What’s the one-touch rule of avoiding clutter? How can it help you keep your space tidy?

A tidy space also impacts health and productivity, according to Shashank Jain, co-founder of Woodofa and Leepique. “A cleaner space means better air quality, as dust and bacteria are minimised, lowering the risk of illness. For workspaces, a clean environment reduces distractions and boosts focus, creativity, and efficiency,” he said. Jain also said that finding things becomes easier in an organised space, saving time and reducing frustration.

On a deeper level, an organised environment can reduce stress, creating a more peaceful atmosphere. Jain also noted that maintaining a tidy space can save money by reducing wear and tear on your belongings, thereby avoiding unnecessary repairs or replacements.

Ways to keep your interiors neat

Parmar suggested using wall and ceiling panels with hidden storage to keep items out of sight, and avoiding bulky furniture. “Different colors on wall panels can act as a visual reminder of where certain items should be stored, making it easier to maintain order,” he said.

According to Jain, one of the simplest yet most powerful ways to keep your room looking fresh is by making your bed every day. “After a long day at school or work, it’s tempting to change into comfy clothes and toss everything on the floor, but instead, toss your dirty clothes straight into the basket. A quick mop of the floor each day and a dusting session with a damp microfiber cloth will keep surfaces looking spotless and fresh. Don’t forget to dust off your furniture, fixtures, shelves, and other surfaces—it makes a big difference in how your room feels,” said Jain.

Investing in stylish storage solutions—such as shelves, baskets, and multi-functional furniture like ottomans and beds with built-in storage—can make a big difference. For smaller rooms, foldable or stackable furniture frees up space when needed. As a bonus tip, Jain suggested using cable clips, ties, or boxes to organize electronic cords, or opting for wireless devices to reduce clutter.

People often overestimate how much they can store (Source: Pexels)

Common mistakes that add to clutter

No designated storage: Without specific spots for items, surfaces can quickly become cluttered.
Ignoring vertical spaces: Utilising walls and ceilings can clear up valuable surfaces.
Overcomplicated colour schemes: A chaotic mix of colours can make a room feel disorganised.

Manan Lodaria, founder of Darsh Designs, pointed out that many people hold onto items “just in case,” which can lead to unnecessary clutter. “Not having a system in place for incoming items like mails and packages and paperwork can pile up if they aren’t immediately sorted. People often overestimate how much they can store, cramming too much into small spaces, which creates a disorganised appearance,” he said. Lodaria also suggested disposing of the items you no longer use and practising a weekly “reset”.