6 Questions To Help You Conquer Chaos With Clever Storage

Do you ever spend a whole day cleaning—laundry done, dishes washed, counters wiped, everything put back—yet nothing really looks different? The answer may be as simple as optimizing your storage. As a home organizer, I know that strategic storage solutions can be the game-changer you need to transform your space. Storage is not one-size-fits-all; each home and individual requires a different approach.

What often happens is people rush to The Container Store® without a strategy, buying storage solutions that don’t fit their space or needs. They don’t stack properly, they’re hard to access, and before you know it, more clutter accumulates. As a home organizer, I’ve seen countless clients struggle with this cycle. Instead of creating orders, they end up with more unnecessary containers.

Having designed hundreds of closets, I know storage inside and out. When working with clients, we often eliminate unused, ineffective storage bins. To help you avoid these mistakes, here are six essential questions to ask yourself before purchasing storage solutions:

1. What Will It Be Used For?

The first and most crucial question is understanding what you need to store. Is it clothing, books, kitchenware, or something entirely different? A home organizer will tell you that identifying your storage needs will guide your choice of effective solutions.

2. How Often Will You Use It?

Consider how frequently you'll need to access your stored items. High-access items, like everyday cookware, should be readily available, while seasonal items may be stored away for months. A home organizer can help you develop a system that balances accessibility and efficiency.

3. How Much Space Do You Have?

Measure your available storage space. Knowing the exact dimensions will ensure that your storage solutions fit perfectly without cluttering your living areas. A home organizer can assess your home to maximize every inch effectively.

4. Do You Need Easy Access?

Think about convenience. Do you need immediate access to your stored items, or can they be tucked away in a less accessible area? This question will help you determine whether open shelves or concealed storage is more suitable for your lifestyle.

5. What's Your Style?

Your storage solutions should blend seamlessly with your home’s design. Whether your aesthetic is minimalist, rustic, or contemporary, a home organizer can help you select storage that enhances your space while keeping it functional.

6. How Secure Does It Need to Be?

Lastly, consider security. Valuables and confidential documents may require lockable storage, while everyday items can be more accessible. A home organizer will help you strike the right balance between security and convenience.

Take Control of Your Space with a Home Organizer

I know that all of this can feel overwhelming, but taking the time to plan your storage solutions will save you time, energy, and money in the long run. And next time you clean your home, it will truly feel like a reset.

So, ask yourself: Which of your storage containers is not serving its purpose? If you're ready to create a clutter-free home, a home organizer can guide you through every step of the process!