Minimal living has become a trend in recent years, with books such as Mari Kondo’s The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up, advertising the aptly-named KonMari method, sweeping not only the organization industry, but also NYT and Amazon Best Seller lists for weeks at a time, and numerous methods of home organization, closet and wardrobe organization, and more being touted on social media such as Facebook, Pinterest, and how-to blogs. Organization infographics and literature are prolific, but intense organization isn’t for everyone. Rather than a die-hard method, we’ll give you a few key ideas that can guide you in your journey towards minimalistic living and an organized home.

#1 Invest in Quality

This may seems to be common-sense, but when you’re counting dollars and comparing products, sometimes it’s forgotten. Purchasing a product that will perform for a long time well may mean that you have to invest more up-front. While we’re not saying you have to go designer and purchase name-brand everytime, we are saying that research is valuable. Do a few searches before buying—whether it be a wardrobe piece, decor item, or household essential—and invest in things that will last. You’ll buy less, save more, and create a home that feels as high-quality as it looks.

#2 Invest in Dual-Use and Multitask

This goes hand-in-hand with the above. If you’re trying to simplify your life, investing in products that are dual-use is one of the best things you can do. Rather than buying a cheap appliance off Amazon, invest in a KitchenAid mixer, which has several attachments that allow for various cooking techniques, such as dough kneading, mixing, whipping, and even spiralizing vegetables. This same idea applies to other products, such as clothing and accessories (don’t get it if you’re only going to wear it once), home goods (get the multi-purpose closet bracket instead of the basic support), and other items. Everything must multitask.

#3 Purge Often

Living cleanly often means that you have to get rid of things. Some homes opt for seasonal storage for clothes, throws, and decor, but, when the season comes to pull those items out, either they’ve grown tired of it, or they forget. Each time you prepare to store something, ask yourself three questions:

1. Is this item in use?

2. Do I need this for a limited period of time?

3. Will I need this item indefinitely?

Donate everything that you don’t answer an emphatic ‘yes’ to Goodwill, PTA, or sell it to a local thrifting store. You’ll thank us when it comes time to move or declutter your attic.

#4 Storage Doesn’t Have to Be Full

This is straight out of the KonMari method, so lovers of her book will know and appreciate this. Most houses have lots of storage place, and, while we do encourage maximizing your space through key design techniques, that doesn’t mean you have to fill what you have. Make your storage pieces dual-use (closet brackets, shelving, bins, and all), and purge regularly. This should—and will—keep your storage at about ¾ tank. Remember that minimalism is not compatible with hoarding. And neither is your new minimalistic mentality.

For more information on organization, check out our blogs on Home Updates,
Using Commonly Unused Spaces, and Transitional Spaces. Find out how we multitask at www.FederalBrace.com.