As a self-proclaimed clutterbug, I’ve often found myself envious of those who can maintain a spotless, organized home with what seems like minimal effort. How do they do it? Are they privy to some secret knowledge?
Well, I decided to find out. I spoke to professional cleaners, those who make a living out of transforming messy homes into clean, organized sanctuaries, and picked up some incredible organizing hacks along the way.
These tips have turned my home around, and they might just do the same for you. Here are the 14 best organizing hacks I learned from professional cleaners.
1. Declutter Before You Organize
Before you even start organizing, the first step is to declutter. Professional cleaners advise that trying to organize without first decluttering is like trying to fill a bucket with a hole in the bottom. You’ll never get anywhere.
Invest time in going through your belongings and separate them into three piles: keep, donate, and discard. Be ruthless. If you haven’t used something in six months and it doesn’t have sentimental value, it’s time to let it go. Remember, the less clutter you have, the easier it will be to organize.
2. Everything Has a Place
One of the most common advice from professional cleaners is that everything in your home should have a designated place. This helps maintain order and makes it easier to find things when you need them.
Create specific areas for each category of items, like a drawer for stationery, a shelf for books, and a hook for keys. Once you start putting things back where they belong after using them, you’ll notice a significant decrease in clutter and an increase in your home’s tidiness.
3. Use Vertical Space
Most of us only think horizontally when it comes to storage. However, professional cleaners recommend using vertical spaces to maximize storage. The walls in your home offer a wealth of storage opportunities.
Install shelves, pegboards, or hooks to create additional storage. This hack is especially useful for small spaces as it doesn’t take up any floor space. Plus, it keeps items easily accessible and in sight.
4. Label Everything
Labeling is not just for obsessive organizers. It’s actually a practical tool that can save you time searching for items. Professional cleaners swear by it as it helps maintain order and prevents misplacement of items.
Use a label maker or simple sticky notes to tag shelves, bins, and boxes. This way, you and everyone else in your household will know exactly where to find and return items.
5. Use Drawer Dividers
Drawer dividers are a game-changer, according to professional cleaners. They help separate and categorize items within the same drawer, making it easy to find what you’re looking for at a glance.
You can buy adjustable drawer dividers or even make your own using cardboard. This is particularly useful in the kitchen for separating utensils and in the bedroom for organizing clothes.
6. Store Items Based on Frequency of Use
Professional cleaners recommend storing items based on how often you use them. Items used daily should be easily accessible, while less frequently used items can be stored higher up or in less accessible areas.
This system not only makes your life easier but also helps maintain organization since you’re less likely to disrupt order while reaching for items.
7. Take Advantage of Door Space
The back of the doors in your home are often overlooked but can serve as a perfect storage space. This is a favorite hack among professional cleaners as it utilizes wasted space.
Install hooks, racks, or shoe organizers on the door to hold items like towels, bags, shoes, or cleaning supplies. This trick is especially useful in small rooms with limited storage space.
8. Use Clear Storage Containers
Professional cleaners love using clear storage containers. These allow you to see exactly what’s inside without having to open them or rifle through contents.
This is particularly useful for seasonal items or things you don’t use frequently. You can just glance at the box and know what’s inside, saving you time and effort.
9. Utilize Under-Bed Storage
The space under your bed can serve as an excellent storage area. Professional cleaners suggest using it for items you don’t use often, like seasonal clothing or extra linens.
Use clear, flat storage boxes that easily slide in and out. They’re a great way to make use of an otherwise wasted space while keeping your items dust-free and organized.
10. Use Multi-Purpose Furniture
Furniture that doubles up as storage is a favorite among professional cleaners. It not only saves space but also keeps items hidden and organized.
Consider investing in a bed with drawers, an ottoman with storage inside, or a coffee table with shelves. This provides a practical and stylish way to keep your home organized.
11. Keep Cleaning Supplies Handy
Professional cleaners advise keeping cleaning supplies in each room or at least on each floor. This makes it easier to clean up small messes as they happen, preventing them from becoming bigger problems.
Store them in a small caddy or basket to keep them organized and easy to carry from room to room.
12. Use Baskets for Loose Items
Baskets are a professional cleaner’s best friend. They are perfect for storing loose items that don’t have a specific place.
Use them in the living room for throw blankets, in the bathroom for toiletries, or in the kitchen for produce. They not only keep things tidy but also add a decorative touch to your rooms.
13. Keep a Donation Box Handy
One of the most effective ways to maintain a decluttered home is to regularly get rid of items you don’t need. Professional cleaners suggest keeping a designated donation box in your home.
Whenever you come across an item you no longer use or need, put it in the box. Once the box is full, take it to a donation center. This habit keeps clutter at bay and helps those in need.
14. Practice the One-In-One-Out Rule
Lastly, professional cleaners recommend adopting the one-in-one-out rule. This means that for every new item you bring into your home, one item should leave.
This practice helps prevent accumulation of clutter and keeps your space organized. Plus, it encourages thoughtful purchasing and reduces unnecessary consumption.
