How to Get Rid of Clutter in Your Home

Follow these simple steps to help tackle paper clutter and more.
By: Aimee Lane

Ways to Organize

Start by printing or writing "Toss," "Give" and "Do" on separate pieces of paper. Tape each sign to a large bin.

Toss

Toss items that are broken, stained, ripped, outdated or have missing parts. Some examples include:

1. Expired food
2. Restaurant receipts that aren't tax deductible
3. Broken electronics, appliances and games
4. Old makeup and broken jewelry
5. Broken kids' toys
6. Old craft supplies
7. Worn clothing and linens

Dried Up Paint

Give or Donate

Give or donate any items that you no longer need but that are still in good condition. If you can't let go of a sentimental piece, snap a photo of it to help free your attachment.

Stack of Books

Take Control of Paper Clutter

Paper clutter is the hardest to control, but you just have to find a place for all important documents. Follow these tips to help you get started:

1. Enter information from business cards into a digital contact list, and toss the hard copies.
2. Come up with a system to file bills and important paperwork.
3. Make any needed store returns, and get rid of receipts.

Once you go through the clutter in your home, throw away everything in the "Toss" bin and donate items in the "Give" bin. Clutter can build right back up before you know it. Repeat these steps every season to keep your home clutter free.

Pile of Papers

Next Up

Swedish Death Cleaning: It's Not as Grim as You Might Think

Okay, a little less grim. But a lot less grime.

How to Get Organized for Good, According to Professional Organizers

The experts are sharing all of their secrets on the storage solutions they use as professional organizers to get picture-perfect spaces that work for real life.

Quick Tips for Home Organization

Try these quick home organization tips for maintaining a clutter-free home from basement to attic.

How to Organize a Closet: Tips for Clearing Closet Clutter

Get the organized closet of your dreams with our strategies for storing clothes, photos and art supplies. Plus, learn how to turn your closet into a home office.

10 Home Office Hacks to Get You Organized Now

Working from home can be super comfortable and productive — unless your home office is a disaster. Follow these 10 simple tips to help declutter your space.

Help for the Kitchen Organizer

Make your kitchen more efficient with these clever storage products.

Here's How to Get Organized, Based on Your Zodiac Sign

Look to the stars for more structure in your life.

How to Successfully Organize Your Pantry and Keep It Neat All Year

Follow these pantry organizing tips to make your kitchen look professional-level organized.

How to Organize Books on a Bookshelf

'Tis the season to declutter and organize. Discover easy and clever ways to arrange, style and find the perfect new home for your book collection.

The Best Photo Storage Boxes for Organizing Your Favorite Memories

Make the most of your memories and get your pictures organized with these handy storage boxes.

Go Shopping

Get product recommendations from HGTV editors, plus can’t-miss sales and deals.

On TV

Follow Us Everywhere

Join the party! Don't miss HGTV in your favorite social media feeds.