The Negative Effects of Clutter

In this digital age of limitless information at our fingertips, we’re constantly surrounded by magazine-style imagery that sparks a desire for a beautifully organized home. While we can’t all achieve Pinterest-worthy perfection, we do tend to see these dreamy spaces and think, “I want that!” It’s important to have realistic expectations, but did you know that your desire for a clutter-free space is rooted in science? Keep reading to discover the negative effects of clutter and what you can do to prevent it from happening.

Our lives are busier and more cluttered than ever, and clutter is taking a toll. On a daily basis, we may think our extra stuff is just an annoyance, but on a larger scale, the negative effects of clutter are increasing our stress and anxiety, creating unhealthy habits, and limiting our potential.

When it comes to clutter and its impacts, it’s not one-size-fits-all. Some people need every single surface clear in order to think, while others may work better with a little bit of “stuff” around them. Either way, studies show that if you feel cluttered, the effects of clutter on the mind and body definitely show up in your physical and mental well-being.

Types of Clutter and Their Effects

When we discuss clutter, we often describe physical clutter around us. Too many kitchen appliances, the clothing we never wear, stepping on LEGOs in your kids’ playroom (ouch!), or overflowing garages are all examples. However, we often forget about mental clutter, which seems to be on the rise.

Information overload is a real thing, especially now with the rise of social media, weekly Zoom meetings, binging tv shows, and distance learning. While our trusty devices save us in many ways, the daily influx of information overwhelms us. With full schedules, long to-do lists, and poor time management, our minds have become as cluttered as our homes.

The negative effects of clutter (both physical and mental) impact our daily lives.

Effects of Clutter on the Mind and Body

When our minds feel overloaded and stressed, clutter affects our physical and mental health. Let’s take a look at the negative effects of clutter and the complications it creates in your life, and then we’ll discuss what you can do to solve those problems.

Distraction Caused by Clutter

When we’re surrounded by disorder, our minds struggle to focus. This is especially true when we’re using the internet and find ourselves down the rabbit hole of information. But it happens in our physical space too. You might be organizing one area, pick up an item to put away elsewhere, and soon find yourself doing a completely different task. The effects of clutter on focus are real.

Lowered Productivity from Clutter

When distraction grows, focus disappears. And when focus disappears, productivity decreases. Do you find yourself with multiple projects going at once? Or do you ever feel like you start so many tasks but never cross them off your to-do list? That is a common symptom of distraction and clutter. The negative effects of clutter directly reduce productivity.

Clutter, Stress, and Anxiety

Countless studies show that individuals who identify clutter as a stressor experience increased levels of cortisol, a stress hormone that impacts metabolism and immune response. Women who consider their homes disorganized report even higher cortisol levels, which increases their stress as well. Higher cortisol levels link directly to weight gain, slow healing, high blood pressure, and other negative health outcomes. These findings show how strong the connection is between clutter and stress.

Effects of Clutter on the Immune System

When clutter raises stress, the body struggles to fight off infection. High cortisol levels stay in the body, and the body adapts by increasing inflammation. The bottom line: clutter causes stress, and stress weakens the immune system.

Clutter and Unhealthy Eating Habits

Clutter often leads to excess snacking on unhealthy foods. Stress and distraction make it harder to choose healthy options. Instead, eliminate clutter so you can enjoy those treats with intention and reduce the negative effects of clutter on health.

Solutions to Clutter

Don’t fret! I know this all sounds overwhelming, but there’s a solution if you feel like you’re living in chaos. I work with people all the time who feel better after learning organizational skills, and you can too.

• Start Small: maybe clean out one drawer in the kitchen or the surface of your desk. Once you see progress, you can build momentum to tackle larger projects.
• Keep It Simple: don’t overthink things.
• Stay Focused: it’s easy to get distracted, but that will derail your progress, so stay on task.
• Consistency: like any good habit, it’s all about maintaining consistent practice. Once you get going, don’t stop.
• A Place for Everything: this is a cliché for a reason. If you designate a space for something, then you have somewhere to put it when you’re finished using it.

If you want to know more, check out my tips for 4 Basic Steps to Organize Any Space!

And if you’re still struggling, contact me to discuss your situation. I would love to help you conquer your clutter and avoid the negative effects of clutter in your home and life.

Stephanie