The living room is more than just a space; it’s where we unwind after a long day and host friends and family. Therefore, **maintaining a clutter-free living room** is essential for fostering a relaxed atmosphere. However, it’s all too easy for everyday habits to inadvertently introduce clutter. To help you reclaim your space, we’ve consulted top organizational experts on the **seven items you should never keep in your living room**. Let’s dive in!
Meet the Experts
Jill Moore, a professional home organizer and owner of Organized Jill in Winston-Salem, NC.
Meghan Cocchiaro, owner and professional home organizer at Organized by Meg in Littleton, CO.
1. Children’s Toys or Games
While children’s laughter is music to our ears, **toys can quickly transform your living room into a chaotic landscape**. Cocchiaro emphasizes the importance of separating adult and children’s spaces. “When toys are kept in the living room, they clutter up the space with their bold colors and sizes,” she explains. Consider temporary playtime in the living room but ensure toys return to their designated storage area in a playroom or toy closet.
2. Outerwear
As chilly weather sets in, jackets often end up sprawled across couches. It’s a common habit, but Moore cautions against it. **Allowing outerwear to clutter your living room detracts from its aesthetic**. “A few well-placed hooks or a stylish shoe rack can do wonders,” she advises. This not only keeps your living room tidy but also prevents dirt and debris from settling on your furniture.
3. Out-of-Season Holiday Decor
Decorating for the holidays is delightful, but once the season ends, it’s time to **pack away those decorations**. Moore says, “If you’re not among those who switch up tree decorations to reflect current holidays, it’s best to stow them away until next year.” **Store them neatly** to maintain the serene atmosphere of your living room.
4. Open Shelving
Open shelving can look chic but comes with its own challenges. Cocchiaro notes, “It can either elevate a room or make it look messy.” This is why she rejoices in **keeping open shelves minimal**. “Only display items that are functional or visually appealing, rather than stuffing them full to create balance,” she highlights.
5. Mail & Paperwork
It’s easy for mail and paperwork to pile up in the living room— the place we first enter. Both experts agree that establishing a designated **‘drop zone’ for mail** can drastically reduce clutter. “Designate a section with a mailbox on the wall to keep things organized and visually pleasing,” Moore advises.
6. Craft Supplies
Crafting can be a fun escape, but don’t unleash the chaos of craft supplies in your living room! “The last thing you want is a glitter explosion on your nice furniture,” warns Moore. If storing supplies is difficult, **set up a designated area, perhaps on a kitchen table with an easy-to-clean cloth**, to keep your living room serene.
7. Laundry Basket
A laundry basket in the living room may seem practical, especially for folding clothes, but it often leads to piles of clean laundry lingering around. Moore advises against it: “Regardless of whether the clothes are clean, dirty, or in between, they don’t help in creating a relaxing atmosphere.” Instead, put clothes away as soon as they come out of the dryer to **maintain a clutter-free environment**.
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For additional insights, feel free to read the original article on The Spruce.
