How to Get Rid of Paper Clutter

How to Get Rid of Paper Clutter

Use these 10 great tips on how to get rid of paper clutter in no time at all. Paper can be a sneaky thing. It can quickly multiply and has excellent hiding capabilities. Some of you may think that I'm joking, and some of this is said in jest. But really, paper is one of my biggest enemies.

My Love Affair with Paper

The problem is that I just love it so much. In fact, in most circumstances, I prefer paper to typing. I just love the sound of a pen scratching across a blank sheet of paper. I love marking out a word or sentence in frustration. To me, pen and paper illustrates how hard it was to create whatever piece of art I'm working on at the time. Because of my love, I am constantly plagued by piles of paper, books, and letters.

All of that clutter eventually wears on me until I can't take it anymore.
I can't stand cluttered counters.

Paper, Paper, and (oh did I mention) more paper?

It happens to the best of us, we get careless or just don't take any notice at all. But before long, you're swimming through a sea of paper clutter, wondering how to got to be so bad. Paper clutter can add up quickly. Use these ten tips to clear up all of your paper clutter.

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1. Trash Can

Every time you bring your mail in your home, trash the letters that you don't need or want. Always get rid of the things that are just going to collect dust and drive you ( or me) crazy. Also, get into the habit of throwing out all of the other unnecessary paper clutter. If you don't need the receipt, have the cashier just throw it out. If you don't need that flyer, just toss it into a trash bin or recycle bin. Don't keep the paper unless you need it.

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2. Binders

I absolutely love binders. I use them to contain a good majority of my paper clutter. I have divider tabs and just file away my mail, ideas, inspiration, or whatever, in the appropriate tab.

3. Folders

Folders can be great for storing artwork, whether it is your recent design for your blog, or your child's recent master pieces. Folders are also a great way to store yearly receipts, important papers, or anything else that you need to organize!

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4. Bins

Bins can be a great way to get rid of your paper clutter. The can contain any type of paper and still look fabulous. 

5. Cabinets

Filing cabinets are a great way to store receipts, mail, and bills. Just remember to stay on your filing schedule and the paper clutter will just disappear!

6. Trays

Keeping a tray near the front door can help you store mail that needs to be sent out. Plus, all of the out going mail will be together; so, you'll never forget that important parcel. 

7. Make Electronic Payments

Most utility payments can be made online. In fact, paying your bills online can save your time, is faster, and can be hassle free. If you are comfortable paying your bills online, you have the option of opting out of the company sending you paper mail. 

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8. Coupon Organizers

In the past few years, couponing has become a very popular hobby for a lot of families. It is true that couponing can be a great way to save a tremendous amount of money on everyday, basic items, such as, food goods, vitamins, over the counter medications, beauty supplies, and pretty much anything else you can think of. This hobby does come with a few downsides. A major concern is that this hobby comes with a big mess. Organize your couponing by getting creative. An index card holder, plastic bags, or even a binder can help you to clean up your coupons and become more organized. Save your time and save more money by knowing which coupons you have.

9. Receipt Storage

Most receipts can simply be thrown away. But, some receipts you should keep. Setup a large envelope every year for the receipts that you keep. Mark the outside of the envelopes clearly and put which receipts you kept.

10. Mail Organizers

Mail is one of the top offenders of paper clutter. Develop a system to store the mail that you need and just toss the mail you don't need! Designate a space by your front door or wherever is convenient for you, and set up a mail in and mail out system.


I hope that these 10 tips to get rid of your paper clutter, can help you out with those sneaky papers. Feel free to leave a comment below if you have any questions, comments, or have a few tips of your own to share.

Have a great weekend!