Feeling Overwhelmed by Clutter? Here’s Exactly Where to Start.

If you’ve ever stood in your doorway, looked around your home, and thought, “Where do I even begin?”—you’re not alone. As a mom, business owner, or multi-tasker with a full life (and maybe a toddler tugging at your leg), it’s completely normal to feel stuck when it comes to organizing your space.

This is hands-down the most common question I hear from clients all over Los Angeles:

“Where do I start when my home feels overwhelmingly cluttered?”

Here’s the good news: you can start small and still see big results. And I’m here to walk you through it—not just as a professional organizer, but as someone who knows firsthand how chaotic life in LA, New York and any city can be.

Step 1: Define What ‘Clutter-Free’ Means for You

Before diving into bins and baskets, ask yourself:

“What do I want my home to feel like?”

Is it light, open, and serene? Is it stylish but low-maintenance? Are you hoping to host more friends without the last-minute panic of clearing off every surface?

Defining your end goal gives you a filter for every organizing decision you’ll make. If it doesn’t support that vision—it doesn’t belong.

Pro tip: Create a Pinterest board of what “organized but beautiful” looks like to you. My clients often show me their boards, and it helps us create something that’s personal, not Pinterest-perfect.

Step 2: Start With the “Easy Win Zone”

Every home has one—that space where you can make a visible difference in under an hour. It might be your entryway console, kitchen counter, or the chair in your bedroom that’s become a second closet.

Here’s how to tackle it:

  • Set a 30-minute timer.

  • Create three piles: Keep, Donate, and Trash/Recycle.

  • Only handle each item once—no “maybe” pile (yet).

By the end of that timer, you’ll have created both a visual and emotional shift. That momentum is gold.

Step 3: Think Like an Editor, Not a Storage Unit

Let’s be real—Los Angeles homes don’t always have the luxury of massive storage. So instead of trying to “store” your way out of clutter, start editing.

Ask yourself:

  • Have I used this in the last year?

  • Would I buy it again?

  • Does it support the life I want to lead?

If the answer is “no”—let it go. (Yes, even the pricey thing you meant to use.)

Step 4: Give Every Item a Home (Stylishly)

Once you’ve cleared a space, assign each item you’re keeping a dedicated home. Whether it’s a bamboo tray on your nightstand or a clear bin in your linen closet, the key is visibility and ease.

This is where good design comes in.

In my work, I pair function with elevated materials and textures—think woven baskets in a natural tone, low-profile drawer inserts, linen bins with leather pulls. You can have both beauty and practicality.

Step 5: Call in Support When You’re Ready

If you’ve done a drawer or a corner and felt the rush of calm that comes with it—imagine what that could feel like throughout your home. This is the part where many clients call me.

Whether you’re navigating a busy family schedule, renovating your home, or simply ready to finally feel proud of your space — I help you get organized and stay that way.

And yes, I offer local, luxury-level organizing across Los Angeles and the San Fernando Valley, customized to your space, lifestyle, and design preferences.

Let’s Talk About Your Home

If you’re nodding along to this post, I’d love to hear from you.

Book a free 15-minute consult below

Remember, your home should support your life—not stress you out.

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