Top 5 ways to organize and declutter your space

By Julia Black
September 23, 2016

In a society where “stuff” easily defines us, it’s important to keep in mind what we really need in our homes. By editing your belongings you will feel refreshed with newfound space and will be highly motivated to keep an organized household.

1. Bins and baskets should become your new best friend.And I’m talking about the gorgeously stylish bins and baskets on the market today that add to your home decor. I love Toofifteen because they are simple, modern and help enhance a minimalistic lifestyle that I embrace. I also love artisanal woven baskets from places across the globe, like those from Far and Wide Collective.

2. Invest in a good label maker.I use labels wherever I can — containers, folders, jars for my kids’ crafting materials, medicine cabinet items, seasonal bedding, cleaning products and so much more. The trick is to use them in closed storage units (or in kids’ spaces) so the label doesn’t compromise your decor — you don’t want labels staring at you all day long! But what I love about labels is that it forces you to put things away where they belong so clutter doesn’t form, and it’s so helpful when you need to find something quick.

3. One of the biggest clutter problems I see is overflowing bookshelves.Not only is it an eyesore, but it’s awfully impractical for finding or putting away your books. Try switching over to a Kobo e-reader to consolidate your books, and use your open shelves to display your beautiful books and objets d’arts. I love the new Kobo Aura H20 because it has a sleek design and access to more than 4.9 million eBooks and magazines. Plus, it’s perfect for on the go, even in the bathtub or around the pool.

4. Use a corkboard in your kitchen to organize family notes and plan your meals for the week. You’ll be able to see what you have coming up for the week in one place, and it will eliminate fridge clutter and notes.

5. Make a habit of going through your belongings and discarding the things you don’t use anymore. Every now and again, I like to get my kids to go through their things and box what we can donate to those in need. They like the activity because truthfully, we all know it feels good to give, but I also like it because it helps keep us organized and ensures we’re not being swallowed by our belongings.

Photography by Roberto Caruso

About Julia Black

Julia Black is a design professional who has worked with designers, stylists, editors, photographers, TV crews and contractors. She has been a design assistant on HGTV, has decorated homes and spaces, styled home photoshoots, as well as food shoots for Chatelaine magazine. She has also appeared on CityLine on CityTV.

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