Have you ever spent hours organizing your space, only to feel like the clutter creeps back in within days? It’s frustrating, right? That’s where the difference between decluttering vs. organizing comes in—and trust me, it’s a big one.
Decluttering and organizing might seem like the same thing, but they’re not. Each plays a different role in creating a space you love, and skipping one can throw the whole process off track. In my book, Clearing Clutter, Creating Joy, I dive into why decluttering always comes first, but let’s break it down here in a more practical way.
Decluttering: Letting Go of the Excess
Decluttering is the essential first step. It’s about getting rid of what you don’t need, don’t use, or simply don’t love anymore. Without decluttering, you’re just rearranging clutter, which means you’re not really solving the problem.
Think about it: Do you really need 20 mismatched coffee mugs? Or that stack of magazines you haven’t touched in years? Decluttering is about making those decisions, even when it’s hard. It’s not always easy to let go, especially when sentimental items are involved.
When you declutter, you’re making room for what truly matters, not just physically but mentally, too.
Organizing: Setting Up Systems That Work
Once you’ve cleared the clutter, it’s time to organize. This is where you create systems that make your space functional, efficient, and—let’s be honest—easy to maintain. Organizing is all about giving everything a home, so you’re not searching for your keys, losing important papers, or digging through a chaotic pantry.
Here’s the thing: organizing doesn’t have to be Pinterest-perfect. It’s not about fancy bins or Instagram-worthy closets (though those are fun). It’s about making your life easier. Maybe it’s adding bins for snacks in the pantry or hooks near the door for jackets and bags. Whatever makes sense for your routines.
The debate of decluttering vs. organizing often comes down to this: you can’t organize clutter. Trying to create systems for things you don’t need is like trying to build a house on a shaky foundation.
Decluttering vs. Organizing: Why You Need Both
Decluttering and organizing go hand in hand. You can’t organize clutter—it’s like trying to stack a pile of Jenga blocks that are already falling apart. On the flip side, if you declutter but don’t organize, you’re left with piles of stuff that still don’t have a place to go.
Think of decluttering and organizing as two parts of the same equation. Decluttering clears the path, and organizing paves it. Together, they create a space that works for you and supports your daily life.
Where to Start
If you’re wondering how to begin, don’t worry—you’re not alone. Tackling a whole house at once can feel overwhelming, but starting small is the key to success. Here’s a simple roadmap to get you going:
Declutter First: Pick one small area—like a drawer, a shelf, or a single countertop. Focus on clearing out what you don’t need or use. Ask yourself:
Do I use this?
Do I love it?
Is it worth the space it takes up?
If you find yourself hesitating, remind yourself of the ultimate goal: a space that feels lighter and works for your daily life.
Organize What’s Left: Once you’ve pared down, group similar items together and assign them a specific home. For example, keep all your office supplies in one drawer, snacks in a designated pantry bin, or jackets on hooks near the door. Organization is all about making your space work for you.
Keep It Up: Life is constantly changing, and so are your needs. Make it a habit to revisit your space regularly. Small, consistent updates will keep things running smoothly without requiring a full overhaul every time.
If you find yourself stuck along the way—maybe unsure of what to let go of, or how to start—don’t stress. My Ultimate Decluttering Checklist is here to help. It’s filled with quick wins and easy tips to keep you motivated, so you can reclaim your time and space one step at a time. Download it now for a little extra guidance and inspiration.
Ditch Perfection
Here’s the truth — your space doesn’t have to be perfect. It just has to work for you. Decluttering and organizing are essential tools to help you create a home that feels good, not one that overwhelms you.
So, the next time you’re tempted to skip decluttering and dive straight into organizing, remember this: less stuff equals less stress. Start small, take your time, and enjoy the process of creating a home you love.