From Summer Chaos to Fall Calm: 5 Organizing Habits to Reset Your Home
The back-to-school season can feel like a whirlwind — new schedules, new routines, and often, new clutter. Add in unpacking after a summer move or managing a multi-generational household, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. The good news? A few focused habits can help you transition into fall with less stress and more calm.
Here’s how to tackle the chaos and set yourself up for success.
1. Create a Back-to-School Launch Zone
Pick a dedicated spot near your main entry for backpacks, shoes, lunchboxes, sports gear, and keys.
Use hooks for bags and jackets.
Add a shoe rack or basket for quick drop-off.
Keep a whiteboard or corkboard for reminders, schedules, and permission slips.
This one change can save you 10+ minutes every morning.
2. Use the O.H.I.O. Method
Only Handle It Once — whether it’s mail, laundry, or the lunchbox that comes home half-full.
For mail: sort immediately into recycle, file, or action piles.
For laundry: fold and put away the same day.
For backpacks: empty and reload as soon as they come in.
It’s about building a habit that stops clutter before it starts.
3. Contain the Paper Pile
Back-to-school means a flood of papers — assignments, forms, event flyers.
Use a single basket or magazine file for all incoming school papers.
Set a weekly review day to sign, file, or toss.
Keep a separate folder for “in-progress” forms and homework.
One container = no more paper spread across every surface.
4. Small Space Hacks for Dorm Rooms or First Apartments
If your child is heading off to school or living in tight quarters, think vertical and multi-use:
Over-the-door organizers for shoes, toiletries, snacks.
Bed risers to add storage space underneath.
Command hooks for coats, hats, and bags without damaging walls.
Foldable hampers and crates for easy moving and storage.
These little tweaks make a huge difference in cramped spaces.
5. Declutter Before the Holidays
The fall season is your best shot at clearing space before the holiday rush.
Start with high-traffic zones: entryway, kitchen counters, living areas.
Give yourself a 15-minute timer and tackle one drawer, one shelf, or one bin at a time.
Donate items now so they can be put to good use before winter.
Bonus: Start Holiday Photo Projects Now
If you want photo books, framed prints, or slideshows ready in time for Christmas, now’s the time to start:
Gather printed photos from albums, drawers, and bins into one place.
Label envelopes or folders by event, year, or person.
Set a goal to sort a little each week — future you will be grateful in December.
Whether you’re wrangling kids’ school supplies, unpacking after a move, or supporting aging parents, small organizing habits can transform your daily life. If you need help getting started — or staying on track — I’m here to make the process easier and more doable.
Hi! I’m Amy, a professional home organizer in Maine. I travel within 30 miles of Portland, Maine clearing clutter from people’s homes. I take away the overwhelm and stress that having too much stuff can cause by working with you to help you release what no longer serves you and thoughtfully organize the items you want to keep in a way that functions for you and your family. I’ll even remove and drop off your donations, recyclables and trash.
Click here to schedule a complimentary phone consultation with me to talk about how I can help you feel stress-free and at peace in your home!
