The Home Edit by Clea Shearer & Joanna Teplin Summary

The Home Edit by Clea Shearer and Joanna Teplin is a practical guide to transforming living spaces through organization blended with design. It introduces their signature system of categorizing items by use and aesthetics, emphasizing functionality and visual harmony. The book features room-by-room strategies (like kitchens and entryways), decluttering techniques, and vibrant before-and-after photos to inspire readers.

This book is ideal for homeowners, renters, or design enthusiasts seeking structured yet stylish solutions for clutter. It’s particularly useful for parents juggling toy storage, professionals aiming for workspace efficiency, or anyone inspired by Instagram-worthy organization. The authors’ humorous tone and celebrity client examples appeal to readers who value both practicality and visual appeal.

Yes, for its actionable systems and motivational visuals. While critics note some methods may require ongoing maintenance (like color-coded shelves), the book provides adaptable frameworks for small apartments to large homes. It’s praised for merging Marie Kondo’s tidiness with interior design flair, making organization feel achievable and creative.

The Home Edit System prioritizes grouping items by category (e.g., cooking tools, kids’ toys) and arranging them based on frequency of use and visual flow. Key steps include decluttering first, using clear containers for visibility, and labeling everything. The authors advocate for “zones” (like pantry shelves for snacks vs. staples) to maintain order long-term.

• Edit before organizing: Remove unused items to simplify systems.
• Categorize by function: Group similar items (e.g., baking supplies).
• Prioritize accessibility: Place daily-use items at eye level.
• Aim for “rainbow order”: Color-coordinate items for visual satisfaction.
• Label relentlessly: Ensure every container has a clear purpose.

“Minimalism is a lifestyle choice. Being organized just means respecting your space and belongings.”
This reflects their stance that organization doesn’t require owning fewer items—just thoughtful placement. Another standout: “If you can’t see it, you won’t use it,” underscoring their transparency-focused approach.

While Marie Kondo focuses on keeping only what “sparks joy,” The Home Edit emphasizes practical sorting and design integration. Shearer and Teplin encourage keeping frequently used items (even if not sentimental) but storing them attractively. Their system is less about minimalism and more about creating functional, photogenic spaces.

Some readers find the systems high-maintenance (e.g., color-coding spices) or unrealistic for busy households. Critics argue the book’s celebrity examples (like walk-in closets) don’t reflect average homes. However, fans appreciate adaptable tips, such as using dollar-store bins for toy storage.

The book suggests rotating toy bins to reduce clutter, using clear drawers for easy access, and designating “kid zones” with low shelves. For arts and crafts, they recommend categorizing supplies by type (markers, paper) and storing them in labeled caddies. These methods aim to teach children tidy habits while keeping spaces functional.

Yes! Strategies include:

• Vertical storage: Use wall-mounted racks for kitchen tools.
• Multi-functional furniture: Opt for ottomans with hidden storage.
• Zone overlapping: Merge a home office with a guest room using rolling carts.
  The authors stress editing possessions and optimizing underutilized spaces (like under beds).

Indirectly—by encouraging readers to repurpose existing storage (like shoeboxes) and donate unused items. While not a focus, their “edit first” philosophy reduces waste by curbing impulse purchases. The book also promotes reusable acrylic bins over single-use organizers.

The Home Edit Life expands beyond physical spaces to cover digital organization (email inboxes) and time management. It introduces travel packing systems and wardrobe curation tips, making it a broader lifestyle companion. Both books share the core “category + flow” approach but apply it to new contexts.