Having a cluttered house can be a challenge to you on many levels! And keeping clutter under control can be a constant task, but the need to organize everything from seasonal clothing to kitchen spices is vital for the overall running of the home. While some households appear to tackle clutter better than others, every homeowner can benefit from clutter busters that help keep this and that in their proper place around the house.   Here are some tips and hints I have found useful: 

• Buy Containers for Storage - If you think that buying a bigger home is the answer to your clutter, you are wrong, as the more room you have the more stuff you have to clutter it up!    Instead, buy organizing features that will allow you to cope with your accumulation of stuff. Clear plastic totes in various sizes will allow you to see what's stored inside and they can easily be stacked, in the basement, in the garage or in closets.  Some ideas of things to store:  photos, shoes, seasonal decorations, seasonal clothing & bedding, magazines, hobby supplies, tools, toys, just about anything!  Don't forget about using space bags, closet organizers, and matching basketry for storing various items and possibly giving your decorating a boast. 
• Buy Dual Purpose Furniture - When furniture shopping for more general needs like coffee tables and children's beds, buyers might consider purchasing pieces that provide additional function. For example, a large square coffee table might double as a storage receptacle for audiovisual materials, board games, or photo albums.  Some beds come with drawers built into their bottoms for additional storage.
• Keep Items Together - Another good tip to eliminate the appearance of clutter is to keep similar items together. By storing items such as books, baking ware, dishes, glassware, or toiletries in their own specific locations, the appearance is apt to look neater and more suited to function. And some items can be stored in plain sight and part of your décor!
• Keep a Cleaning Schedule - This is the most challenging for me but the most effective!  A consistent cleaning routine can help maintain good household organization and keep the home from looking cluttered. By performing this task often, there will be fewer messes of clutter to deal with.
• Have Everyone Help Out - Finally, and some might say most importantly, enlist the help of other household members to maintain a clutter-free atmosphere. When family members take responsibility for their personal space, it is much easier to maintain an organized home. The art of good organization requires much practice, but even the youngest family members can benefit from its lessons. When items are stored in their proper place, a clutter-free home is guaranteed. 

Happy Cleaning!

Susan

Irvine Real Estate