I am friends with a professional home stager, and every time we chat, I’m struck by how much
her job overlaps with mine. She prepares homes to look their best so they’ll sell quickly. I help people organize so they can enjoy the homes they live in. But the strategies? Nearly identical.
She knows exactly what to tuck away to make a room feel fresh, calm, and spacious...and it turns out, those same techniques work beautifully
even if you’re not planning to put a "For Sale" sign on the lawn.
1. Small Kitchen Appliances: Toasters, coffee makers, and blenders are convenient, but too many at once crowd your countertops. Stagers clear every surface. For daily
living, try storing less-used appliances in a cabinet to free up space and give your kitchen breathing room.
2. Bathroom Products: Stagers never leave a line of shampoo bottles on the tub or half-used hand creams on the counter. They limit what’s visible to the essentials and make them pretty. One nice soap pump and a
folded towel? Instant spa vibe.
3. Pet Supplies: Bowls, toys, leashes, and litter boxes are part of real life, but they’re rarely part of a staged home. Consider a bin or basket to hold pet gear, and keep it tucked away when not in use.
4. Shoes by the Door: One of the first things people notice when they walk into your home is what’s by the door. Stagers remove the shoe pile entirely. For everyday life, keep only one or two pairs per person visible (if you must) and store the rest in a cubby, basket, or closet.
5. Family Photos and Fridge Art: Your family’s adorable, no question. But too many personal touches can make a space feel busy. Stagers go for clean, neutral décor. You can still show your personality. Just do it with intention, not clutter.
7. Too Many Throw Pillows and Blankets: They’re cozy, but when every chair and sofa is drowning in pillows, the room feels crowded. Stagers pare it down...one or two pillows per seat, and throws neatly folded.
Edit, rotate seasonally, and store the extras.
8. Trash Cans: Even clean trash cans are a visual reminder of mess. Stagers hide them under the sink or inside cabinets. If yours must be out in the open, choose one that’s sleek, neutral, and always has a lid.
9. Hobby Supplies and Toys: Stagers tuck away puzzles, knitting, and craft bins...not because those things aren’t valuable, but because they add visual clutter. When you’re not using your hobby materials, stash them neatly out of sight.
10. Extra Furniture: Here’s a big one: stagers often remove furniture. That second side table or oversized chair might be making your room feel tighter than it needs to. Try pulling out one piece and see if it opens things up.
On another note...
Do you have kids, grandkids, nieces, or nephews going back to school? From clever supplies to everyday essentials, my carefully curated list is sure to make getting ready for the upcoming school year a little more
exciting.
