Simple living & 12 ways I optimize my minimal Scandinavian home

[@BenitaLarsson]

If you're looking for sources, I've tried to collect as many as I can here: www.benitalarsson.com/sources

[@julien4741]

Even your cat is minimalist black and white Brilliant!!

[@BenitaLarsson]

I also have a tortoiseshell one. Not minimal in color but in size, her name is Mini 😊

[@hotaitaihk]

Mini is a beauty

[@janeb3024]

"Keep the stuff where you need it." Excellent advice, whether your home is big or small. It is much more difficult to leave a job for another time when the supplies to do the work are right in front of you!

[@ajt0319]

I love seeing someone else putting their socks and shoes on while standing up. I’m 63 years young and use this as a test of my own balance, most of the time I can pat myself on the back afterwards lol. I enjoy your videos from Washington State, USA. 🙏

[@Sunflowers9191]

Yes I do too but I’m only 29.. it’s just faster to me then having to sit down for it haha.

[@BenitaLarsson]

Always on the go, who has time to sit?😅

[@pollyhg2826]

I really like the magnetic dish cloth holder in the sink. Such a good idea.

[@BenitaLarsson]

It’s been so useful!

[@michaelbass2185]

@@BenitaLarsson I thought the same thing. Such a simple idea. Efficient and "out of sight".

[@susankight544]

@@BenitaLarsson Could you please provide a link for it? It's such an awesome idea

[@BenitaLarsson]

I have it in my Amazon shop but it’s not available right now apparently. It’s by a brand called Magisso!

[@anaalves3658]

@@BenitaLarsson thank you 😊👍

[@1hotmamax3]

I look forward to your videos every other Tuesday... You are my favorite content creator. I thank you for all that you do. Praying you are feeling well.

[@BenitaLarsson]

So glad you enjoy my videos!

[@amychen2504]

Best tip: Keep only the items you use all the time and give each enough space. Hope you are feeling alright! Always happy to see your videos.

[@BenitaLarsson]

Such a good point not to overcrowd things!

[@bethdamon3136]

I just discovered your channel on KZbin ...love it! I am a 73-year-old grandmother from Chicago and love new ideas and ways to declutter. Look forward to more of your awesome videos.

[@nemo7782]

One tip I have- always be on the lookout for things not used in a very long time. Chances are that if you haven't used it, then you don't need it and it just takes up unnecessary space. If you find you miss it, then you can always bring it back. Nine times out of ten, you won't even think about it again.

[@helenaemiliasanmartin8401]

Your elegance in little things (like that magnet and the position of that natural fiber scruber) is an art master piece. Thinking you strong, healthy and surrounded by love, Benita.

[@annalp7520]

I have found that containing like products in my fridge (in clear containers) keeps my fridge so much cleaner. Any spills/messes are contained. And it’s so much easier to pull out one, or all, the containers when you want to clean the fridge. I love your ‘grab and go’ basket - so good 🙌 You look really well 💗

[@BenitaLarsson]

Great tip that I've used in the past! May start again, thanks for reminding me!

[@kristenjohnson1808]

Hope you're feeling well! What a great video. When it comes to optimizing my home, there's one big thing that my husband and I do: Tidy as we go. As my grandmother used to say: "A place for everything and everything in its place." It's wonderful advice. When we're done with an activity, all items go back to their intended place. It takes only a few seconds and only requires that you be conscientious, but it has such an impact on visual clutter. It helps that we don't have a lot of stuff to start with! I never have to worry about whether the house is presentable. We never have big messes to contend with, never have to rush around in the evenings cleaning, and our once-a-week deep clean takes a grand total of 45 minutes-about the length of a good podcast episode.

[@BenitaLarsson]

Thanks I am! And I totally do that too! My dad used to say the same thing 😊

[@ijaen]

I use an IKEA plastic white basket to corral all cleaning supplies in one place: under then kitchen sink and carry it around when doing the weekly cleaning around the apartment. That keeps everything in one place.

[@BenitaLarsson]

Smart thinking, I like it!

[@jaimebenson6102]

Your voice and narration is very soothing, Benita. LOVE seeing your cute cat in the closet too! 💗

[@BenitaLarsson]

He’s very camera shy but I got lucky when I was filming in there. 😊

[@vicky1974gr]

What I love about your videos is that you offer simple yet smart solutions. Thank you!

[@BenitaLarsson]

I’m so glad you enjoy them!

[@Kate.West.]

Short hair really suits you! I know you cut it for reasons that you probably wouldn’t have chosen, but you are looking great. Hope you are doing well and feeling ok!

[@BenitaLarsson]

Thank you! Wish my real hair would behave this nicely when it grows out :)

[@jetsetglamour]

Last year I moved my shoes to the hall closet by the door but never thought of moving my socks there too. Great advice. Will definitely do this.

[@BenitaLarsson]

Makes such a big difference!

[@elenakova466]

I keep little round box of hand cream (which i refill) under my pillow. All my creams are in the bathroom cabinet (my night table has no drawer). So if im too tired or forget, i can just reach under my pillow...and just as your socks - i have it where i need it! :-D also, since im already in bed, it avoids me leaving residue on the door knobs and light switches.

[@karenkranz2682]

i love that your cat has his own room

[@WhiskeyRose_]

I recently found out my ancestors on my grandfathers side are originally from Denmark (I’m in the USA) and have always loved Scandinavian style long before I knew that fact... My grandfathers grandfather was a Larson. ☺️ I am loving your minimalist videos. Thank you! Hoping you are well.

[@BenitaLarsson]

Finding out about your history is so interesting, isn’t it!

[@christianegrimard6555]

Wise girl I love the little spot near the door, your very creative and I love your videos. When I see the notification of Benita I know I will have a little moment of pleasure and be inspiring by you’ re creativity , feel calm with you’re lovely place and you’re soft voice xxx have a nice day!

[@BenitaLarsson]

Aww, you're so sweet! Thanks so much for subscribing!

[@josi4381]

We've a rather small bathroom, but nevertheless adjusted cabinets to one wall above the washing machine. I keep the clothes of my smaller kids there as they undress, get showered and are being dressed there again. No forgetting to bring pieces of clothes and having whiny kids due to being cold...

[@christinalouissaint9223]

You could put a vinyl sticker on the glass door around the door handle that covers you finger prints... Maybe a white or matte vinyl so it blends. Even though you have a solution, I always love eliminating the step all together.

[@danielkim7841]

All your tips are creative and brilliant and unique, but your dry goods pantry storage, with the individually organized plastic Tupperware, is genius, like Albert Einstein genius! My jaw dropped and I am SHOOK!

[@JustCallMeAnnie]

The shelf when you come in the door is perfection. How amazing that you made it with just some things lying around your home!

[@sleeplessinchicago9082]

Thank you for all the great advice. I keep the facial creams in the fridge. Love the cooling effect on the skin.

[@tcoladonato]

“Keep The Stuff Where You Need It.” So true!

[@BenitaLarsson]

No point in running all over the place if you use it somewhere specific all the time 😊

[@Hongkongmaryana]

Benita, you are such an inspiration. We need to get you publish a book with all your tips and tricks. Lots of hugs and love from Hong Kong.

[@sugarplumk2381]

Thank you for the tips Benita. You are a very handy woman. I wouldn’t attempt to make anything like a shelf, nor do I have the tools. Your cat in the closet!! 😍 Now I know why you didn’t close the door! Do you collect your coffee grounds? You could use the same jar or tin in your sink. You can collect the used ones in a small container. You probably know already but it’s good for the garden. Just don’t put it on seedings and be sure to spread it out and mix into soil. Apparently it’s not good to have a thick layer.

[@BenitaLarsson]

I don’t collect them but I know you can use them. And I do love DIY😊

[@inashamsia]

I love that Bonus has a special spot in your closet ❤️

[@anabenitez4446]

Oh my gosh, this is genius! The towel hanging thing in the sink will change my life! Thank you so much! (sending you healing thoughts from Arizona, USA)

[@BenitaLarsson]

Yes, it's great! It's this one happy-sinks.com/collections/cloth-holders/products/happy-sinks-dish-cloth-holder-steel

[@alliemackey6410]

I love your apartment, it brings me such a sense of calm, seeing the clean and simple aesthetic! also, love your black kitty.

[@LilianGuerrero]

I love the magnetic dish towel holder you used in the sink. It may not work for my sink because of the material but I love the idea. TY

[@clarehedgecox6814]

Thank you Benita, great tips and ideas. I hope your feeling well and your recovery is on track 🤞

[@BenitaLarsson]

It is, I am and thank you!

[@doublebass1966]

Marvellous idea on the clutter-free kitchen sink.

[@BenitaLarsson]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@maddalena2529]

Hi Benita, just a small advice, once your coffee is ground is better to put it on a fridge, because otherwise it oxidize. Putting in the fridge makes it stay fresh and keeps the flavor longer! Take care of you. Lots of love! 😉💛

[@ilonarudze-rudzeite5859]

That’s exactly what I’m doing ... it works! 👌😘

[@jayalexander6798]

I have been doing most of these already (having the same aesthetic needs as you do) but the magnetic holder on the sink is GENIUS!!!!!!!!!!

[@christinaroseman9926]

Benita...that coffee making in the sink tip is gold!!!

[@BenitaLarsson]

So much easier to clean up!

[@christinaroseman9926]

@@BenitaLarsson you have such a head for knowing 😉

[@kseniabalmasova]

Thank you, Benita, for new ideas on how to keep a sink clean and neat! I have never heard of a sink magnet towel holder! Already checked Stockmann for its availability! Now it is my wish list! Thanks a lot!!!

[@anashappydays]

I never get tired of your videos. I watch them on repeat ❤️ So inspiring!!!

[@PhiloftheMetaverse]

Process optimization and Refactoring! I do this pretty much all day at my job - lovely ideas Benita! Holding excess inventory, excessive transportation from one place to another and waste are areas to be aware of in any process from software to home making :-)

[@BenitaLarsson]

Haha! Love that this is what you do for a living!

[@perfaction]

I used to read your blog and missed it when you stopped. I came across your channel by chance and I’m so glad you are making new content.

[@TheViewmaster1971]

"Keep the stuff where you need it"... couldn't have been better said! Thanks for another great video!!

[@BenitaLarsson]

Thanks, so happy you enjoyed it!

[@stargazerbird]

Thanks to this video I moved my socks and got a sink tidy low enough to let my scrubber and cloth drain and keep it and a bottle for the washing up liquid (label off) in the sink. I am enjoying my kitchen without unsightly old cloths and nasty bottles spoiling it. Thanks Benita.

[@IorgaArtStudio]

poured myself a cup of tea - and watching this to get in the mood for cleaning & organising towards minimalism. I love your videos. much love to you from Romania :)

[@olivemaycards]

Your cute little kitty was a nice surprise in your closet! I also keep socks by the front door, even though that’s in my living room. Even if I’m wearing socks I might need different ones to go with a different style of shoe so it saves me racing to the bedroom in the back of the house when I’m in a hurry to leave. I wish I had a proper entranceway - we repurposed one of our fireside bookcases as an entryway zone because out front door opens right into the middle of the living room.

[@BenitaLarsson]

When I stayed in America as an au pair in the 80’s I found it so strange to enter straight into the living room. Nowhere to put your stuff 😅

[@jbellbird9050]

Your tips are excellent, especially the little floating shelf you made. Always enjoy your restful, beautiful apartment. So nice to see a clutter-free environment!

[@BenitaLarsson]

I’m glad you enjoyed the tips!

[@cmk1626]

I don't know if it's been said already...you have so many comments ☺ But I thought I'd suggest that you can get some adhesive window film for your hall mirror doors. Something that makes them hazy, and fingerprint proof, but will still reflect the light. You could just cover the middle section and leave the top and bottom free for even more light reflection. Just a thought that came to mind while watching your inspiring and calming videos!

[@cynthia6055]

Thanks Benita.......and been thinking of you and hope you are doing well. Keeping you in prayer!

[@jennikomarovsky6826]

Thanks for showing me the sink cloth holder. I bought a Happy Sink holder - quite expensive, but absolutely worth it in terms of removing items from sight in my kitchen / dining area.

[@marywall5262]

Great tips! But be very careful to avoid coffee grounds in the sink, it collects in the pipes and you’ll end up having to take the drain apart. It wont move thru the drain system.

[@gweno9901]

New subscriber here :-) I will pass on the tip about keeping socks in the hall to my daughter as my little grandaughter prefers bare feet [or 'toes' as she says) in the house and whenever it is time to go out, we have to go upstairs to her bedroom for socks. A genius idea! Thank you!

[@OliviaCo]

Your tips are helpful especially the socks near the door, love your channel

[@--Valentina-]

Benita, I loved these tips. My two favorites might be the socks by the entrance (I already kept one pair there, what a good idea to just store them all there), and the squirt bottle of dish detergent out of sight inside the sink. All great tips, though, as always! 💕

[@spoly8139]

So many unique and helpful tips. Whenever I see clutter I think of you and start cleaning and purging again! Hope you're doing well.

[@cowchick]

I love this video (as I adore the rest of your videos!). I did chuckle a little when you were making coffee…I forgot how much coffee Scandanavians drink! Thanks for sharing your days with us.

[@ucpa99]

Caffè italiano 🌹

[@polybitouli2246]

Ηello Benita. Thank you once again first for your calmness, kindness and then for your tips, ideas and "images" of your life. Really thinking of you. Keep safe. Love from Greece.

[@BenitaLarsson]

Thank you so much, so sweet of you!

[@polybitouli2246]

@@BenitaLarsson ❤️

[@jennifergrainger2480]

Today I started the reorganisation of my pantry. I have so much stuff! Clearly, I have a lot of clearing to do. Your videos are so motivating. Tomorrow I'll put your playlist on to keep me company and motivated! Many thanks for your content it's making such a difference.

[@BenitaLarsson]

Yay! I’m so happy if you find my videos inspiring!

[@bethanykime3438]

You could put a vinyl sticker on the mirror door where fingerprints collect so you don't have to see them constantly. Like a stripe or half circle on each side.

[@janetbenge1246]

I was thinking the same thing Bethany!

[@BenitaLarsson]

Thank you! Got that comment a few times but then I'm thinking the fingerprints would just end up on the sticker instead. Also would it get a bit busy looking? May keep on wiping with my cloth ;)

[@bethanykime3438]

Just a suggestion, obviously do what you think looks best 🙂

[@samevans1289]

@@BenitaLarsson Look for a matte finish one, it doesn't show fingerprints as easily as a shiny one I think.

[@kimrodgers692]

I spy a Swedish dishcloth. I keep a package of yellow for the kitchen and blue for the bathroom. I love that they absorb like a sponge but I can wash them in hot water with the other towels and reuse many times.

[@angelakneller2880]

Love this video, thank you giving me much needed inspiration. I’m not a minimalist by a long shot but as we are mid renovations I can re work how I want things so it works for us and makes life easier. I still have to work ( luckily it’s at 4-8am) and I wash my uniform as soon as I get in. I have work stuff in my work fleece jacket ie) locker let, name badge, wipe board markers a very small pen etc and when I remove them I place them in a pretty mug I received as a birthday gift. It just keeps them in one place and usually I remember to put everything back in my pocket once it is washed. Can’t wait to get back to once a week washes instead of three times a week.

[@BenitaLarsson]

That’s sound like a great solution!👌🏻

[@jodiemorgan8063]

Hi. Your home is beautiful and thank you for the wonderful tips. They are so useful. I hope your feeling ok. From Jodie in Melbourne, Australia 🇦🇺.

[@bettydodd2382]

Your attention to detail is very inspiring and is making me examine my own surroundings and habits. Thanks!

[@dingdong211270]

i literally just got up and put the dishwasher tabs in the cupboard next to it. You'd think these things are obvious but it takes someone like Benita to point it out. Absolutely love your videos. Hope you are taking good care of yourself. Look forward to the next. xx

Some of your solutions are so clever! I do believe in storing things where you need them, even if the place doesn't "make sense" for the item.

[@BenitaLarsson]

I’m so glad you find them useful!

[@doreenlamothe9278]

I always look forward to your videos! You and I think alike - I store things very unconventionally for convenience ! It makes my life do much easier! For example, our coffee filters, cups and coffee are all stored right above the coffee maker and my socks are stored in the garage with my shoes!

[@BenitaLarsson]

I like how you think! Obviously 🤣

[@kimmbond2052]

I've been watching your channel since before your move. This is the first time that I realized your door to the catio is a back door! Would you show us your front door entrance sometime? Love your lifestyle. Keep living your best life. I hope you are feeling well. You look beautiful. ❤️

[@BenitaLarsson]

There might be a sneak peek of what my entrance looks like i my next video!

[@kimmbond2052]

Awesome!

[@higherground7862]

Great tips for everyday ergonomy! Thank you, dear Benita! BTW, if I may; I know that is wig, but I really think short hair suits you very much ♥

[@minikorsi]

These tips are genius! My favourite is the socks in the hallway. 👍

[@BenitaLarsson]

Makes such a big difference!

[@sonjaa.2982]

Great ideas; but I'm loving the one about putting socks near the shoes. I'm going to try that! Hope you're having a good day and thanks for sharing!

[@BenitaLarsson]

It’s been such a game changer, no more walking back to the closet!

[@jasmintc]

Love your channel, Benita ❤️ It brings me peace and makes me feel calm. Really enjoyed the tips in this video!

[@BenitaLarsson]

So glad you enjoyed them!

[@vickyd-dg2979]

Thank you, Benita. You're one of my biggest inspirations 💞 Thanks for sharing this video with us :)

[@BenitaLarsson]

Aww, you’re so sweet, thank you!

[@lanehartwell]

I would love to know more about that crossbody bag.

[@BenitaLarsson]

It’s this one but I removed the front label www.marimekko.com/se_en/gift-guide/cash-carry-bag-black-026992-999

[@adeleturner1255]

I love your tip about keeping the dishcloth and washing up liquid in the sink. So simple but ingenious. I will be trying this immediately! Thank you Benita 👍💕

[@BenitaLarsson]

Keeps the countertops clean and tidy 😊

[@lisaann6267]

you are an inspiration. :) i figured out this year how much i hate my closet. its narrow, i always was knocking clothes off hangers.so i bought folding cloth boxes that fit under bed. i labeled. i folded all my clothes. and now use clothes closet as storage for paper and cleaning products,

[@milianatiranimine9710]

I have the same problem with coffee so thank you for the idea !

[@casn3424]

🌱This is my second time watching this video. You are my favorite KZbin channel. I'm already looking forward to the next video, thank you for inspiring me! 🌿

[@lyndarossi933]

Very clever tips especially the hall shelf ( and the fact that you came up with the idea and did it yourself) ...And you look wonderful!!! Big hug

[@BenitaLarsson]

Thank you so much!

[@baciclan2021]

You give such practical and helpful advice. I’m praying for you Benita. Each day brings you closer to being done with the treatments.🙏💕

[@emmylou-y4b]

I have always been a minimalist but you continue to teach me so much. As an "older" woman (66), I'm happy to say that I can work a drill-it really helps to build and fix things yourself. Thank you so much. Be well and safe.

[@BenitaLarsson]

DIY is so much fun!

[@randalllanders4198]

Yes on keeping stuff where you need it.

[@jobursill4865]

Brilliant as always Benita , the magnetic sink cloth holder is great . Lovely to see Bonus too 😻❤️

[@BenitaLarsson]

He’s quite camera shy so I’m always happy to include him when I can.

[@elenarj568]

Hej Benita, nice to see you looking well 🌼!! Well, I keep, clean and re-use plastic containers (from any kind of item or just old ones) to organized, vegetables, cheese, etc in the fridge or things in the freezer(spinach, pees bags, etc). Paper or carton cute boxes, for my underwear, t-shirts, hand bags, keys, glasses..."Contained items"...easier to see and find. I like your walk in wardrobe, very nice and the magnetic holder is great🤩! Thank you for your video & useful tips!

[@BenitaLarsson]

I'm also a believer in saving good containers and boxes to use for storage!

[@marianneskarupa5440]

Another great video and hope you are well ❤️. We have 2 bathrooms on opposite sides of our house. I had one set of cleaning materials and would carry them fro bath to bath which was time consuming and didn’t account for accidentals that required quick cleanup. I was trying to be minimal but realized I was just being inefficient. Now each bath has its own set of cleaning materials.

[@BenitaLarsson]

That sounds like a smart solution! Those two sets will last you twice as long so it's not like you're being wasteful.

[@gracesimplified3860]

You could glue a thin veneer of wood on the mirror behind the handle of the closet door just wear finger prints collect.

[@lesliemacdonald7976]

love this video -- I've been thinking I'm due for another clean out and would like to go back to view the old videos again -- they are all so motivating. Lots of love to you Benita!

[@mathildebourguignon718]

Your videos are so relaxing Benita, really needed at the moment! Thank you 😊

[@BenitaLarsson]

So glad to hear that you enjoy them!

[@graemeh6345]

Like the small shelf idea!! Very cool. Thank you for sharing your ideas and life.

[@hoppiw5735]

Thank you, I love ur channel.... and what I can see is don't have a lot of stuff in ur house....then it's easy to clean

[@RadCenter]

I store my face masks in the drawer in my bedroom where I keep my accessory scarves. I keep a box of snack-size resealable bags in the same drawer, and after I wash my masks I place each one into a separate bag so I can easily grab one and go when I leave the house. (You could use a paper bag, also, and recycle it when you throw the mask in the laundry.)

[@pj101]

I remember no 10 from your blog. Amazing accessory for the ugly sponge or cloth!

[@BenitaLarsson]

Love how they hide the ugly necessities!

[@randikent4747]

It is good to see you, Benita. And thanks for all of the great ideas!

[@BenitaLarsson]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@linedallaire9631]

Hi Benita🤗, so nice to see you....love the socks idea by the door...cool tip. Thanks for the lovely video.I hope you are well.

[@BenitaLarsson]

Thank you so much for watching!

[@sianrushton]

I hope you are feeling well ❤️ I love the coffee making in the sink. Coffee is great but the grounds go everywhere! I agree that it’s good to have things close to where they are needed but I also found Marie Kondo’s tip of keeping everything of the same type in one place. That way there aren’t 5 places to keep pens/grab a pen from, for example and it’s easier to know what we have. Take care xx

[@BenitaLarsson]

I am, thank you! Glad you enjoyed the tips and thanks for the MK one!

[@margymullins67]

May you feel all positive vibes from people worldwide, Benita❤🌈 Love your mindful approach & push back on habits. I organized an AM tray of teas, bottles of oatmeal, dried fruit, nuts & spices for an easy start to my day.🌞

[@BenitaLarsson]

The breakfast tray is such a good idea!

[@niahoward1920]

Hello Benita, sending healing thoughts your way. 💕🙏🏽💕 I have an idea for your glass closet doors: a half circle, cut from contact paper with the flat sides going towards the middle of the doors. It is self-sticking, and would not damage the glass. Perhaps something opaque, or light colored, to obscure the handprints, and you wouldn’t have to wipe them as often. I know, brilliant! 🤗

[@BenitaLarsson]

Thank you for the suggestion!

[@lourlopezsk]

Lovely video as always, Benita! When you live in the same place for a long time you get to know what works for you and what doesn't, that's amazing. Little details make all the difference! Love from Buenos Aires, Argentina! ❤️

[@jillengel4124]

Love that magnetic dishcloth holder! I try to keep my place neat by not overstocking items and asking myself if I really need something before purchasing it. Hope you’re doing well with your treatment.

[@BenitaLarsson]

THat's so smart! This is the holder btw happy-sinks.com/collections/cloth-holders/products/happy-sinks-dish-cloth-holder-steel

[@marceliam5275]

Loved it! I'm the same way, making everyday tasks more convenient to accomplish whilst minimizing the visual clutter:) Thank you for sharing!

[@BenitaLarsson]

Thank you so much for watching!

[@eifltwrgrl]

Hej Benita! Hope you are feeling well. Good to see lots of IKEA. 😁 Love that floating shelf. You are like me.. Grabbing my drill at 9 pm and doing a project! Marie

[@BenitaLarsson]

Ah, do you mean the IKEA wardrobe? It was left by the previous owners. Don’t have much else 😅 Oh, the bed of course 😊

[@eifltwrgrl]

@@BenitaLarsson are your stools and couch from there? I have the same wardrobe and I love it. So versatile! You can change it as your life changes.