, tops and both sides of the door itself. 

Once clean, you can pop some contact paper down inside each space, helping brighten up the interior with a smart kitchen cabinet color idea, and injecting your space with a pleasing pop of color. This might also just about scratch that color itch if you are unable to paint, wrap, or change your cabinets.

6. Create a routine

To prevent clutter from building up again, implement a cabinet organizing regime you can stick to.

Jean says, “Create a routine to maintain your new tidiness. It’s normal for shelves to get a little disorganized over time, especially if you use them a lot, are busy or decluttering doesn’t come naturally to you. 

“Try not to be too hard on yourself. Make a little time each week to straighten up the shelves and get rid of things you no longer need.” 

Regular maintenance of these spaces will also help avoid a big build-up of cabinet clutter, and therefore, a huge job later.

FAQ

Tidy and functional spaces bring joy, so even if you just tackle one cabinet at a time, the impact altogether will definitely be a positive one. If you've now got the tidying bug buzzing way, our expert organizers have revealed the things to get rid of in your kitchen cabinets, and the tricks they swear by when decluttering kitchen countertops.

When working out exactly how to declutter a kitchen in its entirety, it can feel a mammoth task. But doing things in an expert-approved order will make clearing this room, with all its cabinets, drawers, and shelves less daunting. 

To make decluttering your kitchen as easy as possible, our panel of pros, including brilliant organization experts, have spilled the beans on their best hacks for streamlining this process, as well as what to tackle first.

Starting with the kitchen when decluttering your home can make a big impact, especially with the space being so function-led and vital to the way your home runs. Trash bags at the ready!

How to declutter a kitchen like a pro

Decluttering and organizing a kitchen can take hours, especially if the space is packed to the rafters. But professional organizer, Shantae Duckworth shares plenty of tips for getting started, tackling one section at a time to avoid the dreaded overwhelm. 

"Start with a specific area, like a drawer or a shelf, and complete it before moving on to the next. Breaking down the task into smaller, manageable parts ensures steady progress," she says.

1. Focus on high-traffic areas first

Take a look at the areas in your kitchen that get the most use first, as these are most likely to be clobbered with clutter. 

Shantae says, “Begin by decluttering the high-traffic areas of your kitchen, such as drawers, and cabinets. These spaces are often the most visible and frequently used. Remove items that don't belong or are rarely used to create a more organized and functional environment.”

Professional organizer, Jean Prominski says, “When decluttering a kitchen, start by clearing off a workspace, such as a table or countertop, so you can easily sort what you have. Once you’ve done that, declutter the easiest items, so you can feel accomplished and gain momentum. 

"Group-like items. For example, mugs.Clean the ones in the sink or dishwasher, then look at the collection as a whole. When you can see all the mugs you have in one place, it'll make deciding which to cull easier."

2. Get the countertops clear

For decluttering your countertops, Shantae advises, “Clear them off first, only keeping essential items you use for cooking or daily tasks. This will create a clean and visually appealing surface to work with for the rest of your declutter.”

Use storage bins (such asthese clear plastic storage bins from Amazon) to keep them tidy moving forward. Alternatively, a set of stackable, sliding trays from Amazon that stand on your countertop as additional storage can also work well. With them being see-through, they won't feel like a blocky storage item, but hopefully, blend into the surroundings.

Professional home organizer Sam Thomason, adds, “My biggest tip for staying clutter-free is to have a designated spot for everything." This will stop you feeling overwhelmed with small kitchen clutter and allowing things to pile up again.

3. Clear out the pantry

If you’re lucky enough to have a food storage cupboard in your kitchen, the next step should be to focus on organizing your pantry. 

Admittedly, this space may be a little more challenging to organize, depending on its size, but if you follow the right steps, it’s easily doable. Storage tools, such as stackable plastic boxes from Target, work well for this kind of space. And who doesn't like a uniform pantry storage organizers?

Shantae advises,"Remove expired or unused food items. Group similar things together and consider using storage containers or baskets to keep things organized. This makes it easier to see what you have and helps prevent overbuying.”

4. Empty and organize the fridge

Organize the refrigerator next. Shantae says, "Dispose of expired items, old leftovers, and anything that is no longer fresh. Wipe down shelves and drawers, and consider using clear containers for better visibility. Organize the contents by categories to streamline meal planning.”

While you can’t see inside the fridge, if it’s a cluttered and messy space it’s going to impact how organized your kitchen feels as you move around and cook. It's time well-spent tending to fridge organization.

To keep the inside of the fridge neat, using fridge storage bins such asplastic storage baskets from Target work really well.

5. Clean out the utensil drawer

The utensil drawer is another high-traffic area in the kitchen you don’t want to forget when decluttering. 

Shantae says, “These drawers tend to accumulate items over time. Remove any duplicate or rarely used utensils. Invest in dividers to keep similar items together and make it easier to find what you need. This step enhances the functionality of your kitchen workspace.”

For easier decluttering, organization expert Jean Prominski says, “Pace yourself during this task and have boxes ready for donations. Instead of letting your guilt get to you about giving things away, think of it as giving your items a new home where they will be cherished and loved instead of stashed in the back of a cabinet, never to be used.” 

To make this easier, Bobby Berk's decluttering hack may come in useful, as this involves taking ten minutes at a time to tidy your drawers.

6. Evaluate your appliances

You might think you need all of your appliances but chances are, you probably don’t. Shantae says, “Evaluate small kitchen appliances, keeping the ones you use frequently and serve multiple purposes.

“If you have duplicates or items you rarely use, consider donating or selling them. This frees up counter and storage space for more essentials.”

7. Sort and categorize your items

When moving items around in your kitchen, it’s a good idea to categorize and group similar items together, such as utensils, pots, and pans, or pantry items.

Shantae says, “This not only helps you see the quantity of each category, but also makes it easier to find and access what you need.”

8. Invest in organizational tools

Once you’ve spent time clearing out each area of your kitchen, it’s important to ensure you have all of the key kitchen storage tools you need to keep each area neat and ordered. 

Shantae says, “Consider investing in organizational tools to maximize space and keep items in order. Drawer dividers, shelf risers, and clear containers can help streamline your kitchen storage. Assess the available space and choose tools that enhance accessibility and visibility.”

To prevent clutter returning to your kitchen, schedule regular decluttering sessions. Shantae advises setting time aside every few months to reassess your kitchen items, discard expired items, and reorganize as needed.

She adds, “Adopt a one in, one out rule for kitchen items, donating, selling, or discarding a similar item every time you bring something new home to maintain a balanced and clutter-free space."

Now your kitchen has oodles of space, you can keep on top of it with regular decluttering and avoid things building up to critical mass.

For more in depth decluttering, we've drilled experts for deeper advice on how to declutter kitchen drawers. With all the oodlesof space you're left with, take inspiration from celebs — our shopping wiz tracked down actress Candice King's kitchen appliances helping her survive a renovation.

Knowing how to declutter kitchen countertops is vital if you are to effectively utilize this key space in your kitchen. They carry a decent amount of square footage and can easily become a dumping ground, building up mess over time.

We spoke to professional organizers for their five best tips to clear up your counters, from prioritizing what stays there permanently, to how to place your decor. Their tips will boost the functionality of your countertops and make it pleasing on the eye.

To help keep tidy them up, we’ve spoken to a panel of organization experts for advice on how to declutter kitchen countertops and kickstart your kitchen decluttering. 

Here’s how to declutter kitchen countertops 

When it comes to organising a kitchen, getting the countertops clutter-free is a vital step. 

Aaron Traub, professional organizer, says, “It can be challenging to declutter kitchen countertops and find adequate room inside cabinets, which can at times be awkward or small."

The good news is, with our expert-approved steps, you can make a cinch of decluttering your countertops and whip your space into shape.

1. Start with a clear-out

When organizing your countertops, start with a good clear-out, removing any old or unnecessary items. 

Aaron says, “I like to advocate the less is more approach to decluttering, starting with getting rid of things. Go through each item on your countertops to decide if it is an item you want to keep, toss, or donate.

“I'll usually have a trash bag (these extra strong sacks from Amazon would work well) and a spare box ready for packing donations. It can be hard to part with items but ask yourself three questions to figure it out. Do I need this item? Have I used it in the last six to 12 months? Would I rather have this item, or the space?”

Taking this approach will help make the decision-making process a little easier. 

2. Prioritize what’s kept on the countertop

In order to best maximize countertop space, you'll need to decide what appliances and other kitchen items have a permanent home there.

Amélie Saint-Jacques professional organizer, says, “Only items that are used on a daily basis should be kept on countertops." Though, it's worth noting Amélie sometimes makes exceptions to this rule for heavy items, such as a blender or stand mixer, which would be too troublesome to move on and off of the countertop regularly. 

If you’re going to be able to make the most of the countertop space that you have, keeping only those essential items on your counters is a must.

3. Be clear on where to store other items

It’s easy for clutter to build up on your countertops if you don’t have homes for everything in your kitchen, so it’s vital you know where best to stash your items.

Amélie says, “Pots and pans should be stored close to the stovetop; wooden spoons and spatulas can go either in a canister (such as a stainless steel canister from Amazon) near the stovetop, or in a nearby drawer. 

She also advises to avoid the temptation to have your essentials cluttering up countertops near the kitchen sink for convenience.

"Only keep vital items such as your sponge and dish soap on the counter near the sink, or in a sink caddy, (we like this modern stoneware sink caddy from Target)," she says. 

"All-purpose cleaning spray, even if you use it everyday, can be stored under the sink if there's room. Cookbooks can be stored in a bookcase or cabinet when they are not in use," Amelia adds. 

4. Don’t keep decor on countertops

It’s tempting to add pretty decorative items to your countertops but placing too many pieces in this area will make it look messy. 

Amélie says, “Avoid storing décor on the countertop if at all possible. Not only will it come across as clutter visually, but it will get in your way. You will have more usable space with clear counters, and they will be so much easier to keep clean, too,”

If you want to add a little aesthetic appeal to your countertop area, consider installing shelves (highly-rated acrylic peel-and-stick shelves from Amazon are ideal) on the walls above for displaying a few key pieces of decor.

5. Avoid using countertops as a ‘drop zone’

It’s easy to see your countertops as a dumping ground when you get home and have your hands full, are in the process of completing tasks nearby, or for items that don't have a proper home.

Amélie says, “Don't use your countertop as a drop zone for things that don't belong in the kitchen. Find a more convenient spot for mail and paperwork, for example. If you charge electronics in your kitchen, make sure they are corralled in a bin or basket to keep them out of the way.”

In a pinch, allocate a dedicated clutter basket (this rope storage basket from Target would work well) at the edge of a countertop, window sill, or on top of the fridge, and use it as a holding zone for items you will commit to later putting away properly. 

FAQs

How can you keep kitchen countertops clutter-free?

Amélie says, “Make it a habit to do a nightly reset so that you can put everything away at the end of the day, and start the next day with clear countertops.” Even if you're feeling tired, five minutes of end-of-day tidying will leave not-yet-awake you feeling grateful come the AM.

When it comes to organizing a kitchen with too much stuff, knowing how specifically to target each problem is the secret to untangling kitchen mess and enjoying a clutter-free space. 

Now you've heard from professional organizers on how to declutter your kitchen countertops, our panel of experts have also come to the rescue on how to declutter kitchen drawers and organize kitchen shelves. 

You know it’s time to figure out how to organize plates in a small kitchen when your shelves and cabinets are in utter, dish-clattering disarray.

Plates tend to build up really quickly; one minute you’re bobbing along fine with a couple of plates and empty shelves, and the next, your cabinets are overflowing. Our expert organizers have revealed seven tips to get things back in order.

To help you keep your plate collection neat and tidy, as well as getting rid of any plates you don’t need (think: chipped, cracked, or old), we’ve spoken to a panel of experts for advice on getting your personal plate-gate sorted, and organizing a small kitchen. 

How to organize plates in a small kitchen 

When organizing a small kitchen quickly and getting the crockery in order, cleaning expert, Karina Toner explains, “Little kitchens demand a strategic approach to plate organization,” compared to their larger counterparts. 

1. Start with a clear-out

As with most small kitchen organizing tasks, start with a clear-out. Amanda Liford, professional organizer and clutter master, says, “The first tip is to downsize. The fewer plates you have, the easier it will be, and you may not even need to buy special products to make it organized.”

Jean Prominski, certified professional organizer adds, “In a small kitchen, you don’t have the luxury of having too much stuff," and storing plates and cookware in a small kitchen can be more challenging. 

If you’re struggling to choose what to keep or throw away, Jean has a simple hack. “Get rid of the ones you don’t like or need," she says, advising you keep your best plates and dinnerware. 

It’s important to assess each plate's functionality and sentimental value. If a plate doesn't spark joy or serve a practical purpose, consider bidding it farewell. Karina adds, "This not only frees up space, but elevates your kitchen aesthetics.”

2. Organize plates by size

Once you’ve decluttered your collection, set about putting them in a sensible order.

Jean advises the best approach. "Organize them by size, separating them into categories, such as side, dinner and larger plates, or whatever works best for you," she says.

Karina agrees and recommends you start by grouping them by size and purpose. "Take the time to assess what you use most frequently, reserving your prime real estate for daily essentials.”

3. Pick thinner plates

If you have a whole host of options to choose from when shopping, go for the thinnest designs.

When constantly battling with a lack of space to store your dinnerware, it can be worth the investment to replace bulky sets with thinner items, as they naturally take up less space vertically and allow you to carve out a few extra inches of storage.

4. Use a plate rack

If you're bored of simply stacking your plates, swap to storing them in a handy rack (such as these stackable plate racks from Amazon) instead.

Jean says, “Depending on how your shelf heights are dispersed, it may make sense to use a plate rack.”

The beauty of these handy little organizing tools is they can be positioned inside your cabinets if there’s space, on counters, open shelving, inside drawers or wall-mounted if using an organizer like this one from Amazon). 

5. Show off your favorite plates

If you’re proud of your plate collection or have a set that's bright, bold, and full of color, you might fancy showing them off a little (this wall-mounted plate rack from Pottery Barn would work well for this) whilst taking advantage of vertical storage. 

When it comes to displaying plates, Karina advises it’s best to, “Adopt a minimalist mindset, showcasing only the ones that truly resonate with your style. 

“Consider open shelving (such as this accent shelf from Wayfair, ideal for storing plates) to turn your items into functional art and adding character to your kitchen.”

6. Be creative with storage

Karina says, “Innovative storage solutions are your secret weapon. Explore pull-out shelves, stackable organizers, and under-shelf baskets to maximize every inch of your cabinet space. Keep smaller plates in check with sleek drawer organizers.”

If you prefer your plates flat, a bamboo corner shelf plate organizer like this from Amazon is a good shout. These sturdy and clever bits of kit are able to hold plates without fear of other items falling over.

Amanda add, “Depending on the size of your plates, I highly recommend this two-piece set of plate holders from Amazon. They allow you to store your plates upright which will take up less space and eliminate the need to unstack plates.”

7. Store seasonal plates elsewhere

If you’re someone who likes to have plates for every occasion and has collected a whole host of decorative seasonal items, store them outside of the kitchen, the same way you would other seasonal decor. 

Amanda advises, “If you are in a small kitchen, but enjoy keeping seasonal plates for the holidays or extras for when you have a party, put them into storage.

“These crockery storage containers from Amazon are made for dishware and will fit round or square plates. The padding and felt dividers will also keep your dishes safe.” 

FAQs

Now you've nailed rifling through, ditching, keeping and organizing the plates in yuor small kitchen, you'll hopefully be in the zone to keep going. There are so many clever storage solutions to be utilized in this space, and we've delved into everything from in-cabinet racks, to organizing your kitchen shelves and using them to display your plates on.  

Running out of room? Over-the-door storage options just might be the perfect solution to your home organizing woes. 

If there's no space left for your things in cabinets, shelves or under beds, we know of one location there is still prime square footage to take advantage of. As you take a crack at your 2026 organizing resolutions, our interior designers suggest heading for the door, quite literally, with ingenious door storage units.

Since The Container Store has conveniently discounted clever storage solutions for small spaces, we've rounded up our three favorite door storage deals.

Door storage sale deals in The Container Store sale

Over-the-door organizers are great for every room of the house, whether you need a home for toiletries, or have a flourishing shoe collection that has outgrown your closet. And yes, there are renter-friendly options for those who have to be cautious about their walls.

"The back of a door is often a neglected space that can make great extra storage," says Laura Price, the founder of The Home Organisation. "Either install hooks, a small rack, or if you’re in a rental property, an over-the-door rack will do as well."

Not only will you be livening up otherwise unused dead space, but you'll be able to have easy access to your necessities, making these organization products a win-win in our book. Currently, everything in The Container Store's Elfa collection is available at 30% off. We've eyed a few great picks for your doors.

Searching for more ways to get organized and stay that way throughout 2026? We spoke to experts about how to declutter a small space and ensure you're living comfortably and stylishly. 

Knowing how to organize kitchen shelves is essential if you're going to properly utilize this invaluable storage space. 

Shelves are great for making use of otherwise dead vertical space in your kitchen, but understanding how to keep them neat, ordered, and functional is key to making the most of the storage they can offer. 

To help you better organize your small kitchen shelves, we spoke to professional organizers for tips to whip them into shape efficiently — and keep them that way.

How to organize kitchen shelves 

We've all faced down the battle of organizing a small kitchen with too much stuff, so our experts have come prepared with their best tips from years doing this for a living, including the best buys to set you on the path to shelving success. 

1. Make regular decluttering a priority

Professional organizer Jean Prominski says to first evaluate what you can get rid of when planning how to organize kitchen shelves. “Prevent shelves from looking cluttered by regularly assessing them and being honest about what you really use."

While you might want to hang onto every item you can, the reality is most of the items on your shelves will be collecting dust and wasting space. If you've not used an item in a while, be brave, toss it out and declutter your small kitchen. 

She explains, “If you’re not sure you’ll use something, collect your extraneous kitchen items, box them up and put a date on the lid. If you don’t use the items in a year, pass them on to someone who will.”

If you really can't bear to part with everything, you could, instead declutter without throwing things away. 

2. Group similar items together

Instead of peppering your kitchen shelves with a random mix of items, Jean recommends grouping similar items together. She says, "Use containers (such as these clear storage containers from Amazon) to group like items on shelves."

For a more aesthetically pleasing kitchen storage look, Jean says, "Take it up a notch by using attractive, similar containers (such as these bamboo storage caddies from Target). This uniformity will make things look better, as will using attractive labels (this mini label maker from Amazon should come in handy) as needed.”

3. Invest in tiered and expandable organizers

To make the most of the shelving space you have, utilizing the best small kitchen organizers, such as tiered expandable organizers from Amazon can be a game changer. 

Jean says, “Use tiered items (like this Joseph Joseph organizer from Amazon) for items like spices and jars on shelves.” 

Likewise, organizing expert Shantae Duckworth recommends these items for maximizing vertical storage potential with designated sections, whilst not sacrificing precious shelf space. 

“I like to use adjustable tiered shelf organizers for dishes and pot lids. This not only adds an organized visual look to the kitchen but also prevents items from getting lost in the back of, or off the shelf.”

4. Use storage bins

For shelves that look properly organized kitchen storage bins can work wonders. 

Shantae says “Another kitchen shelf hack is to use clear bins to keep small items in check and maintain a clutter-free appearance. This hack is especially effective for open shelving units where items may be more visible. 

“Opt for clear, stackable storage bins, these bins not only provide a clean look but also make it easy to locate and access your items without rummaging through the shelves.”

While, for keeping storage bins (like these clear storage bins from Target) neat and easy to use, interior designer Chenise Hinds advises, “Labeling containers is an important step. By writing what’s inside you’ll be able to more easily find items as and when you need them.”

5. Be cohesive

For a more stylish approach to small kitchen storage, Shantae says, "To have a cohesive kitchen look, incorporate decorative storage boxes to hide smaller items and maintain your aesthetic. Choose boxes that complement your overall decor to elevate the visual look of your small shelves.”

Likewise, Jean advises it's a good idea to, “Upgrade your wares. If you’ve got lots of open shelving, use attractive dishes to add style instead of boring or mismatched dishes.”

6. Add a Lazy Susan to save space on corner shelves

Corner shelves can be challenging to make the most of. A great hack for using this compact area of space well, according to Jean, is to add aturntable organizer such as this one from Target). 

Jean says, “Use a Lazy Susan for storing small items together. This type of organizer works well to use every inch of space, especially if the shelf spans a corner." 

7. Determine how you use your shelves

When deciding how to use your shelves, be mindful about where each thing should go. 

"The things you don’t use daily can be positioned on higher shelves or in places that aren’t as handy," Chenise says. "The items you use on a more regular basis should be kept within easy reach."

FAQs

Now you've nailed how to organize kitchen shelves, turn your attention to decluttering your kitchen drawers and bolster every inch of your kitchen. Function for the win.

What better shopping list for January than items professional organizers always have in a small kitchen to keep their clutter at bay. If they can do it, so can we!

We spoke to our organization pros to round-up seven items worth buying so you can keep keep your small kitchen neat and ordered from the off this year.

Whether your small kitchen is packed full of too many items, or it feels as if there isn’t enough space to hold what you need, these are the must-have expert-approved products to organize your small kitchen, according to our pros. 

All the items professional organizers always have in a small kitchen

When it comes to organizing a small kitchen with too much stuff, check you have the essentials our experts say are must-haves for easier and faster organizing. 

Shantae Duckworth, professional organizer and founder of Shantaeize Your Space, says, "Managing clutter in a small kitchen can be challenging, but with strategic organization, you can create a space that feels open and functional. 

"As a professional organizer, I always remind my clients the key is to maximize every inch of available storage and minimize unnecessary items."

1. Kitchen storage bins

If there’s one area of the kitchen that is difficult to keep ordered, it’s organizing kitchen cabinets, especially if your cabinets have deep shelves. 

A great hack is to add plastic storage bins (this set of storage bins from Target should be ideal for this) to your cabinets so that you’re able to utilize the entire depth of your cabinets fully. 

Shantae recommends opting for clear plastic storage bins (like this storage bin from Target which comes with an easy-to-fit lid) and explains, "Clear containers or labeled bins can help you quickly locate ingredients and prevent the chaos of rummaging through a crowded pantry." 

Tip: For easier labeling of storage bins, invest in a label maker (like this compact mini label maker from Amazon with over 10,000 five-star reviews) that's quick and easy to use. Plus, your bins will look uniform, too.

Chenise Hinds, interior designer, home stager, and licensed realtor, says, "Labels on containers and shelves help everything stay neat. Writing what's inside means you won't need help finding things as much. It keeps everything in order."

2. Lidded containers

A firm favorite on TikTok and Instagram, clever items such as these lidded containers from Amazon, and matching jars are a great option for keeping a kitchen organized. 

These can be used to stash all sorts of items, from storing dried goods like pasta, rice, and flour, to storing excess utensils or cleaning products. 

For decanting and storing foods in a more visually appealing way, using glass storage jars with bamboo or cork lids (such as these storage containers from Amazon). Not only do these containers look nice, but they’re also designed to keep food fresh and minimize wastage.  

3. Over-the-door organizers

Over-the-door organizers are extremely versatile, making them an ideal tool for using throughout the kitchen, according to professional organizers. 

"Over-the-cabinet-door organizers are perfect for storing cutting boards, baking sheets, or cleaning supplies," according to Shantae. 

Not only are they renter-friendly, but they're super useful for kickstarting an organizational session without any DIY. You can simply hang and get sorting.

4. Turntable organizers

For maximizing space, one of the items professional organizers always have in a small kitchen are turntable tidies. They are useful throughout the kitchen, but especially for tight corners or compact cabinets. If you're currently having to pull out a bunch of items to get to that one thing that's always in the back, this one's for you.

These organizers are a great choice as they’re ideal for keeping bottles and condiments neat and ordered. They also work well for helping to organize a fridge and offering easier access in cabinets where items of various heights might hide behind each other easily.

5. Storage baskets