Pop The Clutter: How to Declutter Your Home One Bubble at a Time
Decluttering and organizing does not have to be a huge, overwhelming task. In fact, sometimes the best way to tackle mess is to break into tiny bubbles. Each step of organizing is a small way to pop stress out of your living space. In this post I will explore simple ways to declutter and organize spaces without feeling overwhelmed, creating a calming environment that's as refreshing as a bubble bath.
Back Story:
After moving in to my first apartment less than a year ago I needed to find ways to keep organized. It felt like every drawer, every shelf, and every closet was bursting with things I was not sure where to put. The excitement of having my own space was overshadowed by the overwhelming task of organizing. At first, I tried a few organizing methods like throwing everything into a box that I never look at again. This quickly became an issue, every time I needed something I had to dig through piles of clutter. I soon realized I needed a system, that would allow me to keep my apartment tidy and still being able to access everything I needed. After some trial and error, I finally found a few methods that worked for me. I started by sorting everything into categories, then using clear bins and labels to keep things visible and accessible. I invested in some drawer dividers and a few other storage solutions. It wasn’t perfect at first, but the clutter slowly began to make sense. Each time I found a new spot for something, I felt a little more in control, and the stress started to fade. Eventually, the excitement of having my own space returned, not just because it was mine, but because it felt like I had a place for everything. Organizing turned out to be less about getting rid of stuff and more about creating systems that worked for my lifestyle. Now, my apartment feels like a reflection of who I am.
Start with a simple bubble: one room, one step at a time
The first step of the decluttering and organizing process is choosing one room or area to focus on. It is important to start with a space that feels manageable, like a bedroom, an office, or kitchen counter. Do not try to take on the entire house or apartment in one go. By starting with a single room, you give yourself a sense of completion once it is finished.
I always start with the bedroom - creating a peaceful, organized space.
Break it down into smaller steps
Once you have picked your bubble (room) break the task into smaller easier to complete steps. Start organizing in chunks
Step 1: Clear Spaces. Start by removing everything from your countertops. This makes the space feel manageable.
Step 2: Sort everything into categories. Go through your items and sort them into categories.
Step 3: Find a place for everything. This is essential, once you have sorted through everything find a designated spot for everything. Try to make everything easily accessible as well as manageable.
Action step: Choose one area to declutter
Pop the “I’ll do it later” bubble
I know the feeling of having a pile of things I keep meaning to get to but somehow I always push it off. The pushing off lasts for weeks then months. It is time to take action. The truth is, no matter what you will always find an excuse on why you can't do it now. The key is to break through that barrier and decide once and for all what stays and what goes.
I popped my procrastination bubble and turned my closet into a space that actually works for me!
How to pop the procrastination bubble
Step 1: Set a timer. Only a 10 minute timer will do the trick. This is one of the best ways to fight procrastination. You will be surprised how quickly you can get through piles of stuff.
Step 2: The keep or toss game. In order to pop the procrastination bubble you have to make decisions fast and not second guess yourself. When going through piles of things think of the rules.
Keep it if: you use it regularly or if it bring you joy
Loss it if: It is broken, hasn't been touched in months, or if it does not serve any purpose
Step 3: Create a toss it zone. By having a tote, box, or trash bag just for things you no longer need it will feel less stressful. This also helps you to donate the things you no longer need.
Action step: Decide to keep or toss
Create a bubble of peace in your home
Life can be stressful and sometimes feel like everything is out of your control. Taking control of your apartment can give you a sense of peace for the first time in awhile. To create a coming vibe you have to think of your home as a bubble of peace. One of the simplest ways to create this level of peace is by adding pieces to your space that bring you a feeling of zen. These pieces do not have to be expensive, they simply need to bring you a feeling of comfort, joy, and balance.
Creating my own little bubble of calm with candles, flowers, and a good book.
Step 1: Define what makes you peaceful. Before even adding pieces to your place take a moment to reflect on what truly brings you peace. It could be a minimalistic look with clean lines, or is it a cozy look with soft lighting. Everyone has a different version of peacefulness so defining what it looks like to you is super important
Step 2: Add natural elements. I used to hate the idea of adding any nature items into my space, but it is essential for creating a sense of zen. Adding even the smallest amounts of nature inspired decor can make an impact on your mood. For example adding in houseplants, fake flowers, natural wood accents, stone accents, or even a water feature.
Step 3: Incorporate soft lighting. Lighting plays a big role in setting the tone for a room. Soft, warm lighting can transform a space into one that feels calming and inviting. Some ways that I like to incorporate soft lighting into my space are LED candles, dimmer shades, warm light bulbs, and an electric fireplace.
Step 4: Use minimalism to enhance peace. From what I have learned less is more. A clutter free environment is key to creating peace. Clear surfaces, clean lines, and minimal distractions can help you relax as soon as you step into the room.
Action step: Add pieces that bring you a sense of zen
Keep the bubbles floating
Here’s a peek inside my pantry, where clear bins help keep everything organized and make long-term food storage a breeze!
A clutter free home isn't just about getting rid of things, it is also about creating a longterm system that keeps things in check. While decluttering and organizing can feel very peaceful, it is easy to lose the sense of calm if clutter begins to take over. That is where long term storage comes into play, effective storage solutions that keep your things all organized without overwhelming your space. Storage systems are the bubble protectors of your home-organizational boxes and ideas that allow your bubbles of peace to keep flowing.
Step 1: Start with clear storage bins. When organizing the key is clarity. Clear plastic bins are one of the most practical storage systems because they allow you to see what is inside them without opening. This reduces the risk of getting frustrated when you can't find something. When choosing bins look for stackable bins, labeled bins, and durable bins. By choosing clear storage bins you not only create order but also ensure that everything is accessible while still being put away.
Step 2: Label everything. Anything and everything needs to be labeled. This ensures that you know where everything is while everything has its own space. Labels are essential for maintaining organization. Labeling makes it easy to find what you are looking for without having to open each bin.
Step 3: Under the bed storage. Utilize this hidden space as best as possible. When thinking long term storage it is essential to make the most of every inch of your space. This is an ideal space for items that you do not regularly need access to but still want to keep.
Action step: Add long term storage organizational boxes and ideas
Celebrate the bubbles you have popped
Every time you make a decision to declutter, organize, and create a clean space, you are allowing a more peaceful environment for yourself. Take a moment to celebrate the bubbles you have popped along the way. Keep the bubbles floating, and remember you are building a space that represents yourself.
Here are some of my favorite organizing products
