Professional organizers reveal 8 ways to banish visual clutter from your living room for a streamlined and stress-free space

Visual clutter in the living room can make even the most spacious home feel chaotic.

But fear not! Our home organization pros reveal their eight top tips to curb the chaos and create some calm including using stylish baskets to stash throws and choosing a coffee table with storage.

So whatever the reason clutter keeps creeping back into your home, by implementing these simple strategies, you'll soon have a serene living space to enjoy every day.

1. Choose a coffee table with storage

As the centerpiece of a living room, it's easy to think only aesthetically when selecting your coffee table. But opting for one with built-in storage compartments or shelves can be transformative in keeping those books, coasters and remotes from piling up in view.

Ben Soreff, professional organizer at House to Home Organizing, says, 'Selecting the right coffee table can make all the difference. Round or oval coffee tables look great, plus they save your shins from turning black and blue! Of course, you want some compartments, but beware coffee table storage in which you have to lift up the top – anything that goes inside is never going to be seen again.'

If your coffee table does not have built-in storage, Karina Toner, operations manager at Spekless Cleaning, recommends a decorative tray. She says, 'Placing a nice tray on the table groups those smaller items like remotes or coasters while creating a tidy appearance.'

This slick Everly Quinn Norvan Narrow Coffee Table Tray from Wayfair looks great and comes in multiple color options, including our favourite – navy blue.

Toner adds, 'Most importantly, make sure to regularly clean it thoroughly, removing dust and fingerprints. Method Daily Wood Cleaner from Amazon protects and cleans wooden coffee tables, leaving them streak-free and fresh.'

2. Stash throws in a stylish basket

Toner says, 'Blankets draped over furniture can quickly make a room look messy and unkempt, especially if they’re not folded neatly. By storing throws in a basket, you keep blankets organized yet accessible plus add a cozy touch to the room.

'Choose a stylish woven or fabric basket that complements your room’s decor while being large enough to hold all your throws. Fold or roll the blankets neatly before placing them in the basket to maximize space and maintain a tidy appearance.

'Position the basket near the couch or in a corner for both convenience and aesthetic appeal.'

3. Let your shelves breathe

Overloaded shelves can look messy, even when organized. Limit each shelf to a few items, such as books, plants, or décor pieces, to create an airy, curated look.

Eryn Donaldson, professional organizer and founder of The Model Home, says, 'When every inch of a shelf is filled, the space lacks breathing room, causing visual overload and making it hard to appreciate individual pieces. Aim to leave some negative space around objects, ideally leaving 25-30% of the shelf free. This will give the eye a place to rest, making the shelf look curated and balanced.'

Toner says, 'Empty the shelves completely and decide what items you truly want to keep based on their value or style. Group similar items, such as books by size or color, and use decorative elements like book ends or vases to break up monotony.'

Our guide on things that always make your shelves look cluttered is packed with tips on what to avoid when it comes to your living room shelves, and what to do instead.

4. Conceal cords cleverly

Toner says, 'Tangled cords and wires always leave a cluttered look, making even a well-decorated living room feel unorganized. They can also pose tripping hazards and accumulate dust, which just makes cleaning more difficult. By concealing cords, the room instantly feels tidier and more intentional, directing attention to the decor and design rather than distracting tech clutter.'

Toner recommends using adhesive cord clips, available at Walmart to secure wires along baseboards or behind furniture, keeping them off the floor, then placing power strips and cables inside a cord management box to keep them out of sight.

She adds, 'Label each cord near its plug to make future adjustments or troubleshooting easier.'

Many cable management products are available on Amazon and Toner recommends the site's D-Line Cable Management Box and the XHF Adhesive Cord Clips.

Our dedicated guide on how to organize cables has more handy tips and tricks to keep those wires out of sight.

5. Keep surfaces clear

Resist the urge to cover every surface with knick-knacks or living room decor ideas. Keep tabletops clear, reserving space for only a few intentional items.

Toner says, 'When side tables and consoles are cluttered with random items, it creates a sense of disorganization that detracts from the living room’s decor. Clear surfaces, on the other hand, make the space feel larger, more inviting, and thoughtfully designed. Highlighting a few decorative accents instead of many random objects brings attention to the beauty of your living room.'

To achieve this, completely clear off tables and consoles to assess what belongs and what doesn’t. Select three to five decorative items, such as a vase, candle, or a tray, to create a curated look.

Small trays or baskets can bring the dual benefit of helping to clear surfaces while adding to the overall decor.

6. Tidy kids' toys

Toner says, 'Toys scattered across the living room can make the space feel chaotic and hard to relax in. This can also make cleaning and organizing more time-consuming.

'Using designated storage like bins or ottomans helps maintain a clean and polished look while keeping toys accessible for playtime. The room transforms into a shared space that works for both adults and kids.'

Toner recommends these Amazon Basics Collapsible Fabric Storage Cubes, adding, 'Lightweight and easy to store when not in use, these bins offer a practical solution for organizing toys and keeping your living room floor Lego-free!'

For more tips, check out our guide on how to organize kids' toys in a small living room.

7. Pare down furniture

Too much furniture can crowd the room and add stressful visual clutter and 'noise'. Remove unnecessary pieces to improve flow and create a more spacious feel.

Soreff says, 'One of the main goals for our living rooms is to create an open and bright feeling with flow. But if you've lived in your space for a long time, you've probably accumulated furniture from relatives or blending families – not to mention the furniture you brought with you from your first apartment, plus that piece you found free on the street (you know who you are!).

'Since donating, selling or getting rid of furniture can present a logistical and economic challenge, most people just let this extra furniture sit there blocking the flow for years. However, it's really worth addressing.

'If the piece does not have sentimental value and was inexpensive, there are services that will pick up and donate to charity. Occasionally, you may need to hire a hauling service for a fee. But it's worth it – removing bulky furniture that you don't need will breathe new life into your space.'

8. Manage mail and magazines

Toner says, 'Mail, magazines and paperwork can quickly pile up, turning living room countertops and tables into clutter areas. This not only makes the space look more disorganized but also makes it harder to find important documents when needed. A simple system for sorting and storing mail keeps surfaces clear and the space organized regularly.

'Designate an 'inbox' tray or basket for all incoming mail, placing it in a convenient spot like near the door. Recycle junk mail immediately to reduce clutter and sort important papers into categories like bills or invitations. Store categorized papers in a file organizer for quick access and long-term organization.'

Toner recommends this Simple Houseware Mesh Desk Organizer from Amazon. She says, 'It offers multiple compartments for sorting and storing mail, keeping it tidy and accessible.'

Toner also recommends the Amazon Basics 6-Sheet Cross Cut Paper Shredder, adding, 'It helps dispose of sensitive documents securely, reducing clutter and protecting privacy.'

So there you have it – eight ways to banish visual clutter from the living room. By following these tips, you can transform your living space into a serene haven that feels both organized and inviting.

Next, check out the items you should get rid of in your living room.