Clutter is overwhelming, but don’t make these common mistakes.

For some people, letting go of clutter is a no-brainer. For others, stress hormones rise and it’s extremely difficult. Before tackling organization, it’s important to know a few helpful tips to make the process easy and streamlined.

Below are 10 organizing mistakes that are common but can be avoided if addressed ahead of time.

Here are 10 organizing mistakes you didn’t know you were making and how to fix them:

1. Organizing Without Decluttering First

The Mistake: Trying to organize everything you own without letting go of unnecessary items.

The Fix: Purge before you organize to reduce clutter and only keep what you truly need.

2. Buying Storage Containers First

The Mistake: Purchasing bins, baskets, and containers without knowing what you need to store.

The Fix: Declutter and categorize items first, then buy containers that fit your actual needs.

3. Not Labeling

The Mistake: Assuming you’ll remember where everything goes without labels.

The Fix: Use clear and consistent labeling to make it easy for everyone in your household to maintain order.

4. Using the Wrong Storage Solutions

The Mistake: Opting for pretty containers that aren’t functional or durable for your space.

The Fix: Choose practical, space-efficient storage solutions that suit your specific items and lifestyle.

5. Filling Every Space

The Mistake: Filling shelves, drawers, and closets to capacity without leaving breathing room.

The Fix: Leave some empty space for flexibility and future growth.

6. Ignoring Vertical Space

The Mistake: Overlooking walls, backs of doors, or tall shelves for storage.

The Fix: Install hooks, pegboards, or stackable storage to utilize vertical areas effectively.

7. Keeping Too Many “Just in Case” Items

The Mistake: Holding onto items you might need one day, but never actually use.

The Fix: Let go of these items and trust you can find or borrow what you need if that day comes.

8. Overcomplicating Systems

The Mistake: Creating overly complex organizing systems that are hard to maintain.

The Fix: Simplify your systems so they’re intuitive and easy to stick with.

9. Not Considering Your Daily Habits

The Mistake: Organizing items in a way that doesn’t align with how you actually use them.

The Fix: Organize for convenience—store frequently used items within easy reach.

10. Procrastinating Maintenance

The Mistake: Letting clutter build up because you’re not consistently maintaining your organized space.

The Fix: Set aside a few minutes each day or week to reset and tidy up.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll create a more functional, lasting organizational system that truly works for you.

If you have any questions, comment below.