The biggest challenge in home organization isn’t the work itself — it’s deciding where to begin. A strategic starting point sets momentum, making the entire process smoother. According to professional organizers, the kitchen is almost always the best place to start.
The Root of Daily Frustration
When Laura Ellis, a professional organizer, works with clients, she doesn’t ask what room is most cluttered. She asks: where do you experience the most daily annoyances? That stuck drawer, the overflowing shelf, or the tripping hazard on the floor… these small frustrations are the key.
“We always start with the biggest pain point,” Ellis explains. “That space that eats up square footage and clutters your head.” For most people, this is the kitchen.
Why The Kitchen Creates Momentum
The kitchen isn’t just another room; it’s the command center of the home. It’s used multiple times daily, making it the ideal test case for organizational systems.
“When the kitchen flows, the rest of the home follows.” — Laura Ellis
An organized kitchen doesn’t just calm that space — it has a domino effect. Fewer kitchen piles mean fewer piles in the family room, entryway, or anywhere else. This creates a positive feedback loop where success in one area fuels progress in others.
The Kitchen’s High-Impact Frequency
The sheer frequency of kitchen use makes it the highest-impact area for organization. Most families use their kitchens 10–20 times a day. That’s over a dozen opportunities for clutter to accumulate. Clear counters and accessible essentials streamline everything from morning routines to dinner preparation.
Start With The Pantry: A Deep Dive
If you’re tackling the kitchen, Ellis recommends beginning with the pantry or food cabinets. This requires a full clear-out.
“You’ll be surprised by what’s tucked in the back.” — Laura Ellis
Expired items, forgotten snacks, and unused ingredients are common discoveries. Grouping remaining items by category after the edit creates a truly organized space.
What’s Next: The Primary Closet
After the kitchen, the next best area to tackle is the primary closet. It’s the first and last space you interact with daily. A streamlined closet makes getting dressed effortless, setting a positive tone for the day.
In conclusion: The kitchen is the ideal starting point for home organization because it’s high-impact, high-frequency, and creates momentum for tackling other areas. By addressing the most frustrating space first, you ensure success from the very beginning.
