ORGANIZATION + PRODUCTIVITY

Home Sweet Home with Home + Sort: Your Path to Home Organization Bliss

Hello there, fellow home organization enthusiasts! Welcome to a clutter-free haven where chaos takes a backseat and tranquility reigns supreme. We’re Brandie + Ryan, cofounders of Home + Sort, a professional organizing team delivering modern, fresh, stress-free solutions to every inch of your home.

If you've ever found yourself drowning in a sea of mismatched socks, tangled cords, or a mountain of unread mail, fear not! We're here to guide you along your path to home organization bliss and share our best tips and tricks to make your home (and your life!) the organized oasis you've always dreamed of.

The home organization hacks we’re about to share can be used in tandem with our Erin Condren X Home + Sort Organizational Planner to enhance your planning journey, or as standalone tips on an as-needed basis. These are the topics we’ll be covering in this content library of sweet home organization goodness:

What Is the Best Order to Organize Your House?
How Can I Organize My Home Effectively?
What Are the Three Basic Steps to Organize Your Home?
How Can I Organize My House Without Being Overwhelmed?
Deep Cleaning Tips for Every Corner of Your Home
Digital Decluttering Tips for a Refreshed Digital Space
Meal Prep Made Easy: Your Guide to Deliciously Organized Eating
Aesthetically Pleasing Home Organization Tips
Beyond the Home: A Holistic Guide to Organized Living

Keep in mind that every home and organizing style is unique. So, explore, experiment, and have fun as you rediscover the joy of a beautifully organized home.

What Is the Best Order to Organize Your House?

Ready to embark on a serene journey to a more organized home? Imagine it like cultivating your personal oasis – start by identifying the most cherished areas, your kitchen, living room, and bedroom. These are like your retreat VIPs, so let's give them the attention they deserve! Prioritize these spaces to create an immediate sense of calm, setting the tone for the rest of your tranquil oasis. And here's the magic touch: embrace the "like with like" approach. It's like planting seeds in your personal sanctuary, making daily life more efficient and your space more harmonious.

How Can I Organize My Home Effectively?

Organizing your home is not just a cleanup; it's a lifestyle transformation! Think of it as tending to your oasis. Begin with a decluttering ceremony, separating items that bring you joy or serve a practical purpose. Then, add some happy home magic with storage solutions that blend seamlessly with your space, optimizing every nook and cranny. Establish daily habits like a nightly tidy-up or a routine mail-sorting meditation. Smart choices and a consistent flow are the secret ingredients to creating a peaceful, organized home that soothes the soul.

What Are the Three Basic Steps to Organize Your Home?

The path to an organized home is like designing your happy place in three steps:

1. Declutter Like a Pro.

See yourself as the caretaker of your personal retreat! Assess each item's significance, and let go of the ones that don't add to the tranquility and harmony of the space. This is the first step to organizing your home and sets the stage for your new clutter-free oasis.

Here’s a free junk drawer guide printable to help you declutter and organize those drawers.

2. Invest in Smart Storage Solutions.

Now, let's rev up the oasis vibe with practical storage solutions. From stylish organizers to modular shelving – these are the tools that help you create more order and serenity in your home. You can even turn storage into an art form, transforming your home into a functional and visually pleasing space.

3. Establish Daily Habits.

Consistency is the heartbeat of your home oasis! Develop daily habits that sync with your routine – a nightly refresh of lowkey tidying up or a quick stress-busting session of addressing incoming mail. These small yet meaningful practices keep the peace in your home (and mind) thriving while maintaining your organized haven.

How Can I Organize My House Without Being Overwhelmed?

Organizing your house should be simple and stress-free (even therapeutic!), not a daunting chore. Take it one step at a time, one room at a time, even one corner at a time, like creating your happy place, one section at a time. Begin with the area that needs a bit more love or impacts your daily tranquility the most. Enlist the support of a friend or family member, turn on some soothing tunes or an uplifting podcast, and make the process a positive and calming experience. Remember, the key to organizing success is taking it one step at a time while getting creative and enjoying the process.

Deep Cleaning Tips for Every Corner of Your Home

Ready to give your home a refreshing makeover? Dive into deep cleaning with practical tips for each space, turning chores into a satisfying routine.

Kitchen - Where Culinary Magic Happens

Give your kitchen a vibrant makeover with these cleaning tips:

Refresh Your Fridge: Remove expired items and wipe down shelves for a fresh start.
Pantry Cleanup: Organize your pantry, discard outdated goods, and wipe down shelves.
Oven Revival: Deep clean your oven to remove grease and grime.
Cabinet Maintenance: Vacuum and dust inside and outside cabinets. Wipe down baseboards.
Appliances TLC: Degrease appliances and give your floors a thorough vacuum and mop.

Bathrooms - A Haven of Serenity

Elevate your bathroom with these refreshing cleaning tips:

Grout and Tile Care: Scrub away grime from grout and tiles for a spa-like experience.
Fixture Maintenance: Cleanse shower heads and fixtures. Wash bath linens for a refreshing touch.
Sanitize Surfaces: Sanitize toilet, sink, hardware, and light switches. Dust light fixtures.
Flooring Freshness: Vacuum and mop the floors for a clean and fresh atmosphere.

Bedrooms - Clean Retreats

Transform your bedroom into a clean sanctuary with these tips:

Bedding Refresh: Wash all bedding for a cozy and clean sleeping environment.
Dusting Routine: Dust lights, furniture, and baseboards. Clean windows for a clear view.
Flooring TLC: Vacuum and mop the floors for a spotless finish.

Kid’s Spaces - A Playful Purge

Revamp the kid's space with these playful cleaning tips:

Toy Declutter: Discard broken or incomplete toys for an enjoyable play space.
Clothing Cleanup: Donate clothes that no longer fit, creating an organized kid's area.
Creative Corner Cleanup: Tidy up art supplies and creative corners. Sort through drawings and crafts, keeping the masterpieces and recycling the rest.

Utility - Where Practicality Meets Purity

Give your utility space a practical makeover with these tips:

Washer/Dryer Maintenance: Deep clean the washer and dryer for optimal functionality.
Cabinet Cleanup: Dust and sanitize cabinets and shelving for an organized utility space.
Floor Care: Vacuum and mop to leave your utility space refreshed and ready for use.

There you have it – a practical guide to deep cleaning that transforms chores into a satisfying routine. May your home radiate with the newfound cleanliness of a well-loved space. For our full, guided deep cleaning tips, checklists, goal trackers, and more, see the Deep Cleaning section of the Home + Sort Organizational Planner. Happy cleaning!

Digital Decluttering Tips for a Refreshed Digital Space

Digital clutter is just as real as analog clutter. So let’s clean that up too with some digital decluttering tips, and extend your organized oasis to your online world.

Download an App to Delete Duplicate Photos

Simplify your photo collection with the help of a duplicate photo finder app. Download a reliable app that scans your photo library, effortlessly identifies duplicates, and frees up valuable storage space. Embrace the ease of a streamlined photo gallery without the clutter.

Organize Photos into Files/Albums for Quick Access

Ensure easy access to your cherished memories by organizing your photos into files or albums. Create a structured system based on events, people, or themes. This not only declutters your gallery but also makes it a breeze to locate specific memories. Experience the joy of a well-organized digital photo collection.

Give Yourself Permission to Discard Unused Digital Content

Streamline your digital content with a touch of liberation. Keep what sparks joy or holds sentimental value, but grant yourself permission to discard photos and videos that no longer serve a purpose. Digital spaces thrive when they breathe freely. Let go of the unnecessary to make room for the meaningful.

Monthly Data Audit for a Constantly Fresh Digital Experience

Maintain a clutter-free digital environment with regular audits. Schedule a monthly data audit to review your files, apps, and media. Discard what's no longer needed and revel in the liberating feeling of a constantly refreshed digital space. With each audit, you'll ensure your digital world remains organized and enjoyable.

Apply these practical tips to declutter your online world and create a more organized and streamlined digital space. For a guided digital decluttering journey with more tips, see the Digital Declutter section of the Home + Sort Organizational Planner.

Meal Prep Made Easy: Your Guide to Deliciously Organized Eating

Daily life can get pretty busy, making meals a harried afterthought. But we’re here to help you master meal prep and planning, ensuring your meals are not only nutritious and delicious but also freeing up more of your time each day (and taking more stress off your plate). Let's get cooking!

Meal Planning Made Easy

Plan Your Meals.

Decide which meals to prep (breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks).
Opt for recipes suitable for meal prepping, aligning with your taste and dietary goals.
Select recipes that bring joy to your taste buds and those sharing the table.

Create a Grocery List.

Jot down all ingredients needed for your chosen recipes.
Organize the list by food categories (e.g., vegetables, protein, grains).
Dive into online grocery shopping for a seamless and efficient experience.

Shop Smart.

Visit the grocery store or order groceries online.
Stick to your list to avoid impulse purchases and cut down on grocery costs.
Explore new ingredients for culinary inspiration and a dash of excitement.

How to Meal Prep

Use the Right Containers.

Ensure you have ample meal prep containers with lids.
Opt for containers that are microwave- and dishwasher-safe.
Check out Amazon for a variety of convenient meal prep containers.

Get Your Cooking Equipment Together.

Gather pots, pans, baking sheets, and utensils for cooking.
Spruce up your kitchen—clean, organized, and stocked with essential tools.
Consider trying out a new kitchen gadget for a fun and efficient cooking experience.

Meal Prep Like a Boss.

Wash and chop vegetables, fruits, and herbs (mise en place).
Marinate or season proteins as necessary.
Cook grains, proteins, and other ingredients following your recipes.

Portion.

Divide cooked components into portions.
Arrange portions neatly in meal prep containers.
Label containers with the meal and date for easy identification.

Smart Meal Storage

Store.

Refrigerate or freeze-prepped meals based on your consumption plans.
Follow proper food safety guidelines with airtight containers.
Explore the benefits of a vacuum sealer for extended storage.

Clean.

Wash dishes, pots, and pans used during cooking and prep.
Freshen up countertops and your workspace for a clean kitchen.
Get the whole family involved in cleanup for a shared and joyful responsibility.

Organize.

Arrange prepped meals in an easily accessible manner.
Consider using a meal prep calendar or app to track fridge/freezer contents.
Dedicate a specific area in your kitchen for meal prep tools and containers.

How to Maintain the Art of Meal Prep and Planning

Reheat.

Master the art of safely reheating meals (microwave, stovetop, oven).
Keep reheating times in mind to avoid overcooking.
Experiment with different reheating methods for optimal taste.

Enjoy.

Grab your prepped meals as needed throughout the week.
Utilize any condiments or garnishes prepared separately, if applicable.
Revel in the convenience of having delightful meals at your fingertips.

Evaluate and Adjust.

Reflect on your meal prep experience, recipes, and portions.
Tweak your approach for the next week based on lessons learned.
Encourage family members to contribute to the meal planning process for a variety of preferences.

Meal prep isn't just a time-saver; it's a journey that transforms your connection with food. With these curated steps, you'll navigate meal prep with ease, savoring the convenience and flavor it brings to your daily routine. Happy meal planning!

For more tips and easy, prompted planning spreads, see the Meal Prep + Planning section of the Home + Sort Organizational Planner.

Aesthetically Pleasing Home Organization Tips

Organization isn't just about functionality; it's an art form that brings style and harmony to your living space. We’ve dedicated an entire month to aesthetically pleasing home organization in the Home + Sort Organizational Planner. Extend your stylish organizing journey with these bonus tips that seamlessly blend function and style, transforming your home into a Pinterest-worthy haven.

Match Made in Style

Say goodbye to the chaos of mismatched containers and hello to organized bliss. Using matching organizational products is the key to achieving stylish organization. It's not just about order; it's about creating a cohesive look that elevates the overall aesthetic of your space.

Picture-Perfect Placement

Ever notice how a well-organized store or market can be visually stunning? It's all about how things are placed. Embrace the art of perfect folding, arrange items by color, and avoid overcrowding. Stylish organizing lies in the details, from straightened canned goods to color-coordinated t-shirts and evenly spaced hangers.

Design Balance

Heights and proportions matter. When choosing containers, aim for bins that are the same height when placed next to each other. It's a small trick that makes a big difference, creating a visually balanced and pleasing arrangement.

Tailored Containment Options

With so many containment options available, finding the perfect fit for your home's style is a breeze. Explore different designs and materials to discover home organizing products that not only serve a purpose but also enhance the overall look of your space.

Color-Coordination Magic

While organizing, grouping like items is key. But to truly elevate your space, try color-coordinating. Not only is it aesthetically pleasing, but it also adds a layer of sophistication to your organization game.

Complementing Your Space

Harmony is the secret ingredient to achieving an organized look that's both functional and visually appealing. Choose organizational products that complement the design of your space. Whether your home is all about that natural earthiness or follows a more traditional theme, go for textures and materials that fit the flow of the existing aesthetic.

Embracing Minimalism

Take a cue from your favorite Pinterest-worthy spaces – they're not cluttered. Elevate your organizing game with a streamlined approach that emphasizes the beauty of simplicity. Ditch the unnecessary and let each carefully chosen item shine.

Transform your space into a masterpiece of organization with these aesthetic home organization tips. For so much more, including guided trackers and checklists to help make your design vision a reality, see the Art of Aesthetic Organization section of the Home + Sort Organizational Planner.

"The new Organizational Planner from Erin Condren x Home + Sort is dedicated to breaking down home organization projects into easy-to-implement, manageable tasks." (The Planner Wire)

Beyond the Home: A Holistic Guide to Organized Living

Ready to extend your organization journey beyond the walls of your home, where organization truly becomes a lifestyle? Let’s start with organized living hacks that can take your daily routine, holidays, and travel adventures to the next level.

Time Management: Unleash the Power of Productivity

Embrace the Daily Flow.

Your daily routine is like a steady flow, and with effective time management, you can keep the pace enjoyable.

Set Realistic Goals: Break your day into achievable tasks. Don't overstuff your schedule; allow room for the unexpected. This way, you can ride the flow without feeling overwhelmed.
Time Blocking: Set aside specific time blocks for different activities. This helps create a structured routine and prevents one task from taking over your entire day.
Morning Rituals: Start your day with a consistent routine. Whether it's a cup of coffee, a quick workout, or a moment of mindfulness, a morning ritual sets a positive tone for the day.

Prioritize with Purpose.

Spoiler alert: not all tasks are equally exciting. A quick productivity hack is to identify your priorities and kick them off first.

Eat That Frog: Tackle your most challenging task first thing in the morning. Once it's done, everything else feels like a breeze.
The 2-Minute Rule: If a task takes less than two minutes to complete, do it immediately. It clears small tasks off your plate, reducing mental clutter.
Review and Reflect: Take a few minutes at the end of each day to review what you accomplished and plan for the next. This simple habit boosts productivity and gives you a satisfying sense of achievement.

Keep Daily Productivity Chill.

No need to stress! Make your daily productivity sustainable and downright chill. Here’s how:

Take Breaks: Incorporate short breaks to recharge. Whether it's a stroll around the block or a quick stretch, stepping away for a moment can enhance focus.
Celebrate Wins: Acknowledge and celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how small. Positive reinforcement boosts motivation and creates a positive flow.
Task Journaling: Keep a journal to jot down tasks and ideas. It's a fun way to track progress and capture creative thoughts throughout the day.

Holiday Organization: Crafting Festive Harmony

Holidays are a celebration, not a stress-fest. Here are some of our favorite holiday organization hacks to keep the season happy, not hectic:

Plan Early.

Start planning well in advance, creating a handy roadmap for festivities.

Create a Master Calendar: Outline all your holiday commitments on one calendar. This visual aid helps prevent overcommitting and ensures a balanced celebration.
Budget Wisely: Set a realistic budget for gifts, decorations, and events. Planning ahead allows you to take advantage of sales and avoid last-minute splurges.
Delegate Tasks: Share the holiday responsibilities. Whether it's cooking, decorating, or planning activities, involving others spreads the joy and lightens the load.

Simplify Gift-Giving.

Gift-giving should be joyful, not overwhelming.

The Thoughtful List: Make a list of the recipients and their preferences. Thoughtful gifts don't always have to be extravagant; personal touches go a long way.
DIY Delights: Consider homemade gifts. Whether it's baked goods, crafted items, or personalized playlists, DIY gifts add a special touch.
Online Shopping Magic: Leverage online shopping to avoid crowds and discover unique gifts. Many online retailers offer gift-wrapping services, saving you time and effort.

Create Seasonal Organization Bliss.

Extend the holiday magic into seamless seasonal transitions.

Label Storage Bins: As you pack away decorations, label storage bins clearly. It makes finding specific items next year a breeze and adds an organized touch to the process.
Declutter and Donate: Use the change of seasons as an opportunity to declutter. Donate items you no longer need and create a fresh, organized space for the upcoming season.
Plan Ahead for Next Year: Take note of what worked well and what didn't during the holidays. Use this insight to refine your approach for the next festive season.

Vacation and Travel Organization: Journeying with Ease

Take organization with you on the go so you can stress less and relax more throughout your entire vacation (especially the traveling part).

Don’t Skip Pre-Travel Planning.

Turn your travel adventures into a more joyful journey by planning ahead.

Digital Documentation: Scan important documents like passports and travel insurance. Save them digitally, making it easier to retrieve in case of loss or emergency. Store hard copies of must-have documents in a travel organizer, and keep them in a safe when at the hotel, if available.
Local Insight: Research your destination for local tips and hidden gems. Having a rough itinerary allows for spontaneity while ensuring you don't miss out on must-see attractions.
Medicine and Essentials Kit: Pack a small kit with essentials like pain relievers, band-aids, and any necessary medications. It's a simple way to handle unexpected health concerns without derailing your plans.
Activity and Details Ring Agenda Planner: Use a ring agenda travel planner with storage for travel documents and receipts and planning sections for each day's activities, reservations, transportation details, and a budget tracker. Having everything in one place keeps you organized and reduces stress during the trip.

Pack Like a Pro.

Packing for a trip can be daunting, but with a strategic approach, it becomes a breeze.

Versatile Wardrobe: Pack clothing items that can mix and match, creating various outfits. This minimizes the number of items you need to bring while maximizing outfit options.
Roll, Don't Fold: Rolling your clothes instead of folding saves space and minimizes wrinkles. It's a packing hack that can make a significant difference.
Travel-Friendly Toiletries: Invest in travel-sized toiletries or use reusable travel containers. This not only saves space but also complies with airport regulations.
Use Travel-Friendly Bags, Pouches, and Organizers: Invest in durable, travel-smart organizers for your belongings. Zippered pouches for toiletries, electronics, and accessories keep everything neat and easily accessible, especially during security checks.

Staying Organized While on Vacation:

Keep the serenity of organization alive during your vacation.

Designate a "Home" for Items: Choose specific pockets or compartments in your bag for different items. It makes it easier to locate what you need without rummaging through your entire luggage.
Digital Detox Pouch: Designate a pouch for electronics like chargers, adapters, and headphones. It prevents tangling and ensures you have everything you need when it's time to unwind.
Daily Review: Take a few minutes each day to review your plans and adjust if necessary. It helps you stay on top of reservations and ensures you don't miss out on any activities.
Stay Connected: Share your itinerary with a trusted friend or family member. This not only keeps someone informed of your whereabouts but also provides an extra layer of security.

Now you’re equipped to navigate a fun and relaxed path of organization in every aspect of your life. Whether it's managing your time effectively, navigating the holiday season with ease, or embarking on stress-free travel, make the principles of organization your new lifestyle BFFs.

And to enjoy fully intentional, organized living, follow along in our Home + Sort Organizational Planner, where we guide you through a year’s worth of home + life organization and help make your experience breezy and fun.

Whether you’re on a guided adventure or solo journey, we want you to really revel in the game-changing joy that organized living will bring to your daily routine. Cheers to a well-organized home and a life filled with laughter and harmony. Happy organizing!

-Brandie + Ryan