How I’m Keeping Things Organized (Even With Kids at Home)

People often ask how I manage to keep things organized with two kids running around. The truth? It’s not about being perfect or constantly cleaning — it’s about having systems that support how your family actually lives. When everything has a purpose and a place, keeping things organized becomes second nature. Here are a few […]

People often ask how I manage to keep things organized with two kids running around. The truth?

It’s not about being perfect or constantly cleaning — it’s about having systems that support how your family actually lives.

When everything has a purpose and a place, keeping things organized becomes second nature.

Here are a few habits and systems that help us stay on track.

1. Use Tools That Support Your System

Let’s clear this up first — bins aren’t the solution, they’re just a tool.

Organization doesn’t come from having the prettiest containers; it comes from using tools intentionally to make your system work better.

Before you buy another bin or basket, think about what you’re containing and why.

Is it a temporary category (like art projects in progress)? Or a long-term one (like seasonal gear)?

When your tools support your habits — not the other way around — keeping things organized becomes a whole lot easier.

Pro tip: Always label your containers so everyone in the family knows what belongs where. A label turns a tool into a system.

YouTube video

2. Categorize Everything

Categorizing is the backbone of staying organized. It’s how you create clarity — not just for yourself, but for your whole family.

Start by grouping similar items together: office supplies with office supplies, toys with toys, cleaning products with cleaning products.

Then store those categories close to where you use them.

This step isn’t about creating Pinterest-worthy shelves — it’s about building logic into your space so you’re not wasting time hunting for things.

When you categorize consistently, keeping things organized day-to-day becomes automatic.

Categorizing Posts You Will Love:

Organizing A Kitchen- Full Category List And Where To Store

How Do You Categorize Your Clothes?

How To Group Garage Items

Where To Store Office Supplies

How To Organize Random Stuff- Floaters

How To Group Pantry Items

3. Micro-Declutter Daily

Instead of waiting for a “big declutter weekend,” I’ve started focusing on micro-decluttering — small, quick moments of clearing out what doesn’t belong.

It might look like tossing expired snacks while you’re making lunch or removing old mail as you walk in the door.

These little moments add up and prevent clutter from piling up in the first place.

The key to keeping things organized long-term is maintenance, not marathon cleaning.

YouTube video

4. The Nightly Tidy

Every evening, I take 5–10 minutes to do a quick tidy-up before bed. I’ll reset the main living areas — fold blankets, put away random toys, clear counters, and make sure tomorrow starts fresh.

Some nights it takes five minutes, other nights fifteen.

But waking up to a space that’s calm and ready for the day makes a huge difference.

And the best part? When the kids help with their own areas (even just picking up toys or books), it becomes a family habit — not a solo job.

Keeping Things Organized

Keeping things organized doesn’t mean your home always looks perfect — it means your systems make life easier.

When you rely on tools that support your habits, categorize intentionally, declutter a little every day, and reset your space each night, your home stays functional without the constant chaos.

It’s not about doing more — it’s about creating systems that work with you, not against you.

The Organized Mama with Home Sweet Organized Home
Hey, I’m Jessica! Welcome to The Organized Mama—where organizing is made ADHD-friendly, doable, and totally overwhelm-free. As a former in-home organizer (and mom!), I’m here to help you simplify your home with easy-to-follow systems that actually work with your brain, not against it. Whether you're organizing with kids, figuring out where to start, or just feeling buried in stuff, you'll find real-life tips and support right here.
Search
© 2025 The Organized Mama. All Rights Reserved.