Decluttering and Storage Tips for a Refreshed Home

The start of a new year is the perfect opportunity to create a sense of calm and order in your home. Decluttering and reorganising not only help clear physical space but also promote mental clarity, motivation, and a renewed energy. By taking a considered approach, you can transform your spaces into an organised haven that inspires and supports you throughout the year.

The act of decluttering and reorganising is more than just tidying up—it’s about creating a space that feels calm, functional, and aesthetically pleasing. Whether you’re tackling a single room or the entire house, with the right plan and some thoughtful storage solutions, you’ll set yourself up for a more organised year ahead. 

For this journal post, we reached out to some friends of the Dharma Door to share their tips on using our baskets for storage and style. These include long-time customers who have been purchasing our baskets for years, interior designers who incorporate them into their projects, and accommodation owners who rely on them to help guests easily access essentials. Together with these insights, we’ve compiled a five-step plan to help you get started on your journey to a more organised home.

1. Make a Plan Before You Begin

The key to successful decluttering is preparation. Take time to assess each room and create a checklist. Prioritise areas that need the most attention, and break down your tasks into manageable chunks. This approach not only helps you stay on track but also ensures you’re not overwhelmed by the process. Set realistic goals by deciding how much time you can commit each day or week. 

Tip: Start small, stay consistent, and don’t be afraid to let go of what no longer serves you.

2. One Space or Cupboard at a Time

Decluttering can quickly become overwhelming if you take on too much at once. Instead, concentrate on one space, cupboard, or drawer at a time. Tackling smaller tasks not only makes the process more manageable but also gives you a sense of achievement, motivating you to keep going. Taking a step-by-step approach also helps you evaluate what is truly needed and what can be let go. It’s also an opportunity to rediscover forgotten items which you might decide to revive or display, and to make better use of your space.

To make the experience more enjoyable, play your favourite music or podcast to keep the mood light. Reward yourself after completing each area—whether it’s a well-deserved cuppa or simply a moment to relax and admire your progress.

"I’ve started the new year with a new vibe ‘if it doesn't bring joy then it’s not in my house’. I have these storage boxes in the kitchen and I really don’t like the way they look. They bring no joy. So I've just purchased x 4 of The Dharma Door large rectangle baskets that will fit the space perfectly and spark joy but are also extremely functional.” - Elle Ferguson, Founder ELEFFECT @elle_ferguson

3. Create Piles for Sorting

As you sort through your belongings, separate items into distinct categories:

• Thrift Shop Donations: Items in good condition that someone else may need.
• Rehoming: Things you can pass on to family or friends, or to local community groups.
• Selling: List gently used items on Marketplace or similar platforms.
• Trash: Discard items that are no longer functional or in usable condition. Be mindful of how you discard items and recycle where possible
• Keep: Be intentional about what stays and ensure it has a designated space. Avoid second-guessing. If you haven’t used it in the past year, it’s likely time to let it go. 

"These baskets are beautifully made and will neatly store any toys, books, or anything else you want to keep hidden away. High quality and far exceed any other jute baskets on the market." - Jade N, Customer - Rectangle Jute Basket

4. Assess and Reorganise Your Space

Once you’ve decluttered, consider how to reorganise what’s left. Ask yourself:

• Are these items stored in the most practical places for how often they’re used?
• Do they need long-term storage such as seasonal decorations, or should they be easily accessible for everyday—think school bags, keys, toys, everyday kitchenware?
• If storing items in containers, will they be on display or hidden away in cupboards? This will determine the type of containers you choose to store them in.

Tip: For hard-to-reach items in cupboards or when teaching children (and other family members ;-) to keep their spaces tidy, use labels to identify what’s stored and where.

5. Beautiful Storage Solutions

For items that need to remain on display for easy access, aesthetically pleasing storage solutions like woven baskets can make home organisation both functional and beautiful. Available in a variety of shapes and sizes, they’re versatile enough to suit any space, while their neutral tones blend effortlessly with most interior styles. Unlike plastic alternatives, handwoven baskets are sustainable, stylish, and add a layer of natural texture to your decor. 

“While The Dharma Door products are primarily celebrated for their aesthetic appeal, we have found that they play an integral role in our design philosophy of organising and decluttering spaces. In the fast-paced world we live in, it’s easy for our homes to become cluttered with everyday items, and that’s where their baskets in particular are great pieces. They offer a perfect blend of form and function, providing storage solutions that help keep spaces tidy while still looking stunning.” - Tameka Moffat, Tameka Moffat Designs @tamekamoffatdesigns

Our Top 10 Ideas for Practical Storage with Baskets:

1. Bench-Top Organisers: Perfect for holding keys, wallets, and everyday essentials.

2. Pantry Baskets: Keep snacks, jars, and packets neatly organised and within reach.

3. Open Shelving Baskets: Add warmth and texture to exposed shelves while hiding clutter.

4. Laundry Baskets: Stylishly sort clothes in baskets that complement your space. These are also great for exercise gear.

5. Toy Storage: Keep playrooms tidy without sacrificing design or functionality.

6. Bathroom Baskets: Organise toiletries, towels, and cleaning supplies with ease.

7. Entryway Baskets: Create a welcoming drop zone for shoes, bags, pet gear and other essentials.

8. Bedroom Storage: Place a smaller basket on your bedside table for jewellery or tech devices, and another on the floor to hold your favourite books.

9. Living Room: Hold remote controls and other devices in one easy-to-find place with a basket on or under the coffee table.

10. Floor Baskets: Use a large basket on the floor in the bedroom or living room to hold pillows, throws, and blankets.These can also make a beautiful pet bed with the addition of a cushion.

"I have a few storage baskets and this is by far my favourite, the large size is very practical and it stores almost my entire linen collection! Perfect for those without built-in storage. It also looks beautiful at the foot of my bed and is excellent quality. Very happy with this purchase." - Samantha V, Customer - Large Jute Basket Natural