Source: http://www.cleanhomejournal.com/organizing-ideas/19-index.asp

Summertime is "when the livin' is easy"-- so the song goes, but it's also the time chaos can reign. Toys get tossed about; desks get cluttered. Crafters leave junk lying everywhere. And we know why—you'd rather be outside having fun.

You need a de-clutter plan—one that's fast, focused and freeing. Try these easy clean-up tips that will keep you outdoors and frolicking while the cotton is still high.

1. Toss out junk mail immediately on receipt and store the "to-be-reads" in their own designated box.
2. Round up old toys, hold a toy garage sale, and let kids keep the proceeds of the sales.
3. Throw out all broken electronics—VCR's, computers, toasters, typewriters—or donate them to a local charity.
4. Use Ziploc® Containers in various sizes to store desk materials (pens, staples, paper clips); sewing materials (zippers, buttons, thread, etc.); picnic cutlery (plastic knives, spoons, forks, etc.); cosmetics (lipsticks, nail polish, hair clips).
5. Invest in hanging bags (great for storing shoes, toys, panty hose, socks, mittens, or anything that fits).
6. Hang cork bulletin boards inside your pantry closet to pin your stray notes, bills, receipts—out of other people's prying eyes.
7. Designate drawers. Objects need their own home, with their own kind. Keep the species together for easy locating (for instance: one drawer for hose and socks; another for underwear, another for scarves and mufflers, etc.)
8. Stash magazines and newspapers in beautiful lidded baskets (they also add flair to your décor.). Toss out old ones every month.
9. Hide a hopelessly junk-filled corner with a stylish oriental screen.
10. Illuminate your garage and attic with extra fixtures or battery-powered lights so you can see the mess you've generated. Hopefully, you'll be inspired to either clean it up or not add further mess!