Buzz
If you're navigating through a time where things feel a bit out of control (both physically and mentally!), we strongly suggest decluttering one or two small spaces in your home to bring a sense of order. The joy of seeing the organized result—no matter how small the mess—can motivate you to keep going. Even a few minutes spent tidying up small cluttered spots can give you a real sense of achievement, trust us. So, focus your attention—here are five things you can sort through in no time.
Liudmila Chernetska/Getty ImagesYour Purse
Clearing out your handbag can make it simpler to locate things. After all, few things are more frustrating than digging through your purse when you need something urgently. Professional organizer Ashley Stewart from OCD in Arizona suggests beginning by sorting through your receipts and wallet. 'Toss out any outdated receipts. For those you need to keep for returns, store them in a pouch.'
Next, get rid of any random trash in your bag, like stray papers, pens, lipstick, and glasses.
Finally, Stewart recommends reorganizing with pouches. 'A pouch for makeup. A pouch for your phone charger. A pouch for receipts.'
Your Vehicle
Much like purses, cars can quickly turn into clutter zones. Luckily, these areas are simple to clean. Begin by discarding food wrappers (no need to feel embarrassed—everyone eats in their car) and then move on to empty water bottles. Don't forget to check beneath the seats.
Next, open your glove compartment. This is one of those spots where we often toss things and then forget about them for years. It should only hold important items like your insurance card, registration, and manual. Afterward, clear out the center console as well as any door and seat pockets.
Bonus points if you've got an extra five minutes: Take a look through your trunk. It’s okay to keep essentials like reusable grocery bags, jumper cables, and a few extra bottles of water in this space.
The Pantry
We tend to store so many items in our pantries that it's easy to forget what's there, making the space get cluttered. Start by checking your spices. Throw away anything that's expired. Then, go through your pasta, crackers, nuts, and snacks. Toss out any stale or expired items. Finally, assess your canned goods. Move any nearing expiration to the front so you can use them ASAP.
The Fridge
Refrigerators require regular decluttering because you don’t want to consume spoiled food and risk getting sick. Start from the bottom and work your way up. Check the fruit and vegetable drawers for anything nearing the end of its life. Then, evaluate the shelves from bottom to top. If you can’t remember when you last ate those leftovers—throw them out immediately.
Next, inspect your cheese section. Any cheese with mold should be discarded as eating moldy cheese is unsafe. Finally, tidy up the doors. Toss out any condiments that are nearly empty or expired.
Your Desk Drawer
A desk drawer can get quite messy. Begin by sorting through pens and pencils—anything that’s too short or dried out should go. Remove old receipts, gum wrappers, and loyalty cards. Then, check for broken paper clips and stray staples.
Next, relocate anything that doesn’t belong in the drawer, like books, loose change (or cash), gadgets, and gift cards. Create a separate pile for mail and tackle it later.
