How Much Is Enough
If you’ve ever paused mid-project and wondered, “How much money should I be setting aside for organizing supplies?”—you’re not alone. I hear that question often, usually with a mix of hope and hesitation. Bins, baskets, labels… they can feel exciting and overwhelming at the same time. And I love this question, because it opens the door to a much calmer, more thoughtful conversation about what actually helps a home feel organized.
The honest answer is one I give with care: it depends. And that’s not a brush-off—it’s an invitation to slow down and make choices that truly fit you.
Starting With What You Already Have
Before we buy a single bin, I always encourage starting with decluttering. When we gently let go of surplus, something interesting happens: space opens up. Shelves breathe. Drawers relax. And very often, organizing supplies you already own become available again.
Many people who’ve tried to get organized on their own have already invested in bins and baskets over the years. They’re tucked away in closets or stacked in garages, just waiting for the right moment. Decluttering first helps us see what’s available, what still works, and what no longer needs to be part of the system. That approach alone can save money—and reduce frustration.
What Really Makes the Difference
There are organizing supplies that truly help maintain order. The key is choosing them intentionally. Some families thrive with labels everywhere, others find visual simplicity more calming. Some people love a high-end, polished look, while others prefer practical, budget-friendly options. None of those choices are better than the others—they’re just different.
What matters most is understanding your household’s learning styles, organizing styles, and daily rhythms. When systems match how people naturally think and move through a space, they last longer. Supplies stop feeling like clutter themselves and start doing their job quietly in the background.
A Budget That Feels Supportive, Not Stressful
Your organizing budget should make sense for your cash flow, your priorities, and your comfort level. This isn’t about spending more—it’s about spending wisely. Whether you’re drawn to beautiful statement pieces or simple, functional containers, there’s room for it all. Thoughtful organizing is flexible, personal, and always adaptable.
You don’t need to have everything figured out before you begin. That’s part of why having guidance can be so helpful—we look at what you need, what you already own, and what will support you long-term.
Organizing isn’t about buying your way to calm. It’s about creating systems that feel kind, realistic, and sustainable. When your space works for you, even small decisions—like choosing the right basket or skipping one altogether—feel easier. And that ease is where the real transformation lives.
Pinky Jackson is a Decluttering Specialist and Home Organizing Expert. If you need expert organizing help, don't hesitate to reach out. Pinky and her team would love to help you. Onsite Organizing services are available in the Louisville, KY area and Virtual Organizing services are offered for clients in other locations and for those who prefer to work online. Visit pinkyjackson.com to learn about our services and schedule a free assessment.
Photo: Anastasia Shuraeva @anastasia-shuraeva
