While organizing is rarely a fun chore, living in a house that is in desperate need of organization is even less fun. With a messy house, you always seem to be tripping over everything, you can never find what you need and your stress level is always slightly higher than it should be. If you are ready to finally control the clutter, here are five tips to help you get organized.

1. Determine Which Areas Are Most In Need of Organization

Starting with the area of your home that needs organization the most will give you a quick feeling of accomplishment that will motivate you to continue. Possible problem areas could be the kids’ toys, your jam-packed closet or the overflowing stack of junk mail and papers.

2. A Place for Everything, and Everything in Its Place

It is much easier for everyone to help keep the house clean when everything has a place and everyone knows what that place is. Consider using labels—with pictures, if you have small children—on shelves, totes and bins. Bins are a great way to store toys, craft supplies, medicines and make-up.

3. Get Rid of Excess Stuff 

The less stuff you have, the easier your house will be to clean and the easier it will be to find what you need. Get rid of clothes that no longer fit you, toys that the kids no longer play with, old appliances that are broken and duplicates of tools like hammers or can openers.

4. Find an Organizational System that Works With Your Life

While you may draw inspiration from outside sources, your organizational method should ultimately be customized to your individual family’s needs. The easier a system is for your family to use, the more likely they are to use it. You may choose to alphabetize everything or simply toss items in bins. You may prefer everything to be boxed up and out of sight or out where it can be seen and found easily.

5. Make it Routine

The best organizational systems are ones that naturally and easily become part of your routine. Get in the habit of throwing out or donating an old item every time you buy something new. Get your children in the habit of picking up their toys before they get new ones out. As organization becomes second nature, you will find your house stays a lot cleaner with a lot less work.