Why It’s Hard to Keep Everything in Its Place
As moms, we all know the feeling of trying to keep everything in order only to be interrupted by snack requests, nap schedules, and toys spread out everywhere. It can feel impossible to get organized when you’re constantly pulled in different directions. But the key isn’t about becoming a minimalist or keeping an Instagram-ready home 24/7. Instead, it’s about finding systems that work for you so that you can keep everything in its place without endless effort.
Step 1: Declutter First—Organizing Comes Later
One of the biggest mistakes moms make is trying to organize clutter without first letting go of the things they don’t need. Here’s the deal: you can’t organize what’s unnecessary. Decluttering is the essential first step to reaching that “everything in its place” goal. When you let go of the extra, you’re left with only what you truly use and love.
Here’s how to get started with decluttering:
- Do a Quick Purge: Set a timer for 10-15 minutes and grab a bag or box. Quickly go through a room and pull out anything broken, unused, or no longer needed.
- Focus on Categories: Go room by room or category by category (toys, clothes, kitchen items) and let go of what doesn’t fit into your family’s life.
- Stick to the Space You Have: Whether you’re in a 900-square-foot apartment or a larger home, commit to only keeping what fits comfortably in your space.
Step 2: Embrace the Process—Assimilate and Experiment
Once you’ve done some serious decluttering, give yourself time to settle into your newly simplified space. This stage is all about “assimilation”—learning how your family actually uses the space. Let’s say you’ve minimized the toys in the playroom. Now, spend a few weeks observing how the kids play and adjust as needed.
This is also the time for some trial and error:
- Move Items Around: Try keeping items where they’re most convenient and see if it feels right. Need to move the extra linens out of the hallway closet and into the bedroom? Go for it!
- Take Notes: As you live with fewer items, make note of what feels missing or unnecessary.
- Adjust as Needed: Don’t worry if you need to tweak things a few times. This process helps you get into a rhythm where everything naturally finds its place.
Step 3: Organize with Intention
Once you’re comfortable with what you have and where it’s going, now’s the time to actually organize! This is the fun part—where you can grab bins, shelves, or storage solutions that make sense for your family.
Some tips to keep it simple:
- Pick Practical Storage: Whether it’s toy bins, a small shelf for shoes, or a designated drawer for crafts, aim for storage that fits your space and lifestyle.
- Labeling Helps: Labels on baskets and bins make it easy for everyone (especially kids!) to know where things go.
- Keep It Flexible: As your family grows or changes, adjust your storage solutions. That’s normal!
Remember, organization is the final step. Decluttering and assimilating your home first is what makes everything else easier.
Tips for Keeping Everything in Its Place with Kids
Decluttering and organizing are only half the battle when you have kids. Here are some real-life strategies for managing the day-to-day:
- Bite-Sized Decluttering
Trying to tackle a whole room in one go? That’s just not realistic for most moms. Instead, do small purges throughout the week. Grab a bag and toss broken crayons, outgrown clothes, or old toys in 10-15 minute increments. These quick purges make a huge difference over time. - Have Your Head on a Swivel
Look for little pockets of time to tackle your organizing goals. Waiting for dinner to cook? Sort the junk drawer. Nap time? Tidy up a closet. These small chunks of time are surprisingly effective. - Make Simple Lists
Lists can help keep you on track and make decluttering and organizing feel doable. Instead of aiming to “organize the entire kitchen,” break it down: Monday—go through mugs and glasses. Tuesday—sort Tupperware. These small tasks add up to big wins.
Decluttering with Kids: Managing the Stop-Start Cycle
With kids, the decluttering and organizing process is rarely uninterrupted. You’ll have to deal with toys being scattered, snack breaks, and constant distractions. But here’s how to keep things rolling, even with little ones underfoot:
- Be Realistic: Understand that interruptions are going to happen. Don’t expect perfection; instead, go with the flow.
- Set Boundaries for Older Kids: Tell them which areas are off-limits during your organizing time. This helps prevent them from undoing your work.
- Use Kid-Free Times Wisely: Naptime, bedtime, or even early mornings can be ideal for tackling bigger projects.
Because Kids: Making Them the Reason, Not the Excuse
Here’s a mindset shift: instead of saying, “I can’t organize because of my kids,” start saying, “I’m doing this because of my kids.” We all want to give our children a home that feels peaceful and organized, where they learn how to take care of their things and respect their environment. Making them the reason rather than the excuse will keep you motivated.
Ready to Get Everything in Its Place?
If you’re ready to go beyond just tidying up and want a real, practical plan to get your home organized, check out my Decluttering Simplified course. I’ll walk you through each step, helping you find that balance of “everything in its place” without the overwhelm. This course was designed for moms juggling kids and life, so you’ll get all the support and guidance you need to finally create a home that works for you.
Join Decluttering Simplified here and let’s get started on making your home feel peaceful and in control. Remember, you don’t need to be perfect—you just need a plan that works for your family.
Let’s make “everything in its place” a reality together!
