Tips for a Happier Home: Organizing with Orderly

by Abigail Caplin

Hi, I’m McElle Zuro! I am the owner of Orderly, a professional organizing firm in Salt Lake City, Utah. I remember one day in high school thinking to myself that if I could spend every day of my life organizing I would be so happy. So I turned to Google. And it turned out, there was this entire industry for people who loved to organize just like me! They were called professional organizers, and I wanted that title too. In college, I attended the David Eccles School of Business at the University of Utah. I loved my time there and am grateful for those who taught me useful business principles that prepared me to build a business. 

After I graduated, I started working with clients in my spare time while working a full time job. I came to a point where I felt I could not adequately help my clients with the limited time I had, so I made the difficult decision to leave my job, and pursue my dream full time. Full of uncertainty, faith, and so much excitement I started my business earlier this year.

All businesses have a why and mine is anchored
in the desire to help people enjoy their homes.

I intend to elevate each home I enter by making it more functional. I implement systems that are tailored to each client creating efficiency and order. We all deserve to find rest in our homes, and I help people find that through organization. I’m so excited to share what I consider to be the four most important areas in your home to organize. Organization is so important because it helps create a peaceful environment. Especially during these times of uncertainty, we need home to be calm and welcoming.

 1. THE KITCHEN

The kitchen is the heart of the home. It is where children drop their backpacks after a long day, cookies are baked, and dinner is served. With so much of life lived in this space, it is so important for it to function efficiently. But, because so many people come in and out of a kitchen, it can be a challenge to maintain order. Everything in your kitchen should be placed intentionally. In general, what you use the most should be the most accessible, and things you use infrequently are safe to place on the top shelf. To maintain your kitchen organization, use labels- everywhere! When you label things there is no excuse for not knowing where things go making it easy to hold the entire family accountable. 

2. THE PANTRY

Similar to the kitchen, the pantry is another space that is used many times a day. Whether you have a large walk-in pantry, or a few cupboards to store food, organization is key. What I have found is that it is really helpful is taking things out of their original packaging and placing food in bins and baskets. That way you can see what you really have. It helps prevent food waste and makes grocery shopping easier. 

3. CLOSETS

When it comes to your closet, less is more. Everything within your closet should spark joy as Marie Kondo would put it! When it is time to declutter and get rid of items you don’t wear, invite a friend over to help you. There can be a lot of decision making and it is difficult to do alone. My rule of thumb is if it is worn out, you haven’t worn it in the last year, or you don’t like the fit, get rid of it. Donating unused clothing is a great option. Take comfort in knowing someone likely needs the clothes more than you, and if they’re just sitting in your closet, no one is benefiting from them. Another thing I run into often when working in a closet is sentimental items. Things like t-shirts from your favorite concert you don’t wear, but don’t want to part with fall into this category. Try storing them with other sentimental items in a bin in a storage area. By clearing out all the clothes that aren’t worn it will be so much easier to get dressed in the morning. Your closet should be filled with items that make you feel confident, and pieces you really enjoy wearing. 

4. BATHROOMS

Every morning we spend time getting ready for the day ahead. Ensuring there is a home for your brush, tooth brush and makeup will make your mornings more efficient. Sometimes our bathroom vanities become filled with things we don’t use like old curling irons, or expired beauty products. When really they should house only the items you use frequently. Mornings can be hard, it is so helpful to have a predictable routine, where you know where to find everything. 

I hope you find these tips to be helpful. With these four spaces, and any others in your home, take time to consider what you are keeping. In general, the key to making your house feel like home is to carefully consider what you keep, and what you bring in. I echo the words of William Morris, “Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful.” It is not about being perfect, but thoughtful and intentional.