7 Clutter Hotspots in Every Home (and How to Tackle Them)

The secret to a serene home environment often lies in tackling those notorious clutter hotspots that, despite our best efforts, seem to magnetically attract items.

Identifying these areas is the first step; the next is implementing strategies to clear them out and, more importantly, keep them clear.

Here’s a guide to help you reclaim your space.

1. The Kitchen Counter Minefield

The kitchen counter is often the landing zone for mail, keys, and random small items. To tackle this, start by determining what actually needs to be on the counter.

Designate a basket or drawer for mail and keys. Use organizers for utensils and appliances, keeping only the essentials out. Make it a daily habit to clear and wipe down the counters to maintain that open space.

2. Bathroom Counter Chaos

Bathroom counters can quickly become covered with cosmetics, toiletries, and hair styling tools. To combat this, invest in under-sink storage solutions or over-the-toilet cabinets. Use drawer dividers to separate personal items and ensure everything has a home.

Weekly assessments to remove items that don’t belong will keep this area in check.

3. The Toy Tsunami

Toys have a way of spreading out across every room. Address this by introducing storage bins or a toy box in the living area. Rotate toys to keep the selection fresh without the clutter.

Encourage children to take part in the cleanup process, making it a game to put everything back before bedtime.

4. The Entryway Tangle

As the first impression of your home, the entryway should be welcoming, not a drop zone for shoes and coats. Use hooks for outerwear, a shoe rack to organize footwear, and a small tray for keys.

A regular routine of putting things away immediately when entering the house will prevent pile-ups.

5. The Closet Crux

Closets can quickly become overwhelming when they’re packed with clothes we don’t wear. The solution? Embrace the “one in, one out” rule. For every new item you add, donate an old one.

Seasonal switches can also help, keeping only current weather-appropriate clothing in easy reach.

6. Paperwork Piles

Important documents tend to sprawl across our spaces. Designate an area for paperwork, such as a home office or a section of the living room. Use file folders and a shredder to keep only what you need.

Going digital with bills and notices can also significantly reduce this clutter.

7. The ‘Everything’ Drawer

Almost every home has one: a drawer full of miscellaneous items. Tackle this by first emptying it out and deciding what you truly need.

Use drawer organizers to keep necessary items neat, and make it a point to clean out this space every few months to prevent accumulation.

By addressing these seven hotspots with a combination of organizational strategies and regular maintenance, your home will feel more spacious and controlled.

Remember, the key to decluttering is not just removing excess items but also preventing them from accumulating again.

With these tactics, those notorious clutter zones won’t stand a chance.