20 Lies About Clutter We Tell Ourselves

Let’s be honest—clutter isn’t just about the stuff piling up on your countertops or the shoes you trip over on the way to the door. It’s also about the stories we tell ourselves. Sometimes, these are downright lies about clutter.

You know the ones: “I’ll use this someday,” “It was a gift; I can’t let it go,” or “I need to keep this just in case.” These little lies sneak into our heads, convincing us to hold on tighter, buy more, or procrastinate dealing with what’s already there.

In this post, I’m tackling 30 of the most common lies about clutter—those sneaky beliefs that keep your space feeling chaotic and your mind overwhelmed. Some of them might make you nod along, while others might make you pause and think, Wait, do I actually believe that? Spoiler alert: You might. But the good news? Once you spot these lies, you can stop letting them control you. Let's dive in!

#1. Better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it!

Ever found yourself saying that before?

Ah, the classic “just in case” excuse—probably the most persistent lie we tell ourselves about clutter. It sounds so reasonable, right? Keeping things just in case feels like a smart, responsible move. But here’s the thing: most of that stuff? You’re not going to need it. Ever. Meanwhile, it’s living rent-free in your drawers and cabinets, hogging space and quietly judging you every time you open a door.

And let’s be real—clutter isn’t neutral. It doesn’t just sit there. It slowly drives you nuts, turning your space into a daily stress factory. So, does it really make sense to fill your home with things you’ll maybe, possibly, someday need? Spoiler: It doesn’t.

The truth is, keeping all that “just in case” stuff is like carrying around an umbrella on a cloudless day in case of a freak rainstorm—it’s heavy, annoying, and statistically unnecessary. Letting it go might feel risky at first, but trust me, your future self will thank you (and so will your drawers).

#2. Going clutter-free means that I’ll need to get rid of _____________. 

When people think about going clutter-free, there’s often a moment of panic: “Wait, does this mean I have to ditch my art collection?” or “Do I have to say goodbye to sentimental keepsakes?” Nope, not at all! Here’s the deal: if you’re using something or it genuinely brings you joy, it’s not clutter—it’s a keeper.

The goal isn’t to strip your life of everything you love; it’s to clear out the stuff you don’t. Clutter isn’t about what’s meaningful or valuable to you; it’s the things that just sit there, collecting dust and guilt. So, no, getting rid of clutter doesn’t mean living like a minimalist monk. It just means creating space for the things that truly light you up.

#3. It is wasteful to get rid of stuff 

One of the biggest lies about clutter is that it’s wasteful to let go of something that still has value. But let’s think this through: is it really wasteful to give that item to someone who could actually use it? Or to sell it for a little extra cash, even if it’s not the same amount you originally paid?

Now compare that to option three: shoving it in a closet, where it sits forgotten and gathering dust. Meanwhile, you’re paying for the space it takes up—whether it’s a shelf in your house or a box in a storage unit. If you’re devoting valuable space to things you don’t use, isn’t that the real waste?

Holding onto something “just because” doesn’t make it valuable; it just makes it clutter. Letting go, on the other hand, opens up your space and maybe even puts a little money back in your pocket.

#4. I’m not organized enough to be clutter-free

It’s easy to assume that super-organized people—those borderline OCD types with perfectly labeled bins—would crush it at decluttering. But honestly? They often struggle the most. Why? Because they’re so good at organizing that they can stash things away like pros, tucking clutter into perfectly labeled oblivion. Out of sight, out of mind...and definitely out of control.

I’m all about keeping it simple: think in-your-face organization systems that don’t let you hide things in the back corner of a drawer. When you pare down to just the stuff you actually want and need, there’s no need for ninja-level storage skills. Simpler systems, fewer things—it’s a lot harder to lose track of clutter when it’s not lurking behind layers of hyper-organization.

#5. I can’t go clutter-free with kids 

This one really gets me fired up. When I first started decluttering, I was a single mom with two little girls, juggling everything on my own. The idea that “you can’t be clutter-free if you have kids”? It’s just flat-out wrong. I’m living proof you can do it—and honestly, it made my life as a mom so much easier.

At the time, I was dealing with anxiety, depression, and wildly unpredictable energy levels. I needed a space that would support me, especially on those days when I was running on empty. And let me tell you, a cluttered home wasn’t helping—it just added to the stress and chaos.

If anything, feeling overwhelmed is the best reason to declutter. It’s not about perfection; it’s about creating a space that works for you, not against you. Believe me, clearing out the excess made a world of difference.

#6. I’m not a clean freak 

A lot of people assume that being clutter-free means you must also be a clean freak. Let me clear this up: that’s not the case! I used to have a banner that said, “Minimalism. Because I hate to clean,” and honestly, it couldn’t be more accurate. Cleaning is not my favorite activity. Sure, I’ll occasionally get in the mood for a good spring cleaning session, but it’s definitely not something I wake up excited to tackle every day.

The idea that “I’m not a clean freak, so I can’t declutter” is completely backward. If you’re not a fan of cleaning (like me!), getting rid of clutter is actually the best move you can make. Less stuff equals less cleaning—it’s that simple.

If you’ve ever wondered how messiness and minimalism can coexist, check out my post on Messiness and Minimalism.

#7. It’s rude to get rid of gifts 

What if someone shows up and asks to see the giant purple vase they gifted you for your birthday in 2015? First of all, let’s pause and admire how considerate it is to even think about this scenario. But here’s the thing: letting these hypothetical situations dictate what you keep in your home adds unnecessary stress and complexity. At its core, it’s really quite simple: I have this belonging in my home. I’m not going to use it, so I’m not going to let it take up space.

#8. I can’t declutter because I have low energy/I’m sick/I’m elderly 

This is one of those lies about clutter that feels tricky because it’s rooted in valid challenges—medical conditions, disabilities, or low energy are very real factors. But here’s the thing: while these challenges might slow the process, they don’t make it impossible. There’s always something that can be done.

Maybe you find someone looking for extra cash and see if they’ll help you sort and clear for $20. If that’s not an option, you can try “organic decluttering”—a little here, a little there, as your energy allows. It’s not about powering through in one exhausting session; it’s about finding what works for you.

It’s limiting to say, “I just don’t have the energy or time, so I can’t do it.” Instead, flip the script: “How can I make this work?” It might take extra effort or time, but the struggle doesn’t mean defeat. Small steps still count, and they can make a big impact over time. For more tips on managing decluttering with a busy or low-energy lifestyle, check out my post How To Find Time To Declutter (Even If You’re Super Busy And Low Energy).

#9. I’ll always have clutter because I have ADHD 

Distractions are a real struggle, and they can absolutely slow down your progress when it comes to decluttering. But the good news? You can outsmart them by setting yourself up for success.

Think about how to make the process work for you. Maybe it’s using a different system, taking baby steps, or literally shutting yourself in a room with a sign on the door that says, “Don’t leave until this is done!”

ADHD and clutter can be a tough combo, no doubt. But here’s the thing: no life struggle or circumstance should hold so much power that it makes you feel defeated. With the right strategies, progress is still possible—sometimes, it just takes a little creativity and patience to find your rhythm.

#10. Decluttering is only worth it if everybody is on board 

If your significant other is constantly bringing in new stuff and undoing your progress, I get it—it’s beyond frustrating. But here’s the thing: you can still make progress! I’ve talked to so many students who started clearing out their own clutter, and eventually, their spouses followed suit. Sometimes, leading by example works better than trying to convince someone with words alone.

One of the biggest lies about clutter is thinking, “I can’t declutter unless everyone’s on board.” Believing that can become a self-fulfilling prophecy because it stops you from trying new approaches. The truth? There are always ways to make it work, even if your partner isn’t fully on the same page.

I’ve put together an entire strategy for dealing with this situation in my post How To Get Your Partner On Board With Minimalism. If you’re feeling stuck, this guide is packed with ideas to help you move forward without waiting for anyone else to take the first step.

#11. I just don’t have time to declutter. 

Life naturally moves in cycles—sometimes we’re busy, sometimes we have downtime. That’s just how the world works, and it’s totally normal. But when life feels extra hectic, there are still ways to make decluttering happen. For example, you could temporarily hire some help. Maybe there’s a teenager in your neighborhood who babysits but would also love to earn a little extra cash helping you sort through a few boxes.

Another game-changer? Habit tracking. Understanding when you naturally have more free time during the day can help you plan decluttering projects around your energy levels. Even small bursts of effort can add up! Plus, when you clear out clutter, it’s not just about having a tidy space—it’s about creating an environment that energizes and motivates you. Without distractions everywhere, you’ll feel more focused and productive and even save time in the long run.

So instead of asking yourself, “Do I have time to declutter?” flip the question: “Do I have time not to declutter?” For even more tips to speed up the process, check out my post, 10 Ways to Declutter Faster. Your future self will thank you!

#12. I need more storage. 

The belief that “I need more storage” is one of the sneakiest lies about clutter. The truth? You don’t need more storage—you need less stuff.

When you shift your mindset to, “If my storage is bursting at the seams, it’s not a sign that I need more bins or shelves. It’s a sign I need less clutter,” everything starts to click. Suddenly, you see your space differently. Instead of trying to cram more into every nook and cranny, you realize there’s a lot you can let go of—and guess what? You probably don’t need extra storage at all.

It’s not about adding more places to stash your things; it’s about freeing up the space you already have. Once you see it this way, it becomes a lot easier to start clearing out what you don’t need. It’s not your home’s job to expand—it’s your clutter’s job to shrink.

#13. I’m too sentimental to let stuff go 

The classic “I’m too sentimental to let stuff go” excuse is one of those sneaky lies about clutter that can sabotage your space. Don’t get me wrong—there’s nothing wrong with being sentimental! I’m not the most sentimental person when it comes to belongings (I kinda worked my way out of that years ago), but I still keep meaningful items. If you’ve seen my video on decluttering papers, you know I have a memory box filled with letters my daughters have written over the years.

The problem arises when everything starts to feel sentimental. If you over-identify every item as sentimental, then nothing truly is. By assigning meaning to too many things, we end up cluttering our spaces with items that don’t actually hold deep value—and that can make it hard to truly enjoy the items that do matter.

If you struggle with this, my post on How to Get Rid of Sentimental Clutter has plenty of tips to help you let go without feeling like you’re losing something important. Sentiment doesn’t live in the object; it lives in your memories—and you don’t need to keep everything to honor that.

#14. Being clutter-free means that your space has to be cold and boring

For some reason, a lot of people seem to think that clutter equals comfort—but that’s such a misconception. A cozy home isn’t about piles of stuff; it’s about warmth, personality, and the intentional use of space. When you clear out the clutter, you’re not sacrificing comfort—you’re creating it. It’s about making room for what truly matters, not just what takes up space.

#15. Decluttering is always overwhelming and paralyzing

Feeling overwhelmed is hands-down the number one reason people avoid decluttering altogether. It’s that “Where do I even start?” feeling that keeps everything exactly where it is. But here’s the good news: there are so many strategies to make the process manageable and even stress-free.

Start with baby steps—just one drawer, one shelf, or even one item at a time. Or try organic decluttering, where you clear things out as you go about your day without making it a big event. And if you’re looking for a structured plan, my program, Clutter Cure, is designed to walk you through the process step-by-step. It tackles mindsets and emotions and gives you easy, checklist-style approaches to help clear your home without the overwhelm.

Right now, there’s even a discount available when you watch my free workshop. It’s a great way to learn more and get started on creating a clutter-free space that supports your life!

#16. Clutter-free means no joy

Wait, what? People actually say, “If you don’t want anything to make you happy, go clutter-free”? That’s one of the silliest lies about clutter I’ve ever heard!

The whole point of decluttering isn’t to strip your life of joy—it’s to make room for it. By clearing out the stuff you don’t use, don’t love, and don’t even notice anymore, you’re creating space for the things that do make you happy. You’re not constantly tripping over junk or cleaning up things that add zero value to your life. Instead, you’re surrounded by items that truly matter, things that you actually enjoy and use.

Decluttering doesn’t kill joy; it amplifies it by getting rid of the noise and letting the good stuff shine.

#17. I’m too broke to go clutter-free

The idea that “I’m too broke to declutter” is one of those lies about clutter that just doesn’t hold up. If you’re not using something, how does keeping it improve your financial situation? Spoiler: it doesn’t. In fact, decluttering can actually help your finances.

If you’ve got a cluttered home—or even a basement or garage stuffed with boxes—you’re sitting on untapped potential. Selling unused items on platforms like OfferUp or Facebook Marketplace can bring in a nice stream of extra cash. I’ve personally made quite a bit over the years by doing just that!

Not sure where to begin? Check out my post Everything I’ve Learned From Selling My Stuff for actionable tips on turning your clutter into cash. From pricing strategies to creating standout listings, these tips can help you maximize your earnings while clearing your space.

Decluttering isn’t just about freeing up your home—it’s about creating opportunities, both financial and mental. So, why not let go of the excuse and start turning that clutter into cash?

#18. Decluttering isn’t eco-friendly 

The belief that “decluttering isn’t eco-friendly” is one of those lies about clutter that can hold people back, but it’s far from the truth. Sure, some items can’t be donated or recycled and might need to be trashed. But the vast majority of your clutter can find a new purpose—whether that’s being recycled, repurposed, or given to someone who will actually use it.

There are so many ways to declutter responsibly, from donating to local charities to selling online or finding creative recycling options. It’s all about being mindful and intentional about how you let things go.

If you’re looking for specific ideas, check out my post, 27 Ways to Discard Your Stuff Responsibly. It’s packed with actionable tips to help you declutter in a way that’s kind to the planet and your space.

Decluttering can absolutely be eco-friendly—it’s not about waste; it’s about giving items a better, more purposeful life!

#19. You lose a part of yourself when you let things go 

The idea that “You lose a part of yourself when you let things go” is one of those lies about clutter that really taps into our fears. I remember Matt telling me about how, as a kid, he couldn’t even get rid of a nickel because he knew he’d never see that exact nickel again. That attachment to the permanence of letting go can feel overwhelming—like once it’s gone, it’s gone forever, and that feels scary.

But here’s the truth: letting go of an object doesn’t mean you’re losing a part of yourself. You’re not erasing a memory or diminishing your identity. Those things aren’t stored in the stuff—they’re stored in you. The permanence of letting go might seem daunting at first, but it’s actually freeing. It clears the way for more space, clarity, and the things that truly matter.

Your value, your memories, your essence—they’re not tied to the items you own. Letting go isn’t a loss; it’s a step toward creating a space that reflects who you are, not what you’ve held onto.

#20. I have anxiety or depression, which keeps me from creating a clutter-free space 

The belief that “I have anxiety or depression, so I can’t create a clutter-free space” is a common barrier, but it’s also one of the most limiting lies about clutter. I get it—I still deal with anxiety regularly. While depression isn’t something I personally struggle with as much anymore, I deeply understand how it can feel like an immovable obstacle. But here’s the thing: you can work around it.

If this resonates with you, there are strategies to help. Habit tracking is a fantastic tool for identifying when your energy levels are higher and when they dip. Use that knowledge to plan your decluttering sessions for when you’re feeling more capable and prepare for the inevitable low-energy days. For example, set up systems so your space doesn’t completely unravel during those times when anxiety or depression hits hard and you need to rest.

The beauty of a clutter-free space is that it supports you, not the other way around. When you create a home that works with your mental health rather than against it, those tough days become just a little easier.

For more on this, check out my post on Minimalism and Mental Health. It dives into how creating a simpler, more intentional space can help ease the mental load of anxiety or depression so you can focus on what truly matters—taking care of yourself.

Are There Lies About Clutter You Catch Yourself Saying?

Clutter isn’t just about the stuff in your home—it’s about the stories we tell ourselves that keep it around. Whether it’s thinking you need more storage, believing you’re too sentimental, or feeling like your mental health stands in the way, these little lies can hold you back from creating a space that truly supports you.

The good news? Once you recognize these thoughts for what they are—excuses, fears, or outdated beliefs—you can rewrite them. You don’t have to let these lies control your space or your peace of mind.

So, what are the lies about clutter that pop up for you? Maybe it’s the fear of letting go, the idea that clutter equals comfort, or thinking you just don’t have the time. Take a moment to question those beliefs. Are they helping you, or are they keeping you stuck?

When you let go of the lies, you’re not just clearing out stuff—you’re clearing a path to a home and life that feels lighter, freer, and more intentional. So, let’s be honest: what’s one small step you can take today to stop believing the lies and start creating the space you deserve?