How to Keep an Open Concept Home Clean and Organized: 7 Expert Tips

Keeping an open concept home clean and organized requires a strategic approach focused on decluttering and smart storage. Unlike traditional layouts where walls can hide mess, an open floor plan means clutter is always on display. Based on advice from professional organizers, the most effective strategies include adopting a minimalist mindset, creating flexible storage zones, and implementing a targeted cleaning routine. The core principle is to prioritize simplicity and functionality over excess belongings.

Why Should You Declutter Before Buying Storage Solutions?

The first step is not to buy more bins, but to reduce what you own. When miscellaneous items accumulate, the instinct is to contain them. However, Utah-based designer Allison Campbell emphasizes a “less is more attitude.” A thorough decluttering session can make a space feel instantly larger and more cohesive. This process also extends to your décor choices. Campbell recommends a neutral color palette to allow the eye to flow smoothly across the space. If you prefer color, limit your scheme to one or two primary hues to avoid a visually chaotic environment. Reducing visual noise is as important as physical tidiness in an open floor plan.

How Can Mobile Storage Solutions Help?

For ongoing projects, avoid leaving them on surfaces like the kitchen table. Professional organizer Emily Mass recommends using a rolling cart for smaller projects. This mobile unit can be rolled into your workspace and then easily tucked into a closet when not in use. Organize the cart with designated bins for specific activities, such as crafting or sorting mail. This "project bin" system allows you to work efficiently and pack supplies away quickly, preventing your main living area from becoming a permanent workshop.

What is the Most Effective Cleaning Strategy?

Deep cleaning one large, combined living, dining, and kitchen area can feel overwhelming. The solution is to divide the space into manageable zones. “It helps to break down cleaning by tackling one space at a time,” Mass advises. Start with a small, easy area like a single counter or drawer to build momentum. Avoid beginning with the most daunting task. For daily maintenance, establish a routine. Mass suggests "putting the home to bed" each night by ensuring counters are clean and everything is in its place. Scheduling specific times for routine tasks makes upkeep more manageable.

Can You Physically Divide an Open Space?

Creating visual divisions can help conceal clutter and define areas. Anna Bauer, founder of Sorted & Co., suggests using a folding rattan room divider for a stylish, non-permanent solution. For a more organic approach, use low-maintenance, tall plants like Snake plants or Monstera on stands to create zones without blocking light or airflow. These methods provide privacy and structure, helping to organize the space visually and functionally.

How Do You Control Kitchen Odors in an Open Layout?

In an open concept, kitchen odors travel freely. To combat this, use a range hood above your oven to vent smoke and grease. If you don't have one, a regular fan and cracked window can help. Professional organizer Lisa Jacobs notes that unpleasant smells often come from neglected appliances. Clean your garbage disposal and dishwasher with white vinegar monthly to prevent mildew. Jacobs also recommends installing a trash bin inside a cabinet under the sink instead of using a freestanding model, which contains odors more effectively.

What Are Quick Room-by-Room Tidying Hacks?

• Kitchen: Free up countertops by storing small appliances in upper cabinets.
• Living Room: Use furniture with built-in storage, like an ottoman or coffee table, to stow blankets, books, or toys.
• Dining Area: Break the habit of using the table as a drop-off zone. Designate a specific spot near the front door for keys and mail.
• Bedroom: Utilize under-bed storage for out-of-season items. Use a duvet cover one size larger than your bed to conceal storage boxes neatly.
• Entryway: Replace an open shoe rack with a storage bench to keep footwear completely out of sight.

The key to maintaining an open concept home is establishing systems that work for your lifestyle. Focus on consistent habits, such as a nightly tidy-up and a zoned cleaning schedule, to keep the space feeling airy and organized. By decluttering ruthlessly and choosing multi-functional furniture, you can enjoy the benefits of your open layout without the constant stress of visible clutter.