10 Easy Steps to Create a Stress-Free Home Organization System

This post is about 10 Ways to Simplify Your Home and Decrease Stress.

Can we just say that stress free home organization is the way to go? Let’s get into it.

This year has been a whirlwind, and it’s really brought my tendencies to the surface. During the height of the pandemic, my home was always tidy and “picture-perfect”—there was nowhere to go, so it was easy to keep things in order. But as life reopened and I’ve been on the move, keeping the clutter at bay has been a real challenge. Can you relate

There have been moments when the mess felt overwhelming—piles of stuff everywhere, and I felt frozen, stuck. But here’s the thing: something had to give. I already knew what to do; I just needed to apply what I knew. If you’re anything like me, I bet you’ve felt that way too.

James Clear says it best: “You don’t rise to the level of your goals, you fall to the level of your systems.” This hits home. It’s not just about setting a goal for a tidy house; it’s about creating a simple, effective and stress free home organization plan to support that goal. Systems are the foundation that keep everything running smoothly.

The goal of this post is to share ways we can simplify together. This isn’t about perfection—it’s about finding what works best for you and your family, creating a home that feels peaceful and functional no matter how busy life gets. Remember that you can create a stress free home organization system! So, let’s get into it.

1. Identify Your Home Organization System

If I can be honest, when I first heard people talk about creating “systems,” it sounded a little woo-woo to me. But in reality? That was just my ego getting in the way of some solid, practical advice. Goals are great, but without a plan, they’re just wishful thinking. It’s like saying you want to lose weight but having no plan for working out or eating healthier. (Okay, I’m really calling myself out now. HA!). A STRESS FREE home organization system is the way to go.

In this section, I want to share a plethora of home organization systems that I’ve come across. I personally love taking the best tips from various experts and tailoring them to what works for me and my home. That’s the beauty of it—there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. It’s about finding what works for you.

Shira Gill’s Five-Step Process

Can I just say that I really really enjoy everything she has to say! For the past several years she has been such an inspiration. Her insight is practical and informative and I think it will help you as you get a process in place.

Shira Gill’s method for decluttering and organizing focuses on simplicity, intentionality, and personal style. Her method embodies what stress free home organization is about. Here’s an overview of her five steps, designed to help you transform any space into one that reflects your values and lifestyle:

1. Clarify Your Vision
   Start by defining what you want from the space. How do you want it to function? What’s the overall vibe or feeling you want to create? This step helps you set clear goals and ensures your efforts align with your personal priorities.
2. Edit Your Belongings
   Go through everything and decide what stays and what goes. Be intentional—keep only what you use, need, or truly love. By eliminating the excess, you make space for what really matters.
3. Organize Thoughtfully
   Once you’ve pared things down, arrange your items in a way that makes sense for your daily life. Use storage systems that are easy to maintain and make your space more functional.
4. Elevate the Space
   Add the finishing touches that bring you joy and make the space feel “yours.” This might include incorporating decorative elements, textures, or a color palette that reflects your style.
5. Commit to Maintenance
   To keep the space organized, establish simple routines and habits. Regularly reassess what you own, and make small tweaks as your needs change. Consistency is key to sustaining the work you’ve done.

neat method

The Neat Method is a luxury home organization company that specializes in creating spaces that are both functional and beautifully styled. They focus on decluttering, organizing, and implementing systems tailored to a client’s lifestyle, making it easier to maintain order in any space. From kitchens and pantries to closets and garages, their approach combines practicality with an elevated aesthetic. What sets them apart is their attention to detail, using thoughtful tools like labeled bins, dividers, and containers to bring calm and efficiency to every home. The result? Spaces that not only look good but also work seamlessly for everyday life.

Here is a summarization of what the NEAT Method is:

6 Simple Steps to Organize Any Space

1. Clear It Out
   Start by removing everything from the space you’re tackling. Whether it’s a closet, pantry, or drawer, taking everything out gives you a clean slate to work with and helps you see the full scope of what you own.
2. Group Similar Items
   Once the space is clear, sort your belongings into categories. Grouping like items together (think snacks, cleaning supplies, or clothes by type) makes it easier to see duplicates and decide what you actually need.
3. Declutter with Intention
   Take a good look at each category and decide what to keep, donate, or discard. Be honest with yourself—if you don’t use it, need it, or love it, it’s time to let it go. This step is key to reducing clutter and creating more space.
4. Put Things in Their Place
   Once you’ve pared things down, decide where everything belongs. Frequently used items should be easy to access, while seasonal or rarely used items can be stored higher up or in less prominent areas.
5. Measure Before You Buy
   Before running out to buy bins or baskets, take measurements of your space. The right-sized containers will save you from wasted time and money and ensure a perfect fit for your needs.
6. Contain and Label
   Use containers, dividers, or bins to keep your categories neat and separate. Add labels to make it easy for everyone in your home to know where things go—this step is the secret to maintaining order over time.

Lastly, I am going to share The Home Edit’s process and systems.

The Home Edit’s Organization System: Simplified for Real Life

When it comes to home organization, The Home Edit has created a system that’s as functional as it is beautiful. Their process is all about creating spaces that work for you and look good while doing it. And honestly, isn’t that the dream? Their method boils down to three simple steps: Edit, Contain, Maintain.

Step 1: Edit

This is the big one. Start by pulling everything out of the space you’re organizing—yes, everything. Then take a moment to sort through it all. Keep only what you need, love, or use regularly. This is your chance to declutter and let go of the items that aren’t serving you anymore. Think of it as making room for what really matters.

Step 2: Contain

Now that you’ve edited down to the essentials, it’s time to give everything a home. This is where bins, baskets, and organizers come into play. Not only do these tools keep everything in its place, but they also make your space look polished and put-together. Pro tip: Clear bins are your best friend here—they let you see exactly what you have at a glance. And if you’re feeling extra fancy, label everything for that professional touch.

Step 3: Maintain

Here’s the secret to making your efforts last: maintenance. Once everything has its place, the goal is to keep it that way. This means putting things back where they belong and doing occasional check-ins to make sure your system is still working for you. Life changes, and so do your needs—so don’t be afraid to tweak the system when necessary.

I share all of these to help you identify what works best for you! And this brings me to the next point of creating a home organization chart or checklist.

2. Use a Home Organization Chart

A Home Organization Chart is your roadmap to creating a more organized and stress-free home. Think of it as a visual plan that breaks down the work into manageable tasks and zones. It helps you stay focused and ensures you won’t feel overwhelmed as you tackle different areas of your home.

Here’s how to use it effectively:

• Break Your Home into Zones: List all the key areas, such as the kitchen, living room, bedrooms, bathrooms, and storage spaces.
• Assign Specific Tasks to Each Zone: Include actions like decluttering, deep cleaning, and organizing by category (e.g., clothes, books, pantry items).
• Set a Timeline: Allocate realistic deadlines for each zone. For example, you might focus on the kitchen this week and the closet next week. I love the idea from Shira Gill called 15 Minute Wins! When you are feeling overwhelmed, simply break it up.

This chart keeps you organized while keeping your stress levels low. It’s a clear path to simplifying your space—and your life.

3. Adopt a “Do It Now” Routine

One of the easiest ways to simplify your home and decrease stress is to handle small tasks immediately instead of putting them off. This habit keeps clutter from building up and prevents those overwhelming “where do I even start?” moments. I am slowly implementing this as I have accumulated so much junk through the years, and this motto has been a game0changer.

Here’s how to build your “Do It Now” routine:

• Tidy as You Go: Finished eating? Wash your plate. Opened the mail? Toss the junk and file the important stuff. These little actions add up to a big difference.
• Reset Before Bed: Take a few minutes at the end of each day to tidy surfaces, put items back in their place, and prepare for tomorrow.
• Don’t Wait for “Perfect” Time: If you see something out of place, fix it now instead of thinking, “I’ll get to it later.”

This simple routine prevents clutter from taking over and gives you that satisfying sense of accomplishment throughout the day. Plus, it sets the tone for a more peaceful, stress-free home.

4.Declutter Your Surfaces

I like this approach because it provides quick a simple wins! Sometimes when there are too many items on the counter it can make you feel scatterbrained…or is it just me?

1. Start with One Surface
   Pick a single area to focus on, like your kitchen counter or coffee table. Pull everything off the surface so you can start fresh.
2. Sort and Purge
   Go through the items and ask:
   • Do I need this here?
   • Does this belong in this room?
   • Do I use this regularly?
   Only keep the essentials or a few decorative pieces that bring joy.
3. Assign a Home
   • For everyday items like keys or mail, create designated zones (e.g., a tray for keys or a basket for mail).
   • Relocate things that don’t belong to a more appropriate spot.
4. Keep It Minimal
   Aim to leave 80% of the surface clear. This gives the space room to breathe and makes cleaning a breeze.
5. Maintain Daily
   At the end of each day, take a minute to clear surfaces. Put items back in their designated spots to prevent clutter from creeping back in.

Pro Tip: Style Your Surfaces

If you want to keep surfaces from feeling too bare, style them intentionally. Add a small vase of fresh flowers, a neatly stacked set of books, or a candle to create a curated look that’s functional and beautiful.

Watch and Learn

For visual inspiration, check out this YouTube video on decluttering surfaces and creating an organized, calm space:
How to Declutter and Style Surfaces

By committing to keeping your surfaces clear, you’ll create a home that feels lighter, more peaceful, and easier to manage. A little effort goes a long way toward simplifying your space and reducing stress.

5. Organize Your Home Library

A well-organized home library isn’t just for book lovers—it’s a great way to simplify your space and create a calming atmosphere. Your bookshelves can serve as both a functional and decorative feature in your home, making it easier to find your favorite reads and enjoy your collection. I will say for the book lovers of the world, this one may be reaaaally hard. For me books are sentimental ANDDD I also have a few “will read later….maybe.” HA!

Here’s how to organize your home library:

• Declutter First: Pull all your books off the shelves and decide which ones to keep, donate, or sell. Hold on to books you truly enjoy, reference often, or have sentimental value.
• Sort by Category: Organize your books in a way that works for you. Options include sorting by genre, author, color, or size.
• Optimize Your Shelves: Use sturdy shelving, add bookends, and utilize vertical space to maximize storage. Incorporate decorative items like plants or candles to style your shelves.
• Create a Reading Nook: Add a cozy chair, warm lighting, and a throw blanket to create a space where you can unwind with a good book.

By giving your home library a little love, you’ll simplify your space and create a special corner for relaxation and inspiration for stress free home organization!!

BONUS: Home Office Wall Organization Systems

Your home office is where productivity meets creativity, and an organized wall system can be a game-changer for keeping your workspace functional and stress-free. By utilizing your vertical space, you can create a system that keeps everything you need at your fingertips—without cluttering your desk.

Here’s how to build a home office wall organization system:

Use a Pegboard or Grid Panel
Hang a pegboard or grid panel to hold office supplies, decor, or tools. Add hooks, baskets, and shelves to customize it to your needs.

Add Floating Shelves
Install floating shelves to store books, plants, or decorative items. Use matching baskets or bins for small supplies.

Hang a Calendar or Board
Put up a dry-erase calendar or corkboard for tasks, reminders, and important notes. Keep it simple and within easy reach.

Create a File Organizer
Mount a file holder on the wall to keep paperwork off your desk. Label each section for easy access.

Add a Charging Station
Use a wall-mounted organizer with cable clips to neatly charge your devices without desk clutter.

Personalize the Space
Add framed photos, quotes, or a vision board to make your office inspiring and unique.

6. Do a Digital Declutter for a Stress-Free Workspace

A cluttered digital space can be just as overwhelming as a messy desk. Simplifying your digital life helps you stay organized, focused, and stress-free. Here’s how to digitally declutter your workspace:

• Clean Up Your Desktop
  Start by clearing your desktop of unnecessary files, screenshots, and shortcuts. Move everything into clearly labeled folders or delete what you no longer need.
• Organize Your Files
  Create a simple folder structure that makes sense for your needs, like grouping files by project, client, or category. Avoid overly complex systems to keep it manageable.
• Declutter Your Email Inbox
  Unsubscribe from newsletters and spam. Sort important emails into folders (e.g., Work, Personal, or To-Do), and aim for inbox zero by archiving or deleting old messages.
• Delete Unused Apps
  Remove apps or software you no longer use from your devices. This not only clears space but also minimizes distractions.
• Sort Your Photos
  Go through your photo library and delete duplicates or blurry shots. Organize your favorites into albums and back them up to cloud storage.
• Streamline Bookmarks and Tabs
  Close unused tabs and delete outdated bookmarks. Keep only the links you use regularly, organized into folders for easy access.
• Backup Regularly
  Use cloud storage or an external hard drive to back up your important files and photos. Automate this process if possible to save time.
• Set Digital Boundaries
  Limit notifications and turn off unnecessary alerts to reduce distractions. Keep only essential apps visible on your home screen or taskbar.

Digital decluttering simplifies your virtual space, reduces stress, and helps you focus on what matters most. It also supports stress free home organization. By maintaining an organized digital workspace, you’ll feel more in control and ready to tackle your tasks.

Also, check out this article from The Home Edit for more tips!

7. Create Drop Zones for Everyday Essentials

Simplify your home by designating specific spots for the items you use daily. A well-thought-out drop zone keeps your essentials organized and prevents them from spreading throughout your space. It’s an easy way to maintain order and reduce stress in your day-to-day life. I am incorporating this especially with clothing donations! It’s such a great tip and way to keep clothes clutter at bay.

THE DROP zones

• Entryway Drop Zone
  Set up a tray or hooks near your front door for keys, wallets, and sunglasses. Add a basket or bench for shoes and bags to keep the area tidy.
• Mail and Paperwork Station (Inbox)
  Use a small basket or wall-mounted file holder to sort mail as it comes in. Label sections like “To Do” or “To File” to keep everything organized.
• Charging Station
  Dedicate a spot for charging phones, tablets, and other devices. Use a power strip or charging dock to keep cords neat and accessible.
• Kitchen Catch-All
  Place a small bowl or tray on your counter for loose change, pens, or other small items that need a temporary home.
• Bedroom Drop Zone
  Create a space on your nightstand or dresser for items like your watch, jewelry, or glasses. A small dish or tray works perfectly.
• Laundry Zone
  Set up a designated area for sorting laundry. Include bins for whites, colors, and delicates to simplify the process.

By creating drop zones, you’ll have a go-to spot for your essentials, keeping your home organized and your mind at ease. This simple step makes finding what you need (and putting it away) a breeze!

8. Practice the “One-In, One-Out” Rule

Let’s face it—clutter loves to creep in when we keep adding new things but never part with the old. The “One-In, One-Out” rule is your secret weapon to stop the clutter before it takes over.

Make It Easy: Keep a donation box in a convenient spot. Whenever you’re ready to let go of something, drop it in. When the box is full, take it to your local charity.

How It Works: For every new item you bring into your home, let go of something similar. If you buy a new sweater, donate or toss one that’s been sitting in your closet untouched. Got a new gadget? Say goodbye to one you haven’t used in months.

Why It Helps: This habit keeps your space balanced and intentional, making room for what truly matters. Plus, it forces you to think twice before buying things you don’t need.

9. Label Items for Clarity

Labels aren’t just for style—they’re the key to maintaining an organized space and making sure everyone in your household knows where things go. Whether it’s your pantry, closet, or storage bins, clear labeling simplifies your day-to-day routine. My favorite one is the Brother Label Maker that can be found on Amazon.

• Where to Use Labels:
  • Kitchen: Label pantry bins (e.g., Snacks, Baking, Canned Goods) to keep food organized and easy to find.
  • Closet: Use labels for bins or shelves, like “Winter Accessories” or “Workout Clothes,” so seasonal or category-specific items stay in their place.
  • Kids’ Areas: Label toy bins or craft supplies to make cleanup easier and encourage kids to put things away.
• Types of Labels:
  • Chalkboard or dry-erase labels for flexibility.
  • Pre-printed or custom labels

10. Simplify Your Cleaning Supplies

You don’t need a million different cleaners for a spotless home. Simplify your supplies, and you’ll save space, time, and even money.

• Pare Down: Stick to the essentials: a multi-surface cleaner, glass cleaner, disinfectant wipes, and maybe a floor cleaner if needed. Most jobs can be handled with just these basics.
• Organize What You Keep: Store your supplies in a small caddy or a single spot, like under the sink or in a cleaning closet. Keep frequently used items within easy reach.
• Bonus Tip: Make your own cleaning solutions with simple ingredients like vinegar and baking soda. It’s eco-friendly, budget-friendly, and effective!
• Why It Matters: Less clutter in your cleaning arsenal means less stress when it’s time to tidy up. Plus, it’s one less area of your home that feels overwhelming.

Conclusion

Creating a stress free home organization starts with simplifying your space and building systems that work for you. It’s not about achieving perfection—it’s about creating a functional, welcoming environment that supports your lifestyle.

The process begins with effective habits like decluttering surfaces and organizing your belongings into categories. Creating drop zones for everyday essentials, like keys or mail, helps keep clutter at bay. Simple routines, such as the “do it now” method, make it easier to maintain order and prevent things from piling up.

Reducing excess is another game-changer. Adopting a “one-in, one-out” rule and consolidating cleaning supplies to just the essentials can make a big difference. Clear labels on storage bins or shelves ensure everything has a designated place, making it easier to stay organized.

Don’t forget about your digital space. Organize files, clean up your desktop, and declutter your inbox to keep your virtual world stress-free. A tidy digital environment complements your physical home and boosts productivity.

Start small and focus on one area at a time. These steps are designed to be manageable and impactful, helping you transform your home into a sanctuary of calm and order. I truly hope these stress free home organization tips help you all so much. Ready to take the first step? Let’s simplify!

LINKS:

1. Home Organization Labels
2. Home Organization Planner
3. ADHD Home Organization Tools
4. Blog Home Organization Tools
5. Home Office Wall Organization Systems
6. Writing Organization Tools
7. Home Organization List 1 and List 2
8. Home Organization Course by Shira Gill

This post was about 10 Ways to Simplify Your Home and Decrease Stress.