“Just-In-Case” Clutter
If you find yourself keeping lots of things “just in case” it can be a warning sign of clutter causing patterns.
Change that pattern by being intentional about every item in your space and having the courage to acknowledge if there is no longer a good reason to keep something.
How to put Just-In-Case clutter to the test:
1. The ‘Be Specific’ Test
Ask yourself, “Just in case of what?”
Reality Check #1. How likely is that to happen?
2. The Time Test
Ask yourself, “How long am I willing to wait for that to happen?”
Reality check #2. Will you be able to find it if/when you need it?
3. The Consequences Test
Ask yourself, “What is the most likely consequence of decluttering this item?”
Reality Check #3. – Think of some ways you could handle it if you unexpectedly need it again.
Trust Yourself to Handle Future Needs
You are a resourceful, creative human. Think about all the situations you’ve already handled in your life; will you be able to handle the chance that you need that item again? It might be uncomfortable, but it will be manageable.
In the meantime, your home and life will be clearer and calmer without all those “I might need it one day” items. Giving everything in your home a purpose and a place will go a long way towards being clutter free.
At a Glance:
"Just in case" clutter means keeping items without clear purpose
Test each item: What specific scenario? How long will you wait? What are the real consequences?
Trust your resourcefulness—you can handle future needs without holding onto everything
A purposeful, clutter-free home creates a calmer life
Looking for more resources to handle just-in-case clutter?
Free Downloads:
5 Things Creating Clutter – Resource to help you deal with common clutter causes
30 Things You Can Declutter Today – A simple list to get you moving
Related Blog Articles:
Three Things That Will Help You Declutter Your Space - Simple ways to shift clutter by looking at things differently
Understanding Clutter, Disorganisation & Mess – Know what you're dealing with
What's Guiding Your Decluttering: Anxiety, Aspiration, or Authenticity? – Explore what's behind your decisions
In-Depth Guides:
Creating Calm Spaces eBook – Comprehensive guide with organising systems and strategies ($14.95)
Home Systems Workbook – Simple activities to organise routines and reduce chaos ($9.95)
Connect:
A Calm Year - A Newsletter with tips and resources to help you declutter and organise
Need Hands-On Help with Decluttering in Brisbane?
If you'd like support navigating the balance between decluttering and environmental responsibility, learn more about how we can work together.
Not in Brisbane?
Virtual Sessions can provide personalised help wherever you are.
