BOB: The Bag of Bags Phenomenon—Why We Keep Them and How to Organize Them
If you’ve ever opened a closet, pantry, or cabinet and found an entire collection of bags—reusable grocery bags, paper bags, plastic bags—you might just have a BOB: a Bag of Bags.
My team and I see this all the time when we work with clients. Nearly every home has at least one BOB, and sometimes multiple! But why do we keep so many? And more importantly, how do we declutter and organize the ever-growing pile without letting it take over our space?
Why Do We Save So Many Bags?
“I might need it one day” thinking – Bags are useful! Whether for carrying groceries, packing donations, or lining trash bins, they serve a purpose. The problem is that we accumulate them faster than we use them.
Guilt over waste – Many people feel bad about throwing away reusable bags or sturdy paper ones, so they hold onto them in case they come in handy.
They multiply! – Stores give them out constantly, and we don’t always remember to bring our reusables, leading to an ever-growing collection.
They don’t have a designated home – When bags don’t have a specific place, they get stuffed wherever there’s space, creating the infamous BOB.
How to Declutter and Organize Your BOB
Set a limit – Decide on a reasonable number of each type of bag to keep. A good rule of thumb is 5-10 reusable grocery bags and a small stash of paper/plastic bags.
Create a storage system – Dedicate a bin, drawer, or hanging bag for your collection. Once it overflows, it’s time to pare down.
Donate extras – Many food pantries, thrift stores, and libraries will gladly accept clean reusable bags.
Use them creatively – Line small trash cans, keep a stash in your car, or use them for packing fragile items.
Say no when you can – Be mindful of bringing in new bags. Keep a few reusable ones in your car or purse to avoid unnecessary additions.
The goal isn’t to eliminate all bags—it’s to declutter and organize so you keep only what you need and use. As a professional organizer, I encourage you to take control of your BOB. Next time you encounter one in your home, take a moment to assess, declutter, and organize it. Your space (and sanity) will thank you!
Need Help Managing the Clutter?
If your home feels overwhelmed with bags (or anything else!), Improved Spaces Home Organizing is here to help. Whether it's decluttering, organizing, or creating functional systems, we can get your space in order. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and reclaim your home!
📞 Call or text 860-463-4523 to schedule a complimentary consultation today!
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