It’s easy to accumulate stuff at university. There are handouts from classes, mementos from events, the variety of stationery you need to complete your assignments, and much more. By decluttering, you’ll be able to find what you’re looking for more easily and have a clear mind when you sit down to study.

1. Store Small Items in an Ottoman

Often, it’s the smallest things that lead to the most clutter. Instead of allowing them to pile up on your desk or nightstand, hide them away in an ottoman. The great thing about this piece of furniture is it gives you extra seating when you have guests over.

2. Use a Wall Rack

Over-the-door racks are ideal for bedroom, bathroom, and closet doors. They provide you with a space to store things like shoes, towels, personal care products, and anything else you’re unsure about where to store.

3. Put Storage Bins Under Your Bed

Take advantage of all the space under your bed. However, instead of just pushing your belongings under your bed (where they’ll become a mess), buy some storage bins — just make sure you find a size that will fit. This is ideal for extra bedding and out-of-season clothing. Plus, you can conceal everything with a bed skirt.

4. Organize Your Closet

Use all of your closet by filling it strategically. You may find it helpful to install a hanging closet organizer for T-shirts and other clothing that doesn’t need to be on hangers. Also remember that your closet can be a good place to keep a laundry hamper.

5. Use a Desk Organizer

Instead of spreading your notebooks, textbooks, papers, and stationery all across your desk, keep each thing in its place with a desk organizer. This can hold everything that ends up on your desk, including cables, pads of sticky notes, and thumb drives.

6. Stick Magnets on Your Makeup

An original way to store your makeup is to stick a magnet on the back of each item and then attach everything to a magnetic board hanging on a wall. This will mean you’re always able to find what you’re looking for and you’ll eliminate mess.

7. Add Hooks to the Backs of Cupboard Doors

Increase cupboard space by attaching hooks to the back of doors. This is great for giving you easy access to things you use often.

8. Make a Jewelry Organizer

Unless you have a jewelry organizer, jewelry can easily become a tangled mess. There’s no need to buy one, though — many DIY options involve using items you already have or that you can find for cheap in a thrift store.

9. Set Up a Cork Board

It’s always useful to have a cork board. You can pin pictures that inspire you, use it for brainstorming, or even have one in a common area of your apartment to give roommates somewhere to leave schedules, flyers, and notes for each other.

You’re less likely to need to declutter often when you have a spacious apartment. For UOttawa off-campus housing with plenty of space, choose THEO. All the units are fully furnished, including a desk and chair, double bed, and flatscreen TV. Plus, you’ll have plenty of storage space from your closet and cupboards. Meet THEO for yourself by booking your onsite visit.