Ditch the Junk: How to Take Control of Your Mailbox (and Your Counters)

One of my clients recently showed me a common struggle: junk mail piling up everywhere — on the counter, the dining table, even the stairs. It was turning into a real source of stress for her.

As a professional organizer, I know how quickly paper clutter can take over if it’s not managed.

Personally, I keep junk mail from ever becoming an issue by opting out of lists where I can or sorting it at the door before setting anything down. But not everyone realizes you can take control of it — and it’s easier than you might think.

If junk mail is spilling into your life (and your home), here are some ways you can reduce it for good.

Step 1: Get on the Opt-Out Lists

OptOutPrescreen.com – Free

This site lets you opt out of those never-ending credit card and insurance offers. You can choose a 5-year removal or go all in and request the permanent opt-out (they'll send you a form to sign and return).

DMAchoice.org – $4 for 10 years

Run by the Data & Marketing Association, this tool helps you remove your name from mailing lists used by many national marketers (catalogs, magazine offers, donation requests, etc.). I paid the $4 and haven’t looked back.

Step 2: Unsubscribe from Catalogs

CatalogChoice.org – Free

This one’s a game changer. Search for any catalog, enter a bit of info (like your name and customer number from the mailing label), and tell them you want out. It’s satisfying in the best way.

Step 3: Opt Out of Phone Books

While phone books are mostly a thing of the past, some still find their way to your doorstep. If you receive one and want to stop future deliveries, you can opt out through the Yellow Pages Consumer Choice & Opt-Out Site.

Step 4: Say No to Address Sharing

Totally Free

Next time you're at the checkout counter or signing up for something online, look for that little checkbox that says “don’t share my information.” Checking it means fewer marketing lists your name ends up on. It's a small but mighty move.

Additionally, when filling out forms like warranty cards or subscriptions, write the magic words: “Please do not rent, sell, or trade my name or address.” This proactive step helps keep your information private .

Step 5: Stay Vigilant (But Don’t Stress)

Even after opting out, a few things still sneak in. I keep a recycling bin right by the door so I can deal with it immediately.

If a new offender keeps showing up, I keep a small bin in my office of things I want to remove myself from and I set a reminder to address it.

Bonus Tip: Go Paperless Where It Makes Sense

Most banks, utilities, and service providers offer free paperless billing options. It reduces paper clutter and makes it easier to stay on top of things digitally (plus, less shredding later).

Cutting back on junk mail has genuinely brought more calm to my space. It’s one of those behind-the-scenes wins that makes everything feel a little more manageable. And the best part? Most of these changes are free—or very low cost.

So if your mailbox, or counter, is becoming a black hole for unwanted paper, try a few of these steps. You might be surprised at how quickly things shift.

With Love,

Ashley