Bathroom Decluttering Guide

Bathroom Decluttering: Create a Clean and Functional Space

The bathroom is one of the most used rooms in the house, yet it can easily become cluttered with toiletries, cleaning supplies, and personal care products. A clutter-free bathroom not only makes daily routines easier but also creates a relaxing, spa-like atmosphere. This guide will take you step by step through the process of decluttering your bathroom so that everything is organized, accessible, and easy to maintain.

Step 1: Clear the Countertops

• Remove Everything: Start by clearing off all the surfaces in your bathroom, including the countertops, shelves, and any sink areas. Wipe everything down to create a fresh, clean slate.
• Limit Countertop Items: Keep only the essentials on the countertop, such as hand soap, toothbrushes, and daily-use items. Store the rest in cabinets or drawers to keep the space looking clean and uncluttered.
• Contain with Trays or Organizers: Use small trays, baskets, or organizers for frequently used items like lotions or face products to keep them tidy but accessible.

Step 2: Declutter Cabinets and Drawers

• Empty and Sort: Go through each bathroom cabinet and drawer. Remove everything and sort items into categories like skincare, haircare, first aid, and cleaning supplies.
• Purge Expired Products: Check expiration dates on products like makeup, medications, and toiletries. Discard anything that is expired, damaged, or no longer used.
• Streamline Storage: Use drawer dividers or small bins to separate items like cotton swabs, razors, and hair accessories. This helps prevent drawers from becoming a jumbled mess.

Step 3: Organize Under the Sink

• Clear Out the Space: Take everything out from under the sink. Often, this space becomes a catch-all for cleaning supplies, extra toiletries, or random items.
• Purge Unnecessary Items: Toss old or half-used bottles, and be strict about keeping only what you regularly use.
• Use Storage Solutions: Invest in pull-out bins or stackable organizers to make the most of the space. Store cleaning supplies, extra toilet paper, or toiletries in labeled containers to keep things tidy and easy to access.

Step 4: Simplify the Shower and Bath Area

• Clear Out Unused Products: Go through the products in your shower or bath and remove anything that isn’t used regularly. Keep only your daily essentials like shampoo, conditioner, and body wash.
• Use Shower Caddies or Shelving: Install a shower caddy, corner shelves, or use hanging organizers to contain products and avoid clutter on the edges of the tub or shower.
• Limit Extras: If you use bath accessories like loofahs or sponges, limit the number to one or two and replace them regularly to avoid clutter and bacteria buildup.

Step 5: Declutter Towels and Linens

• Sort Through Towels: Go through your towel collection and assess what’s necessary. Discard worn-out towels or ones that are no longer absorbent, and keep a few high-quality towels on hand for daily use.
• Designate Linen Storage: Store towels, washcloths, and hand towels in a linen closet or on a shelf. Roll or fold them neatly to save space.
• Use Baskets for Extra Storage: If you lack storage space, use baskets or bins to neatly store towels, toiletries, or other bathroom essentials.

Step 6: Organize Makeup and Personal Care Products

• Sort Makeup and Skincare Products: Sort through your makeup and skincare products, discarding anything expired or rarely used. Keep only the essentials and favorite items.
• Use Drawer Organizers: Keep makeup and smaller personal care products organized by using drawer dividers, acrylic containers, or small baskets.
• Designate a Makeup Bag: For items you use daily, keep a designated makeup bag or tray on your countertop for easy access, but avoid letting too many products pile up.

Step 7: Tidy Up the Medicine Cabinet

• Empty and Purge: Remove everything from the medicine cabinet and check expiration dates on medications, ointments, and vitamins. Discard anything expired.
• Organize by Use: Group items by category (e.g., first aid, daily medications, cold/flu remedies) and use small bins or shelves to separate them. Labeling containers can also help keep everything organized.
• Maximize Space: Use shelf risers or magnetic strips on the inside of the door for smaller items like tweezers, nail clippers, or small grooming tools.

Step 8: Declutter Decorative Items

• Limit Decor: Keep decorations minimal in the bathroom to avoid clutter. Too many decorative items can make the space feel cramped, especially in smaller bathrooms.
• Keep It Functional: Choose decor that serves a purpose, such as stylish containers for cotton balls or q-tips, or a small plant that can add greenery without taking up too much space.

Step 9: Create a Daily Decluttering Routine

• Daily Tidying: After your morning or evening routine, take a minute to put items back in their designated places, wipe down surfaces, and straighten up the space. This habit will help prevent clutter from accumulating.
• Limit New Purchases: Be mindful of how many new products you bring into the bathroom. Adopt a “one in, one out” rule to avoid accumulating unnecessary items.