Soft light. Clear shelves. Quiet care in every fold and brush.
In Japanese homes, cleaning supplies arenāt hidden away in cluttered cabinets ā theyāre often displayed with intention. Thoughtfully chosen, naturally made, and beautifully stored.
This approach turns everyday tools into small joys, and organization into a peaceful ritual.
Hereās how to create a calming, well-organized setup for your cleaning supplies ā inspired by Japanese simplicity šæ
š§ŗ 1. Choose Tools Youāre Proud to Display
In Japan, itās common to use natural tools that age beautifully ā like bamboo brooms, tawashi brushes, and cotton cloths.
They’re often hung on hooks or placed in open baskets.
Tip: Look for timeless materials ā wood, metal, ceramic, woven straw. They add a quiet warmth to your space.
š§“ 2. Decant Liquids Into Simple Bottles
Instead of flashy plastic packaging, many Japanese households use refillable containers.
Clear or frosted glass, amber bottles, or matte ceramics help reduce visual noise.
Try this: Transfer dish soap, vinegar spray, or laundry detergent into minimalist containers. Add a small label if needed.
šŖ£ 3. Store by Use, Not by Type
Rather than grouping all sprays together, consider organizing by task: kitchen, floors, laundry, bathroom.
This makes everyday cleaning quicker and less stressful.
Example: A small tray by the sink with your sponge, soap, and counter spray ā all within armās reach.
š§¼ 4. Keep It Visible, But Tidy
Open shelving, hanging bars, and wall-mounted hooks are popular in Japanese homes.
Tools are easy to grab ā and always returned to their place.
Tip: Choose one area (like behind the kitchen door or in a laundry corner) and build your system there.
š§½ 5. Fold Cloths the KonMari Way
Even your cleaning cloths can feel intentional.
Folding them neatly, like in the KonMari method, adds a sense of care ā even before you start cleaning.
Idea: Stack cotton cloths or tenugui in a small drawer or box, standing upright so you see each one.
š 6. Use Natural Materials That Breathe
Plastic bins can trap moisture and odors.
Instead, try using baskets made of bamboo, rattan, or seagrass ā they let tools dry and stay fresh.
Bonus: They look beautiful, too.
šø 7. Keep it Small and Simple
Japanese homes often donāt have much storage ā so the cleaning system stays small, efficient, and well-loved.
Only keep what you truly use.
Mindset shift: If a tool doesnāt make cleaning easier or more joyfulā¦ it doesnāt need to stay.
š A Cleaning Corner That Feels Like You
Organizing your cleaning supplies the Japanese way isnāt about perfection ā itās about quiet usefulness.
It invites you to choose beauty in the everyday, and make space for things that support your rhythm of care.
Every cloth, every brush, every jarā¦ part of a gentler way to keep your home.
