A Pro Organizer Shared Their Under-the-Sink Decluttering Trick—And It’s Surprisingly Easy
Hey, friend, let's talk about that chaos under your bathroom sink—the one place where half-empty shampoo bottles, mystery cleaners, and who-knows-what-else live in a tangled mess. I totally get it; it's the Bermuda Triangle of your home, where things go in but never come out organized.
But here's the game-changing good news: I chatted with pro organizer Cassie Solomon from Clutterbug (yes, the one with all the TikTok magic), and she spilled her go-to trick for taming this beast. It's not some complicated system that requires a weekend and a shopping spree. Nope—it's a 30-minute hack called the "Zone and Purge" method that's so easy, you'll wonder why you didn't do it sooner. This trick flips the script without overwhelming you. It's all about "zones" and "quick wins," turning a dreaded chore into something you can knock out during your favorite podcast. Ready to reclaim your space, reduce your mental load, and feel that rush of accomplishment? Let's dive in, step by step, and make your under-sink area the envy of your wellness routine.
Why Under-the-Sink Chaos Is a Bigger Deal Than You Think
Okay, real talk: that cluttered cabinet isn't just an eyesore—it's a hidden stress factory that actively works against your pursuit of Pure Bath Bliss. The energy you expend dreading that cabinet adds unnecessary tension to your daily routine.
The Anxiety of Visual and Mental Clutter
Cassie explains, "When things are disorganized, especially in small, confined spaces, it creates mental clutter, and in a bathroom, where you're supposed to feel relaxed, that's the last thing you want." Studies have consistently linked cluttered environments to elevated cortisol levels, meaning your bathroom, meant to be your sanctuary, might actually be raising your anxiety every time you open that cabinet door. You shouldn't have to wade through a messy cabinet just to grab a cotton swab.
Health and Safety Hazards
Beyond the mental drain, physical clutter under the sink poses real dangers, particularly in a high-moisture area:
Spills and Leaks: Tangled cords and leaning bottles are accidents waiting to happen. A spilled bottle of cleaner or a leak can damage the cabinet wood, leading to mold and costly repairs.
Expired Products: The cabinet is where half-used lotions, expired sunscreen, and old cleaners go to die. Using expired wellness products can be ineffective or even cause skin irritation—the opposite of an organic, healthy routine.
Air Quality: Damp, enclosed spaces can foster mildew growth, leading to that tell-tale musty smell that ruins the fresh vibe of your bathroom.
For a wellness-focused home, a tidy under-sink means less overwhelm and more time for self-care—like that guilt-free bubble bath you deserve.
The Pro Trick: The "Zone and Purge" Method
Cassie's secret sauce is the "Zone and Purge" method—a four-step process that's equal parts practical and forgiving. The core philosophy is to categorize before you contain, making the system intuitive and easy to maintain. You don't need fancy tools; just a trash bag, some basic bins (or boxes you already own), and 30 minutes.
Step 1: Empty and Sort (5 Minutes—Just Do It!)
The first step is the most challenging, but the quickest. Pull everything out of the cabinet onto the floor or a large towel. No judgment—the goal is to see the full scope of the chaos all at once.
Initial Shock: Embrace the mess momentarily. Seeing it all out forces honesty and prepares you for the purge.
The Three Piles: Sort everything into immediate categories:
Keep: Items you use regularly (at least once a month) and that are still in good condition (e.g., your preferred toilet bowl cleaner, fresh shampoo refills, hand soap).
Toss: Empty bottles, dried-up cleaners, anything that is cracked, leaking, or has expired.
Maybe/Relocate: That "what is this?" item, duplicates, or items that belong elsewhere (like extra medicine or makeup that should be in a dry linen closet or bedroom).
Why It Works: "Seeing it all out forces honesty," Cassie says. "You realize you have three half-empty conditioners and zero need for them." It's like a mini therapy session for your stuff—a crucial step toward realizing the extent of unnecessary clutter.
Step 2: Purge Without Guilt (10 Minutes—Be Ruthless)
Now, we tackle the "Toss" and "Maybe" piles. This is the hardest part for most people, but remember, holding onto expired, non-functional items is costing you space and peace of mind.
The Expiration Check: Be ruthless with dates! Check the manufacturing or "use by" dates on cleaners, lotions, and any personal care products. If it's expired, out it goes.
The Duplicate Decision: Go through duplicates. Why keep three half-empty bottles of window cleaner? Keep the newest or fullest one, and responsibly dispose of the rest. For items still in good condition (like new towels or sealed soap), keep one as a backup and donate the rest to a local shelter or food bank.
The Guilt Test: For the "Maybe" pile, ask yourself: "Have I used this in the last six months? Does it spark joy or just guilt?" If the answer is guilt ("I should use this") or no, let it go.
Pro Tip: Play upbeat music—think an energetic cleaning playlist—to make the purging process feel like less of a chore.
Step 3: Create Zones with What You Keep (10 Minutes—Get Creative)
Now that you've reduced your inventory, group the remaining items logically. This is the "Zone" part of the trick, and it’s about making your space grab-and-go efficient.
Categorize: Group the keepers into zones based on function. Cassie’s favorites for the bathroom:
Daily Essentials Zone: Items used every day or week (e.g., organic shampoo refills, face wash, daily cleaner).
Cleaning Zone: All sprays, brushes, eco-friendly wipes, and tools (keep these separate for safety).
Guest/Backup Zone: Extra toilet paper rolls, spare toothbrushes, and packaged soap bars.
Tool/Repair Zone: Plunger, drain snake, gloves.
Containerize Vertically: Use the simple containers you already have (upcycle old boxes, use dollar-store bins, or even shoe boxes). Label them with washi tape or a simple Sharpie—a quick label is better than a complex one!
Maximize Space: The space under the sink is deep and often awkward because of pipes. Use tiered stacking shelves or lazy Susans to access deep items easily. Store taller items toward the back and line the bottom with a waterproof mat or old towel to catch drips.
Why It Works: Zones make everything grab-and-go, reducing decision fatigue. "It's like giving your stuff a home," Cassie says. "You'll use what you have because it's easy to find and easy to put back."
Step 4: Reset and Maintain (5 Minutes—Lock It In)
Put all the labeled containers back in the cabinet, step away, and admire your clean space. This final step is crucial for longevity.
Set a Ritual: Set a monthly "reset ritual"—just 5 minutes—to quickly check for spills, expired items, and ensure everything is returned to its zone. Pro organizers swear by this minimal maintenance to keep the system intact.
Lining the Cabinet: Line the bottom of the cabinet with a washable plastic mat, a waterproof protector, or even contact paper. This protects the wood from drips and makes spills effortless to clean.
Admiration and Motivation: Snap a before-and-after photo. It's powerful motivation for the next time (and a great way to inspire friends!).
Common Mistakes to Avoid (And How to Fix Them)
Even pros slip up—here’s what not to do:
Overbuying: Don't stockpile "just in case." Stick to what you use. Fix: Make a monthly inventory list.
Ignoring Labels: Expired items lurk—check dates. Fix: Use a marker to write "use by" on bottles.
Forgetting Maintenance: Dust and drips build up. Fix: Wipe monthly with a microfiber cloth and vinegar spray.
Why Under-the-Sink Decluttering Is a Game-Changer for Your Wellness
Beyond the clean lines and efficiency, this method fundamentally boosts your mental health and supports your eco-friendly commitment.
Reduced Waste: "Organizing declutters your mind," Cassie shares. When you can see every product, you stop overbuying and ensure you use what you have before it expires. This is a huge win for reducing waste and saving money.
Safety and Purity: You reduce the risk of accidentally mixing harsh chemicals or using expired wellness products on your skin, protecting your health and the purity of your home.
Instant Zen: In a bathroom, where you start and end your day, that peace sets the tone for your mood. Imagine opening your cabinet without dread—everything in its place, easy to grab, no spills. That's the freedom and efficiency that this simple hack delivers.
Your 30-Minute Challenge: Do It Today!
Ready? Set a timer for 30 minutes. Follow the four steps—Empty, Purge, Zone, and Reset—and celebrate your transformation with a bubble bath (eco-friendly one, of course).
This trick isn't just about storage—it's about creating space for what matters: peace, efficiency, and wellness. You've got this, and your bathroom (and mind) will feel brand new.