The Secret to Staying Clutter-Free Without Trying Too Hard
- shulamis weil
- 18 hours ago
- 2 min read
What Is the “One In, One Out” Rule?
You may have heard of the One In, One Out rule — the idea that anytime something new comes into your home, something old has to go.
It’s simple. It’s smart. And for busy moms? It’s a game-changer.
Like I always say:
Your closets don’t grow with your shopping trips!
The space stays the same size… even if Target had the cutest new arrivals.
So if you want your home to stay organized and clutter-free, you need systems that tell you when you’ve hit your limit.
Below are my favorite organizing products that help keep me in check!
Water Bottle Organizer
If a new bottle comes in and there’s no open slot —
that’s a clear time to toss one no one uses anymore.
And hot take: most families do not need 3 bottles per kid.
Shoe Cubbies
No more stuffing pairs on top of pairs.
One cubby = one pair.
If the cubbies are full → it’s purge time.
This also helps kids put shoes away where they belong!
See my go-to shoe system here.
Hangers Keep You Honest
Running out of hangers?
Do NOT buy more!
That’s your built-in reminder that there’s too much clothing inside that closet.
Bike Rack With Designated “Parking Spots”
Each bike has one “home.”
If a bike suddenly has no home,
someone’s probably outgrown theirs → gift it or donate it 🚲
Shop bike storage solutions here.
Bag Organizer for the Win
The pockets are full → you’re good on bags.
We’re not stuffing one more bag in there.
This keeps things neat and helps you see what you actually own.
This is my favorite bag organizer.
Why This Rule Works So Well
Keeps closets organized
Prevents clutter before it starts
Helps you shop intentionally
Makes donating a normal routine
Saves money + space!
The “One In, One Out Rule” becomes effortless when the systems do the reminding for you.
Where Will You Start?
Water bottles? Shoes? Kids’ clothing?
Choose one area today to apply the rule — and watch the transformation happen!
Comment below:
Where are YOU going to apply the One In, One Out rule?
FTC Affiliate Disclosure
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