Between the Layers | Design Guide Series
SUBSCRIBE
Lifestyle

Organizational Hacks: Purge, Declutter and Conquer!

Purge, Declutter and Conquer: organizational hacks that will help you

Hi everyone! I thought it would be helpful to share some game-changing organizational hacks that are an absolute must before you begin your next big move. Coming from a family who has moved many times due to our jobs, we consider ourselves experts in the field and thought we could offer some insight. My rule is to purge, declutter and conquer! As a designer and busy mom, I’ve learned firsthand how crucial it is to have a clean, organized space from which to start preparing. We’re going to be revisiting these tips shortly ourselves as we prepare to put our current house on the market. We’re excited to begin our move into the Tumalo Ranch project!

Moving into a new home is an exciting chapter in life, but it can become very chaotic if you’re not prepared. That’s why I can’t stress enough the importance of cleaning everything out before the big day. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later when you can find what you need effortlessly and don’t have to deal with all the unnecessary items you’ve had stored in the attic for years. 

Let’s start with the garage

The haven of miscellaneous belongings, seasonal items, and forgotten treasures. It’s the perfect place to start to declutter! One of my absolute favorite discoveries has been big, durable stackable bins that we incorporated into our garage makeover last summer. These versatile containers are a godsend for storing all types of goods, like camping equipment, decorations or sports gear. 

Investing in these stackable bins will give you a streamlined, organized system that fits perfectly on racks and shelves. Label each bin with a clear, concise description, allowing you to locate your items with ease. 

Clouz Houz Tip: Utilize labels, tags, or even color-coded systems to ensure easy access!

Remember, a well-organized space is not only visually pleasing, but also contributes to your overall well-being. Going through this process will create a sense of tranquility in your new home as soon as you walk through the door. Happy organizing and happy moving! 

Closets can be challenging to declutter

When it comes to purging, take a moment to ask yourself, “Do I really need this?” If you haven’t worn it in the past 6 months, then consider getting rid of it. It’s amazing how much we accumulate over time. Don’t be afraid to part ways with things that no longer serve a purpose in your life. Once you declutter your closets, you will feel incredibly rewarded … and closer to the finish line!

We understand how hard it can be to let go of sentimental objects, but remember, it’s about creating a fresh start in your new home. Think about donating to local charities, or organizing a yard sale to pass clothes on to others who may find joy in them.

The Pantry 

Thanks to the discovery of the best airtight storage containers for snacks, my tiny pantry has been completely transformed. These incredible containers have revolutionized my storage game, allowing me to fit an impressive amount of snacks into a limited space. With their efficient design, I can neatly stack and organize various treats without worrying about freshness or spillovers. 

But it doesn’t stop there! Creating distinct zones within my pantry has taken organization to a whole new level. By allocating specific areas for grains, canned goods, spices and baking supplies, finding the right ingredients has become an absolute breeze. No longer do I need to rummage through cluttered shelves, as everything now has its designated place.

 

Last step of the process: Enjoy and ice cold beverage and kick your feet up. You did it!

I hope these tips and tricks work for you like they have worked for us! It’s not easy work, but it is necessary and rewarding.

1

Storage Bins

These sleek, black storage bins, crafted with durability, are ideal for taming the chaos.
Storage Bins
2

Shelf Dividers

Maximize the functionality of your closet with these clear shelf dividers. Effortlessly organize your purses or cosmetic bags and be amazed how clearly you can see everything you have stored!
Shelf Dividers
3

Food Storage Jars

With their airtight seals, these stylish jars are designed to preserve your food while getting rid of the need for unnecessary packages that take up too much space.
Food Storage Jars
4

Shoe Storage Boxes

These durable and transparent containers allow you to declutter. You can conveniently store and protect your favorite shoes while maximizing space with these containers' stackable feature.
Shoes Storage Box
5

Hangers

Upgrade your closet aesthetic while keeping your clothes neatly displayed with these gold hangers.
Hangers
Join the Conversation

get inspired
#clouzhouz
follow along
@clouz_houz
I think one of the biggest mistakes we make is assuming we’re supposed to have everything figured out before we begin. Looking back, there were so many clues pointing me in this direction. I just didn’t recognize them because they felt... ordinary. The things that come most naturally to us are often the things we overlook. We assume everyone thinks that way. Sees the world that way. Enjoys those same things. It took years before I realized that what felt effortless to me wasn’t effortless to everyone else. Maybe that’s why I have such a soft spot for old houses. Sometimes they don’t need to become something entirely different. They just need someone to recognize what was there all along. I think people are a little like that, too.

I’m curious... have you ever looked back and realized the signs were there all along?
Part 1 of our Sixth Street den is finally here.

This room is a little different than the rest of our home, and honestly... that’s what I love about it. One of my design philosophies has always been knowing where to save and where to splurge. Not every room needs the same investment, especially when you understand how it’s going to be used.

This is our family den. It’s where we unwind at the end of the day, watch a movie, read a book, or curl up with the dogs. When we’re entertaining, everyone naturally gathers in the kitchen, dining room, or living room, so I gave myself permission to be a little more creative here.
That meant mixing old with new, incorporating a few vintage finds, and investing in the pieces that would have the biggest impact. It was less about buying everything new and more about creating the feeling I wanted. The room isn’t finished yet (are they ever?), but it’s already become one of our favorite places to land at the end of the day.

I can’t wait to show you Part 2 and walk through some of the other decisions that brought this room together. It’s full of personality, and I think those details are what make it feel like us.

Part 2 coming soon!