A new year is the perfect time for a fresh start, and nothing feels better than a clean, organized, and clutter-free home. Whether you’re tackling your kitchen, living room, or closets, these 30 actionable tips and hacks will help you reclaim your space, reduce stress, and start the year on the right foot.
Organize Your Home: 30 Top Tips and Hacks to Declutter Your Space for the New Year
A new year is the perfect time for a fresh start, and nothing feels better than a clean, organized, and clutter-free home. Whether you’re tackling your kitchen, living room, or closets, these 30 actionable tips and hacks will help you reclaim your space, reduce stress, and start the year on the right foot.
1. Start with a Decluttering Plan
Identify the areas of your home that need the most attention and prioritize them. Focus on one room or space at a time to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
2. Use the “Four-Box” Method
For each room, label four boxes: “Keep,” “Donate,” “Sell,” and “Trash.” Sort items into these boxes as you go to make decisions easier.
3. Adopt the “One-Year Rule”
If you haven’t used or worn something in the past year, it’s time to let it go. This is particularly useful for clothing and accessories.
4. Declutter Countertops
Keep only essential items on kitchen and bathroom countertops. Use decorative trays to organize frequently used items.
5. Tackle One Drawer at a Time
Don’t underestimate the power of small wins. Start with a single junk drawer to build momentum for larger decluttering projects.
6. Maximize Vertical Space
Install shelves, hooks, and wall organizers to free up floor space while adding functional storage.
7. Use Clear Storage Bins
Store seasonal items and rarely used belongings in clear bins so you can easily see what’s inside without rummaging through them.
8. Label Everything
Labels help maintain order in storage areas. Label bins, baskets, and shelves so everyone in the household knows where items belong.
9. Create a Donation Station
Designate a bin or basket for items you want to donate. Once it’s full, take it to your local donation center.
10. Organize Your Closet by Category
Group similar items together—shirts, pants, dresses, etc.—and use matching hangers for a polished look.
11. Practice the “One In, One Out” Rule
For every new item you bring into your home, remove one. This keeps clutter from creeping back in.
12. Utilize Under-Bed Storage
Store off-season clothing, shoes, or extra linens in flat bins under your bed.
13. Declutter Digital Spaces
Organize your desktop, unsubscribe from emails you no longer read, and back up important files to the cloud.
14. Create a Paper Management System
Sort mail immediately into “To Do,” “File,” and “Recycle” piles. Use folders or bins to keep important papers organized.
15. Use Drawer Dividers
Drawer dividers are perfect for organizing utensils, makeup, socks, and other small items.
16. Turn Hangers Backward
When hanging clothes, place hangers backward. Turn them the right way only after wearing an item. After six months, donate anything still backward.
17. Set Up a Command Center
Designate an area for keys, mail, and calendars to keep your household running smoothly.
18. Store Like Items Together
Keep similar items in one place. For example, store all crafting supplies in one bin or all cleaning products in one cabinet.
19. Rotate Toys
For households with kids, rotate toys monthly to keep playtime exciting without overloading your space.
20. Reassess Kitchen Gadgets
Donate kitchen tools and appliances you rarely use. Keep only what you need and love.
21. Use Over-the-Door Organizers
Take advantage of doors by adding organizers for shoes, cleaning supplies, or accessories.
22. Create a Capsule Wardrobe
Pare down your closet to versatile, high-quality pieces that you wear regularly.
23. Declutter Sentimental Items
Photograph sentimental items you don’t use but want to remember. Keep only what truly brings you joy.
24. Establish “No-Clutter” Zones
Designate certain areas, such as your dining table or kitchen island, as clutter-free zones.
25. Store Items by Frequency of Use
Keep everyday items within easy reach and place rarely used items on higher or lower shelves.
26. Repurpose Empty Containers
Use jars, boxes, or baskets to organize small items like office supplies, toiletries, or pantry staples.
Each time you clean a space, look for items to donate or toss. This integrates decluttering into your routine.
28. Schedule Regular Decluttering Sessions
Dedicate 15–30 minutes weekly to maintaining your newly organized home.
29. Ask for Help
Involve family members or roommates in decluttering projects. Assign tasks to ensure everyone contributes.
30. Celebrate Your Progress
Take a moment to appreciate your hard work and the positive changes you’ve made in your space.
By using these 30 tips and hacks, you’ll create a home that’s not only clutter-free but also more functional and relaxing. An organized home sets the tone for a productive and joyful new year. Happy decluttering!