How to Organize Your Files
Follow these 9 tips for bringing order to your paper clutter.
Everyone needs to have some sort of designated place for file storage. If you don't, here's how to whip your paper clutter into shape:
- Buy a filing cabinet.
- Avoid using manila envelopes for storing items in the cabinet except in the case of maintaining past tax records. Items in envelopes tend to be out of sight and out of mind.
- For articles and travel information, separate clippings into clearly labeled files based on subject matter. Copying several related clippings on one page cuts down on the number of loose clippings.
- When labeling tabs, be specific and avoid using the term miscellaneous. If something's worth filing, it's worth naming.
- Place all tabs for hanging file folders on the front of the file. If the tab is on the back of the folder, the contents being filed have a greater tendency to slip between two file folders and be forever lost in space.
- Never use paper clips when filing. They have a tendency to clip to other, unrelated papers. Use staples instead when necessary.
- As a general rule, if a file grows thicker than an inch, it needs to be further divided or some items need to be thrown away.
- Whenever adding a new clipping to a file, go through the file to see if an older item can be thrown away. This helps curb the growth of files. Things that have been in the file for quite some time often can be thrown away.
- Designate expiration dates for as much of the filed material as possible. Code the material with the dates, and don't reconsider keeping something when it's time is up.
Next Up
Quick Tips for Home Organization
Try these quick home organization tips for maintaining a clutter-free home from basement to attic.
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.
Swedish Death Cleaning: It's Not as Grim as You Might Think
Okay, a little less grim. But a lot less grime.
How to Organize a Closet: Tips for Clearing Closet Clutter
Learn how to organize your closet like a pro with our strategies for storing clothes, photos and art supplies. Plus, find out how to turn your closet into a home office.
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.
How to Clean Your Cellphone
Remove bacteria from your phone with these simple steps.
Help for the Kitchen Organizer
Make your kitchen more efficient with these clever storage products.
How to Wash a Tie-Dye Shirt
See our favorite tips and tricks to keep your freshly tie-dyed shirt vibrant for years to come.
25 Ways To Be More Organized
Create order in your home (or at least your junk drawer) with these easy tasks from organizing experts and the HGTV stars. Each one takes an hour or less!
How to Clean a Washing Machine
Keeping a washing machine clean and well maintained will help keep it working for years to come.