Deb’s Counter Clutter Consultation

Deb of Fresh Nest Design has counter clutter and she’s looking to clean up her act. Here is her problem…

The items I put here are usually my pre-file items (i.e. 401 K Statements, Insurance, Important receipts). I file these about once every 2 months- our major filing cabinets are in the basement and I dread going down there to organize.

The other items that are in this basket are items that I want to keep, but haven’t found a place for {i.e. a frame that I want to repaint and use, a drawing that my child has done, etc}. All other items just build up there and need to be shredded or thrown away.

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Product Ideas:

#1 Children’s Artwork & Paper

To corral all of the paperwork that is piling up, get a file box that supports hanging file folders. Label one for each family member. The key here is to not buy a box that is too large. You don’t want it to become stuffed with papers! Papers that need attention go under each family members name. Your child’s school/artwork will go in their folder until you have time to go through and purge what you don’t want to save. If they are in school you should make a date to go through the papers every 2-3 weeks. Sooner if the folder is full.

I wouldn’t normally suggest labeling a folder “to file” but in your case this is necessary. Although, once that folder is full time to head to the basement to file them.

#2 Papers To Trash

I can’t emphasize this enough, as you are walking in the door with the mail in hand quickly shuffle through it, then immediately throw out the trash. Open all the mail, see if it is something you need to take action on or file and then put them in the appropriate file folders. Invest in a desktop shredder to shred the papers that need shredding.

#3 Cord Clutter

I am adding this one in there because I see some cord clutter in the photo. A charging station will make everything look neat and tidy with little effort. We like little effort! Better yet, find one that is multifunctional that can hold your pens and scissors as well. You can often find them on sale at stores like Target or Home Goods.

#4 Things in Waiting

For the things in waiting and projects you have going on the current basket you have sitting there will work to hold these items. After speaking with Deb, she told me she has a closet next to the kitchen and I suggested keeping this basket of items she is waiting to do in there. If too much time passes schedule a date on your calendar to deal with these items so they don’t pile up!

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Author: Tanna Clark (601 Articles)

Tanna is founder and "chief organizing officer" of Complete Organizing Solutions. As a professional organizer and mom of three Tanna is passionate about helping busy families find the organizing solutions they need to manage their homes efficiently. You can find her organizing throughout the Greater Nashville, Tennessee area.