34 | The Paper Clutter Survival Guide: How to Keep Your Home Organized

May 26

Paper Clutter, Be Gone:
A Simple System That Actually Works for Moms

You know that one stack of papers you keep moving from the counter to the table to the top of the microwave... and then back again? If you’re constantly asking yourself where that one permission slip went, or why the mail pile is threatening to take over your kitchen, this episode is for you.

In this week’s episode of the Stress Less Podcast, we’re talking about one of the sneakiest sources of stress for moms—paper clutter. It piles up fast and feels never-ending. But here’s the truth: you’re not lazy or unorganized. You’re juggling a million things, and paper is relentless. The good news? You don’t need a filing cabinet or a fancy color-coded system. You just need a paper flow that actually works for your family and your brain.

As a full-time teacher, mom of three, and someone who’s lived through every version of “where the heck is that form?”—I’ve built a system that’s realistic, ADHD-friendly, and stress-free. This episode breaks it all down for you in a way that feels doable. Not perfect. Not Pinterest-worthy. But practical, simple, and designed to take the mental load off your shoulders.

I’ll walk you through the exact paper system I use in my own home—from what to do with school papers and mail, to how to set up kid-friendly drop zones, and even a few sanity-saving digital tricks. Plus, you’ll hear some real-life examples of what I keep and what I toss (spoiler: most worksheets are headed to the recycle bin).

This episode is packed with real talk, encouragement, and ideas that will help you finally create a paper system that doesn’t add to your chaos. So if you’re a busy mom who’s tired of paper piles and just wants a calm, functional space—tune into the full episode of the Stress Less Podcast wherever you listen. Your counters (and your brain) will thank you.

Key Takeaways from this Episode

Why paper clutter builds up so quickly—and why it’s not your fault
How to create a three-step paper flow system that fits your home and energy
My go-to rule: “touch it once”—and what to do when that’s not realistic
Where to set up your Catchall Zone and why location matters
What to do with school papers, kid artwork, receipts, bills, and random to-do lists
Creative ideas for displaying kids’ art without cluttering your fridge
How I personally manage paper tasks around my work energy and mom life
A few digital tools you can use if you prefer to snap, scan, and store