Martha Stewart is synonymous with impeccable style and organisation. Her approach to organising isn't about perfection—it's about creating a system that works for your life. Whether you're tackling a messy closet or a chaotic kitchen, these steps will help you achieve a clutter-free home. In this guide, you'll learn how to apply Martha's methods, avoid common pitfalls, and choose the right storage solutions.
Start with a Clear Vision and a Plan
Before you dive into sorting, Martha recommends defining your goal. Ask yourself: How do I want this space to function? For example, a pantry should make meal prep easy, while a home office needs to support focus. Write down three specific outcomes you want. Then, take photos of the area to see it objectively. This step prevents you from getting overwhelmed. Next, gather supplies: boxes labelled “Keep,” “Donate,” “Trash,” and “Relocate.” Martha suggests using clear bins so you can see contents at a glance. Avoid buying storage containers until you've decluttered—you might not need as many as you think.
Declutter by Category, Not by Room
One of Martha's key principles is to organise by category, not location. This means pulling all similar items together, such as all kitchen utensils or all office supplies, regardless of where they're stored. This reveals duplicates and forgotten items. For instance, you might find three garlic presses scattered across drawers. Start with one category at a time to avoid burnout. As you sort, ask: Do I use this? Do I love it? Does it serve a purpose? If the answer is no, it goes into the donate or trash pile. A common mistake is keeping items “just in case.” Martha advises limiting sentimental items to a small box. Remember, decluttering is about making space for what matters.
Implement Smart Storage Solutions
After decluttering, it's time to store what remains. Martha favours function over fancy. For drawers, use adjustable dividers to keep items upright and accessible. For shelves, use baskets or bins to group like items—but label them clearly. Avoid stacking items too high; you should be able to see everything at a glance. In the kitchen, use risers for cans and lazy Susans for corner cabinets. In the closet, use uniform hangers (velvet or wood) to save space and create a cohesive look. A real-world tip: measure your spaces before buying any storage product. Many people buy bins that don't fit, leading to wasted money and frustration. Also, avoid over-accessorising—too many containers can become clutter themselves.
Maintain Your System with Daily Habits
Organising is not a one-time event. Martha suggests a “one-minute rule”: if a task takes less than a minute, do it immediately. This includes hanging up a coat, filing a paper, or wiping a counter. Another habit is the “five-minute tidy” at the end of each day—set a timer and put away items that are out of place. For families, create designated landing zones for keys, mail, and bags. A common pitfall is letting “temporary” piles become permanent. To avoid this, schedule a weekly 15-minute reset for high-traffic areas. And don't forget to reassess your system seasonally. As your needs change, your organisation should adapt.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Many people make the mistake of buying storage bins before decluttering, which only hides the mess. Another error is trying to organise everything at once—this leads to burnout. Instead, tackle one drawer or shelf per day. Also, avoid using the top of cabinets or high shelves as dumping grounds; if you can't reach it easily, you won't use it. A real-world tip: when donating, drop off items immediately to prevent second-guessing. And for paper clutter, Martha recommends a simple filing system with categories like “Bills Paid,” “Receipts,” and “Important Documents.” Scan what you can to reduce physical paper. Finally, don't compare your home to a magazine. Your system should fit your lifestyle, not someone else's.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I start organising when I feel overwhelmed?
A: Begin with a small area, like a single drawer or a shelf. Set a timer for 15 minutes and focus only on that space. The sense of accomplishment will motivate you.
Q: What storage products does Martha Stewart recommend?
A: She prefers clear acrylic bins, wire baskets, and natural materials like wood and cotton. Look for items that are stackable and uniform in size.
Q: How often should I declutter?
A: Aim for a major declutter once a year, but maintain daily and weekly habits to prevent buildup. Seasonal check-ins help too.
Q: What's the best way to organise a small closet?
A: Use vertical space with double rods and over-the-door organisers. Store off-season items in vacuum-sealed bags under the bed.
Q: How can I get my family to stay organised?
A: Assign each person a specific bin or shelf for their items. Make it easy for them by labelling clearly and keeping frequently used items accessible.
Final Thoughts
Martha Stewart's organising philosophy is about simplicity and purpose. By starting with a plan, decluttering by category, choosing smart storage, and maintaining daily habits, you can transform your home into a calm, functional space. Remember, the goal is not perfection but progress. Start small, be consistent, and your organised home will become a reality.