When it comes to how we store our stuff, there are 2 main styles of organising… or ways of shoving things away lol.

If you’re someone who likes to keep surfaces clear and things tucked away, you’d come under the ‘hider’ approach.  Hiders feel at ease when everything that’s not regarded as decorative or currently being used is out of sight.  A disorganised hider is likely to find the nearest cupboard, drawer or box to quickly pop things away with no rhythm or reason.

If, on the other hand, you feel calmer and in control when your items are visible and within reach, then you are more of a ‘seeker’.   Disorganised seekers are likely to have more out than is needed, with piles of current and past items mingled together in piles.

You could find you relate to both concepts, depending on the space.  For example you could be a ‘hider’ at work and a ‘seeker’ at home.  Or you could be a ‘hider’ in the kitchen and a ‘seeker’ in the craft room.

Recognising your style can make a huge difference in creating spaces that work for you—and even help explain why organising can sometimes feel challenging.

Imagine a scale, and at one end are the hiders, who prefer minimal visual distractions, and at the other are the seekers, who are reassured by having items in view. The tipping point on that scale can shift! If you’ve ever wondered why you used to stay organised but now can’t keep on top of things, it could be that you’ve reached a tipping point and found yourself crossing the scale towards the opposite end.  A change in workload, a move, or even a busy stressful season can move us from one end of the spectrum to the other.

Curious to find out where you land?

Let’s break it down, with tips for each style to help you create a space that feels right.

For ‘Hider’ organisers

This is for those of you who need clear surfaces, minimal visual distractions and feel most comfortable when items that aren’t actively in use are tucked away.

Storage tips for ‘hiders’:

1. Furniture: as the name ‘hider’ suggests, choose storage pieces with doors, like cupboards and cabinets to keep things out of sight and hidden. Closed storage is key.
2. Containers: use opaque or solid-coloured bins, boxes, and file organisers to keep like-minded items neatly stored within cabinets and furniture.
3. Often used items: within your cupboards or drawers, set designated spots or trays for frequently used items, like a specific bin for bathroom essentials under the sink or a  drawer near the front door for everything you need when leaving home.  This way, you can keep items concealed yet easy to retrieve.

For hiders, closed storage helps maintain calm, clear spaces that support focus and relaxation.

For ‘Seeker organisers

For those of you who are most at ease when items are visible and like the reassurance of seeing what you need. Having a place for everything that’s visible helps prevent clutter from piling up.

Storage Tips for ‘seekers’:

1. Furniture: cube systems, open shelving, hutch systems help keep items tidy and accessible without cluttering up surfaces like desks and kitchen counters.
2. Containers: use clear bins and organisers, especially for frequently accessed items. They’re tidy but allow you to quickly see what’s inside.
3. Wall space: wall-mounted organisers or bulletin board for tasks and reminders helps keep important items or notes within view without cluttering counters.

Try to keep only the essentials visible, and use closed, labeled storage for things you don’t need every day.

Blending styles for shared spaces

At my live talks, I often ask who lives with someone who is the polar opposite when it comes to how to store stuff, and hands shoot up every time! If you’re living with someone who has the opposite organising style, a little compromise can make things easier for both of you.

• Designate individual spaces: Allow each person to organise their own areas as they wish. Ask yourself if you need to let go of trying to help anyone organise to your preferences if they’re not on board and instead focus on your own space and shared spaces.

• Split Responsibilities: For shared spaces like the kitchen, discuss who handles what.  for instance, you might have one person in charge of cooking and another responsible for cleanup. Chat about what system will make the area easier for both of you to maintain.
• Don’t forget to label: Regardless of your style, labelling containers is helpful. For seekers, labels on closed containers can reassure them that items won’t be forgotten, while hiders appreciate the organisation without visible clutter..

Finding your balance

Whether you’re a ‘hider’ or a ‘seeker’, or somewhere in between, creating spaces to fit your natural organising style will make it easier to keep your space tidy and functional. Embrace what works best for you!

Don’t delay, start today

Sara