Professional organizers can help you turn your untidy spaces into organized, functional areas that foster productivity and peace of mind. Professionals create storage solutions, offer strategies for maintaining organization, and lend insight into how to let go of nonessential items. Read more about professional organizers below, including how much their services cost, what to expect during the organization process, and tips on whether you need a professional in the first place.
What Do Professional Organizers Do?
Professional organizers are skilled specialists who help homeowners and businesses regulate physical spaces and daily routines. They implement systems and strategies that can help you to maintain organization long-term.
A professional organizer’s primary goal is to help clients achieve function, order, and clarity in their spaces. They work to organize clothing, gadgets, personal documents, office files, and many more items. They also help with the tasks below.
- Creating efficient storage solutions
- Decluttering and organizing specific areas of your home
- Developing personalized organizational systems
- Offering strategies for maintaining organization
- Providing guidance on letting go of unnecessary items
Types of Organizing Services Offered
Professional organizers offer various services to meet different needs. Some common types of organizing services include the following:
- Home office organization
- Digital organization (files, photos, emails)
- Move management and unpacking services
- Residential organizing (kitchens, closets, garages)
- Time management and productivity consulting
Pros and Cons of Hiring a Professional Organizer
Personal organizers can be extremely helpful for certain clients, but their services aren’t right for everyone. Below are some advantages and disadvantages of hiring a personal organizer.
Pros
Below are some key benefits of hiring a professional organizer:
- More functional living and working spaces
- Improved time management and organizational skills
- Personalized solutions tailored to your specific needs
- Reduced stress and anxiety associated with clutter
Cons:
Below are some disadvantages associated with hiring a professional organizer:
- Decluttering and reorganizing can be emotionally taxing.
- Professional organizing can be expensive.
- Sustaining the organization requires ongoing effort.
- The discomfort associated with someone working in your personal space
How To Determine if You Need a Professional Organizer
Everyone can benefit from improved organization, but some people need more help than others. Below are some signs that you might need a professional’s help.
Signs Your Home Needs Professional Organization
Consider hiring a professional organizer if you experience any of the following issues:
- It’s difficult for you to find important items.
- You feel overwhelmed by clutter in multiple areas of your home.
- You experience stress or embarrassment about the state of your space.
- You struggle to remain organized despite repeated attempts.
- You’re preparing for a major life change, such as moving or downsizing.
If you struggle to maintain order, or if organizing tasks feel overwhelming, hire a professional organizer to provide the expertise you need to create lasting changes.
Cost Considerations of a Professional Organizer
The cost of hiring a professional organizer can vary widely depending on several factors such as project size and complexity.
Typical Pricing Structures
Professional organizers may charge by the hour or the task. Below are some average prices you can expect.
- Hourly rates range from $55–$100* per hour
- Flat fees for specific projects can range from $150 for a closet to $5,000* for an entire house
- Package deals may offer savings on bundled services
*Cost data in this article sourced from Angi.
Some organizers may offer a free initial consultation, while others may charge for this service. Be sure to discuss pricing structures during your initial conversation.
Factors Affecting Cost
The factors below will influence the cost of professional organizing services:
- Additional services required, such as shopping for storage solutions
- Follow-up sessions or maintenance plans
- Location and local market rates
- Size and complexity of the project
- The organizer’s experience and credentials
How To Choose the Right Professional Organizer
Finding the right organizer is important to the success of your project. The person you hire must employ methods and techniques that align with your personal preferences and goals. Below are some tips on which qualifications and skills you should look for in a potential organizer.
Qualifications and Certifications
Formal training isn’t always necessary, but many reputable organizers have credentials from recognized organizations within the field. These certifications indicate a commitment to professional standards and ongoing education in the field. Look for the following certifications and credentials:
- National Association of Productivity and Organizing Professionals
- Board Certified Professional Organizer
- Institute for Challenging Disorganization
Questions To Ask Potential Organizers
Make sure to ask the following questions when you’re interviewing potential organizers:
- Can you provide before-and-after photos of past projects?
- Do you offer any guarantees or follow-up services?
- How do you handle sentimental items or clients who have difficulty letting go?
- What are your rates and payment policies?
- What is your approach to organizing, and how do you tailor it to individual clients?
Working With a Professional Organizer
Working with a professional organizer involves several stages such as initial assessment, implementation, and follow-up. Read more about the process below.
Initial Consultation and Assessment
The organization process starts with a thorough consultation during which a professional will assess your space and objectives. The organizer will measure and photograph the spaces you wish to enhance, and start to devise a plan about how to handle certain obstacles.
Creating an Organizing Plan
Based on the initial assessment, the organizer will develop a customized plan for your space. This may include recommendations for storage solutions, decluttering strategies, and organizational systems that are tailored to your lifestyle and preferences.
Implementation and Follow-Up
Once you approve the suggested plan, the organizer will work with you to implement the proposed solutions. This may involve decluttering, arranging items, and setting up new storage systems. Once the initial project is complete, consider booking a follow-up session so that you and the organizer can determine whether the suggested strategies are working or make any necessary adjustments.
What To Expect During the Organizing Process
After the organizer sets an initial plan in place, you’ll collaborate to sort, declutter, and organize your possessions. This should result in a more functional and efficient space. Below is a summary of what to expect when you start the organization process.
Timeline for Completion
The time it takes to complete an organizing project can vary. A single room might take a day or two, while organizing an entire home might take several weeks or even months. Your organizer should provide you with a realistic timeline based on your specific needs and goals.
Your Role in the Organizing Process
A professional organizer will spearhead your project, but your involvement determines whether you’ll have long-term success. Be prepared to do the following:
- Commit to maintaining the organized spaces after the project is complete
- Learn and implement new organizational systems
- Make decisions about what to keep, donate, or discard
- Provide input on your preferences and lifestyle needs
Tips for Maintaining an Organized Space
Follow the tips below to properly maintain your newly organized spaces:
- Address small messes immediately to prevent clutter buildup
- Be especially discerning about new purchases and their impacts on your space
- Follow the systems your organizer puts in place
- Regularly declutter and reassess your belongings
- Schedule periodic maintenance sessions with your organizer
Organizational Tools and Plans
Be proactive about staying organized by doing the following:
- Educate family members or housemates about your new organizing systems
- Implement a daily or weekly tidying routine to maintain order
- Invest in quality storage solutions such as bins, baskets, and shelves
- Use labeling systems to keep items in their designated spots