Clutter. It creeps up on us, doesn’t it?
One day your home feels like a sanctuary, the next you’re tripping over a pile of mail, wondering how on earth you accumulated so many half-burnt candles and why that ‘quirky’ vase you bought in 2003 is still taking pride of place on your bookshelf.
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the slow invasion of stuff, you’re not alone—and according to professional organiser and social media sensation Tanner, there are three hidden culprits behind the chaos.
Let’s take a closer look at these sneaky sources of clutter, and—more importantly—how to banish them for good.
1. Visual clutter: The silent stressor
First up, Tanner points to ‘visual clutter’—those everyday items that seem to multiply on every available surface.
Think: stacked mail, tangled chargers, half-used candles, hair ties, and the odd pair of reading glasses you can never find when you need them.
These are the bits and bobs we set down as we go about our day, but as they accumulate, they create a sense of disorder that’s hard to ignore.
Why does this matter? As Tanner explains, ‘Your brain registers everything you see as visual clutter, even if you’re trying to ignore it.’
That means every time you walk past that crowded bench or overstuffed bookshelf, your stress levels get a little nudge upwards.
How to tackle it
Start small. Pick one surface—maybe your kitchen bench or bedside table—and clear it off.
Keep only what’s functional or beautiful, and toss anything that’s just taking up space. You’ll be amazed at how much lighter your home (and your mind) feels.
2. Outdated décor: When nostalgia becomes nuisance
Next on the list: home décor you don’t even like anymore.
We’re talking wall art that’s lost its charm, throw pillows that have seen better days, or that ‘on-trend’ piece you bought on a whim but now can’t remember why.
These items might have once sparked joy, but if they’re now gathering dust, they’re just adding to the clutter.
Many of us hold onto these things out of guilt—it feels wasteful to get rid of something that’s still ‘perfectly good’.
But as Tanner wisely points out, ‘One man’s junk is another man’s treasure.’
Donating or selling these items gives them a new lease on life, and frees up space for things that truly reflect your current style and needs.
How to tackle it
Walk through your home with fresh eyes. If you wouldn’t buy that vase, cushion, or print today, it might be time to let it go.
Remember, your home should reflect who you are now, not who you were a decade ago.
3. Junk drawers and catch-all spaces: Out of sight, not out of mind
Finally, there’s the hidden clutter—the infamous junk drawer, the spare room that’s become a laundry graveyard, or the chair in the corner that’s more clothes rack than seat.
These ‘catch-all’ spaces might be out of sight, but they’re never truly out of mind. As Tanner says, ‘Even hidden messes create mental weight, and at the end of the day, you know that it’s there.’
How to tackle it
Don’t try to declutter the whole house in one go—that’s a recipe for overwhelm.
Instead, pick one small area (the kitchen junk drawer, the bottom of your wardrobe, or that one shelf in the linen cupboard) and set a timer for 10 minutes.
You’ll be surprised how much you can achieve in a short burst, and small wins add up over time.
Why clutter matters more than you think
It’s not just about aesthetics. Research shows that clutter can increase stress, reduce productivity, and even impact your sleep.
Video Credit: @britneetannerhome / TikTok
While clutter is a common challenge in many households, understanding its hidden sources can make a significant difference.
Whether it’s visual build-up, outdated décor, or catch-all spaces, small, manageable steps may help bring more order and ease to your living environment.
Remember, a clutter-free home isn’t about perfection—it’s about creating a space that feels comfortable, welcoming, and truly yours. Happy decluttering!
Have you noticed any of these clutter culprits in your own home? What small changes have made a big impact for you? Do you find visual clutter affects your mood or focus? We’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences—feel free to share them in the comments below.
Also read: Are these 15 clutter culprits secretly taking over your home? Ditch them ASAP!
