In fact, it seems that the more clutter a person has, the more storage crates they own.
I bring a selection of clear plastic crates, partly to be used during the sorting process and sometimes to leave with a client when we need a particular size to organise a shelf or cupboard. However, I rarely have to use them.
At first, I was pleasantly surprised to have so many readily available. They are great for setting up a practical sorting station. Once we start to sort, joy-check and discard, they soon get in the way and become part of the problem not the solution. They take up so much space.
So why do so many people have storage crate collections that could rival the local branch of Wilko’s? Because we are led to believe storage is the answer to managing clutter.
This is what happens:
- Just because you can’t see it, it’s still there. It’s just clutter in a box
- Somehow you don’t get around to sorting and storing as you planned when you bought them, so the crates are now part of the clutter waiting to become useful
- They provide comfort, soon clutter will become a thing of the past
- You don’t want to get rid of them, in case…
- You make a start but life get’s busy and crates are partly filled. Taking up more space than the clutter did pre -storage crates
What’s the solution?
- Don’t buy any more storage, of any kind, until you have completely finished tidying up. Treat yourself to an inspirational visit to Ikea or your favourite storage shop but don’t buy any storage. However wonderful and innovative it is.
- Start with the end in mind. How would you love your home to look and feel? Paint a mental picture. It’ll keep you going.
- Sort by category, not by room.
- If you must start with a room (this way is harder), then sort the room by category i.e. gather all clothes in that room, then books, papers and all the miscellaneous items. Anything sentimental, immediately add to a separate sorting crate. Don’t sort it, just store and sort it at a later date.
- When you have decided what to keep and what to let go, temporarily store using the storage that you have.
- When you have finished tidying and said goodbye to clutter, then you will be able to see if you need more and/or different storage.
The KonMari Method™ really is magical. It takes the guesswork out of decluttering and provides you with a plan step by step.
To learn more, read Spark Joy by Marie Kondo. If you want support, motivation and clear guidance I would love to help. Call me for a free 30 minutes consultation.
“Your home is living space, not storage space.”
Francine Jay
