In order to keep ahead of everyday clutter, I do what I call "My Ten Minute Sweep". I take ten minutes and go through every room of the house. I empty waste baskets, get rid of junk mail, clear off surfaces of items that don't belong in that room. I fluff pillows, staighten towels. As I move from one room to the next, I carry the items that belong in that room and put them away.
Carry a bag for emptying waste baskets. If you accumulate a lot of clutter, you might want to carry along a basket or tote to load up the items you're putting away.
You can accomplish a lot in ten minutes, maybe even empty the dish washer.
If you have kids, get them involved!