Ways to Use the NEAT Method at Home

The NEAT Method has transformed countless homes from chaotic disasters into calm, functional spaces. Founded by Ashley Murphy and Marissa Hagmeyer, this approach combines beautiful aesthetics with practical organization systems that actually work for real life.

Unlike other organizing methods that focus purely on minimalism, the NEAT approach embraces mindful living while creating sustainable systems that fit your lifestyle and daily routines.The beauty of this method lies in its flexibility and emphasis on both form and function.

You can tackle small projects in just 20 minutes or commit to larger room transformations that might take an hour or more.

Start with a complete cleanout

The first step of any NEAT Method project involves removing every single item from the space you’re organizing. This might feel overwhelming at first, but it’s the foundation that makes everything else possible.

Think of it like clearing a canvas before painting—you need that clean slate to see what you’re really working with and make intentional decisions about what stays.

Create designated categories for everything

Once everything is out, sort items into broad categories before getting specific. Group similar items together like a puzzle coming into focus—all cleaning supplies in one pile, all office materials in another, all seasonal items together.

This sorting process reveals duplicates you didn’t know you had and helps you understand the true scope of what needs organizing.

Edit ruthlessly but thoughtfully

The editing phase separates the NEAT Method from simple reorganization because it focuses on purposeful curation rather than just moving clutter around. Ask yourself whether each item adds meaningful value to your daily life or if you’re keeping it out of guilt or ‘just in case’ thinking.

This isn’t about becoming a minimalist—it’s about making room for the things that truly matter in your home.

Set up a kitchen command center

Transform a small kitchen area into a central hub for daily life by creating designated spots for mail, keys, phone chargers, and weekly schedules. Use a small tray for incoming mail, wall hooks for keys, and a charging station that keeps cords contained.

This prevents the dreaded kitchen counter avalanche that happens when everyone dumps their stuff in the same spot.

Organize your pantry with clear containers

Replace mismatched boxes and bags with uniform clear containers that let you see exactly what you have and how much is left. Label each container with both the contents and expiration dates to prevent the mystery ingredients that lurk in most pantries.

The visual uniformity creates a calming effect while the transparency prevents overbuying items you already have.

Create a bedroom drop zone

Designate a specific area near your bedroom entrance for items that typically get tossed on chairs or beds—tomorrow’s outfit, worn-but-clean clothes, or accessories you removed throughout the day. A small bench with a basket underneath or a few wall hooks can contain these items without creating visual clutter.

This prevents the dreaded ‘chair-drobe’ that takes over most bedrooms.

Implement the one-in-one-out rule

Maintain your organized spaces by removing one item whenever you bring something new into your home. This principle works like a full glass of water—you need to pour something out before adding more.

Whether it’s clothes, books, or kitchen gadgets, this rule prevents the gradual accumulation that leads to clutter creep.

Design functional bathroom storage

Transform your bathroom into a spa-like retreat by containing toiletries in matching containers and creating zones for different activities. Group morning routine items together, separate daily skincare from weekly treatments, and use drawer dividers to prevent the jumbled mess that makes finding anything impossible.

Clear containers work especially well here because they’re easy to clean and let you monitor supply levels.

Establish a mail processing system

Stop mail from taking over your kitchen counter by creating an immediate sorting system right where mail enters your home. Set up three containers: action required, file, and recycle, then process mail daily rather than letting it pile up.

This simple system prevents paper avalanches and ensures important documents don’t get lost in the shuffle.

Organize closets by category and color

Transform your closet into a boutique-like experience by grouping all similar items together, then organizing each category by color from light to dark. Use matching hangers to create visual harmony and make it easier to see your clothing options.

This method not only looks beautiful but makes getting dressed faster and more enjoyable.

Set up a laundry folding station

Create a dedicated space for folding clothes that includes all the tools you need—hangers, a flat surface, and containers for different family members’ items. This prevents clean laundry from living in baskets or getting wrinkled while waiting to be put away.

Having everything in one place makes the task more efficient and less likely to be procrastinated.

Design a homework and paperwork hub

Establish a specific area for managing household paperwork, school assignments, and important documents with proper filing systems and daily processing routines. Include a calendar for tracking deadlines, folders for different types of paperwork, and supplies for completing forms or projects.

This prevents the paper explosion that typically happens on dining room tables or kitchen counters.

Create seasonal storage solutions

Rotate seasonal items efficiently by using labeled, airtight containers stored in less accessible areas like attics or high shelves. Keep current season items easily accessible while protecting off-season belongings from dust, moisture, and pests.

This approach maximizes your available space while ensuring seasonal transitions don’t create household chaos.

Establish toy containment zones

Design play areas that children can actually maintain by providing specific homes for different types of toys and implementing simple cleanup routines. Use photo labels for young children who can’t read yet, and create logical groupings that make sense to kids.

The key is making cleanup as easy as playing, so toys actually return to their designated spots.

Set up a functional dining room storage system

Create designated homes for different entertaining essentials—everyday dishes in easily accessible cabinets, special occasion china stored safely but accessibly, and serving pieces grouped together by function. Use drawer dividers for silverware and small serving utensils to prevent the dreaded tangle of forks and spoons.

Designate specific areas for linens, candles, and other table-setting accessories so hosting dinner parties doesn’t require a treasure hunt through multiple rooms.

Making your home work better

The NEAT Method isn’t about making your house look perfect like in magazines—it’s about making your daily life easier and less stressful. When everything has its own place and you can find what you need without digging through piles, you save time and energy for things you actually care about.

The trick is to set up systems that fit how you really live and stick to putting things back where they belong.