Last Updated December 8, 2024 by Davina Kelly
Buried in clutter and drowning in chaos? It’s frustrating, overwhelming and let’s be real – you don’t want to spend a ton of money on fancy organisers. Don’t worry – I’ve got you covered with these budget home organization ideas.
As the youngest sibling stuck with the smallest room, I had to get creative to make everything fit. So over the years, I’ve become really good at coming up with cheap organization ideas for small spaces.
Trust me, organizing your home on a budget is totally possible and can actually be fun.
In this post, I’m going to share my tried and tested budget home organization ideas. Whether you’re looking to maximise your space, cut down on clutter or just feel a little more in control of your environment, these ideas will help you.
After reading this post, you’ll have plenty of affordable, creative solutions to transform your space into one that’s tidy, functional and so much easier to maintain.
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16 Best Budget Home Organization Ideas:
1. Declutter & Sell Unwanted Items
Before we get into storage solutions and budget home organization ideas, let’s talk about an important first step: decluttering.
Imagine trying to organise a suitcase that’s already packed to the brim. It just won’t work and you don’t want to waste your time organising stuff you don’t need. Decluttering lightens the load and makes it easier to create an organized system.
Take a good, hard look at what’s lying around and ask yourself: Do I actually use this? Do I even like it anymore? If the answer is no, it’s time to say goodbye.
Here’s how to get started:
- Tackle one area at a time. Throw on one of your favourite podcasts, trust me the time will fly by.
- Sort items into three piles: Keep, Donate and Sell
- Sell items online on platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace or Vinted. It’s a great way to make a little extra cash while cleaning out your space.
Decluttering not only clears up physical space but also gives you a mental reset. Plus, the less stuff you have, the less you need to organize!
Related: 11 Top Tips For Selling Clothes on eBay
2. Use Baskets for Storage
Baskets are a lifesaver when it comes to home organisation. They’re versatile, budget-friendly and can make any space look put together with minimal effort.
- Use wicker baskets like these for a rustic vibe in your living room or bedroom.
- Try plastic bins from the dollar store for organizing items in the pantry, bathroom or closet.
- Add labels to your baskets to make finding things super easy and putting them back even easier.
The great thing about baskets is that they don’t just hide your stuff – they create a sense of order, even if what’s inside isn’t picture-perfect.
3. Repurpose Old Mason Jars
Do you have a stash of mason jars or containers lying around? Put them to work! Mason jars are super handy for organizing smaller items and they add a cute rustic touch to your space.
Here are some ways you can repurpose them:
- Use them in the kitchen for spices, snacks or dry goods.
- In the bathroom to store cotton pads, Q-tips or hair ties.
- For crafts supplies or stationery.
If you’re into DIY you could even decorate them with wrapping paper, paint or labels and use them to store makeup brushes or as a vase. This will give your space a unique look.
By repurposing mason jars you’re not just organizing, you’re recycling and saving money at the same time.
4. Utilise Drawer Organizers
We’ve all been there. You organize your draw then before you know it it’s chaotic and you can’t find anything. Drawer organizers can solve this problem for you.
They’ll help create designated spots for everything, so your drawers will stay organised (and you stay sane). This will make it easy for you to find things and prevent your drawers from getting cluttered. Plus, they’re super inexpensive.
Here are some options:
- DIY it: Cut up cardboard or foam board to create custom dividers for your drawers.
- Use dividers in your kitchen for utensils and in the bedroom for socks and underwear. I got my dresser organizers from Ikea but these ones from Amazon are just as good and they’re super affordable.
5. Use Over The Door Organizers
Don’t overlook the back of your doors – they’re a goldmine for extra space! Over-the-door organizers are one of the best budget home organization ideas. They’re an inexpensive way to maximise your space, especially in smaller homes or apartments.
Here’s what they’re great for:
- Shoe storage: Keep them off the floor and out of the way.
- Accessories: Use the pockets for scarves, belts or hats.
- Cleaning Supplies: Store sprays, sponges and more in your laundry room or bathroom.
With everything tucked away behind the door, your space will instantly look tidier. Plus, you’ll be able to see everything you have way easier.
6. Make Use of Under the Bed Storage
If you’re not using the space under your bed, you’re missing out! It’s the perfect spot for storing items you don’t need every day but want to keep handy.
- Store seasonal clothes or extra bedding in under-bed storage bins.
- Use clear bins or label them so you can find what you’re looking for without pulling everything out.
- Repurpose shallow boxes if you’re on a super tight budget – they work just as well!
This hidden storage hack is ideal for keeping your room clutter-free while making the most of every inch.
7. Wall Hooks
When in doubt, hang it up! Wall hooks are an easy affordable way to organize items that would otherwise clutter surfaces or get lost in drawers.
You can use wall hooks for the following:
- In the entryway: Use hooks for coats, bags and keys.
- In the bathroom: Hang towels, robes or even a shower cap.
- In the kitchen: Keep utensils, pot holders or mugs within reach.
Hooks aren’t just practical – they can also be decorative. Choose ones that match your style and add a little spice to your walls like these cute ones from Amazon.
8. Create a Filing System to Organize Bills and Paperwork
Staying on top of your bills doesn’t have to mean piles of paperwork everywhere. A simple file system can make a huge difference in keeping everything organized and stress-free.
- Use a simple file folder to store your papers. If you want to be super organised you can include labelled sections like “Utilities” or “Receipts” to separate everything.
- Choose a dedicated spot in your home for the file system so you always know where to find it. I keep mine at the bottom of my bookshelf.
Having a filing system ensures your important documents are all in one place. It also makes it easy to track due dates, check past payments or quickly grab paperwork when you need it.
Trust me, this small habit will save you a ton of time and hassle.
9. Maximise Vertical Space
Speaking of vertical space – are you really making the most out of yours? Look up! There’s probably untapped storage potential in almost every room.
- Install Shelves: These are perfect for books, decor or pantry items.
- Use stackable bins in closets to make use of every inch.
- Consider tall furniture like bookcases or storage towers that take advantage of your walls.
I’ve definitely embraced vertical space with my bookshelf! I use it for storing books, perfumes accessories and even skincare essentials. It’s perfect – everything has its place and I’m maximising every inch of my space.
Using vertical storage doesn’t just keep things off the floor, it also gives the room a more open and spacious feel.
10. Use Canvas Bins to Organize Storage
Canvas bins are a lifesaver when it comes to stylish, functional storage. They’re lightweight, durable and can blend in seamlessly with almost any home decor.
Here are a few ways to use them:
- In the living room: Store blankets, magazines, or remote controls to keep your space looking neat and cosy.
- In the closet: Perfect for seasonal accessories like scarves, gloves, or hats.
- In kids’ rooms: Use them to store toys or books while keeping things easy to access.
The great thing about canvas bins is they’re soft but sturdy. So they’re gentle on delicate items and super versatile. If you want to make them even more organised add labels to identify what’s inside. They’re the perfect mix of practical and chic.
11. Use Clear Containers
Clear containers are a complete game-changer when it comes to home organisation. Why? Because you can see exactly what’s inside without having to open them.
They’re very versatile too, here’s how you can use them:
- In the fridge: Perfect for keeping ingredients organised and easy to find.
- In the pantry: Great for snacks, cereals, or baking supplies.
- In the bathroom: Ideal for toiletries, makeup, or cleaning products.
Take it a step further and label your containers. This is especially useful in the fridge, where things often get pushed to the back and forgotten. Clear, labelled containers not only help reduce food waste but also make your fridge look neat and organized.
Trust me, once you start using them, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without them.
12. Hang Up Your Jeans to Save Closet Space
If your closet is full, it’s time to get creative. Instead of folding jeans and taking up valuable drawer space, hang them up.
- Use hangers to fit more in your closet.
- Group them by colour or style to make it easier to find what you need.
If you want to add an aesthetic touch to your closet, try using matching hangers like these and organising your jeans by style and colour. That’s exactly how I’ve arranged mine and honestly, it’s a game changer.
My friends always laugh about how particular I am, but it saves me so much time when I’m getting ready – I know exactly where everything is. Plus it saves me so much space and makes my wardrobe look tidy and stylish all at once.
Trust me, it’s a simple switch that can make a big difference in your closet organisation.
13. Organize Your Closet to Make it Easier to Find Things
Closets are notorious for getting messy, but with a little effort, you can turn yours into an organised haven.
Here are some ideas:
- Sort by category: Separate clothes into groups like workwear, casual and special occasions.
- Use matching hangers: This instantly makes your closet look neater and more uniform.
- Add bins or baskets: Store smaller items like belts, scarves or handbags.
When your closet is organised, getting dressed in the morning becomes so much quicker and easier.
Bonus Tips to Maintain an Organized Home on a Budget
14. Establish an Organization Routine
Routine is key to maintaining an organized home. Try these simple habits.
- Take 15–20 minutes each evening to tidy up before bed. These small, consistent efforts can prevent big messes and make it so much easier to keep your home neat. Tackling daily clutter stops it from piling up and taking over your space.
- Here’s a tip that might seem obvious but works wonders: clean up as you go. After dinner, wash the dishes right away. Sure, it might feel like a hassle in the moment, but it’ll save you from dealing with an overwhelming mess later.
- Once a week, dedicate some time to a deeper clean. This includes vacuuming, mopping, and polishing to keep your space looking and feeling fresh.
Personally, I like to do my weekly cleaning on Fridays—it sets me up for a relaxed weekend. While you’re at it, take a quick scan of high-clutter areas and declutter anything out of place. It’s a simple habit that makes a huge difference!
15. Focus on Function Over Aesthetic
It’s tempting to go for a picture-perfect look but prioritise practicality. Look for organization solutions that are functional first – then, if you want, you can tweak them to look aesthetically pleasing.
16. Keep a Minimalist Mindset
The fewer items you own, the easier it is to stay organised. Here are a couple of tips to embrace a minimalist mindset.
- One In, One Out Rule: Every time you buy something new, let go of something you no longer need or use. This prevents clutter from creeping back.
- Embrace Simplicity: Organization isn’t about having more—it’s about having what you actually use and need.
Final Thoughts on Budget Home Organization Ideas
There you have it – a practical guide to budget-friendly home organization. Remember, getting organized doesn’t have to mean spending a lot.
By decluttering, repurposing and using affordable solutions, you can transform your space into a more functional, peaceful place without breaking the bank.
Start with one room, use what you already have and remember that small changes add up over time. Stick with it and before you know it, your home will be looking and feeling way more organized.
This post was all about budget home organization ideas.
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Davina Kelly
Hey! I'm Davina, the owner of Davinas Finance Corner. I'm passionate about finding ways to budget, save, earn more money and improve your life. After breaking free from payday loan debt and living paycheck to paycheck I want to share my experience to help other women improve their finances.
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