One of the cardinal rules of organizing is that when a new item comes into the house, one must leave.

"You only have so much room, so allow yourself to release an old item," she advised.

Also, it's a good idea to identify what problems exist that contribute to the disorganization. For example, if coats, purses and book bags are always scattered about, putting a coat rack or hall tree in the entry creates a permanent place for them.

Finally, invest in some tools, such as:

A label maker

Color-coded binders

File folders with easy-to-read labels

Clear boxes and containers

Wall hooks

For those who are ready to get organized or cut some clutter, Testo and the National Association of Professional Organizers offer the following room-by-room strategies:

CHILDREN'S ROOMS

Place storage bins and boxes on lower shelves so children can put away their own toys.

Position hooks low so children can hang up their sweaters, jackets and book bags.

Take your kids with you when you go to donate unused items. This helps them learn to part with things.

Encourage your children or teens to choose their next day's outfit before they go to bed.

GARAGE

First, figure out how the space will be used: Will it serve as a workshop? Storage area for a car as well as other stuff?

Get rid of items that don't work.

Sort and purge remaining items, then decide what kinds of storage containers or fixtures will best house what remains. When using containers or boxes, place labels on the top and sides to easily identify the contents.

Consider using floor-to-ceiling storage solutions such as shelving, racks, stackable drawers, hooks and pegboards to make the best use of all available space.

CLOSETS

Go through the closet and remove everything that hasn't been worn in the past year.

Decide what items are used the most and least. Frequently used items should be within easy reach. Seasonal clothing can be hidden away or placed on higher shelves or in drawers.

Group like items together — shirts, pants, dresses, coats, etc.

If you're in an older home with closets that have one hanging rod, reconfigure the space with low and high hanging rods and shelves to take advantage of unused high space.

KITCHEN

Items that work together should be stored together, such as baking pans, electrical appliances, plastic containers with lids, pots and pans, and large platters and bowls.

Use drawer dividers to keep utensils in order.