1. Start by going through all of the small places you want to have organized. It does not matter if it is closets, drawers, or any other cubby place. The key is taking all of the things that are in those places and putting them into an area that you can sort them. This could be the middle of your living room floor, the kitchen table, or where ever it is that you feel comfortable.
2. Now you can wash out the small places that you have taken all of these things from. You can do this with a soft cleaner, washcloth, vacuum, brook and brush. The areas need to be cleaned and dried so that you can put the items back in after sorting.
3. Then the sorting will begin. You will want to make a few different piles. You can label the areas of those piles to remind you what is what. This can be done with a small piece of tape. However, in most cases just the types of items you are sorting can help you remember it. These are they types of piles you will want to make.
a. Not used within the last six months to a year pile.
b. Do not need, out grown etc pile
c. Then piles of matching things. Office supplies; rulers, tape, paper clips etc. Linens; towels, sheets, table clothes etc. Dishes; pots, pans, plastic dishes, glasses, lids, etc.
4. Now as you look at these piles, you can take the items you don't use, don't need and have not used, and pack them in a box for good will. Why put that stuff back into a drawer, cupboard etc, when all it will do is collect dust. Get rid of it.
5. Next you will want to designate one specific place for each of the piles you listed above. The items in the pile, needs to be able to fit into the designated area, with a little room for growth and movement. This way you are not trying to shove the areas shut.
6. As you are putting these items away, make a mental note that you will be putting these items back into those designated areas each time they are used. If you have family that will need to gain this habit, then you will want to start immediately with helping them do so. Here are some tips about how to keep things put where they need to go.
a. Be sure to create the habit in yourself first. The others in your family will follow.
b. Make it easy for them to remember. Label the areas.
c. Be patient, if they forget, ask them to put it back, and remind them where to put it.
d. Reward for them putting it away right, even with just a pat on the back.

With these practices you will find that it is easier to keep small places organized and clean. This will also help in the long run with the habits your family will have and with finding the things you need.