Title: Tidy Up in Style with Pro Organizers' NEAT Method Tips for the New Year
With winter's chill in the air and the holiday season drawing to a close, it's the perfect time to tackle that much- Needed house decluttering project. And the NEAT Method, the signature organizing technique developed by Ashley Murphy and Marissa Hagmeyer, co-founders of the professional organizing brand NEAT Method, is here to guide you.
Before the January 7th launch of their first-ever book, "The NEAT Method Organizing Recipe Book," the NEAT team is sharing their tips for setting up your organizing projects for success in 2023.
What is the NEAT Method?
The NEAT Method is a game-changer for creating beautifully functional spaces. This technique, developed by Murphy and Hagmeyer, promises thoughtful execution, paying close attention to the finest details. Whether you choose to employ their services or turn to their book, the NEAT Method provides a fresh start for your home.
The process begins with emptying a space and sorting items into categories. Once the space is bare, give it a thorough wipe-down to start anew. Next, edit your possessions—set aside items for suggested donation or disposal if they're damaged or no longer needed.
Then, decide where everything goes. Every organizing system is tailored to the client's needs and daily routines, taking into account a home's layout and storage constraints. Murphy and Hagmeyer then incorporate organizational products capable of harmonizing aesthetics with functionality.
Finally, don't forget about labels! The NEAT Method concludes with the addition of labels to clearly indicate where everything belongs, ensuring harmony within the home.
Celebrate the beginning of your decluttering journey with these pointers from the NEAT Method co-founders.
5 Strategies for Organizing Your Home
1. Prioritize High-Traffic Areas
"Start with the spaces that cause you daily stress—those areas where clutter constantly gets in the way of your routines," suggests Murphy. "From your messy kitchen counter to the untidy entryway, tackle these 'problem zones' first to improve your daily life."
According to Hagmeyer, frequently used areas like the kitchen, mudroom, and primary closet are the first to become cluttered. Addressing these areas first will set a positive tone for the rest of your home.
2. Embrace Small Steps
Following the guidance of the tidying pros, resist the urge to tackle large areas at once. Instead, break down your projects into manageable, bite-sized tasks.
Suppressing your desire to conquer your entire pantry may enable you to focus on a single category within a problem zone—such as organizing that crowded utensil drawer or tidying up your morning coffee supplies storage area. Achieving these quick wins will grant you a sense of achievement and instill confidence for tackling more substantial endeavors.
3. Customize for Your Lifestyle
Home organization should adapt to your lifestyle. Regularly make adjustments and occasionally undertake larger reorganizing efforts.
"Frequency of organizing depends on how each space is used," advises Hagmeyer. "High-traffic areas like the kitchen and entryway might require monthly attention, while guest rooms and storage spaces may only need refreshing a few times a year. Keep an eye out for signals that the system isn't working, such as items without designated homes or difficulty finding things."
4. Use Labels Strategically
While fun labels can be engaging, their frequent use isn't always necessary. Clear containers reveal their contents, minimizing the necessity for labels. Be selective in using labels, focusing only on when they will add value.
5. Embrace the 'One In, One Out' Rule
To maintain balance, eliminate an item whenever you introduce a new one. Adhere to the philosophy of imagining your space like a glass of water—add items sparingly, making room with each new addition.
By implementing these daily habits, your spaces will stay organized and maintain an inviting appearance, reducing the need for frequent reorganizing sessions.
The NEAT Method, a professional organizing brand, has developed a signature technique called the NEAT Method for creating functional and beautiful spaces. This method is featured in their upcoming book, "The NEAT Method Organizing Recipe Book". (BHG, NEAT Method)
Organizing your home can be daunting, but the NEAT Method suggests tackling high-traffic areas like the kitchen or entryway first. To make the process less overwhelming, consider breaking down your projects into manageable tasks. (NEAT Method, Home Trends)
To keep your home organized, the NEAT Method advocates for regular maintenance and occasional larger reorganizing efforts, tailored to your lifestyle. They also recommend using labels strategically and following the 'one in, one out' rule to maintain balance. (NEAT Method, Organization Tips, Home Trends)
