Decluttering isn’t just about having a cleaner home—it’s about creating a space that feels lighter, more functional, and stress-free. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed by clutter but don’t know where to start, these five simple strategies will help you regain control and enjoy a more organized home.
1. The One-Year Rule 🗓️
If you haven’t used it in the past year, let it go.
We often hold onto things “just in case” or because we might use them someday. But realistically, if an item has been sitting untouched for a year, chances are you don’t need it.
How to Apply It:
Go through your wardrobe and remove clothes you haven’t worn in a year.
Check kitchen gadgets—if you haven’t used that juicer or sandwich maker in 12 months, donate it!
Apply the same rule to books, beauty products, and old paperwork.
2. The 15-Minute Declutter Sprint ⏳
Decluttering doesn’t have to take all day!
Instead of feeling overwhelmed by the idea of organizing an entire room, break it into short, focused sessions. Set a timer for 15 minutes and declutter one small area at a time.
How to Apply It:
Pick a single drawer, shelf, or section of a room.
Sort items into keep, donate, and trash piles.
Stop when the timer goes off, or keep going if you’re on a roll!
This method makes decluttering feel doable instead of intimidating.
3. The "One In, One Out" Rule 🔄
For every new item you bring in, remove an old one.
Clutter builds up because we accumulate more than we remove. This simple rule keeps things balanced and prevents clutter from creeping back in.
How to Apply It:
Buy a new sweater? Donate one you no longer wear.
Got a new kitchen gadget? Get rid of an old, unused one.
Added a new book to your collection? Pass an old one to a friend or a local library.
By practicing mindful consumption, you prevent clutter from taking over your home again.
4. The "Does This Add Value?" Test 🤔
Ask yourself: Does this item serve a purpose or bring me joy?
If an item doesn’t serve a clear purpose or make you genuinely happy, it’s just taking up space.
How to Apply It:
Hold each item and ask: Would I buy this again today?
If it’s sentimental, ask: Does this memory live in my heart, or do I need this object to remember it?
If it’s an expensive purchase you feel guilty getting rid of, ask: Is it worth the space it’s taking up?
If an item fails the test, it’s time to donate or discard it.
5. Declutter by Category, Not Location 🏡
Instead of decluttering room by room, try sorting by category.
Many people declutter one room at a time, but we often store similar items in different areas. Decluttering by category helps you see what you actually own and makes it easier to downsize.
How to Apply It:
Gather all your clothes from every room and declutter them together.
Do the same with books, kitchen items, beauty products, or paperwork.
Seeing everything in one place prevents you from keeping duplicates and helps you make better decisions.
Final Thoughts
Decluttering doesn’t have to be overwhelming or take weeks to complete. By following these simple strategies—whether it’s setting a timer, questioning what truly adds value, or being mindful of what you bring in—you’ll create a space that feels calm, organized, and truly yours.
Which decluttering tip are you going to try first? Let me know in the comments!
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