Step 3: Assess and Group Similar Items
Now that you have everything laid out, it’s time to do a quick assessment. Don’t overthink it; just quickly group similar items together. For instance, gather all the pens in one pile, batteries in another, and so on. My mom’s trick here is not to spend too much time deciding where each item should go—just group by broad categories.
If you find items that don’t belong in the drawer, like stray keys or loose change, place them in a separate pile to deal with later. The key here is speed and simplicity.
Step 4: Use Dividers or Small Containers
This is where the magic happens. My mom swears by using small containers or dividers to create compartments within the drawer. You can repurpose old boxes, use plastic trays, or buy inexpensive dividers from the dollar store. The idea is to create distinct spaces within the drawer for each category of items you’ve grouped.
Simply place your grouped items into these containers or sections. Pens go in one, batteries in another, and so forth. This way, everything has a designated spot, and your drawer remains organized.
Step 5: Return Items to the Drawer
Now, with everything neatly sorted into containers or compartments, it’s time to place them back into the drawer. Don’t stress about making it perfect—just ensure each group of items is in its own section. The dividers will do most of the work for you, keeping things in order without much effort on your part.
Step 6: The 10-Second Maintenance Rule
Once your drawer is organized, my mom suggests a simple maintenance trick: the 10-second rule. Anytime you open the drawer and notice something out of place, take just 10 seconds to fix it. It’s a small investment of time that prevents clutter from building up again.
Why This Trick Works
The genius of this method lies in its simplicity. By starting with a clean slate and grouping similar items, you avoid the common pitfall of overthinking or getting bogged down by decision fatigue. The use of dividers or small containers creates an instant system that naturally maintains order without requiring constant attention.
Moreover, the quick assessment and grouping process forces you to be practical about what stays in the drawer, ensuring that only useful items occupy the space. The 10-second maintenance rule is the cherry on top, keeping the drawer organized with minimal effort.
Organizing a cluttered drawer doesn’t have to be a time-consuming or labor-intensive task. With my mom’s clever trick, you can transform any chaotic drawer into a neat and functional space in just 10 minutes. The process is straightforward, and the results are lasting, making it a perfect solution for busy individuals or anyone who wants to declutter their home with minimal hassle. Next time you open that dreaded junk drawer, remember these simple steps and enjoy the satisfaction of effortless organization.
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