A month into 2026 already! I hope you have had a great start to the new year. I am looking forward to continuing my tips this year, which will be practical and easy to use, and most importantly, make it easier to maintain your home!

The 5 Areas to Organize First for a Fresh Start

When you are getting organized for the new year, knowing where to start makes all the difference. At Sorted Out^®, we always recommend focusing on areas that create the biggest daily impact first. Below I’ve shared the top five spaces to focus on & tips on how to organize each one to help you feel calmer, save time, and overall improve daily life.

1. Entryway

The entryway sets the tone for your entire home. A cluttered entry creates instant stress the moment you walk in.

• • Remove anything that doesn’t belong there (mail piles, random bags)
  • Create simple zones: keys, shoes, coats, everyday bags (purses, backpacks, etc.)
  • Use hooks, baskets, or slim shoe storage to keep it functional

2. Kitchen

The kitchen is one of the most-used spaces and disorganization here wastes time and money!

• • Declutter expired food and unused utensils/kitchen gadgets first
  • Group items by category (baking, snacks, cooking tools)
  • Store everyday items at eye level and within reach

Don’t buy bins until you’ve edited what you actually use. This is one of the biggest organizing mistakes we see!

3. Closet

An organized closet makes mornings smoother and reduces fatigue.

• • Remove anything you didn’t wear last year. I am doing this right now, and believe me, it was TIME. I feel so much better!
  • Organize by category, then color
  • Store seasonal items separately to reduce visual clutter. I store mine in a spare bedroom closet.

Another Quick Tip:
If it doesn’t fit your lifestyle right now, it doesn’t belong in your closet.

4. Paper & Digital Clutter (The Hidden Stressor)

Paper clutter and digital overload quietly drain your mental energy.

• • Sort paper into three categories: action, file, recycle/shred
  • Go digital where possible (bills, statements, etc.)
  • Unsubscribe from emails you no longer need

Sorted Out^® Strategy:
Create one dedicated spot for incoming paper so it doesn’t spread throughout the house.

5. Bedroom

Your bedroom should support rest, not stress. Too much clutter affects sleep and relaxation. Your bedroom should feel like a retreat, not a storage unit.

• • Clear surfaces like nightstands and dressers
  • Keep only calming, functional items in the room
  • Use under-bed storage wisely (no random storage items here)

Ready to Get Fully Sorted Out^®?

Getting organized does not have to feel overwhelming. At Sorted Out^®, we help you create systems that work for your real life, not just for social media. Those who know us do not create systems that are unrealistic! Let us know how we can help.

Tonia