Hongkongers link clutter to stress and lower life satisfaction: survey

The report finds clutter was also linked to anxiety and reduced productivity.

Over half of Hongkongers said they experience psychological distress when faced with cluttered home environments.

In its survey, self-storage provider Storefriendly said 56.9% of respondents reported feeling stressed, and 49.8% said they feel depressed when entering a cluttered space.

Beyond stress and depression, clutter was also linked to anxiety and reduced productivity, with many participants indicating that a lack of storage at home negatively impacts their daily lives.

Notably, 88.3% said they find it difficult to store things at home, and an overwhelming 96.2% believe that having more storage space would improve their quality of life.

On the other hand, nearly 75% of those surveyed said they keep unused items because they might need them someday, whilst 65.5% cited sentimental value as a reason for holding on.

Despite this, usage of professional self-storage remains low. Just 23.5% of respondents have used such services, with 71.4% saying they haven’t and 5.1% unfamiliar with the concept altogether.

When considering external storage, convenience and accessibility ranked as top priorities. Respondents highlighted 24/7 access and proximity as key features of an ideal solution. 

Additionally, 57% said they would be more inclined to choose a storage facility that offered value-added services, such as free Wi-Fi and event or working spaces.