10 Decluttering Secrets Professional Organizers Want You to Know

Decluttering can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. As professional organizers, we’ve seen it all- from cluttered closets to chaotic garages- and we’re here to help you avoid common pitfalls and make the process smoother.

1. Decluttering is not the Same as Organizing

Decluttering comes first. You can’t organize clutter! Focus on sorting and letting go of what you don’t need before worrying about storage solutions or fancy containers.

• Action Item: Go room by room and start by purging. Ask yourself: Do I love it? Do I use it? Does it serve a purpose? Is this is curated piece for my home ‘gallery.’

2. You Don’t Have to Do It All at Once

Decluttering your whole house in one day sounds great in theory, but it’s rarely sustainable. Take it one space at a time to avoid burnout.

• Action Item: Schedule short decluttering sessions - 20 to 30 minutes a day- and tackle one category or zone at a time.

3. Sentimental Items Are the Hardest- Save Them for Last

Start with easier categories like clothes or pantry items. Sentimental items can derail your progress if tackled too soon.

• Action Item: Create a “memory box” for sentimental items and review them later with a clear mind.

4. It’s Okay to Ask for Help

Decluttering is emotional and sometimes overwhelming. Professional organizers can offer a fresh perspective and help you make decisions without judgment.

• Action Item: Invite a trusted friend, family member, or professional organizer to support you through the process.

5. You’ll Feel Lighter When It’s Done

Letting go of excess stuff is incredibly freeing. Most clients say they feel less stressed and more in control of their homes once the clutter is gone.

• Action Item: Remind yourself of the end goal’s a home that’s easier to manage and brings you joy.

6. Decluttering Doesn’t Mean Throwing Everything Away

Decluttering is about keeping what serves you and finding new homes for the rest. Donate, recycle, or sell items that no longer fit your life.

• Action Item: Create three piles: keep, donate, and recycle. Research local donation centers before starting.

7. You Might Regret Fewer Things Than You Think

People often hold onto things because they might need them someday. Truth is, most “just in case” items end up gathering dust.

• Action Item: If you haven’t used it in over a year, it’s probably safe to let it go.

8. Clutter Attracts More Clutter

Clutter breeds clutter. When spaces are clutter-free and organized, you’re less likely to allow things to pile up again.

• Action Item: Create a system for incoming items. Give everything a home to keep clutter at bay.

9. You’ll Need Maintenance Systems

Decluttering is step one, but maintaining an organized space requires a plan. Regular upkeep will keep chaos from creeping back in.

• Action Item: Set aside 15 minutes each week to tidy and reset high-traffic areas.

10. Progress, Not Perfection

Your home doesn’t need to look like a Pinterest board to be functional and joyful. Focus on progress, not perfection, and give yourself grace along the way.

• Action Item: Celebrate small wins and reflect on how far you’ve come.

Final Thoughts From Professional Organizers

Decluttering can feel daunting, but the reward is worth it- a home that reflects your life, not your clutter. Remember, you’re not alone, and you don’t have to do it all at once. Taking small, intentional steps will help you regain control of your space and find joy in your home again.

Ready for a fresh start?

If you need help, Totally Organized, LLC is here to make decluttering easy, stress-free, and even fun! Reach out to schedule your consultation.