Is Clutter Quietly Impacting Your Health and Happiness?
Growing up, I watched my mom struggle with clutter. No matter how hard she tried, it always seemed to get the best of her, and over time, she came to live in that overwhelming environment with a sense of sadness. I also began to notice how the clutter weighed on me. Wanting to feel better in my own home, I took on the role of housekeeper by the time I was 12. That experience opened my eyes to the fact that clutter affects people in different ways, but its impact can be harmful for anyone.
Over the years, as a professional organizer, I’ve heard a wide range of client comments. For example, some individuals are deeply disturbed by clutter, while others only begin to address it when faced with severe circumstances, such as the threat of eviction or the breakdown of a relationship. Regardless of their situation, as their personal organizer, I’ve always aimed to support each client in reaching their desired destination.
The Link Between Clutter and Stress
Have you ever wondered if the stuff surrounding you might be bad for your health? For many people, clutter is an unavoidable part of daily life. I’ve heard clients talk about asthma, fatigue, and the constant challenge of managing or even facing their clutter between our sessions. Many clients shared that being surrounded by their clutter makes them feel overwhelmed and stressed.
These stories led me to delve deeper into the connection between clutter and overall wellness, specifically, the neuroscience of clutter and how it can be managed to enhance our quality of life. I also began to notice that the more time I spent in heavily cluttered environments, the more I experienced sneezing, congestion, and sometimes even fatigue. Patterns started to emerge in what my clients shared and what I observed myself. Eventually, I started wearing a mask in particularly cluttered environments, well before COVID made it common. And it made a difference!
A growing body of research has found that cluttered environments can significantly increase stress levels. Studies show that homes filled with excess belongings are often associated with elevated cortisol, the hormone our bodies release in response to stress. In a study of couples with children, women who described their homes as cluttered showed a steady rise in cortisol levels throughout the day.
Similarly, research published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology revealed that people who saw their homes as cluttered were more likely to feel chronically fatigued and report symptoms of depression, both of which are closely linked to heightened cortisol levels. For individuals who struggle with anxiety, living in a cluttered environment—and the resulting rise in cortisol levels—can intensify their symptoms.
The Truth About Household Dust — And Why It Matters More Than You Think
Whether onsite or working as a virtual organizer, my experience revealed another vital connection: where there is clutter, there is dust. Whether it’s stacks of papers, magazines, or clothes, or even a small pile of books left untouched for months or years, dust accumulates. The longer those items sit undisturbed, the more dust accumulates over time. The important thing to know is that dust isn’t just dirt—it often contains ‘forever chemicals’ that can harm your health.
What is Household Dust Really Made Of?
“Most people think dust is gross, but I don’t think people associate dust with the potential health harms it may contain,” says Tasha Stoiber, a senior scientist at the Environmental Working Group. “It might not be people’s number one cleaning priority.” However, since dust is more than just dirt, it ought to be a top priority. Dead skin cells, hair fragments, pet dander, fibers from clothing and furniture, dust mites, mold and fungal spores, microplastic particles, allergens (like pollen), bacteria, and soil particles that enter from the outside are among the many substances that are mixed together in it.
Researchers have identified 45 potentially harmful chemicals in indoor dust, with the highest concentrations found in chemicals that pose potential health concerns. Another study detected 258 different chemicals in household dust.
These substances include pesticides, lead, and organic compounds that can easily break down into harmful gases, as well as substances known as “forever chemicals.” These substances can come from household products, such as cleaning supplies, air fresheners, and paints, as well as glues, carpets, and furniture. Long-term exposure to these chemicals can lead to serious health issues.
“You don’t have to be perfect to feel better. Small steps toward organizing can make a huge impact on your stress, your health, and your life.”
– Denise Sawchuk
Simple Steps to Minimize Clutter and Improve Air Quality
Here are a few additional tips I offer clients to minimize clutter and improve air quality.
- Set aside an hour each week to sort through a small area, such as the top of your nightstand, or a small pile of clothes or papers. The goal is to sort, purge, and organize small sections at a time.
- Schedule time to declutter on your calendar or planner each week
- Be careful not to store items under the bed, as this allows for frequent vacuuming to prevent dust buildup. This goes a long way to having more restful nights.
- Vacuum at least once a week
- Use portable air purifiers with a HEPA filter.
Small Steps, Big Wins: How Virtual Organizing Can Help You Start Today
Some of my clients like to declutter on rainy days. Many clients utilize my virtual services to get started, and they make excellent progress on their own between sessions. Through my virtual services, I’ve seen clients succeed in developing healthier, more organized habits.
Ready to Reclaim Your Space? Let’s Work Together
If this is a struggle for you, consider working with me virtually to create new habits to live a healthier life. I’ve seen excellent results with my virtual clients who never thought they could do it. I would love to partner with you to make this happen!
If you’re interested in making changes that can transform your life, call me at (631) 357-9144 or visit my contact page. I look forward to hearing from you!
Denise Sawchuk
President
Sources:
Earnshaw LMFT, E Clutter, Cortisol and Mental Load. Psychology Today 2024
Travers PhD, M Why Decluttering Can Lead to Increased Brain Power. Psychology Today 2023
Colino ACE-CHC, S Dust isn’t just dirt – it’s full of ‘forever chemicals’ that can harm your health. National Geographic 2025
