Clutter seems to multiply like rabbits, and the junk drawer is often the epicenter of disarray. We’ve all got one—the cluttered, crammed miscellaneous space where random bits and bobs find their final resting place, defying categorization. It’s a microcosm of our lives, a place where long-forgotten keys, mystery screws, and crumpled just-in-case receipts converge in a harmonious mess. Here’s how to transform that chaotic container into a mini headquarters of order once and for all.

Start with a blank canvas.

First things first, empty out the entire contents of your junk drawer onto a clean surface. It’s half the battle, and it may be painful, but it’s necessary to face every forgotten, misfit casualty. This step may seem overwhelming, but be brave! As you lay out your collection of odds and ends, you might uncover some hidden treasures or laugh at the forgotten relics.

Sort and conquer.

Once you’ve got a clear view of your drawer’s contents and see the bottom of your drawer for the first time in a long time, you’re ready to start sorting. Group similar items together. Put all the pens in one pile, loose change in another, and those elusive batteries in their designated spot.

Take a trip down memory lane.

As you sort through the items, you’ll find yourself reminiscing about the stories behind them. That concert ticket from your first date, the seashell from a beach vacation, or the handwritten note from a loved one—these little treasures might spark some Marie-Kondo-style joy. If you must keep them, find a new, meaningful home for them or incorporate them into a DIY project like a scrapbook, and avoid just moving those items into a junk drawer 2.0.

Get drawer organizers.

Drawer organizers are your best friends when it comes to taming the junk drawer. They come in plenty of shapes and sizes, making it easy to create designated compartments for different items. From small dividers for paperclips to larger trays for cables, these organizers are game-changers. With drawer organizers, you can assign a specific place for each category of items. Your organized compartments designate everything in its rightful spot.

Label, label, label.

To avoid any future confusion, it’s wise to label the compartments in your newly organized drawer. A simple label maker or some masking tape and a marker will do the trick. Now, you’ll always know where to find that elusive “miscellaneous” screw or the spare keys.

Have monthly check-ins.

To make sure your junk drawer doesn’t revert to its chaotic state, schedule monthly check-ins. Take a few minutes to review the contents, discard any unnecessary items, and return everything to its designated spot. Consistency is the key to maintaining order.

Resist the urge to hoard.

As you go about your daily life, you’ll come across items that might tempt you to toss them into the junk drawer. Resist this urge! Instead, evaluate whether these items have a legitimate place in your organized life. If not, let them go.