6 Questions To Help You Conquer Chaos With Clever Storage

Do you ever spend a whole day cleaning, you’ve done the laundry, washed the dishes, wiped down the counters, put everything back in its place but nothing really looks any different?  Your answer might just be as simple as optimizing your storage. Let's dive into the world of decluttering and how strategic storage plans can be the game-changer you've been seeking. Storage is not one size fits all. Each individual, and each space, requires a different arrangement.  

What ends up happening for most people is a stop at The Container Store®, without a strategy in mind, leads to buying storage solutions that just don’t fit. They don’t stack how you need, it's hard to get to, the list goes on and you figure you’ll make it “work” but since it's not the right fit, this calls for another trip to The Container Store®, and another, and before you know it…more clutter.

I have designed hundreds of closets, so trust me when I say, I know storage.   When working with clients, we often end up getting rid of the containers that they accumulate but never use.  Here are some important questions to ask yourself before you buy to save yourself time, money, and headache:

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? Identifying the items you want to store will guide your choice of storage 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.

3. How Much Space Do You Have?

Measure the available space for storage. Knowing the dimensions of your available space will help you choose storage solutions that fit perfectly without cramping your living areas.

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 if open shelves or concealed storage is more suitable.

5. What's Your Style?

Consider your personal style and the aesthetic of your home. Choose storage solutions that complement your interior design, whether it's minimalist, rustic, or contemporary.

6. How Secure Does It Need to Be?

Lastly, consider the level of security you need for your stored items. Valuables or confidential documents may require lockable or concealed storage, while everyday items can be more accessible.

I know that all of this can be overwhelming, but taking the time to really think and plan for storage 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 in your home is not serving its purpose?