Clear Floor Space
For maximum impact, pick up anything on the floor, such as toys, shoes, and clothing, especially in the main living area and hallways. “Floors carry more visual weight than almost anything else in a room, and they’re also the biggest surface in the entire space,” explains Young.
Store Decluttered Items in a Basket
While decluttering, use what Young calls “a quick reset basket” — a laundry or storage bin to place items. “The key is remembering this basket is temporary, not storage,” she explains. “It gives you breathing room so you can restore visual calm first, then sort through everything once the space feels manageable again.”
Clear Off Kitchen Surfaces
The kitchen is a high-traffic area, and clearing your countertops is one of the most impactful ways to make your home look cleaner, according to Holderman. “Clear everything off the kitchen counters and the dining table, leaving out only a few intentional items,” she says.
Tidy Up Bedroom Surfaces
Items on bedroom surfaces like dressers and nightstands can make a room appear messy. “You always want to handle visual clutter first, especially when you need to get things in order quickly,” Young explains. “Clearing what you can see gives you an endorphin rush and can make the whole bedroom feel lighter.”
Make Beds
A made bed acts as a visual anchor for the entire room. “Smooth the bedding and, if you have time, make the bed — it will instantly make the whole bedroom feel tidier,” says Holderman.
Straighten Up the Sofa
Fluffing cushions, folding throw blankets, and arranging pillows on the sofa takes only a minute but makes the living room feel significantly more put-together. A tidy sofa is one of the first things guests notice when they walk into a living space, so keeping it straightened is one of the quickest wins for an overall cleaner-looking home.
