A home renovation is a brilliant way to breathe new life into your space, but let’s face it – with builders, dust, and boxes everywhere, keeping things organised can feel like a massive task.
Whether you’re updating one room or tackling an entire floor, there are ways to minimise chaos and keep your home as organised as possible.
1. Start With A Clear Out
Before any renovation starts, take a moment to clear out the area.
Go through cupboards, shelves, and storage spaces and get rid of anything you don’t need.
This is the perfect time to be honest with yourself about what’s worth keeping – if you haven’t used it in the past year, it might be time to let it go. If it’s a sentimental object, think about putting it into long-term storage so you don’t have to throw it away completely.
Less clutter means fewer items to pack, store, and ultimately unpack when the dust settles.
2. Pack Essentials In Boxes
When the builders arrive, you’ll want some items to stay accessible.
Pop your everyday essentials into transparent storage boxes, label them clearly, and store them in a room that’s not undergoing work.
Transparent boxes mean you won’t have to dig around for that all-important item in a panic – you’ll be able to see it at a glance.
3. Label And Photograph Everything
Items that you don’t need daily can be packed away into regular cardboard boxes. Label each one with a brief description of its contents and consider taking a quick snap of the box in its new location.
This visual record will save you the headache of trying to remember where everything ended up.
4. Think About Your Routine
A renovation doesn’t have to throw your entire routine off balance.
If your kitchen is under construction, for example, set up a mini cook station with essentials like a kettle, microwave, and some basic utensils. If your bedroom is off-limits, consider setting up a capsule wardrobe on a covered clothes rail so you’re not constantly hunting for clothes. A little planning here will go a long way to keep your days running smoothly.
5. Keep Valuables Safe
During a renovation, there are likely to be times when the house is unlocked or more accessible than usual.
To avoid any worries, tuck away your valuables. If you don’t have a safe at home, consider placing them in a deposit box off-site. This way, you can focus on the excitement of your renovation without fretting over precious items.
6. Create A Temporary ‘Essentials’ Station
When your home is a building site, it’s easy to misplace those everyday essentials. To avoid the “where did I put my keys?” panic, designate a small station in an undisturbed room.
Here, you can keep things like keys, phones, chargers, renovation paperwork, and even a tape measure. Having a go-to spot for these essentials will be a lifesaver as you move between rooms.
7. Make Use Of Portable Storage
Plastic storage boxes or drawers on wheels are surprisingly handy during a renovation. They let you move items around quickly to make space for builders and ensure your items stay organised and dust-free. If you’re dealing with a bedroom renovation, a portable clothes rail and wheeled drawers can be ideal for storing your capsule wardrobe and toiletries.
8. Declutter the Exterior Too
If your renovation includes outdoor work, clear any unnecessary items from your garden or driveway. Anything you’ve been meaning to get rid of, now is the time!
Rent a skip or organise a pickup service and clear away any garden tools, old furniture, or miscellaneous items cluttering your outside space. Not only will this create more room for the builders, but it’ll also give your garden a fresh start.
9. Plan For Fewer Rooms and Multifunctional Spaces
Most renovations mean temporarily living in a smaller portion of your home, so make these spaces multifunctional.
This might mean using your dining room as a makeshift living room or creating a combined bedroom and workspace. If you have large furniture you’re not planning to keep after the renovation, consider selling or donating it beforehand.
This will reduce the amount you need to store and ultimately save on moving things around.
10. Gather Inspiration, Then Let Go of Clutter
It’s easy to get inspired by design magazines and Instagram boards, but once you have a vision for your space, it’s time to let go of items that don’t fit the new look.
Take a few photos of the room as it is, then ask a friend or family member to discuss what might stay and what should go. This can be a fun way to visualise your new space and stay motivated as you let go of unnecessary clutter.
11. Stay on Top of the Dust
Dust has a way of settling into every corner of your home during a renovation. Move electronics and cover furniture to protect them.
In bigger projects, create a ‘clean zone’ in the house or asking the builders to put up dust barriers. Taking these steps will reduce the spread of dust, making post-renovation cleanup far easier.
12. Deep Clean Before Unpacking
Once the renovation is complete, treat yourself to a fresh start by thoroughly cleaning the newly renovated space.
This is much easier when the room is still empty, allowing you to reach every corner. As you begin to unpack, do so thoughtfully. Only return items you genuinely need or love, leaving you with a clutter-free, organised space that reflects your fresh vision.
By following these tips, you’ll keep your home organised and your mind at ease, even amongst the craziness of a renovation.
A little planning and clever storage solutions can help turn what could be a chaotic period into an exciting, well-organised space. So here’s to your new space – and a stress-free journey to get there!
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