6 Organising Habits That Quietly Sabotage Your Calm Home
We all want our homes to feel tidy and calm, but sometimes, in the process of trying to “get organised,” we accidentally make things harder to maintain.
Here are six common habits professional organisers see all the time and simple ways to shift them into routines that actually work for everyday life.
1. Buying containers before decluttering
It’s tempting to start with a haul of new storage bins… but without decluttering first, they often just hold more clutter.
Try this instead: Start by editing. Only once you know what’s staying should you bring in containers to support what you truly use.
2. Prioritising looks over functionality
Pinterest-perfect pantries are beautiful, but not always practical. If something looks amazing but isn’t easy to access or maintain, it won't work long term.
Better approach: Focus on flow first. Once the system works, the aesthetic can follow.
3. Over-organising
Colour-coded labels, rows of micro-containers, and complex sorting systems might feel satisfying… until they become too fussy to maintain.
Keep it simple: Think broad categories, easy access, and flexible systems you can stick with.
4. Holding on to “just in case” items
We all have that drawer of random cords or that collection of unused containers, just in case. But these items take up valuable space.
Ask yourself: When did I last use this? If it’s been over a year, it might be time to let go.
5. Bringing in more without letting go
Organising won’t work if new things keep coming in without old things going out.
Create balance: Every time something new enters your space, challenge yourself to donate or remove something else.
6. Letting paper pile up
From school notices to receipts and flyers, paper clutter builds fast.
Create a system: Go digital where possible. Have one spot for incoming papers and a regular time each week to sort and clear it out.
Organising isn’t about achieving perfection. It’s about making your space work for your life in a way that feels calm, not overwhelming.
Small, thoughtful changes often make the biggest difference. Start with one drawer, one shelf, one system… and keep going from there.
You’ve got this.
