You're Organizing Your House Wrong!

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I hope these home organization tips are helpful to your everyday life. Let me know which tips stuck out for you and if you have any home organization hacks that I didn't include.
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⏱ Timestamps:
00:00 - Intro
01:10 - Brooklinen Ad
02:15 - Hide Your Countertop Appliances
05:17 - Closed Storage
07:11 - Create Drop Zones
10:05 - Anchor Your Items
13:08 - Invest In Organizers
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[@Nick_Lewis]

💌 Sign up for my newsletter, The Interior Scoop: interiorscoop.nicklewis.ca/subscribe

[@DJarry394]

Brooklinen is awful. Sorry. I used it before. The pillows were painful, the linen wasn't worth the price

[@AP12360]

@@DJarry394 - Linen is wonderful and I own linen sheets, pillows, and clothing, but you have to wash it several times before it becomes softer.

[@DJarry394]

@@AP12360 sorry, I’m talking about the brand. It’s overpriced, and not very good quality. But linen sheets sound nice. If I should ever have enough $ for them, I would take your advice. Thanks

[@sarahnelson8836]

Nick, my heart, not all of us can pull out an appliance on a moments notice plug it in AND remember it exists. HOW do we put them away in ways that keep those we use 3 times a week accessible? Or those that don’t have easy places to go? How do we make open storage like kitchen carts into functionally closed storage? Functional tips too please!

[@nailguncrouch1017]

Came for the sarcasm, stayed for the tips.

[@lisabailey6605]

Me too, exactly!

[@leonoraauren5571]

Came for the tips, stayed for the sarcasm 😂

[@ambsat]

Lot. Love that. That's me too.

[@amy7494]

ALWAYS!

[@kmiranda478]

lol yes! 😂

[@RadCenter]

Why did interior designers stop using bathroom mirrors with medicine cabinets behind them? It used to be so easy to see everything you had, because it was at eye level. Suddenly they decided we all want to store our stuff in drawers in the vanity instead. Drawers are very awkward to store items in bottles, because you can't see the labels. Bring back medicine cabinets!

[@whiskybrush3219]

Thats an easy answer. Most housing construction is done factory style, with emphasis on speed over quality of craft. Inset medicine cabinets usually require re framing part of a wall and also re-routing vent pipes or electrical infrastructure. Placing a cabinet onto the wall itself is an alternative, however it is clunky, minimizes light from sticking out 4 to 6 inches, and often looks like a half done job. Therefore designers and flippers just opt for the sleeker look of a mirror and utilize alternate storage areas for the contents that would normally be in medicine cabinets. Its also impossible to properly inset a medicine cabinet when it's against an exterior wall.

[@Nick_Lewis]

I have one in my own bathroom and I love it!

[@653j521]

Is there one with edges that keep things from falling out and into the sink?

[@04beni04]

@@653j521 I have no idea where she found them, but I know someone who uses small tension rods in all her cabinets (bathroom, kitchen, tools, everywhere). She tells me proudly, and often, that nothing's fallen in the toilet in years. 😅

[@katperson7332]

@@653j521mine is a giant one from Ikea and is placed on the wall above my cistern and toilet. It’s a weird shaped bathroom so that’s the only place it can go, but so far nothing has fallen down into the toilet! I’m very careful though, and keep the toilet lid down but it would indeed be good if the shelves had edges on them. I suppose it wouldn’t be too hard to improvise your own, by glueing thin pieces of wood along the front of each shelf.

[@healingasthmaacasestudy9851]

“Work with what you got not with what you want to be” the wisest words I’ve heard all year

[@user-jw9zd4yd2s]

Maybe he should try remembering that when he changes his hair to that hideous color that makes him look much older than before. This is not the way to get a sugar daddy, sweet cheeks!

[@cjhoward409]

Loved that ! ❤️

[@AnnLewis-ri7rs]

Works for kids and spouses too.

[@susanruan3663]

I made a drop zone by using an old bookcase that fits in the space behind my door. It fits shoes, keys, receipts, loose change, mail, etc.

[@pmoneywest8099]

So True 👍🏽

[@KM-se4vh]

"Bonus tip: feel free to get rid of some stuff!" I love how the most important thing is said as a sarcastic aside 😂

[@bluewren65]

Or even better, feel free not to buy more crap you don't need.

[@mynotificationsareoff.400]

@@bluewren65how dare you

[@bluewren65]

@@mynotificationsareoff.400 😂

[@ros8986]

@@bluewren65 BUT (in spite of may meticulous thought about purchases) I still find that every acquisition is an experiment, some work out, some don't.

[@bluewren65]

@@ros8986 I'd hope your hit to miss ratio would be higher than 50:50. Before buying anything my questions are: Do I really need this? Do I have somewhere to put this? Sadly, for beautiful, aesthetic items the answer is usually "no" and for necessities it is a constant headache finding a place for them to live.

[@epowell4211]

I'm a hoarder from a long line of hoarders, but always thought, "as long as you have a place for it, you're okay." The day I realized you are forever paying for what you own changed how I thought about stuff. People don't hesitate to call out those who use storage units as wasting money, paying for stuff you already own, but the fact is you buy/rent a living space to fit what you own, continue to pay utilities on it, pay your time and effort to maintain it, pay your peace of mind to deal with the clutter, buy stuff to organize/display it, pay insurance to protect it, and so on.

[@tammybrennan2040]

Craziness is renting storage units to store stuff. People have too much clutter!

[@betmo]

my personal thought is open concept doesn't have storage space...so there's that

[@karenk2409]

Yup, serious cra-cra ...

[@kdockrey]

​@@betmo Open concept definitely can have ample storage. However, it takes away from living space unless one specifically allows adequate space for storage and living. I just built an open concept home and I had to be firm with architects and designers about the importance of closed storage. I did opt for all built-in cabinets over closets to keep as much as living space as possible while have a designated closed space for everything

[@cjhoward409]

@@betmo My open concept has plenty of storage 👍🏻

[@clwest3538]

Heard a comedian say 'storage units are suburban junk drawers - things go in and never come out...' 😂

[@Noreenlee1]

We've lived in the same house -- with the same two hooks behind our bedroom door -- for 32 years. A few months ago, I asked my otherwise tidy husband why he didn't hang his worn (but still clean for the next day) clothes on his hook instead of draping them down his side of the dresser. Turns out in 31.5 years, he'd never considered the always-empty hook to be "his." Sometimes, a little, gentle communication is the answer.

[@653j521]

He sounds like a sweetie to not assume his territory extends all over yours. Did you actually tell him it is his before?

[@zmiem9556]

This is so cute!

[@anaalves3658]

That is so funny and sweet 😂

[@cjhoward409]

Awwwww. That’s so sweet.

[@debibrown5568]

😂

[@Erica-en2qz]

"Chances are, most of what you have isn’t that attractive. Someone had to tell you" 😂😂😂 Had me laughing out loud! And yes, Nick, I have wondered why your clock is always at the same time. 😂

[@bekind8243]

I love the new, sarcastic Nick! It seems like you’re more bold than this time last year and I LOVE your sense of humor!

[@therabbithat]

I did come here to be abused.

[@ah5721]

I love nick for the sass and roasting and good ideas too. And I'm a designer 😂

[@eldabaci9674]

Same I love his sarcastic side!

[@MultiCappie]

As a person with ADHD, I have to be careful what I conceal, because I'll stop using it completely, and painfully often buy a new one. I sometimes think interior design is about "making homes look like nobody lives there." I respect people who can live that way, but that's just not me. I do try to make things non-cluttery, but still visible. The picture you rolled at 2:36 may as well be my own countertop.

[@lidewijvos]

I've also got ADHD and feel overwhelmed when all my stuff is visible. I found out that if you stuff too much stuff in your drawer or closet you can't properly access it (hurdle) and thus you don't use it, forget it and maybe buy a new one. Key here is (for me) to have very little things so everything is soooo easy to grab or put away without having to do a tetris game at Olympic level.

[@MultiCappie]

@@lidewijvos Yeah, same, less things is always easier, but I still need some things visible, or labeled on the exterior of the cabinet or drawer even.

[@kokocrispies]

Yeah, if things aren't out I won't use them. If i have to pull out the magic bullet every time i want a smoothie you can better believe I'm never making a smoothie. If it's sitting there ready I'm way more likely to use it. I wish I could have less clutter, but hiding things is really not an option if I want to get things done. Executive dysfunction is a bitch. What I really need is tips on how to make things easily accessible without losing your mind.

[@1ronmad1n]

@@lidewijvosmy whole box of an apartment is exactly like playing Tetris when I put anything away, even groceries! It’s ridiculous really. Especially when you know you need to prep for times of need that are coming. If I find a deal on something, I have to buy it. Whether it’s food, water, hygiene essentials that I know aren’t going to go bad any time soon. I’m now wanting to get into crafting, hopefully to make a little extra cash. I know I have stuff to get rid of and want to have a yard sale. I thought, I could make a few things, maybe from what I do have and throw those items in there as well. Sounds like a plan but I’m starting to get a bit overwhelmed. I’m glad I found this channel, funny and true! Some stuff isn’t very appealing but adding trays will help and I know how to make them!

[@nataliebutler]

Bold of you to assume I have enough cabinet space to put away the things on my counter!

[@WoohooAndTheCity]

Me with my instant pot in my studio apartment 🥲

[@patwilkinson2182]

Great tips Nick. I hate clutter as well. Happy Saturday!

[@Sorrely1]

Have you considered throwing it out a window?

[@raeperonneau4941]

I was thinking the same thing. 😂

[@alrightyru]

Agreed! Aside from in the bedrooms there is ONE closet here .. All in one for brooms, linens, cleaning supplies .. Yikes!

[@skoogproductions7497]

I’ve learned the only way my house doesn’t become a chaotic mess from my adhd is absolutely working with my existing habits, and just beautifying them, usually with baskets 😂😂😂

[@andieluke1366]

SAME! I've learned to embrace that it might still not be properly categorized, but it is organized _for_ me.

[@hexhyss]

The ADHD mess is real...

[@16demolka]

ADHDer here 🙋🏻‍♀️ I accepted recently that I’m never going to put away clothes that I want to rewear. I just spend 30 minut every week and deal with pile of clothes all at once. I feel it’s about doing big projects, I hate doing small things, step by step, because I don’t see the effect right away

[@karyon1007]

Yep! It's, "Where do my messes accumulate? Put an open basket or hook there."😂

[@pajamaday8083]

Yesss!!! My household (all w/ ADHD) CANNOT function any other way. If your family's like mine and you really want to torture yourself, try putting everything away and watch the panic when everybody loses their sh*t (pun intended)

[@MyFocusVaries]

Hooks on the inside of the closet door and the bathroom door have saved me from dropping my clothes on the floor all my adult life. If it's not ready for the laundry, it's a hook when I'm in too much of a hurry for a hanger. Clothes don't wrinkle and they're hidden. Every couple of days I hang things back up.

[@LouciferFlump]

I discovered the joy of this a few years ago! It’s bliss, right? 🤣👍🏻

[@carolinejohnson22]

You paragons of virtue! I just chuck them on the floor 😲😆

[@cc1k435]

Same. In my bathroom right now I have hanging a 70s-style newsboy cap and a pair of swim goggles, but hey, they're not on the floor! 😂

[@LouciferFlump]

@@cc1k435 🥴👍🏻

[@MyFocusVaries]

"I'm not particularly organized" is maybe not the declaration I want to hear from the person about to give me organizing tips. 😂 But here I am listening.😂😂😂

[@moe9265]

Hilarious!

[@minimalist2036]

😏

[@Nick_Lewis]

Or I’m EXACTLY the person to listen to because I’m realistic!

[@pamelakrumvieda3153]

Are you kidding? The best people to learn from did it wrong until they did it right.

[@Joy-io7xl]

How many “cups of coffee” has Nick consumed?

[@wendypierce5621]

Nightstands with generously sized drawers are your friend for those regularly used bedroom items.

[@joane.3533]

That part was funny, wasn't it?

[@ceralith942]

I'm just waiting for Nick to start messing with us by changing his clock time randomly. ❤

[@MyFocusVaries]

I want it to be 10:20, which is the time Timex watches always displayed in ads, to frame the logo.

[@TreasureDeal]

Lol, let's send him some batteries. 😂😂❤❤❤

[@grateful7420]

“It’s always 12:18 where I live” 😂

[@desireestacy4597]

I think it should be "after 5:00!" 🤣😂

[@sorscha]

"Dropped like a school bag at 4 o'clock" has stayed with me as a helpful turn of phrase. Find a place for all the things!

[@Acquilla7]

The bit about being realistic about your habits hits sooo true though. As someone with ADHD I have to work around the weird ways my brain works. The biggest thing I found for me is that, while I will hang things up, I will not fold them. Things became a moderately less chaotic mess when I embraced hooks and hangers everywhere.

[@aleenaprasannan2146]

Same for me, hooks took care of the 'worn but not for laundry' clothes, but I realised I need a basket for newly washed clothes, because I procrastinate on folding laundry

[@lynnstlaurent6789]

I have bins for everything that doesn’t have to be folded. Tank tops, underwear, pajamas. It stopped me from having laundry paralysis. Washed jeans or pants go on hooks too.

[@WalkingOneLegAtATime]

I’m picturing the Seinfeld episode with the organizer lady “hooks!”

[@no_peace]

I have to hang some stuff but I sort and dump everything else. I don't fold and I hang as little as humanly possible. Laundry is so much easier for me this way

[@Cole_Cross]

ADHD life is all about working with our magic beautiful chaos. the only, thing that works for me is extreme minimalism. if there isnt space for it behind something, it doesnt come into my tiny house.

[@pamelakrumvieda3153]

Nick, I am one of those people that forgets I own something when I can't see it. I am building a home with a large pantry/storage/prep room adjacent to the kitchen. My plan is open shelves below the counters in the pantry. That way I can see what I own, still maintain a clear counter space, and it is not visible to guests or even to me most of the time. I am excited to have a kitchen that doesn't look like a resale shop of donated appliances!

[@karenk2409]

We all forget what we can't see! That's why people have basements, under-stairs storage and storage units.

[@04beni04]

Ooh -- good call. And maybe consider getting some clear storage containers with lids for the smaller or more fiddly stuff (lids, attachments, detachable parts, etc.). Being immediately able to identify what is where, and to group items conveniently together, is a game changer.

[@betholabecker3219]

May want to rethink your plan…..it will get dusty, so you will have to dust before you use anything! 😢

[@liisaking1247]

This is hugely important, and often overlooked by people who crave visual simplicity. But many people struggle with "object permanence" and truly tend to forget stuff they can't see and touch. If you keep saying things like, "Well, I *thought* I had scissors but I can't find any and I have no idea where they'd be, so I'm going out to buy a pair so I can do such-and-such," and then a week later, "Oh, look! Six pairs of scissors! Didn't I buy some last week? Where did they go?" you may have a problem with object permanence (and/or a problem with not establishing fixed "homes" for often-needed items). Keeping things out, using open shelving, or storing items in clear acrylic containers really does help some people, while it would drive others mad! If you know what works for you, go for it!

[@Dbb27]

@@liisaking1247 excellent advice!

[@laurieleannie]

You use the perfect amount of Canadian dry humour and sarcasm!

[@Motherhubbard170]

it must be that as its never belittling nor cruel, just fun

[@katebowers8107]

Bonus tip: get rid of some stuff- Really should be tip#1!

[@jeandiatasmith4512]

I was happy that it was bonus tip. I'm kind of tired of being lectured to throw out my stuff. The throwing out will happen when I find a realistic system of organizing that works. When I did get my bathroom organized = I threw out 2 bags of old makeup and other stuff that had been piled up on the shelves and thrown under the sink. I still have too much though and my bathroom needs to be done again. But this time it'll be easier because there's less than the last time. It's all a process.

[@katebowers8107]

@@jeandiatasmith4512 It’s too bad that it comes off as being lectured. It’s really good advice. I need to do more of it myself!

[@donnali8461]

"you like to think you're going to be this person that hangs up everything but you're not, you're just not that girl" - thank you, i needed to hear this today, ordering a clothes rack now!

[@minimalist2036]

The sarcasm is one of the reasons I like your channel so much 🖤

[@bboop200]

Another reason I love Nick…..CORRECT GRAMMAR…. “YOU’RE organizing YOUR house wrong”. Siiiggghhhhhhhhh 🥹

[@irenemorley75]

Most English people spell it.....your.

[@Lisa-jm3nk]

Correct grammar is one of the many reasons Nick is SO DREAMY.

[@emilyburton4095]

@@irenemorley75 Even if true, it's still wrong. Two different words.

[@Geronimo2Fly]

@@irenemorley75 Spell "it" meaning what? If they spell "your" as "your" then that's great. If they spell "you're" as "your" then that's wrong. I seriously doubt that "most" English people don't know the difference between the two words.

[@scf7334]

@@irenemorley75Only illiterate people spell it that way if they’re meaning “you are”.

[@ew0215]

Pro tip from an ADHD coach, if you struggle with remembering that your stuff exists or where it is after putting it away (object permanence challenge) then get clear bins or cute labels for your organization baskets. ❤

[@lynnstlaurent6789]

I have a label on the shelf where I am supposed to hang my coat reminding me to close the garage door. None of family without adhd can understand why I don’t remember to. Thanks for finally explaining it to me. The label doesn’t always work:(

[@BillundBerries]

That’s exactly why I have all of the stuff ALWAYS out and seen! I will literally forget that they exist if I put them away and have a nice, clear space. 😢

[@DebraCole-dr5fy]

@@BillundBerries I am so glad to hear that I am not the only person who likes to see what I have and forget what is put away. It has bothered me for 60 years and I decided--just heck with it at this point in life.. I am going to get rid of stuff and try to do just basic items. Wish me luck because I have way too many things.

[@jeanne-marie8196]

Nick, just an FYI: As a Certified Sarcasm Specialist for many decades, your sarcasm comes through very clearly with voice, tone, facial expression, and body language. The organization that I head, consistently rates your videos a solid 9! The deduction of 1 measly point (a.k.a. The Smidge Deduction or SD), is not for the lack of detection of the sarcasm, but rather the overselling. It is a minor point, but, what we call “deadpanning “ needs a dash of work. Kudos on your high marks. I’m happy to announce, you are in the running for the Sarcasm; D’uh-uh ( The Sarcasie” annual award! Congratulations….

[@49lucky]

Right on I'm very sarcastic as the people I work with tell me.😅😅😅😅

[@jeanne-marie8196]

@@49lucky That will be up to The Society” to judge. We’ll forward an application. I, personally, can recall being judged by those around me as far back as high school. I think it was all those who were reading “the humanities”. Oscar Wilde’s quote that “Sarcasm is the weakest form of wit”, was quoted to me. What they left out was the “but” in the quote “ the most intelligent”! You and I are both just letting our intellect run Wilde! At The Soceity we often chide one another with “your intelligence is showing”. Our group motto is “Sarcasam; let your intelligence show!”

[@Lisa-jm3nk]

You are hilarious,

[@sarah-phillips]

Sarcasm is life. I know no other way. Every video you make me laugh. I'm also a parent and whenever you poke fun at kids, I laugh even more. Because it's true.

[@johnqpublic407]

Had my cupboard doors removed to be refinished. And over the 3 weeks they were off, looking at the storage and stuff in them....i was able to adjust the shelves, have new shelves cut (bought new pins), culled items i truly hadnt touched for years, and found room for toaster (on tray for crumbs), blender and better soace utilization. I was almost sad when i put the doors back on, and realized i could survive with 8 coffee cups instead of 12 double stacked!

[@j.m.7056]

The toaster crumb tray is very much needed! I love mine! Good work on your cupboards!

[@karenk2409]

Coffee cups are Tribbles.

[@Jennifer-nz2ss]

Yay,great job!😊

[@laurabarnes5283]

omg why has it never occurred to me to put the toaster on a tray? Genius! Especially since I'm literally the only one in my family of five who ever cleans under the toaster...

[@johnqpublic407]

@@laurabarnes5283 I use the smallest metal ones I find at restaurant supply places, but I think plastic works too :)

[@stellacalder5023]

7:30 re: drop zones: if you find yourself having to look for the same thing on a regular basis, think about where you most often look for that thing and then keep it there or somewhere close. For example, I used to always forget where I kept my lighter and would have to go looking for it every time my stove wouldn't light, so I just moved it to the drawer I'd usually look first, the cooking utensil drawer, even though it "doesn't fit the category."

[@Trilingualeks]

That's exactly where I keep my lighter! A couple of candles in there as well, as I found out last time there was a power outage, the utensil drawer was the first place I went to 😁

[@mlc7497]

We had a home with open storage built-in bookcases on each side of the fireplace. When we built a new home, I told my husband I did not want bookcases. I was so tired of "staging" them and the visual clutter. I like it so much better without them. I'm all for closed storage!

[@carinbarbanel9356]

My family has hundreds of books, likely more than 1,000. Seeing the title on the spine brings it back, my grandchildren read books I had so we have bookshelves everywhere. No other open storage allowed!

[@susa5846]

I love books and I love closed storage BUT if you're living in an ADHD household like me (we're two diagnozed, our child is too young to have an diagnosis yet) closed storage is the worst. My husband and my child wouldn't remember whats behind those doors. It really helped us to get rid of unnecessary items and have the things we really need on display. It really depends on how you live If open shelfing is helpful or make it worse.

[@Sorrely1]

I’ve set to work on this immediately . I have put everything away, including furniture and have anchored myself on a wooden tray on a rug in the living room. I have won at organising 👏🏼

[@donnagreen5707]

Are you Nick’s twin? Love your snark.

[@Sorrely1]

@@donnagreen5707I think I might be Nick’s long lost snark twin . 😂

[@margotchurchill5593]

😂

[@WhaleTank]

To add to the organizer point, you do not need to go and spend money on a bunch of organization bins. I have a bunch of cut down cardboard boxes in my pantry and my drawers in my bathroom. They work great!

[@redpastawench]

Shoeboxes work really well too! Sturdy, good size for smaller items.

[@sugarcandy243]

@@redpastawench Came here to say this. Unless the baskets/bins are visible, I much prefer to use shoe boxes and amazon shipping boxes in my pantry and bathroom cabinets. I usually cut off the top flaps and then I have a perfectly usable box to put say my shaving things or cleaning supplies. Like why would I buy a $30 organizer to keep my $30 worth of stuff that's hiding under the sink anyway?!

[@fbz2415]

So do I, I have small cardboard boxes in my nightstand drawer

[@hollie611]

I use empty Q-tip boxes to organize my drawers. I like that they're clear and stackable. I pull off the cardboard then round out the corners so they're not sharp. :)

[@aleenaprasannan2146]

Do make sure to paint them well though. I had to discard many such cut out cardboard boxed I used for storage because they got fungus. The package boxes which weren't the brown cardboard boxes, is still doing fine.

[@autumnfall8829]

I just have to say, your channel could be about ANYTHING and i would still watch. You crack me up. Your sarcasm is my oxygen.😂😊

[@user-tm6ql5hu5t]

😂 lol “let’s not talk about it”. “Let’s work with the behavior we already have” Gold!

[@NoseyFloridaGirl]

You are brutally honest while being cleverly sarcastic , this is why YOU are my FAV on youtube!

[@pamelacox540]

We have a hook system. Clothes that can be worn again go on a hook because they can’t be put with clean clothes.

[@ingridw3900]

Exactly.

[@kingglizzer]

There isn't a sarcasm meter strong enough for Nick. I can see Nick's fancy espresso machine that he raves about from here.

[@Nick_Lewis]

Used everyday!

[@kimherben7866]

@@Nick_Lewis All day long?

[@whiskybrush3219]

I dont have a lot in the sleeping area of my bedroom. 1 bed and 2 nightstands. But my nightstands were always a disaster. It only occured to me recently to put a large enough basket on each nightstand t9 store all the items that regularly got dumped on that surface. Books i am in the process of reading, bedtime supplements, coin box, charging cables, earbuds... its wonderful and it lools so tidy and charming. And when my husbamd asks where such and such thing is that he put down randomly somewhere in the house, I always know that i put it in his bedside basket. I dont know why I never thought of doing this 30 years ago.

[@jaimeebleu]

Every time I feel the need to go out and buy an new organiser, I go through my stuff instead and make it fit the storage I already own. I’m not buying and keeping too much crap that way and I learned a long time ago that it’s so much easier to have a nice and tidy home if you don’t own too many things. I’m not a minimalist, I just try to avoid overconsumption and it makes my life easier.

[@karenk2409]

Amen.

[@BellePullman]

It's so tempting to think that buying more organisers will make you be organised! I mean, you definitely do need to have the places to put the things, but very quickly shopping isn't the answer. But it's so much easier and more rewarding to bring home a clever new thing, than to go through and get rid of the stuff you already have overflowing.

[@jaimeebleu]

@@BellePullman I agree, you do need to have space to put your things to start with, if you don’t own any storage then you should go out and buy some! But you need to find the right moment to quit. I find it helpful to wait two or three days before making a purchase, giving myself time to think about it. If I still want it after a few days it will probably turn out to be useful in the long run. More often the urge to buy has passed by then.

[@Metaphoreign]

As someone who loves to cook I am here to say I love a kitchen in which spices, oils, and other food items are not hidden, but easily at hand. I love a vibrant, natural kitchen in which everything has its place, and you can feel the life of your home flowing.

[@LluviadeOrugas]

I feel the opposite way. I cook everyday, and I love being able to put everything away when I’m done, it may be my OCD. Also, just because stuff is hidden doesn’t mean that’s not easily at hand.

[@Metaphoreign]

@@LluviadeOrugas also valid! But not the only way to have an organized, clean and aesthetic kitchen. It's not the modernist thing to do, but we can always choose which cultural values we conform to in our home designs.

[@no_peace]

I have a metal ledge from IKEA above the stove and a little tray on the side of the stove for that kind of stuff (like shaker seasonings, oil, black vinegar). The rest of the similar items that i use less often (like spoonable seasonings, vinegar, oil, baking powder, etc.) go in a nearby cupboard. It's awesome The items are in their homes on the shelf and in the tray, it's very satisfying, and it eliminates barriers/additional steps, which is one of the most effective and commonly needed disability accommodations. By the time i open a cupboard i forget why i opened it, so I need as few barriers as possible

[@anteem3055]

Omg- my husband got a kitchen aid mixer as a gift- we've used it 10xs in 3years & he wont let me put it away! Drives me coo coo- right now i have all our cords & charges in the bowl! 🥳

[@calendarpage]

I got a Kitchen Aid mixer a few years ago. I use it maybe a couple of times a month. I'm moving and would like to put it in the new pantry, but it is so heavy, I don't see myself lugging it out every time I want to use it. Then it will really sit unused. I guess I'll have to disappoint Nick and keep it on my counter. But I promise to get rid of everything else! Except the air fryer. I use that constantly. Okay, two items, not so bad. Could be (and is) a lot worse.😄

[@anteem3055]

@@calendarpage it is heavy ! And leaks oil sometimes when you move it or isn't level!

[@Elle-kr8od]

@@calendarpage Maybe in your new place you can get one of those shelves that can raise up to counter height when you open the cupboard door. No need to move or lift the mixer.

[@anteem3055]

@@Elle-kr8od id ❤️that & 8 more kitchen cabinets!!🥳🥳🤣

[@DonnaScharff]

Nick I totally get your funny sarcasm and just love it! lol BTW the Clutterbug here on YT does a fabulous job of helping you find your natural organization style and offers special types of storage that suits your style. The benefit of this is that once you know your style, you will be able to stay organized for the long haul! She's worth checking out as she uses 4 bugs (butterfly, cricket, ladybug and bee) to explain the different kind of styles making it so easy to embrace your natural style. I'm a butterfly, and love gathering like items into together and stowing things in baskets (lids are too fussy for me) for easy macro organizing (as opposed to micro organizing, think of those that need to label everything, which drives me insane!). Loved all your tips, they were spot on so keep them coming! Much love!

[@AvecPoesie]

I feel others don't comprehend my sarcasm either! I am very hurt and daunted by this. I come from a long line of masterfully Sarcastic Souls, and I am determined to carry on the Sarcasm legacy for my Family. 😢

[@TreasureDeal]

My dad and I. Everyone else was dry and didn't get us. So boring. 😂😂😂

[@jeanne7854]

A place for everything and everything in its place is an absolute.

[@04beni04]

For me, a turning point was when I finally stopped nesting my food containers separately from their lids. Those drawers were always a mess, and I had a heck of a time matching them up when needed. A couple years ago I started stacking them with lids on, and getting rid of odds and ends. (It helped that I'd decided to purge the plastic and stayed with a core glass collection.) And I'm *still* shocked on a regular basis to open those drawers and be able to find order instead of chaos.

[@amymancini2146]

Ok I have to start doing this. I am you a couple of years ago and you are future me.

[@bablumenthal9703]

I don't have a variety - the ones for free when I buy thin sliced meat. They stack well. It's only me, so it works. I also got rid of 'cannisters' years ago and opted for Tupperware in closed storage.

[@04beni04]

@@amymancini2146 🤣 Edited to say: all joking aside? I hope it is helpful.

[@colemccarthy9106]

Oh my gosh.....I just randomly came across your videos. I am an almost 61 year old 'closet' interior designer....forget the great advice you give!! I'm totally watching for the humor, can't even count how many times I laugh OUT LOUD watching you!!!!! The best.

[@Angelica71771]

"Working with the behavior you already have." I like that! 😆 You're the best💙

[@Sunshine-fy4fz]

Yes, someone who is honest about all the bins, baskets, and trays we keep buying to organize our stuff, when what we need to do is get rid of stuff so we no longer feel the need to hide it in a bin, basket, or tray! Otherwise, we are simply organizing the clutter rather than dealing with the clutter and editing out items that we don't need/don't use on a regular basis.

[@karikelly2797]

This video was not for me. I AM the crazy person who always puts things away, but because I like watching videos about organizing things, I had to watch this one. Keep up the sarcasm. Very fun. Great tip on the trays and organizer baskets. That junk drawer of life’s flotsam and jetsam (that we all have in the kitchen) thanks you.

[@3larsons]

I can’t even express how much I absolutely adore you! Your personality is AMAZING! Love Love the sarcasm ❤

[@Nickporter17]

I'm almost 40 years old and there's always a pile of clothes next to my bed. My wife hates me for it. But, I'm inspired to get a beautiful rack to hang the things that don't need a wash and a small hamper to hide / store the things that definitely do need a wash. ❤❤

[@carolebuckle7977]

People that do these ice cubes have too much time on their hands 😉 ( but they are gorgeous, ) Love the Sarcasm keep it coming 🙏🏻🔥🤛🏻🇬🇧xxx

[@janicelindegard6615]

Slowly bringing our "new" home to comfortable (there is a LOT to remodel). Before we moved here, I stripped down the appliances. I got rid of the blender and the Instant Pot because I never used them. I got an immersion blender and a Ninja bullet. They live behind closed doors. But I use the KitchenAid frequently. I'm tiny and it's heavy enough that it earn counter space. And it's red. The only other appliance that stays out is the food processor--too heavy for me to take out and put away. I don't miss any of the appliances I got rid of. You won't see me buying a single-purpose appliance. Lol. And your sarcasm is my favorite thing about your advice, beyond it being great advice.

[@DeannaLee]

This one resonates with me. You're so right! I am 75 and am the same person I was in my 20's! LOL In fact, when the thiught came out that you shouldn't make your bed when you first get up in the am I was thrilled...TMI?

[@mariarooney6262]

Yes to everything said. Especially “be the person I am, not the person I want or think I should be”. That was a relief. I love organizing. But I realized I wouldn’t have to organize so much if I would just find a way that makes it so I don’t have to organize all the time. I’m going to get the bins, organizers that I thought I wouldn’t like. Thank you. ❤️

[@smz5302]

I have a floor-to-ceiling, french door appliance garage with multiple outlets in the garage and pull out shelving. BEST DECISION EVER. (I cook A LOT and, yes, I USE those appliances.)

[@shareeminor9125]

Being organized lowers stress levels.

[@starboard6372]

Love that an ad that just came on here is another Breville appliance that will fizz juice. Insidious.

[@es-hs9fd]

One of the things I love about Nick is his brutal honesty. Makes me feel right at home (NYC!). Also I always appreciate learning a new design tip too. Thanks for keepin’ it real Nick!! :)

[@Lala-vx4os]

Great tip about carpets anchoring the room. Thanks!

[@Lux_Lethal]

I think it was the early 80s when my mom started saying "no" to having small appliances on display in our kitchen. It irked me at first, but as I grew up I realized how much less cluttered and pretty our kitchen was than others, so I jumped aboard that train. Can't say the couple boyfriends I lived with over the years were super happy about it. Especially the bf who bought the most expensive ones specifically to display them. Ugh... lost that battle. Anyhow, my hubby and I just bought a house and there are several cabinets with heavy duty drawers which pull out and have a plug in the back. It's great for our multi-functional air fryer, toaster, convection oven monstrosity. The drawer is stable enough to support it, and can be pulled out far enough out that any radiating heat won't cause damage. And, I really love the smaller cabinet with a plug b/c our coffee grinder, which is loud enough to wake the dead fits in there perfectly, and the cabinet helps to drown out the demon spawn of a machine. I didn't get the kitchen "garages" I wanted, but this is very close. It also has a corner cabinet lazy susan ftw. 😃 Another great video, Nick! Have a great week!

[@kimherben7866]

Yes, I am wondering if that large coffee grinder will contribute to my hearing loss. I've been thinking of some sort of Muffler for it!

[@Dianne-uv3bs]

Extra benefit . Great for your self esteem... Seriously, when your home is comfortable, set up for your lifestyle, and organized, you feel better are more effective and efficient, SELF ESTEEM BOOSTER,🧡

[@karenk2409]

Also, I love that someone can knock on my door any time and my house is a place I am happy to invite them into.

[@deekolbe1052]

OMG I think I love you! I love the sarcasm and the real words. "Someone has to tell you". Oh mercy, I truly laughed out loud!

[@zia_kat]

lol @ how many of us here are adhd! great tips, nick! i'm an autistic+adhd retired set decorator who despite knowing how to put together lovely places on stage and screen somehow couldn't translate that to my own home which was, for many decades, total chaos. eventually i figured out the system you're suggesting here (much later in life than you though): accept the real person you are and design organizational systems based on one's own real behavior. i know you say people don't change and i am still chaotic but now i'm a chaotic person who doesn't live with clothes strewn everywhere and dishes in the sink. i broke down my general not great behavior into individual segments and designed to solve each step and i am so much happier now living in a home that looks more like the lived in yet aspirational sets i designed for shows.

[@shelmstedt]

And accept who you are. I will always be a bit chaotic. Clean, but chaotic. I have a dog, a horse, I am a gardener, I am an outdoor person, I am search and rescue volunteer. Seriously, I come home and drop everything next to my front door and take a break first. Then I clean up. So don’t show up during the first hour. 😂

[@Lexichi22]

I'm going out to buy an organization tray for my bathroom counter immediately. I clicked on this video because the thumbnail looks exactly like my bathroom and I'M OVERWHELMED.

[@minasingh6979]

Same!!!

[@angelinachong3680]

OMG! Natural limits! Explains why, when I switch to a large purse (for extra room), I end up filling it up! ❤Love your sarcasm.

[@Ashni1]

I am a big fan of trays and baskets for managing clutter. I have one in my bedroom just outside my bathroom. I have a bunch of little boxes I inherited from my grandma. Some are metal. Others are ceramic or even shell. I use them to store my jewelry. Not all of it but the pieces I wear most often. I can easily drop things there as I get ready for bed or put things on as I am dressing or doing my hair. The visual zone helps my ADHD a lot too. I am much more likely to leave my watch or wedding ring there with the visual and physical barrier. Also, this particular tray belonged to my late grandmother-in-law. But I also use trays in my kitchen, entry and living room.

[@suzannecarter445]

I love your gentle sarcasm - it's perfectly tasteful and amusing! I love the "new got-it-together Nick" stuff. The anchor part was also good, often overlooked. Slightly related: When I get new stuff, I always tell myself - "Do I love it or is it just one more thing to clean or store? This reigns me in a bit. I wish they'd advertise "no-shed" baskets because many of them are so lovely and useful but a pain to clean under.

[@LesaBear612]

It only takes me a moment…if I take off a piece of clothing that doesn’t need to go in the laundry, I put it on it’s hanger and put the hanger backwards on the bar. That way, I can wear it again some other day, and know it’s been worn before.

[@Dbb27]

I turn mine inside out, same thing and a good tip!

[@dori9024]

Nick, great decorating ideas, but I absolutely love, love your sarcasm. Life is too short to be so serious we need more laughter 😂 in this world. So please don’t ever change because you put a smile on my face when I see your videos.

[@kimberlybrower925]

Closed storage is also great for families with little ones because you can add easy no show adhesive magnetic cabinet locks and keep Littles from dragging everything out all the time!

[@Timeisirrelevant]

He makes it sound like we have big kitchens and can hide them away-without having to throw out all our dishes, pots and pans. Oh, and food. 😂😂. Some people have tiny kitchens. Top of my fridge is where my large mixing bowls and a few other things live.

[@irnalonso]

Basically: Find a system Put limits Hide things away with doors, baskets, boxes...

[@hexhyss]

I don't bother waiting to watch the video before I give a thumbs up. As soon as I start watching I click the like button because I am ALWAYS entertained by Nick. Also, "work with what you've got" is a great tip for us ADHD challenged! The floordrobe is real...

[@danguzy918]

I love catch-alls: trays, baskets, bins. They really help, especially for small clutter items. Use them in different rooms or on different tables/countertops. Toss the items in it and forget it. They’re easy to find later. Simple to clean it too, like once a week, or whatever.

[@Lifeofwiley]

Hair looks great Nick!

[@KateWilliam75]

Nick-in-the-present is adorable!!

[@msmintjuleps]

I love your sarcasm. You remind me of my favorite author, David Sedaris.

[@doxieowner2571]

We share the same sarcasm - finally someone who speaks my language! Great tips, and much needed right now!

[@ginacaceci7349]

I love the present -- and the future -- Nick. And your videos, too!

[@Kate.g.]

SARCASM: the abilty to insult idiots without them realizing it. I put this here 💁‍♀️ I have this type of humor, Nick is more spicy than before I love it, on the other hand he risks offending a few Karens.😆 Always a good moment with Nick or read his e-mail he makes me laugh until I cry!

[@merimichelle541]

❤ sarcasm and tips, you’re the best.

[@ChandraOrr]

I'd love to see more organization content like this. Straight forward and honest but very practical advice. So much of interior design is artfully hiding the ugly things you use all the time.

[@redpastawench]

We actually do all of them already. (And I wouldn't call myself very organised or even neat) Things we don't need daily and that are not decorative get put behind closed doors or in organisers. And organisers that are pretty are always better. The one appliance I don't use daily that is displayed is my KitchenAid, because it is so pretty!!! I love looking at it! Having a flat bowl in the hallway helps as you then have a place for keys and change etc. You just need to sort that one place regularly...

[@bricksloth6920]

I would love to have somewhere to put my countertop appliances besides the countertop, but sadly I don't. But yes, when we get around to the kitchen renovation I'll see about an appliance cupboard or something like that. 🤔

[@ardisenostudio]

Love it when Nick preaches! 🙌🏼

[@lillianbarker4292]

Avoid the “clutter bunker”. That’s a box or basket that collects so much that you can’t find things in it. Then you eventually have to spend an hour cleaning it out. I learned this the hard way trying to organize my ADHD husband. It came from an old but great book called Clutters Last Stand. If you don’t have a place for everything, that’s when you have to clean out your cabinets and closets or perhaps buy more cabinets.

[@susansmith864]

Everyone needs an Omnigatherum - where you dump keys, datasticks, random bits that belong elsewhere, spectacles etc. At home we use a gorgeous Morroccan brass tray but even in a hotel there's one drawer or surface designated as the "omni". The other great bit of advice (can't recall source) is always store something in the place you would look for it !

[@charlotteschaefers5129]

I loved all your tips. Recently spring cleaning, I found enough craft, art and vintage supplies to outfit two classrooms and an antique booth. My art teacher friends were thrilled. And books! With book bans going on all around, my grandchildren were happy to have my decades old copies while I put mine on kindle. As you were speaking, I thought of convenient hidden storage areas I can use if I just do a little rearranging. Thank you! I enjoy all your videos.

[@bobbiratley]

Bea, you’re a bad B! So smart to take an abhorrent situation and make it into a positive. Not only gathering evidence but probably making an income stream from these videos. You get it girl!

[@MisforMakeup]

😂 I’m off the ice cube deep end in my mind but not in my budget.

[@amandadeloff4278]

That lady is living the dream! And the super fancy, rose-shapped ones at the end? Oh ma'am! How big is your freezer? 😂

[@piarateking8094]

@@amandadeloff4278 just doesnt keep any food on there only different shaped icecubes 😂

[@MisforMakeup]

@@piarateking8094 you’re right, I forgot the rich rich only eat ice cubes! I’ve been wasting my money on food this whole time…

[@andthentheresmod]

"Y'know what?" *Leans forward* "You have a lotta ugly stuff." 😂

[@Eviepossible]

Always appreciate you, Nick!

[@janszoke]

Love your humor and your organizational tips

[@dogdonut3]

The youtuber Clutterbug says there are 4 kinds of organizers (yes all very cutsey and named after bugs). Her point is that some people need things stowed away, and some need to see their things. Different people function better with different setups. I'm kind of in between (also called a "bee" 🐝 😅). If I put too many things away, it's more difficult for me to streamline my daily processes. Maybe that's just a me thing. 🤷🏼‍♀️

[@Lexichi22]

My hoarder roommate is on vacation in Europe for a month. Perfect opportunity for me to organize all her shit while she's gone! And then cry when she comes back and undoes everything!

[@Tammy-zr9zw]

LOVE your snarky humor and always benefit from your advice. Thank you!

[@darlenebergantzel1534]

I get your sarcasm and love it. The only appliance I keep on the counter is my Nespresso (yes, I’m fancy). Everything else is stored out of site. I have 2 open storage shelves above my coffee station, but I only display pretty things - small plants in pretty pots, 2 decorative coffee mugs, pretty sugar bowl, small oil painting on a stand. Decorative trays and shallow bowls have saved me from going crazy. And baskets are amazing at corraling stuff. But before you try to organize anything - declutter, declutter, declutter.