Questions and Answers (Q&A)

Q How long does it take?

• A - Every space is different.  Closets, Pantries, Cabinets and small spaces take about 4 -6  hours. An office space or a full room can take a full day or several days depending on the scope of the project.

Q Should I buy storage bins ahead of my appointment?

• A - No, a lot of people make the mistake of buying bins and forcing the organization into those specific bins.  It’s much more efficient to clean, clear, organize and then decide what is going back into the space before making the investment in proper containers.

Q What if I don’t want to participate in the process?

• A - Generally, we work with the homeowner to organize, but sometimes people like to leave it to us.  That is not a problem, we can handle your organization for you.

Q What about a whole house filled with years of clutter?

• A - A whole house with years of clutter requires a team, dumpster rental(s) and many hours of sorting, donating and discarding items.  This is not in the scope of Midwest Organizing.  Our focus is small spaces and rooms.  

Q How many clothes should I have?

• A - This sounds like a funny question but I have been asked this question a few times.  Here in Wisconsin, we have Spring/Summer & Fall/Winter wardrobes.  I believe if you have a standard closet, you can fit both of those in one closet.  If not, you can store whichever season you aren’t using.  That said, I don’t include coats/boots – just clothing and shoes. Also, I separate my own closet by the following categories: Formal, Long Sleeve/Sweaters/Sweatshirts, Short Sleeve and pants.

Q I’m not sure I can get an organizer right now.  How do you recommend I get started           on my own?  

• A - The 5C process is my best recommendation: 
• Clear (the space)
• Clean (also donate/discard anything you are no longer using)
• Consolidate & Categorize (always put like items together)
• Contain & Reconfigure (find proper containers)
• Complete (labels are the finishing touch and help you to maintain)
• Often, people get a little stuck in the process, especially after clearing out a space.