20 Rules Professional Organizers Live By

Looking to get organized? Here are 20 rules we often recommend to customers to maintain a clutter-free, organized home:

1. One In, One Out

For every new item you bring into your home, get rid of an item. This helps prevent accumulation and keeps clutter in check.

2. Tackle Small Areas First

Start with smaller areas (a drawer, a shelf, a countertop) rather than trying to overhaul an entire room. This creates a sense of accomplishment and keeps you motivated.

3. Declutter Regularly

Set a schedule for regular decluttering sessions, whether weekly, monthly, or seasonally, to stay on top of your space and prevent things from piling up.

4. Store Like with Like

Keep similar items together (e.g., all cleaning supplies in one place, all office supplies in another). This makes it easier to find what you need and reduces clutter.

5. Use Containers and Labels

Use clear bins, baskets, and labels for organizing items. Labels help everyone in the household know where things go, and clear containers make it easy to find what you need.

6. Keep Surfaces Clear

Maintain clean countertops, tables, and desks by regularly putting away items that don’t belong. This creates a sense of order and prevents clutter from accumulating.

7. Implement Daily Maintenance

Set aside a few minutes each day to tidy up and maintain organization. Small daily tasks, like making the bed or clearing the kitchen counter, keep things manageable.

8. Have a Home for Everything

Ensure every item in your home has a designated space. When everything has a "home," it's easier to put things away and maintain organization.

9. Purge Items Regularly

Be honest with yourself about what you need and use. Donate or dispose of items you no longer use, need, or love. Regular purging helps maintain a tidy space.

10. Keep It Simple

Avoid overcomplicating your systems. The simpler and more intuitive the organizational structure, the easier it is to stick with it long-term.

11. Set Boundaries for Incoming Items

Create clear guidelines for incoming items, whether it's managing mail, gifts, or new purchases. For example, make a rule to go through mail as soon as it arrives or set a limit on gifts.

12. Be Intentional with Purchases

Before making new purchases, ask yourself if the item truly adds value to your life or if it will just become more clutter. Being intentional helps reduce unnecessary accumulation.

13. Use Vertical and Hidden Spaces

Take advantage of vertical space (shelves, hooks, etc.) and hidden spaces (under-bed storage, closets) to maximize your storage capacity and keep things out of sight.

14. Create Organizational Zones

In each room, create specific zones for different activities (a reading nook, a homework station, a cooking zone). This can help keep your spaces organized and functional.

15. Establish Routine Organization Habits

Develop habits for organizing and tidying up after each activity—like putting away clothes as soon as they’re off or filing papers right away. These habits prevent messes from building up.

16. Limit Paper Clutter

Set up a simple filing system and be proactive about dealing with paperwork. Avoid letting papers pile up—if it's not needed, recycle it immediately.

17. Set Time Limits for Organizing Projects

Don’t spend hours at a time on one organizing project. Set a timer for 20-30 minutes, and take breaks to prevent burnout.

18. Organize by Frequency of Use

Store frequently used items in easily accessible spaces, and less frequently used items in harder-to-reach areas. This makes it easier to maintain daily organization.

19. Prioritize What Brings You Joy

Use Marie Kondo’s principle of keeping only what "sparks joy." If an item doesn’t bring value or happiness to your life, it's time to let it go.

20. Create Organizational Systems that Work for Your Lifestyle

Your systems should match your routine and lifestyle. Don’t follow generic solutions—customize your organizing methods to suit your needs and the way you live.

By following these rules, you can create and maintain an organized, functional space that helps improve productivity and reduces stress in your daily life.