The 10 Decluttering Secrets Professional Organizers Swear By (You Won’t Believe #6!)

In the world of minimalism and decluttering, it’s easy to assume professional organizers are ruthlessly purging every item that doesn’t “spark joy.” But the reality is, these experts have a few tricks up their sleeves when it comes to what they keep and what they toss. From unexpected storage hacks to sentimental keepsakes, these are the 10 things professional organizers would never dream of getting rid of – but you might be surprised to find in your own home.

Tech Boxes That Double as Organizers

You might think those bulky tech boxes are just taking up precious space, but professional organizers know better. These sturdy containers are perfect for storing cords, chargers, and other small electronics. Plus, the clear panels allow you to easily identify what’s inside without constant rummaging.

Natalie Green, a certified professional organizer, says, “Those boxes serve a dual purpose – they keep everything contained and they provide a designated home for tech items that would otherwise get lost in a drawer or cabinet.”

The key is to label the boxes clearly and stack them neatly in a closet or under a desk. That way, you can quickly grab what you need without creating clutter.

The “Junk Drawer” That Saves the Rest of the House

While the idea of a “junk drawer” may seem like the antithesis of decluttering, professional organizers know better. This catch-all space is often the secret to keeping the rest of the house tidy.

“Instead of letting random items accumulate in every room, we encourage clients to have one designated ‘junk drawer’ where they can quickly stash those odds and ends,” explains Lisa Woodruff, founder of Organize 365.

The key is to maintain the junk drawer regularly, purging anything that doesn’t belong and keeping it organized with dividers or trays. This way, the rest of your home stays clutter-free.

A Curated Memory Box for Sentimental Keepsakes

It’s no secret that professional organizers encourage decluttering sentimental items. But that doesn’t mean they toss everything in the trash. Instead, they create a carefully curated “memory box” to hold their most cherished keepsakes.

“I always tell my clients, ‘Keep the things that truly matter, but be selective,'” says professional organizer Shira Gill. “That way, you have a special place to preserve your most meaningful memories without letting sentimental clutter take over your home.'”

The memory box might contain old photos, handwritten notes, or other irreplaceable mementos. The key is to limit it to just one box per person or family, forcing you to be intentional about what you keep.

Repurposed Candle Jars and Pots with Lids

While many people automatically toss used candle jars and pots, professional organizers see the hidden potential. These sturdy, lidded containers are perfect for storing small items, from paper clips to hair ties.

“I love finding new uses for those kinds of vessels,” says organization expert Julie Morgenstern. “They’re the perfect size for corralling all those little things that tend to get lost in a drawer.”

Plus, if the containers are visually appealing, they can double as stylish storage on open shelves or countertops.

Multi-Purpose Ottomans and Stools

In the world of minimalist, clutter-free design, professional organizers know that every piece of furniture has to earn its keep. That’s why they’re big fans of storage ottomans, benches, and stools that pull double duty.

“Pieces with hidden storage inside are absolute gold for my clients,” says Cassandra Aarssen, the founder of Clutterbug. “Not only do they provide a place to sit, but they also give you an extra spot to stash things out of sight.”

These multi-purpose furnishings are perfect for storing linens, toys, or other household essentials without taking up valuable floor space.

The Oversized but Indispensable Piece

While professional organizers generally advocate for paring down, they know there are some oversized items that are simply too useful to part with. Whether it’s a deep freezer, an extra-large armchair, or a massive storage cabinet, these pieces earn their keep despite their size.

“Sometimes, the benefits of having that one big, bulky item outweigh the space it takes up,” explains professional organizer Jeni Aron. “As long as it’s being actively used and serving a clear purpose, we’ll find a way to make it work in the layout.”

The key is to position these large items strategically, taking advantage of empty corners or underutilized walls to minimize their visual impact.

The “Maybe” Section in the Closet

While the mantra of “if it doesn’t spark joy, get rid of it” is a common decluttering philosophy, professional organizers know it’s not always that simple. That’s why they often create a “maybe” section in their clients’ closets.

“There are always going to be those items that you’re just not sure about,” says Jen Robin, founder of Life in Jeneral. “Instead of making a hasty decision, we’ll put them in a designated ‘maybe’ area to revisit later. That way, you can be sure you’re not letting go of something you’ll actually miss.”

This temporary holding zone gives clients the freedom to experiment with minimalism without the fear of permanent loss. After a set period, the items that remain untouched can then be donated or sold with confidence.

Trays and Baskets for Corralling Clutter

While the goal of decluttering is to eliminate excess, professional organizers know that some level of daily clutter is inevitable. That’s why they rely on trays, baskets, and other organizational tools to contain the mess.

“Trays and baskets are our secret weapons,” says professional organizer Samantha Pregenzer. “They give us a way to neatly corral all those small, random items that tend to accumulate on countertops or tables.”

The key is to choose containers that complement your decor, so they become an intentional part of the design rather than an eyesore. Arrange them strategically on surfaces to keep clutter contained and your space looking polished.

Children’s Art and Keepsakes, Limited to One Box

It’s no surprise that professional organizers are big advocates of paring down sentimental items. But when it comes to preserving children’s artwork and keepsakes, they have a slightly different approach.

“We always recommend keeping one box per child to store their most meaningful creations and memories,” explains Shira Gill. “That way, you have a curated collection to look back on without letting it take over your entire home.”

The key is to be selective, choosing only the pieces that truly capture your child’s growth and development. Everything else can be photographed and digitally archived, or simply celebrated in the moment before letting it go.

Unexpected Storage Hacks

While professional organizers are experts at maximizing every inch of space, they also know that the most ingenious storage solutions often come from unexpected places. From repurposed wine racks to hanging file organizers, these organizers are masters of finding unique ways to stash away everyday items.

“I’m always on the lookout for unique storage containers and organizational tools that my clients might not have considered,” says professional organizer Lorie Marrero. “It’s about thinking outside the box and getting creative with how you use the space you have.”

Whether it’s hanging baskets on the backs of doors or turning an old bookshelf into a pantry, these expert organizers are never short on clever ideas to keep a home clutter-free.

FAQs

Why do professional organizers keep tech boxes?

Professional organizers keep tech boxes because they provide sturdy, clear containers for storing cords, chargers, and other small electronics. The boxes help keep these items organized and easy to access.

What is the purpose of a “junk drawer” for professional organizers?

A “junk drawer” allows professional organizers to contain random odds and ends in one designated space, rather than letting them accumulate throughout the house. It helps keep the rest of the home clutter-free.

How do professional organizers handle sentimental items?

Professional organizers recommend creating a single, curated “memory box” to store meaningful keepsakes and photos, rather than keeping sentimental items scattered throughout the home.

Why do professional organizers reuse candle jars and pots?

Candle jars and pots with lids make great storage containers for small items like paper clips or hair ties. Professional organizers see the hidden potential in these sturdy, lidded vessels.

How do professional organizers use multi-purpose furniture?

Professional organizers love pieces like storage ottomans and benches that provide both seating and hidden storage space. These multi-purpose furnishings help maximize limited square footage.

Why do professional organizers keep some oversized items?

While professional organizers generally advocate for paring down, they know some oversized but indispensable items, like a deep freezer or large armchair, are worth keeping if they serve a clear purpose.

What is a “maybe” section in a closet?

A “maybe” section is a designated area in a closet where professional organizers temporarily store items the client is unsure about getting rid of. This gives the client time to decide without the fear of permanent loss.

How do professional organizers use trays and baskets?

Trays, baskets, and other containers help professional organizers neatly corral daily clutter on countertops and tables. These organizational tools keep the space looking polished.