Banish Clutter for Good: Family-Proof Tips for a Tidy Home

Rashmi at Ikea hunting for storage solutions.

Keeping a clutter-free home as a busy family can be challenging, but with a few intentional strategies and the right storage solutions, you can create a more organized and stress-free environment. Here are some practical tips to help corral items and maintain a tidy home:

1. Create Drop Zones for Everyday Items

• Why? Prevents clutter from piling up in random places.

• Solution: Designate specific areas near the entryway for shoes, bags, keys, and coats using wall hooks and storage benches. Install TRONES Shoe cabinets for storage that take up little space and are ideal for storing shoes, gloves, and scarves.

• Pro Tip: Use labeled bins or baskets for each family member.

2. Maximize Vertical Space

• Why? Vertical storage takes up less floor space and keeps items accessible.

• Solution: Install shelves, use the KALLAX Shelf Unit for storing toys, books, or decorative items. Wall-mounted SKÅDIS Pegboards are also great for small items in craft rooms, kitchens, or garages.

3. Rotate Toys and Seasonal Items

• Why? Reduces visual clutter and keeps toys feeling fresh.

• Solution: Use KALLAX Storage for rotating toys. Store out-of-season clothes and decorations in labeled SAMLA Boxes under beds or in closets.

4. Embrace Multipurpose Furniture

• Why? Saves space and adds hidden storage.

• Solution: Choose ottomans with storage compartments, beds with built-in drawers like the MALM Storage Bed, or coffee tables with hidden storage.

5. Implement a “One In, One Out” Rule

• Why? Prevents clutter from accumulating.

• Solution: For every new item brought into the house, donate or discard a similar item. Use the KOMPLEMENT Drawer Organizers to monitor clothing and accessories in wardrobes.

6. Designate a Family Command Center

• Why? Keeps schedules, mail, and important documents in one place.

• Solution: Use a wall-mounted organizer or KALLAX Shelf Unit with labeled bins for paperwork, school supplies, and charging stations. A whiteboard or chalkboard can display weekly schedules.

7. Establish a Daily 10-Minute Tidy-Up

• Why? Consistency is key to preventing chaos.

• Solution: Set a timer for 10 minutes each evening and have every family member tackle one area. Quick tasks like putting away toys, clearing the kitchen counter, or folding laundry can make a big difference.

8. Use Clear Storage for Visibility

• Why? Easy identification saves time.

• Solution: Use transparent bins like SAMLA or labeled baskets to store pantry items, toys, or craft supplies. Categorize by type to make locating things easy.

9. Encourage Kid-Friendly Organization

• Why? Teaches children responsibility and independence.

• Solution: Provide low, accessible storage options like a KALLAX shelving unit with KNIPSA baskets for toys and art supplies. Use pictures and labels to help younger children know where items belong.

10. Make Decluttering a Family Habit

• Why? Regular decluttering prevents unnecessary build-up.

• Solution: Set a monthly or seasonal decluttering day. Give each family member a bag to fill with unused items for donation. Focus on clothing, toys, and kitchen gadgets.

With these strategies and practical IKEA storage solutions, your family can enjoy a more organized home, leaving you more time to relax and spend time together.