10 Organizing Hacks for Busy Parents
June is always the most chaotic time in our household, between dance recitals, the start of softball season, year end parties and everything in between I need this more than ever. Being a parent is a full-time job, and keeping your home organized while juggling kids' schedules can feel impossible. But with the right strategies, you can create a clutter-free, efficient home that saves you time and stress. Here are ten organizing hacks for busy parents that will transform your daily routine.
1. Use a Family Command Center
Designate a space near the entrance for a family command center. Include a calendar, to-do lists, and a mail organizer so everything is in one place.
2. Create a Drop Zone
Set up a designated area for shoes, coats, and bags near the door to prevent clutter from spreading through the house. Have enough hooks, shelves and baskets for the stuff and make sure they’re at the right level so kids at any age can put their own stuff in the right place.
3. Meal Plan and Prep in Advance
Plan weekly meals and prep ingredients ahead of time. Use an app like Mealime to create your meal plans and create grocery lists so you have less overwhelm. Use labeled bins in the fridge and pantry for grab-and-go snacks and lunch essentials.
4. Use Baskets and Bins for Quick Cleanups
I love an f- it bin! Keep labeled bins in common areas so kids can quickly toss in toys, books, and loose items, making cleanup fast and easy. Once a week have the kids get their things out of the bin and put them where they really belong.
5. Rotate Toys to Reduce Clutter
Store half of your kids' toys in bins and swap them out every few weeks to keep things fresh and organized. Clear bins with generic labels work best, one for puzzles, characters, vehicles, etc. the toys will feel fresh when they’re rotated and kids thrive with less. More imaginative play, less time looking for something to do.
6. Implement the One-Minute Rule
If a task takes less than a minute—like putting away shoes, sorting mail, or wiping a counter—do it immediately to prevent clutter buildup.
7. Use a Daily Basket for Each Child
Assign a small basket for each child to place school papers, books, or personal items they need daily.
8. Declutter Kids' Clothes Seasonally
Sort through clothing every season to donate outgrown items and make space for new ones. Have a donate basket in each closet so that the minute something is too small it can go in the donate bin rather than be put back into the closet to be pulled out again.
9. Maximize Vertical Space
Use wall hooks, over-the-door organizers, and shelving units to free up floor space and keep essentials within reach.
10. Make Cleaning a Fun Family Activity
Turn cleanup time into a game or challenge with a timer to encourage kids to participate.
Staying organized doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By implementing these simple hacks, you’ll create a more functional, stress-free home, giving you more time to focus on what matters most—your family.
If you need help setting up the right systems for you book a free consultation today!
Happy Organizing
-Jocelyn