The Basic Steps to Organize Anything, Anywhere!
- mason0825
- Dec 13, 2025
- 3 min read
Getting organized does not have to feel overwhelming. Whether you are tackling a full room, a crowded closet, or even a single drawer, a clear process can make any space more functional, efficient, and visually appealing. At Canadian Closet, we help homeowners turn everyday spaces into solutions that truly work for them. These foundational steps will set you up for success in any area of your home.
Step 1: Define the Purpose of the Space
Before you touch a single item, identify what the space needs to do for you.
Ask yourself:
• What function should this space serve?
• What are my priorities for how it should work?
Without a defined purpose, it becomes difficult to make decisions as you move through the process. A clear goal will guide every choice that follows.
Step 2: Envision the Ideal End Result
Consider how you want the space to look and function once it is organized.
Browse inspiration from our website, visit our showroom, or explore Pinterest and your favourite design magazines. Identify what is not working today and what specific issues you want to solve. If you need guidance, the Canadian Closet team is always here to offer expert insight and design support.
Step 3: Empty the Entire Space
Remove everything—yes, everything. Taking all items out allows you to see the space clearly and start with a clean slate.
Step 4: Clean and Repair
With the space empty, take the opportunity to refresh it. Patch holes, wipe down surfaces, repaint, or add wallpaper. Make any structural updates that will support better organization moving forward.
Step 5: Purge and Sort
This is the moment where real progress happens.
Sort items into five categories:
Keep in this space
Keep but store elsewhere
Donate
Recycle
Trash
Give yourself time—decluttering can be emotional. If an item feels hard to part with, consider taking a photo or reminding yourself that someone else may benefit from it more. Keep only what serves you and brings value to your daily life.
If you are organizing a pantry or food-storage area, be sure to check expiry dates as you go.
Step 6: Build Your Organization Plan
Now that you know what is staying, group like items together.
For example:
Pantry: canned goods, baking supplies, cereals, pasta
Closet: workwear, casualwear, accessories, seasonal clothing
Seeing items grouped together helps determine how much space each category requires and where it makes the most sense to place them. Think about whether each group is better suited to shelving, drawers, pull-outs, hooks, turntables, or door-mounted solutions. Our team can help you evaluate options and recommend the right storage solutions for your needs.
Once you have clarity, sketch a simple layout or write out your plan to help visualize your next steps.
Step 7: Select the Right Organizers
With a plan in hand, choose the organizers, shelving, or custom storage components that will help each item category function at its best. Having the right tools makes long-term organization significantly easier.
Step 8: Put Everything in Its Place
This is the fun part. Begin placing your items into the space using your chosen organizers. Enjoy seeing your vision come to life as the area transforms into something clean, functional, and intentional.
Step 9: Enjoy Your Newly Organized Space
Once everything has a designated home, maintaining order becomes simple. A well-designed system makes it easy to put items back where they belong and keeps clutter from building up again.
Organization takes time, and that is completely normal. Give yourself space to move through the process without rushing. Every drawer, cabinet, and room you complete is a step toward a home that works better for you.
If you are ready to elevate your organization project—or want help designing a
system that truly fits your lifestyle—Canadian Closet is here to support you.