A Professional Organizer Learns from the Best—Her Mom!
As a professional organizer, I’ve spent years perfecting systems to create order and simplicity in my clients’ lives. But long before I turned my passion into a career, I had my first organizing mentor—my Mom.
She always had a knack for keeping our home neat and functional, effortlessly balancing daily routines with a sense of calm. Curious about the strategies she used over the years (without the aid of The Container Store, Amazon or Pinterest), I recently asked her to share her best organizing tips. True to form, she delivered practical, timeless advice that anyone can use to create a more organized home.
Here are some of her top tips:
- Start Small, Stay Consistent – Tackling an entire home can feel overwhelming, so begin with a single drawer, shelf, or closet. Small wins build momentum and make organizing a habit.
- Everything Needs a Home – Avoid clutter by designating a specific place for every item. If something doesn’t have a home, chances are you don’t need it.
- Declutter as You Go – Instead of waiting for a big purge, get rid of things regularly. Whether it’s a chipped mug or an old sweater, letting go of unused items prevents buildup.
- Use What You Have – Organizing doesn’t require expensive bins and baskets. Repurpose shoeboxes, jars, or trays to create order before buying new storage solutions.
- Daily Resets Make a Difference – Take a few minutes each night to tidy up. A quick reset—like clearing countertops and putting things back in their place—prevents chaos from piling up.
- Make It Easy to Maintain – Systems should work for your lifestyle. If a setup is too complicated, it won’t last. Keep things simple and intuitive.
Mom’s wisdom reminds me that organizing isn’t just about creating a picture-perfect space—it’s about making life easier and more enjoyable. What’s the best organizing advice you’ve received? Connect with me to tell me about it!
