Discovering The Container Concept - Via Organizing
- sammi140
- Feb 17
- 3 min read
Updated: Mar 28
When it comes to decluttering and organizing, Dana K White has become a beacon of hope for many. Her approach is refreshingly simple. If you’ve ever found yourself drowning in stuff, holding onto things "just in case," or feeling overwhelmed by gifts you never wanted in the first place, or that no longer serve you well, the container concept might just be your saving grace.

My Journey from Clutter to Clarity
Before discovering Dana (and a couple other people), my home was filled quite full. I kept things for all the wrong reasons—those "what if" scenarios and the sentimental grip of gifts. My space felt cramped, and my mind was a constant whirlwind. I never really considered myself a slob, but cleaning up took ages. It was like I was on a never-ending hamster wheel of tidying up. This was BEFORE kids!
Enter Dana K White and her magic method. You might have heard of her from her website, A Slob Comes Clean, or her YouTube channel, where she shares practical insights and down-to-earth advice. What sets Dana apart is her realness; she gets it because she’s been there too.
The Container Concept
So, what exactly is the container Concept? It’s as straightforward as it sounds. The idea is that you’re not the bad guy for getting rid of things—the container is. Think of a container as any boundary you set: a tote, a shelf, or even a bag. The container decides how much you can keep.
Here’s how it works:
Define Your Space: Look at your available storage areas, whether it’s a bookshelf, a closet, or a drawer. These are your containers.
Fill the Container: Place your favorite items in the container first. These are the things you genuinely love or need.
The Container is Full: Once the container is full, that’s it. Anything that doesn’t fit has to go. The container sets the limit, not you.
This method takes the emotional burden off your shoulders. You’re not being harsh or wasteful; you’re simply adhering to the boundaries set by the container.

Breathing Room for My Home and Mind
Since implementing the container concept, I’ve found room to breathe—literally and figuratively. My home feels more open, and I no longer spend hours sifting through clutter. The clarity in my surroundings has translated to a clearer mind. I can focus on what truly matters, without the constant distraction of too much stuff.
This approach might be a game-changer for you... give it a try. The philosophy isn’t about achieving perfection but finding peace in your space. So, if you’re ready to let the container be the bad guy, try it out. You might just find that a little less stuff leads to a lot more happiness.
Note: Your home is also a container... but remember, it’s not a storage unit, it’s a place to live. Don’t fill it so full you can’t live. Weather that means you feel the need to spend all your time endlessly cleaning, or there is literally no room to move, or you are too embarrassed with your home you don’t invite people over. Does any of this resonate with you? Let the container be the bad guy. Declutter until it feels better.

As always if you need one on one help, check out my website www.viaorganizing.com
There is no shame in hiring a professional.
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