How can I store things Marie Kondo style? Learn practical tips for decluttering and organising your space efficiently with Marie Kondo’s method.
When you have discarded everything that did not bring you joy, it is time to find a spot for everything that does. By giving each item a place, you assign each place an item. When that happens, it is less likely that a ‘thing without a place’ ends up there and invites further clutter around.
You only need to designate a spot for every item once. Decide where your things belong and when you finish using them, put them there. This is the main requirement for storage.
Storage: how to store
When it comes to the practicality of storage, there are only two rules:
- store all items of the same type in the same place, and
- do not scatter storage space.
You can follow the discarding categories for storage, or a broader system based on similarities in material. For example, ‘cloth-like,’ ‘paper-like,’ and ‘things that are electrical.’
If you live with your family, first clearly define separate storage spaces for each family member. Each individual’s storage should be focused in one spot. Having your own space makes you happy. Once you feel that it belongs to you, you want to keep it tidy. Everyone needs a sanctuary.
Storage: where to store
Clutter emerges from a failure to return things to where they belong. Storage should reduce the effort needed to put things away, not the effort needed to get them out.
When we want to use something, we have a clear purpose for getting it out and will go through the effort of doing so. It is the effort of putting things back that is difficult.
As such, it is best to store things in a single spot. When you do that, you do not have to think much about where to put things away.
Storage: next to, not on top
When it comes to storage, vertical is best. When you stack things on top of each other, you can keep storing indefinitely. Things on the bottom get squished and worn. Furthermore, retrieving an item will require two extra steps—removing and placing back whatever it was that was on top.
Storage: ‘solutions’
The only storage items you need are drawers and boxes. Create your own original combinations by matching an empty box to fit an item that needs storing. The best method is to experiment and enjoy the process.
The best way to store bags is in another bag. The key is to put the same type of bags together. Doing so means that you only need to take out one set whenever you need a particular bag.
Storage: routines
To avoid losing track of things, and to give your bags a well-deserved break, empty your bag every day. This is not as much effort when you have a place for all the things inside it.
Do not keep your soaps and shampoos in your bath or shower. Dry them up and store them away after use. These spaces will be tidier and easier to clean, and any ‘sludge’-buildup is prevented.
Similarly, your kitchen counter and sink are for preparing food and washing dishes, not for storing things. Put sponges and dish detergent underneath the sink. Keep oil, salt, pepper, soy sauce, and other seasonings in your kitchen cabinets. This will keep those things free of grease, and your kitchen much easier to clean.
Space can be noisy and tidy at the same time when it is overflowing with unnecessary information. Remove the product seals from your storage containers and tear the printed film off packages that you do not want to see. Your space will be much more peaceful and comfortable.
Another good habit to develop is to appreciate your belongings. Express your appreciation to every item that supported you. You will have a more grateful existence and take better care of what you own—extending your possession’s lifespan in the process!