Why Your Storage Spaces Might Not Stay Organized (And How to Fix It)

If you’re finding it hard to keep an area organized—especially a storage space like a garage or basement—you are absolutely not alone. Often, the real issue isn't your effort—it's that the space isn’t set up to support your goals yet.

You might need to install better shelving—or maybe you already have shelves, but they’re not the right type for what you actually need. Or perhaps you’re relying on storage containers that don’t work well for the space or the items you’re trying to organize.

This situation happens all the time when setting up or reorganizing a storage system. People often grab oversized bins thinking they’ll solve everything. But here’s the reality: those huge bins often don't fit on standard shelving. And if you end up stacking them too high, you’ll eventually need to unstack everything just to access one item buried at the bottom.

It’s not efficient.
It’s not safe.
And frankly, it’s too much work for most people to maintain long-term.

Tall stacks of heavy bins can topple over, risking injury or damage. Even if they stay standing, the weight stress can cause lower bins to crack or collapse, ruining your inventory and creating even more disorganization.

That’s why in professional organizing, we emphasize the importance of matching your storage system to both:

◈ the space available, and

◈ the type of inventory you’re storing.

Before you invest in new shelving units or storage solutions, take a moment to strategically plan:

◈ What will be stored?

◈ How often will you need to access it?

◈ What shelf heights and container sizes make the most sense?

There are many types of shelving available, from adjustable metal units to wall-mounted options, and even custom modular systems. Sometimes, just a simple refresh of how you’re using your space can make it feel more functional and sustainably organized.

And here’s an insider tip:
You’re not limited to only using one storage room. You can strategically distribute items throughout your home to make organization more natural and manageable.

When your storage spaces are set up intentionally, staying organized becomes easier, more sustainable, and much more rewarding.

If you need expert organizing help, don't hesitate to reach out. Visit pinkyjackson.com to schedule a free assessment. We would love to help you with our Onsite Organizing services if you are in the Louisville, KY area or our Virtual Organizing services if you are more remote or prefer to work online.

Pinky Jackson is an Organizing Expert and Decluttering Specialist. She and her team organize homes & small businesses in Louisville, KY. For more information about Pinky’s pricing & services or to schedule your free assessment, go topinkyjackson.com

Photo: Arteum.ro @arteum