Hot Take: Your Clutter Isn’t a Container Problem
Let’s talk about something I see all the time: the organizing product rabbit hole.
You know the one. You're in the HomeSense aisle or scrolling Amazon, and suddenly you’re convinced that this set of matching bins is the answer. That once you put everything in pretty baskets, your home will magically feel calm and functional.
I get it—the bins are tempting. They’re everywhere. They’re cute. And they promise to fix the mess.
But here’s the truth: no container, no matter how aesthetic, can organize clutter.
Why You Still Feel Disorganized (Even After Buying All the Bins)
If you’ve bought the drawer dividers, the lazy Susans, the clear pantry containers... and your space still feels overwhelming? You’re not alone. You’re also not doing it wrong—you’ve just been sold the last step before doing the first.
Most people jump straight into “organizing” by shopping. But the real work—the part that actually makes a difference—is less fun. It’s sorting. It’s making decisions. It’s letting go of the stuff you don’t use, need, or even like.
When you skip that part, you end up with a house full of baskets... and still no systems that work.
So Where Do You Start?
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, start with less, not more.
Here’s the order that actually works:
👉🏻Sort your stuff
👉🏻Let go of what you don’t need
👉🏻Then figure out the best way to store what’s staying
Not sure how to even begin that process? I’ve got you.
I created a free guide called “5 Simple Steps to Organize Your Space” that walks you through exactly how to start—and no, it doesn’t involve buying anything.
You can grab it here:
👉🏻https://www.everything-in-place.com/joinus
What About Organizing Products? Are They Ever Worth It?
Yes, after you declutter.
There are a handful of tools I swear by. But they’re only helpful once you actually know what you’re keeping and how you use your space. Otherwise? They’re just more stuff taking up room and adding to the chaos.If you’re unsure what works, when to use it, or whether it’s even worth it, I made a short video course that breaks it all down:
“Organizing Tools That Actually Work - And How to Use Them in Your Home.”
It’s under 30 minutes, super practical, and will help you:
Stop wasting money on things you don’t need
Figure out what organizing tools actually do
Set up simple systems that make daily life easier
This isn’t about perfection or Pinterest. It’s about function, ease, and being able to find your keys in the morning.
👉https://www.everything-in-place.com/6-organizing-tools-video-guide
Here’s What I Want You to Remember
If you’re overwhelmed, it’s not because you’re lazy or disorganized.
It’s probably because you’re trying to organize before you’ve decluttered—and the products you’re using aren’t solving the actual problem.
So next time you’re tempted to buy another bin or basket, pause. Start with what’s already in your space. Get honest about what you actually need. Then—and only then—bring in the tools that support the systems you’ve built.
You've got this. And if you need a place to start?
👉 Grab my free guide: 5 Simple Steps to Organize Your Space
👉 Or check out the course if you’re ready to go deeper
Happy Organizing!
💜Allison