Beyond the Junk Drawer: Tackling Hidden Clutter Hotspots in Your Home

When it comes to decluttering, most of us focus on the obvious spaces: the coffee table, the closet, maybe even the garage. But what about the spots nobody sees except you? I'm talking about the freezer that hasn't been defrosted since you moved in, the graveyard of expired sunscreen in your medicine cabinet, and the abyss under the kitchen sink.

These overlooked areas may not get the spotlight, but editing and elevating them can be a deeply satisfying act of self-care. You're clearing the mental cobwebs, reclaiming your space, and creating a home that works for you, not against you. Let's tackle 10 hidden clutter hotspots and transform them one by one.

The problem: Frostbitten mystery bags and tumbling ice packs.
The fix: Start by removing everything and giving the freezer a quick defrost if needed. Toss anything unidentifiable or expired. Use clear, stackable bins to group like items (frozen fruits, veggies, proteins, etc.). To go the extra mile, you can also label everything with the date. (Your future self will thank you.)

The problem: A chaotic mix of half-used cleaning supplies, grocery bags, and random items that have lost their way.
The fix: Pull everything out and wipe down the cabinet. Toss empty bottles and duplicate products. Use a lazy Susan or stackable bins to organize supplies, and hang a bag dispenser on the cabinet door for easy access.

The problem: Overstuffed shelves, balled-up sheets, and mismatched pillowcases.
The fix: Sort through linens and donate what you no longer use to your local animal shelter. Keep two sets of sheets per bed and one set of towels per person. Store linens in labeled bins or baskets to keep them neat and accessible — but no need to perfectly fold that dreaded bottom sheet.

The problem: Expired medications and a graveyard of beauty products.
The fix: Check expiration dates and dispose of old medications responsibly. (Most pharmacies can help.) Let go of beauty products that are past their prime, like separated nail polish, perfume that's lost its scent, etc. Use narrow bins or trays to separate daily essentials from occasional-use items.

The problem: A disorganized jumble of neglected food and open bags of stale chips.
The fix: Take everything out and wipe down the shelves. Dispose of expired spices and canned goods and stale snacks. Group remaining items by category (baking, snacks, canned goods, oils, etc.) and use clear glass jars to ensure your dry goods stay fresh. Corral larger items like chips and crackers into bins or labeled baskets to keep things in order long-term.

The problem: A tangle of hair ties, expired makeup, and random toiletries.
The fix: Empty each drawer and toss anything old or unused. Use small dividers to create zones for makeup, hair accessories, and skin care. Store daily items in the top drawer for easy access.

The problem: Detergent spills and stray socks.
The fix: Wipe down shelves and the tops of your machines. Store detergents in refillable glass jars or labeled containers. Use a small basket for single socks until their match reappears (or surrender!).

The problem: Old receipts and a mountain of dried-up pens.
The fix: Go through every item and recycle outdated papers. Test pens and toss the duds. Use small containers for office supplies like paper clips and sticky notes. Consider a drawer organizer for a tidy, cohesive look that makes you feel like a real professional.

The problem: Forgotten holiday decor and broken tools.
The fix: Dedicate an afternoon to sorting through the clutter. Donate or recycle items you no longer need. Use labeled bins for seasonal items and install wall hooks for tools or bikes to free up floor space.

The problem: A pile of books, random chargers, and loose change.
The fix: Remove everything and give it a good wipe-down. Keep only the essentials: a book or two, a reading light, and maybe a small dish for jewelry or loose change. Use a drawer organizer for smaller items like reading glasses, chargers, or lip balm.

Here's the thing about decluttering: It's not about achieving perfection or showing off. It's about making your life a little easier and maybe even a little more enjoyable. These hidden spaces may not get a lot of glory, but they're the backstage crew that keeps your home running smoothly. Take it one drawer, one cabinet, one small space at a time. Before you know it, you'll have created a home that's tidy, more spacious, and refreshingly functional. Exhale.

Shira Gill (she/her) is a globally recognized home-organizing expert and author with a minimalist philosophy. She's inspired thousands of people to clear clutter from their homes and lives through a process she developed that applies to anyone, regardless of budget, space, or lifestyle. Shira is the bestselling author of "Minimalista," "Organized Living," and "LifeStyled" and has been featured by 100+ media outlets. Shira is a PS Council member.