Small Changes, Big Impact:
6 Sustainable Organizing Tips
Organizing is about creating spaces that make life easier, more functional, and (if we do it right) more sustainable. Whether you’re a professional organizer, thinking about becoming one, or just looking to make your own home more eco-friendly, there are so many ways to reduce waste and make thoughtful choices while keeping things tidy.
Here are 6 simple yet impactful ways to bring sustainability into organizing:
1. Use What You Have Before Buying New
It’s easy to assume we need new bins, baskets, and containers to stay organized—but chances are, you already have great storage solutions right at home. Before heading to the store, take a fresh look at what’s available:
- Can baskets, mason jars, or even old shoe boxes be repurposed?
- Could furniture be rearranged to make better use of space?
- Would a fresh coat of paint give a tired item a second life?
When new storage is necessary, opt for bamboo, woven seagrass, or water hyacinth baskets—all biodegradable and durable.
2. Decluttering with a Conscience
A big part of organizing is letting go of what no longer serves us. But getting rid of things doesn’t mean sending everything to the landfill. Instead:
- Donate clothing, furniture, and housewares to local charities, shelters, or thrift stores.
- Repurpose items creatively—old towels become cleaning rags, glass jars become pantry storage.
- Recycle responsibly—many places accept textiles, electronics, and even certain plastics for proper disposal.
- Consider professional donation services like 1-800-GOT-JUNK, which helps direct items to the appropriate recycling or donation centers.
3. Make Cleaning & Household Supplies Eco-Friendly
The best way to create a truly healthy home is to eliminate unnecessary toxins. A few easy swaps:
- Stock the bathroom with natural soaps, soy candles, and organic cotton towels (which are often more absorbent and last longer than synthetic alternatives).
- Freshen the air naturally with non-toxic, air-purifying plants like Spider Plants, Philodendrons, English Ivy, and Peace Lilies instead of synthetic air fresheners.
- Use reusable cleaning cloths instead of paper towels, and swap plastic trash bags for biodegradable or compostable options.
4. Smarter Kitchen Storage & Food Organization
Plastic wrap, single-use baggies, and excessive packaging are major culprits of household waste. Here are a few simple alternatives:
- Beeswax wraps replace plastic wrap for covering leftovers. They’re reusable, biodegradable, and available in fun patterns.
- Glass jars & mason jars work for storing dry goods, leftovers, and even organizing small items in the bathroom or office.
- Compostable food storage bags (like ENA heavy-duty resealable bags) are made from plant-based materials and break down over time—unlike traditional plastic.
If plastic-free options aren’t available, buy in bulk to minimize packaging waste.
5. Buy Better: Finding Sustainable Organizing Products
If you or your clients need to buy new organizing solutions, consider eco-friendly materials and brands that prioritize sustainability. Some great options include:
- Cotton mesh produce bags (washable and biodegradable).
- Wood crates and bamboo drawer dividers for pantry and closet organization.
- Cloth dish covers instead of plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Woven seagrass and water hyacinth storage bins—both renewable, lightweight, and stylish.
To find brands committed to sustainable production, check out B Corp Certified businesses—these companies meet high environmental and social standards.
6. Mindful Purchasing & Long-Term Organizing Habits
One of the best ways to stay organized and sustainable is to be intentional about what comes into the home. Encourage the “One In, One Out” rule—every time something new is brought in, something else gets donated or repurposed.
For clients (or yourself!) who struggle with impulse purchases:
- Ask, “Do I truly need this, or is it just a great deal?”
- Consider if the item has lasting value or if it will just add to clutter.
- Focus on buying quality over quantity—better materials last longer, saving money (and waste) in the long run.
Eco-friendly organizing isn’t about doing everything perfectly—it’s about making small, intentional choices that add up over time. Whether you’re helping a client or tackling your own home, every little swap makes a difference.
Sustainable organizing is all about the long game. Choosing reusable storage, cutting down on plastic, and donating responsibly helps minimize waste while keeping spaces functional and clutter-free. Less stuff, less stress, more room to breathe.
Shifting from simply “tidying up” to thoughtfully curating what truly serves a purpose makes organizing feel more intentional—and way less like an endless cycle of shuffling things around.
