Why This Controversial Organising Method Is Exactly What You Need
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Letting go of clutter is hard to do. Anyone who has encountered the teachings of Japanese cleaning guru Marie Kondo knows that minimalism is currently all the rage; her housekeeping manual, The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up, has inspired legions of readers to throw away their unneeded belongings. We love all things related to organisation and have to admit to clearing out our drawers and closets in a fit of aspirational tidying ourselves.
Not everyone, though, is on board with KonMari, the nickname Kondo gave her techniques. As with any good trend, there's a corresponding backlash. A writer for The New York Times extolled the virtues of living a life surrounded by things in an article called "Let's Celebrate the Art of Clutter."
Whether you're pro- or anticlutter, you must admit there's a certain calmness to be found in a well-organised drawer. Read through to see 25 examples of Marie's method at work, and see if you aren't a little inspired to take a turn at organising your own home.
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Reduce the Number of Clothes You Have
Kondo believes aspiring KonMari adherents should begin with their clothes, going through belongings and keeping only those things which "spark joy."
One Instagram user posted a photo showing her newly tidied closet, with all the shirts facing the same direction with space between the hangers.
According to Kondo, a well-organised closet should be able to hold many belongings.
There should be enough room in a closet for two people's belongings, and more.
A well-tidied closet will soon be able to store other belongings besides clothes.
Get Rid of Papers in the Office
Kondo believes that people keep too many old papers they simply don't need. Keeping office space tidy will make life a lot easier!
The method works especially well in small offices.
Store Belongings Vertically
Not a fan of piles, Kondo urges storing belongings vertically. One reader employed the advice with tea towels.
The vertical stacking method is good for drawers, too. That way, you can see everything!
Kondo also likes when things are organised by colour.
The vertical stacking method should also be used in closets.
Vertical stacking in drawers makes organising a child's clothes simple.
Rethink How to Store Small Items
Kondo is a big proponent of folding small items, including socks and stockings.
She also believes in rolling socks, which helps preserve the elastic.
Use Small Containers
Kondo is a big proponent of using boxes of all sizes and shapes for organising small items, like jewellery.
She thinks it's best to keep small boxes on hand for future storage solutions.
Say Bye to Your Books
Kondo believes people keep books for far longer than necessary.
Kondo urges her readers to get rid of most of their books, only keeping the ones that "spark joy."
Reducing the number of books in one's home will free up a great deal of space.
Attack the Bathroom Too
Kondo urges paring down bathroom items and keeping what's left in small containers.
She believes in wiping down products after use, and then keeping them out of sight until the next time.
The Kitchen Should Be Orderly
Kondo's methods extend to the kitchen, where even containers can be stored in containers.
Kondo urges keeping counters clear and most items out of sight.
Make Your Entryway Tidy
Kondo personally uses a cabinet by her entryway to hold everyday belongings and shoes.
Kondo believes cabinets, even when used as storage, should be orderly behind closed doors.