The New Year is the perfect time to reset, refresh, and reclaim control over your home. Clutter can impact not only your physical environment but also your mood and productivity. At Behind Closed Doors Custom Closets and Cabinetry, we understand that a well-organized space is the foundation of a serene, functional home.
We sat down with our expert design team to bring you practical, high-impact solutions for tackling clutter, optimizing your space, and maintaining an organized home year-round. Plus, don’t miss our downloadable New Year Organization Checklist at the end of the article!
Q&A with Our Expert Designers
Q: What are your top tips for starting the New Year with a clutter-free home?
A: Start by creating a clean slate:
Edit Your Belongings: Go through every space and let go of what no longer serves you—donate, recycle, or discard.
Focus on High-Traffic Zones: Start with the areas that see the most activity, such as entryways, kitchens, and closets. These spaces will have the most immediate impact.
Adopt a Daily Reset: Spend just 15 minutes each evening putting things back where they belong. It’s an easy habit that transforms your home over time.
Q: How can people set realistic organizing goals?
A: The key to success is creating systems that fit your lifestyle. Start small and work in phases—one room or area at a time. Reflect on what’s working in your space and what isn’t, and focus on solutions that are easy to maintain.
Q: What are some quick wins for instant organization?
A: Even small changes can make a big difference:
Create a “drop zone” in your entryway for keys, bags, and shoes.
Organize a junk drawer to keep essential items like batteries and pens accessible.
Declutter your nightstand for a calming start and end to your day.
Spend 15 minutes editing your closet to remove anything that’s worn out or unworn.
Q: How do you recommend handling high-traffic areas like kitchens and living rooms?
A: High-traffic areas thrive on simplicity. Assign every item a “home,” such as hooks for backpacks, baskets for remotes, and trays for mail. Most importantly, establish a habit of putting things back in their proper place after use.
Q: What strategies work best for small spaces or homes with limited storage?
A: Small spaces call for creative solutions:
Opt for multifunctional furniture, like ottomans with storage or wall beds.
Use vertical space—install hooks, shelves, or over-the-door organizers.
Regularly edit your belongings to ensure you only keep what you truly love or need.
Q: How can families with children stay organized?
A: Involve your kids! Give them accessible storage solutions and teach them habits like a daily tidy-up routine. Create zones for their belongings, such as bins for toys or shelves for books, to keep their areas manageable.
Q: Are there common organizing myths you’d like to debunk?
A: Absolutely! The biggest myth is that some people are just “naturally organized.” Organization is a skill anyone can learn by implementing habits and systems. It’s also okay to seek help from professionals—it’s what we’re here for!
Q: Can technology help with home organization?
A: Yes! Apps can remind you of decluttering tasks or help you inventory seasonal items. QR code labels are also great for tracking what’s stored in bins or boxes.
Q: What are some sustainable organizing practices?
A: Organize with the planet in mind:
Donate, sell, or recycle items responsibly to reduce waste.
Use eco-friendly storage solutions or repurpose items you already own.
Embrace minimalism by focusing on quality over quantity.
Q: How can people maintain motivation throughout the year?
A: Start small, celebrate your wins, and develop daily habits like the 15-minute tidy. Regularly revisit your systems to ensure they’re working for you and adjust as needed.
At Behind Closed Doors Custom Closets and Cabinetry, we specialize in designing spaces that bring calm to chaos. Whether it’s a custom closet, pantry, or home office, our expert team is here to help you create a home that’s as functional as it is beautiful.
Ready to transform your space? Contact us today to schedule your consultation and start your journey toward an organized, peaceful home.
Downloadable Checklists: Closet Inventory & Closet Cleaning Schedule
Take the first step toward a clutter-free New Year with our New Year Organization Checklists. This simple, actionable guide includes:
- Step-by-step decluttering tips for every room.
- Easy daily habits to maintain order.
- Ideas for organizing seasonal items and creating sustainable systems.
