The bathroom is one of the most used, but neglected spaces in our homes. We start and end our day in the bathroom, and we may be in there quite a few more times throughout the day. That’s a lot of bathroom visits!

Decluttering Guide

Why live with a cluttered, inefficient, dusty/dirty bathroom? You don’t have to! Here’s a guide to decluttering your bathroom to create a more functional, peaceful space.

Get Ready

Before you dive into decluttering, gather the necessary supplies to help you discard, donate, and store items.

1. Trash bags or bins for items to be discarded or donated
2. Storage containers, baskets, and shelves to organize items you’re keeping
3. Cleaning supplies, such as disinfectant, glass cleaner, and toilet bowl cleaner

Declutter

One by one, empty each cabinet, drawer, and shelf and declutter it. (Pro tip: decluttering one cabinet, drawer, or shelf at a time, lets you declutter in bite-sized pieces so you can work on just a drawer or two at a time and do more later if that’s easier.)

Items to discard:

1. Expired and Unused Products: Check expiration dates on toiletries and cosmetics. Discard items that are expired or you no longer use.
2. Duplicates: Keep one and discard duplicates. Duplicates include items that may not be the exact same thing but serve the same purpose.
3. Old Towels and Linens: Toss or repurpose old and worn-out towels, bathmats, and shower curtains. (veterinary offices LOVE receiving old towels).
4. Broken or Unused Appliances: Dispose of broken or unused appliances like hairdryers or straighteners. If they’re in working condition, you can donate them.
5. Medications: Dispose of expired medications. Consult your local pharmacy for proper disposal methods.

Pro tip: To declutter thoroughly, make one pass through your bathroom and then go through and declutter again. It’s surprising how many things you didn’t discard on the first pass that you’ll be ready to discard on the second pass.

Clean

As you empty each space, clean it. The most effective way to clean cabinets, shelves, and drawers is to use a canister vacuum to suck up all the debris and then wipe the area with a rag and all-purpose cleaner. After you’ve put everything away, clean the rest of the surfaces including countertops, mirrors, fixtures, toilet, bathtub, and shower.

Organize

With clutter out of the way, it’s time to organize what’s left in a way that maximizes space and accessibility and looks good too.

1. Categorize: Group similar items together, such as skincare products, hair care items, and cleaning supplies.
2. Use Storage Containers: Use baskets, shelves, and clear containers to help keep items neatly organized. If it’s not obvious what’s in a container, label it.
3. Vertical Storage: Utilize wall-mounted shelves or cabinets to make the most of vertical space.
4. Drawer Dividers: Use drawer dividers to keep small items, like makeup or toiletries, neatly separated.
5. Under-the-Sink Organization: Use under-sink organizers to keep cleaning supplies and backup toiletries accessible.

Decluttering your bathroom creates a clean, serene space. It not only enhances the visual appeal of your bathroom but also makes it more functional. But remember, decluttering is a continuous process. Expect to revisit it periodically to keep your bathroom organized and beautiful.