Is Clutter Taking Over Your Home?—Here Is What to Do About It

Does it seem like your home is always cluttered, no matter how much you tidy up? If so, you’re not alone—clutter is a problem that plagues many homeowners. Not only is clutter unsightly, but it can also be stressful and make it difficult to find what you need when you need it.

Fortunately, there are some telltale signs that clutter has taken over your home. Once you’re aware of the problem, you can take steps to declutter your space and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with living in a tidy home. Read on to learn six signs that clutter has taken over your home—and what to do about them.

1. You’re Constantly Moving Clutter Around Instead of Decluttering It

Do you find yourself moving piles of clutter from one spot to another instead of putting them in the trash or donation bin? If so, it’s time to stop the cycle and get rid of the clutter for good. Go through each pile and ask yourself whether you really need each item. If not, toss it!

2. You Have More Storage Bins Than You Know What to Do With

Do you have so many storage bins that they’re starting to take over your living space? If you’re using storage bins as a way to hide clutter instead of getting rid of it, it’s time for a change. Get rid of the excess storage bins and use them as an opportunity to declutter your home once and for all.

3. There’s Too Much Clutter in the Garage

A cluttered garage is a sign that your home is overrun by stuff. If you can’t park your car in the garage because it’s full of boxes, holiday decorations, and other miscellaneous items, it’s time for a serious decluttering session. Schedule some time on your calendar and commit to getting rid of anything in the garage that you don’t use on a regular basis.

4. You Don’t Use Your Dining Room Table Anymore

If your dining room table has become a catch-all for bills, paperwork, and other junk mail, it’s time to get rid of the clutter. Commit to using your dining room table solely for eating meals and entertaining guests—not for storing clutter.

5. Your Closets Are overflowing

An overflowing closet is another sign that your home is full of stuff you don’t need or use anymore. Take some time to go through your clothes and get rid of anything that doesn’t fit or that you haven’t worn in months (or years!). Then, organize what’s left so that everything has a place and your closet isn’t crammed full anymore.

6. You Can Never Find What You Need

Do you spend more time looking for things than actually using them? If so, chances are good that your home is too cluttered. A good rule of thumb is that if you can’t find something within 30 seconds, chances are good that you don’t need it. Get rid of anything that falls into this category and streamline your belongings so that everything has a designated spot.

By following these tips, you can declutter your home and enjoy the peace of mind (and extra space !) that comes with living in a tidy house.