Home Organizing Vs. Cleaning
/Home Organizing Vs. Cleaning
When asked, my kids would often tell others that I clean homes for a living.
“But I’m an organizer, not a cleaner”, I would tell them.
“Yeah, same thing.” They’d answer back.
“It’s really not, I help create systems in peoples homes so things have a place - I don’t do the cleaning part”, I’d find myself responding back to them when they’ve long lost interest in the discussion.
The difference between home organizing and cleaning gets blurred all the time. Both create calm, both give you that “ahh” feeling - but they’re not the same thing, and understanding the difference can completely change how your home functions.
Differences between Organizing and Cleaning.
Organizing is about viewing the home in its entirety; improving the flow of a space, analyzing what systems are in place, assessing if those systems are working or if they need improvement.
Cleaning is removing dirt, dust and grime. It makes your home look and feel fresh.
Lisa Munkvold of Complete Clutter Control has a great breakdown of key differences between Professional Organizers and Cleaners.
Should we organize or clean first?
I often get asked if we should be cleaning first, or organizing first?
Short Answer: Organization comes first.
It’s easier to clean when surfaces are clear, otherwise you are just shifting clutter around. While decluttering and organizing, you’re often pulling out items from deep within closets and cupboards. This process brings up dust from those hidden spaces.
Organize first….clean after. Always.
Why do you need to Organize as well as clean?
If you only clean: things will keep getting messy. If you only organize: things may look neat, but not hygienic.
Cleaning and organizing work best combined, not separately. In the end it’s not about perfection - it’s about creating a home that supports you every day.
If you’re in the Durham region or Greater Toronto Area and you’re constantly finding yourself overwhelmed in your home, even with a proper cleaning routine, some home organization may be needed. Reach out to a professional home organizer today.
