How to Maintain Your Organized Space
Being organized can be a rewarding process, but the real magic lies in maintaining that organization over time. It’s actually harder than most people realize, but let me let you in on a little secret, even organizers have times when they don’t feel organized. And guess what, we all have times in our life that we feel like it’s hard to keep up. Without regular upkeep, even the most beautifully arranged spaces can revert to chaos. Here’s how to maintain your organized space and keep it tidy and functional for the long haul.
Embrace Daily Habits
Consistency is key when it comes to maintaining order (I’m specifically referring to organized spaces, but feel free to apply this to other parts of your life). Small, daily habits can make a big difference when you’re trying to stay organized. Take a few minutes each day to:
Return items to their designated places (EX shoes, mugs, toys)
Sort through mail and paperwork— this includes throwing away or recycling, putting it in a place where action can be taken, or filing away for future reference
Tidy up frequently used areas like countertops, desks, and closets (IE don’t let clean or dirty clothes lie on the ground— stick them in a hamper or hang them back up)
Practice the One In, One Out Rule
To prevent clutter from building up, adopt the one in, one out rule. For every new item you bring into your home, let go of something you no longer need or use. This practice helps you maintain balance and prevents overcrowding.
Schedule Regular Check-Ins
Set aside time every few months to reassess your space. I like to do this seasonally as it’s a time that you are generally feeling ready for a change. If you’re not able to hold yourself accountable for this, schedule check-ins with your organizer or better yet, schedule me to come in and help! Seasonal changes are always a busy time as old stuff is being put away and new stuff is coming out. It can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. If you have a system in place for these changes, it can be fairly seamless.
Evaluate if your organization systems are working and what may need to be tweaked as the season is changing
Declutter areas that have accumulated extra items
Make adjustments to suit your evolving needs— organization is not static! Even if a system is put into place, it doesn’t mean that it can’t change or evolve to better fit your needs.
Get Everyone Involved
If you share your space with family or roommates, involve them in maintaining organization. Keeping a home organized should never fall onto one person, but sadly, this happens often. Oftentimes the people in your house are 100% capable of helping out — you just have to give that expectation. What a 5 year old is responsible for is probably a lot different than what a 14 year old is responsible for, but guess what? They can both have their roles in helping. Clear communication and shared responsibility ensure that everyone contributes to keeping the space tidy. And when the people you live with are aware of the systems and what needs to happen, it gives them the autonomy to make it happen. Establish simple systems that are easy for everyone to follow.
Label and Simplify
Labels are a powerful tool for organizational maintenance. Clearly labeled bins, shelves, and drawers make it easy to find and return items to their proper places. Don’t go crazy— every single thing doesn’t need to be organized, but think strategically about this: what makes sense? What can we never find? Simplify your systems to reduce decision fatigue and make upkeep effortless.
Stay Mindful of Purchases
Impulse buys can quickly lead to clutter. Before making a purchase, ask yourself:
Do I truly need this?
Am I being influenced? (You’re stronger than that!)
Does it align with my current space and organizational systems?
Where will I store it?
Being mindful about what you bring into your space is a proactive way to maintain order.
Celebrate Small Wins
Maintenance isn’t about perfection; it’s about progress. Celebrate small wins, like clearing a messy drawer or keeping your countertops clear for a week. These victories reinforce your commitment to staying organized.
The Payoff
By mastering the art of organizational maintenance, you’ll enjoy a space that not only looks great but also functions seamlessly. Consistency, mindfulness, and teamwork are the keys to sustaining the organization you’ve worked so hard to achieve. With these strategies, you can create a home or workspace that supports your goals and enhances your daily life.