Simple and Creative Tips from GHC to Get Organized in 2026 and Personalize Your Space
- Melissa Garretto
- Jan 7
- 5 min read
Getting organized can feel overwhelming, especially when life feels busy and cluttered. But with a few simple tips for getting organized in 2026, you can create a space that feels calm, functional, and truly yours. The best part? You can use stuff you already have at home or Grey House Creations can help you to put together decorative personalized systems that fit your lifestyle and look good in your home. This post shares practical ideas for decluttering and managing your time, all while encouraging you to make your space uniquely yours and to feel less stressed.
Decluttering with Easy Solutions
Decluttering is the first step to feeling organized. When you clear out what you don’t need, you make room for what matters. I need to remind myself of this often. As a creative person... I look at a piece of ribbon and think, "oh I can totally use that", lol, but at least I have a designated sport for it. "A clear space = A clear head" - well not quite 100%, but it helps. Here are some practical ways to declutter:
Create labeled storage jars or boxes
Use clear jars or boxes and decorate and label them with craft paper or chalkboard stickers or cute vinyl labels from Grey House Creations. This makes it easy to see what’s inside and keeps small items like band-aids, paper clips, papers, or office supplies tidy.
When it is labeled clearly, your family is less likely to ask you where everything is. Or maybe not..?
Make a donation spot
Set up a designated box or basket for items you want to donate. Sign up for a local donation pick up from your home to assure that you actually stop procrastinating and actually get it out of your home!! For me... once I see a few things build up in the bag.. I make an appointment for a donation pickup and it helps to keep me accountable.
Use decorative baskets or bins
Ummm.... I'm sure an professional organizer may have other suggestions and probably will emphasize declutter first and then find a space for it. But I really love bins and baskets. lol.
Start with what you have and upgrade from there when you know what works. Throw blankets can transform plain baskets into stylish storage solutions. Bins and boxes can help organize like items together and find what you need. Can the kids actually put it away now?
Designate Areas of your Home
Sometimes people end up putting stuff where ever it can fit. So you find a random cabinet with phone wires, cleaning spray, candles, etc. So when you really want to find something.... you cannot. It is frustrating and just wastes your time.
When you group like items together, you will see what you actually have and not go out and buy more AA batteries, because in reality you had a total of 20 of them scattered everywhere. lol. Another example is if you have your bathrooms small garbage bags stored in the bathroom, instead of the hall closet, then you are more likely to put the bag in as soon as the other one is taken out since it is right there!
Time Management Made Simple and Fun
Managing your time well helps reduce stress and keeps your days running smoothly. Myself and Time Management need a lot of work!! lol. Here are some simple tips for getting organized in 2026, these may be items you already have, want to invest in or something that Grey House can help you with:
Design a personalized planner or calendar
Use a blank notebook or calendar and decorate it with stickers, stamps, or hand-drawn designs. Color-code your tasks with markers or washi tape to quickly see what’s coming up. When it looks nice, I am more likely to probably use it. Or you can do without the stickers and fun pens.... but you have to try it!! I have learned that sometimes writing them down besides using a digital calendar can help me remember (at least a little more) all the tasks we have to do. Make it a habit to look at your planner daily and use it!
Create a daily to-do list or menu board
Use a small chalkboard or corkboard (you can even decorate it). Pin or write your daily tasks and update them easily. Check out this Wall Organizer You can also use your board to plan dinners for the weeknights.
When I don't plan...I find myself guessing, stressing and making whatever. "Cereal or eggs anyone?" I also end up throwing food away because I actually thought I was going to use it all this week. Planning ahead saves time and money. Plus having it written down reduces your mental load and helps structure your day a little better.
Create a motivational quote display
Write or print your favorite motivational quotes on decorative paper and frame them. Or just get one from Grey House Creations! Yu can create any quote you wish: painted or engraved. Place these where you’ll see them often to stay inspired.
Which system helps you with time management at home or work?
Personalize Your Systems to Fit Your Lifestyle
The key to lasting organization is creating systems that work for you. Here’s how to personalize your approach:
Assess your daily routines and habits
Think about what you use most and where clutter builds up. Tailor your "need-to-get-organized" projects to those areas.
It is ok to decorate a closet!
Considering that I am in my pantry....all the time.... I want it to least look nice! I have used baskets that I have receive presents in, made some and bought some.
Here I ended up covering my wire shelves... thanks Dad. It gives it a totally different look! Plus having this weird layout of a closet - I made it work and even hung up some cute signs. Now it makes me happy to open the doors! :)
Mix and match storage solutions
Combine baskets, jars, boxes, and boards in ways that suit your space and needs.
Keep it flexible
If the system is not working for you or your family, change it. Change the layout or system as your life changes, to meet your needs. I am always re-arranging something, ask my husband. lol
Make it fun
Add colors, patterns, and textures that make you smile. When your organization system feels good, you’re more likely to keep it up.
Personalized systems turn organizing from a chore into a something that you enjoy to see in your home and it helps keep (parts of) life in order!
Let Grey House Creations help you in the areas that you need a little personalization in your life!
Talk soon,
xoxo Melissa
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