Practical spaces

Start with one useful surface

Make a small space easier to use.

Choose a table, shelf or counter that you use every day. Before moving anything, decide what that surface needs to help you do: prepare a meal, work, get ready or set things down when you arrive.

Sort by purpose

Move items that belong elsewhere to their usual places. Set aside things you no longer need rather than buying a new container for every pile. Keep the objects that support the purpose you chose within comfortable reach.

Try it for a few days

Notice what drifts back onto the surface. A small change nearby, such as a convenient place for keys or incoming paper, may be more useful than another round of clearing.