Small Changes, Big Impact:
6 Sustainable Organizing Tips
Organizing is about creating a home that’s functional, efficient, and, when done right, more sustainable. Whether you’re a seasoned professional organizer, considering a career in organizing, or simply looking for ways to make your own home more eco-friendly, small choices can have a big impact.
Here are six simple yet effective ways to incorporate sustainability into organizing:
1. Make the Most of What You Already Have
It’s easy to assume that staying organized requires buying new bins, baskets, and storage containers. But before making a purchase, take a closer look at what you already own:
- Could baskets, mason jars, or old shoe boxes be repurposed?
- Would rearranging furniture optimize space?
- Could a fresh coat of paint breathe new life into a worn-out item?
When new storage is necessary, consider choosing sustainable materials like bamboo, woven seagrass, or water hyacinth—durable, biodegradable, and stylish options.
2. Declutter Responsibly
A big part of staying organized is letting go of what no longer serves you—but that doesn’t mean tossing everything in the trash. Instead:
- Donate gently used clothing, furniture, and housewares to local charities, shelters, or thrift shops.
- Repurpose creatively—old towels can become cleaning rags, and glass jars make great pantry or craft storage.
- Recycle properly—many locations accept textiles, electronics, and select plastics for responsible disposal.
- Consider professional donation services like 1-800-GOT-JUNK, which can help direct items to recycling and donation centers.
3. Choose Eco-Friendly Cleaning & Household Supplies
Creating an organized, healthy home also means reducing exposure to unnecessary toxins. Simple swaps can make a difference:
- Replace synthetic air fresheners with natural, air-purifying plants like Spider Plants, Philodendrons, English Ivy, or Peace Lilies.
- Stock bathrooms with natural soaps, soy candles, and organic cotton towels, which tend to be more absorbent and last longer.
- Swap disposable paper towels for reusable cleaning cloths, and use biodegradable or compostable trash bags instead of plastic ones.
4. Optimize Kitchen Storage & Reduce Food Waste
Single-use plastics like cling wrap and disposable baggies contribute significantly to household waste. Try these sustainable alternatives:
- Beeswax wraps are a reusable, biodegradable replacement for plastic wrap.
- Glass jars & mason jars work well for storing dry goods, leftovers, and organizing small items in other rooms.
- Compostable food storage bags (like ENA heavy-duty resealable bags) break down naturally over time, unlike traditional plastic options.
- If plastic-free options aren’t available, buying in bulk helps reduce packaging waste.
5. Shop Smarter: Sustainable Organizing Products
If you or your clients need to purchase organizing products, prioritize brands that focus on sustainability. Consider:
- Cotton mesh produce bags—washable, biodegradable, and great for grocery shopping.
- Wood crates & bamboo drawer dividers—ideal for keeping pantries and closets tidy.
- Cloth dish covers—a reusable alternative to plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Woven seagrass & water hyacinth storage bins—renewable, lightweight, and aesthetically pleasing.
For brands committed to sustainability, check out B Corp Certified businesses, which adhere to high environmental and ethical standards.
6. Be Mindful About What Comes In
One of the simplest ways to maintain an organized and eco-conscious home is by being intentional about new purchases. The “One In, One Out” rule is a great habit—whenever something new comes in, something else is donated or repurposed.
For those who struggle with impulse buys:
- Ask, “Do I truly need this, or am I just tempted by a sale?”
- Consider if the item will add long-term value or simply create more clutter.
- Prioritize quality over quantity—better materials last longer and reduce waste over time.
Small Steps, Big Impact
Sustainable organizing isn’t about perfection—it’s about making thoughtful choices that add up. Whether you’re working with clients or tackling your own space, every little effort contributes to a healthier home and a greener planet.
By embracing reusable storage, minimizing plastic, and donating responsibly, you create a clutter-free environment that’s also kind to the Earth. Less stuff, less stress, and more room to breathe.
Shifting from simply “tidying up” to intentionally curating what adds value makes organizing feel more purposeful—and much less like a never-ending cycle of rearranging things.
