The 3 Most Common Organizing Mistakes (And What to Do Instead!)
As a professional organizer whose been in countless homes, with projects ranging all over the place, I see people make the same organizing mistakes over and over again. But the good news is that once you know what not to do, getting organized becomes a whole lot easier.
So, let’s talk about the top 3 organizing mistakes—and what to do instead.
Mistake #1: Buying a Ton of Bins and Organizing Supplies FIRST
Ever walked into The Container Store and thought, This is it. This is where my life turns around.
I understand this on a deeply personal level. Matching bins, sleek drawer dividers, and label makers all look like they’ll fix everything. But here’s the thing: buying more stuff to put your stuff inside doesn’t actually make you organized.
“Please, put your stuff…inside more stuff.”
The real issue is CLUTTER, not containers. If you don’t declutter first, you’re just rearranging chaos inside prettier boxes.
What to do instead
Declutter first. Get rid of what you don’t need, and then figure out if you even need storage solutions. (Spoiler: you probably don’t need as many bins as you think.")
Mistake #2: Keeping Stuff “Just in Case”
The four swear words in organizing: Might. Could. Maybe. Someday.
“I might need this.”
“This could come in handy.”
“I bet I’ll use it someday.”
“Maybe my friend will want this.”
Sound familiar? The problem with this mindset is that “someday” almost never comes. Instead, you’re left storing things out of fear, not necessity.
What to do instead
Be brutally honest. If you haven’t used it in the last year, you probably won’t. And if the day ever comes that you do need it? You can borrow, rent, or replace it (without having stored it for years.)
Mistake #3: Falling for Quick-Fix Organizing Gimmicks
You’ve seen the advice:
“Just organize for 5 minutes a day!”
“Get rid of one item per day!”
“Turn all your hangers backward, and if you don’t wear it in a year, toss it!”
While these tricks sound helpful, they rarely lead to organization that sticks. The reality is a few minutes here and there can help maintain a tidy home, but real change takes a little more commitment.
What to do instead
Block off real time to declutter and organize properly. If you don’t have time, hire your local professional organizer ;) Instead of tiny, ineffective efforts, focus on one space at a time and make noticeable progress. Future you will be so glad you did.
If you’ve made these organizing mistakes, you’re in good company. Just remember these “dos” the next time you’re tackling some organization:
Declutter before you buys bins.
Let go of the “just in case” mindset.
Commit real time to organizing.
Hey! I am Aubrianne, and I love my job—I’m a professional home organizer in Logan, UT. I travel all around the Cache Valley (from end to end…and side to side) and beyond (like Garden City and Ogden!) clearing clutter from people’s homes. No matter where you’re starting—I can help you. We can declutter, organize, and give you systems to make sure you can keep it up once I’m gone.
CLICK HERE to schedule a complimentary consultation with me to talk about how you can feel peace and happiness and no stress in your home!
