Organising your home might seem like a simple task—buy a few bins, label some shelves, and call it a day. But without proper planning and structure, most DIY organising efforts don’t last. In fact, they often lead to more frustration, wasted time, and clutter rebound. This is where a home organising expert can make all the difference by guiding you through the process strategically.
At Mise en Place by Anita Birges, the focus isn’t just on making your home look tidy—but on building systems that are functional, long-lasting, and aligned with how you live. Without expert guidance, it’s easy to fall into common traps that undermine your organising goals.
Here are five mistakes to watch out for if you’re going it alone.
1. Buying Storage Before Decluttering
FAQ: Isn’t it smart to stock up on bins and baskets first?
Explanation:
It’s one of the most common (and costly) mistakes. People rush to buy storage without knowing what they actually need to store. This leads to mismatched containers, wasted money, and overcomplicated systems.
A home organising expert recommends decluttering first, then identifying what’s left to organise. This ensures you buy only what fits your space, needs, and aesthetic.
2. Organising Without a Clear Plan
FAQ: Can’t I just dive in and tidy as I go?
Explanation:
Organising without a plan often results in a surface-level cleanup. You move things around, make it look better temporarily—but the root problems remain.
A professional organiser begins with a systematic plan:
- Which rooms to tackle first
- What categories to work through
- How to create flow and function in your home
This structured approach prevents burnout and guarantees real, lasting transformation.
3. Holding Onto “Just in Case” Items
FAQ: What if I need it someday? Shouldn’t I keep it just in case?
Explanation:
The “just in case” mentality leads to unnecessary clutter. It creates a home filled with unused items that take up space and energy.
A home organising expert gently helps you evaluate:
- How often you’ve used it in the past
- Whether it serves your current lifestyle
- If it’s worth the space it occupies
With their guidance, you’ll keep what’s useful, meaningful, and relevant—letting go of guilt-based clutter.
4. Ignoring Maintenance Systems
FAQ: Once I organise a room, won’t it stay that way?
Explanation:
Not necessarily. Without systems in place, even the most beautifully organised room can fall apart in weeks. The key is easy-to-maintain solutions that fit your daily routine.
An expert doesn’t just tidy—they:
- Create sustainable systems
- Label clearly
- Design intuitive zones for your household
- Provide tips for ongoing upkeep
The result? A home that stays tidy, not just looks tidy for a day.
5. Trying to Do It All at Once
FAQ: Should I block out a weekend and do the whole house?
Explanation:
While the idea of a weekend organising blitz sounds productive, it often leads to exhaustion and unfinished projects. Organising is a process, not a sprint.
A home organising expert breaks the journey into manageable steps:
- One room (or even one drawer) at a time
- Building momentum slowly
- Making thoughtful, pressure-free decisions
This prevents overwhelm and makes change sustainable.
Final Thoughts
Organising your home is more than a weekend project—it’s a mindset shift. Avoiding common mistakes can save you time, energy, and frustration. With the expert guidance of a home organising expert, you can create spaces that truly support your lifestyle instead of constantly draining your energy.
If you’re ready to stop guessing and start organising with intention, Mise en Place by Anita Birges is here to help you avoid the pitfalls and build a home that’s not just neat—but purposefully designed to work for you.
