Handling life’s many responsibilities can feel like a fast-paced round-the-clock job. If that rings true for you, finding time to maintain a clutter-free home may feel daunting. However, a cluttered home environment can also become overwhelming, making it harder to focus and relax.
Decluttering doesn’t just keep our homes tidy—it can also promote mental clarity and reduce stress. This guide offers practical and efficient decluttering tips that make organizing easier and less time-consuming. No matter if your home is full of clothes, kitchen tools, or random items, these tips can help. They will help you create a more organized and functional space which can improve your overall quality of life.
Tip 1: Tackle One Room at a Time
Decluttering can feel impossible if you try to tackle everything at once. Instead, take a room-by-room approach. You might be surprised at how much progress you can make by focusing on one space at a time. It can also prevent you from getting discouraged.
Begin in a room that is easy to manage. This will give you a quick win. Or, focus on the area that needs the most attention. This can lead to big results early on.
Tip 2: Assign a Day to Each Area
Again, the very thought of decluttering your home all at once may quickly dissuade you from pursuing it at all. Instead, try dividing your home into different spaces and creating a manageable schedule. By setting aside time for each area, you can create a focused plan. This way, you won’t feel overwhelmed, and every part of your home will get attention.
For example:
- Monday – Kitchen
- Tuesday – Living Room
- Wednesday – Bedroom
- Thursday – Bathroom
- Friday – Home Office
Sticking to a day-per-area routine will also make the decluttering process more sustainable in the long run. As you continue this practice, each area of your living space will require less attention over time, making maintenance easier.
Tip 3: Set a Decluttering Schedule
Consistency is important for keeping your home organized. Creating a regular decluttering schedule that fits your routine can help. Dedicating 15-20 minutes each day to decluttering can be effective, or you might prefer a larger time slot once a week. Develop a daily, weekly, or monthly plan, depending on your needs.
A consistent schedule will make it easier to stay organized and prevent clutter from taking over your home, saving time in the long run. Your schedule could look something like this:
- Daily – 15 minutes to tidy up key areas (e.g., countertops, sinks, floors).
- Weekly – 1 hour to thoroughly organize one room or area.
- Monthly – Deep decluttering session for spaces that need extra attention.
Tip 4: Categorize for Clarity
One of the simplest ways to bring order to your space is to group similar items. Categorizing will not only streamline your decluttering process but will also make finding what you need much easier. It also shows you how many duplicates you might have.
Start by choosing a category, such as kitchen utensils, shoes, or toiletries, and sort through them. Decide what to keep, what to donate, and what to throw away.
For instance, in the kitchen, you could categorize items by function:
- Cooking Tools – Spatulas, whisks, wooden spoons, tongs, ladles, slotted spoons, kitchen shears, and peelers.
- Baking Supplies – Measuring cups, measuring spoons, baking trays, mixing bowls, rolling pins, cooling racks, pastry brushes, silicone mats, and parchment paper.
- Pantry Essentials – Spices, canned goods, oils and vinegar, sauces and condiments, grains and pasta, nuts and seeds, and shelf-stable dairy.
The same principle applies to your closets. Sort clothes by type (e.g., tops, bottoms, shoes, accessories) to create a clearly organized and visually appealing space.
At first, categorizing may seem time-consuming, but setting up a solid system for long-term organization can pay off. It may also reduce the need to reorganize in the future.
Tip 5: The “One in, One out” Rule
One of the most effective decluttering strategies is the “one in, one out” rule. This rule is straightforward: for every new item you bring into your home, remove an old one. It works well for closets, kitchens, and even household decor.
For example, if you purchase a new jacket, consider donating or selling an old one. Following this simple guideline will prevent overcrowding, maintain balance, and help you consider your purchase more carefully.
Tip 6: Utilize Drop Baskets for Clutter Hotspots
Some areas of the home naturally accumulate more clutter than others. These “clutter hotspots”—often found in entryways, countertops, and living rooms—can quickly make your space feel chaotic. Drop baskets are a simple solution for these trouble spots.
For example:
- Entryway Baskets – Collect mail, keys, sunglasses, hats, gloves, leashes, reusable bags, etc., as soon as you walk in the door.
- Living Room Baskets – Collect remote controls, books and magazines, blankets and throw pillows, toys, and other items that pile up through the week.
When items have a designated “home,” it’s easier to track them down and keep things organized. Designated baskets not only get rid of clutter but also make it easier to tidy up at the end of the day.
Tip 7: Utilize a Storage Unit to Maximize Space
If you have seasonal clothing or other belongings that you don’t need year-round, consider renting a storage unit. For instance, bulky items like winter coats, sporting equipment, or holiday decorations can be stored away safely in a storage unit. This frees up space for items you use more frequently.
Storage.com makes it easy to find storage near you. Simply enter your city, state, or zip code to find storage units across the country.
Additional Decluttering Tips
Immediate Disposal
Whenever you declutter, don’t wait to get rid of unwanted items. If you leave them sitting around, they can quickly pile up. Keep boxes and trash bags on hand as you declutter, setting aside items to donate or toss immediately after sorting.
When isolating items for disposal, organize them as you go so you can easily move them to their final destination.
Create More Storage Space
Use vertical storage solutions to maximize space. For example, wall hooks in your entryway can hold coats and bags, while shelves in the kitchen can store spices and small appliances.
The more you can store vertically, the more floor space you’ll free up, creating a sense of openness throughout your home.
Involve the Whole Family
Decluttering doesn’t have to be a solo task. As the saying goes, it takes a village. Get the entire family involved by delegating age-appropriate tasks, from organizing books and toys to sorting through clothes.
Decluttering as a family makes the process faster. It also helps everyone in your home build good habits.
Create Incentives
To stay motivated, set small goals and reward yourself as you complete each one. Go beyond the intrinsic benefits of decluttering. For example, if you finish decluttering your bedroom, treat yourself to a new set of cozy sheets or your favorite scented candle. Celebrating your progress can help you maintain momentum and make the decluttering process more enjoyable.
Contact a Professional Organizer
If you’re feeling truly overwhelmed, consider enlisting the help of a professional organizer for your decluttering project. These experts can offer valuable guidance, personalized strategies, and hands-on help to tackle even the most cluttered spaces. While hiring a professional does come with a cost, it may be worth it if you need an extra push to get things started.
By following these decluttering tips and strategies, you can create an organized home that’s easier to maintain and more enjoyable to live in. If you’re ready to take your organization to the next level, consider renting a storage unit to free up even more space.
Storage.com makes finding storage easy. Simply enter your zip code, compare options in your area, and reserve.
Decluttering Tips FAQ
Where should I begin if I feel overwhelmed by decluttering?
Develop a plan and start with a small, manageable area like a single drawer or shelf. Taking it step-by-step allows you to build momentum without feeling overwhelmed. Small wins in one space can motivate you to tackle larger areas.
What should I do with items that I no longer need but don’t want to throw away?
For items in good condition, consider donating to local charities or selling through online marketplaces. Many community organizations and shelters welcome gently used clothes, furniture, and household goods.
How can I stop clutter from building up again?
Developing regular habits like the “one in, one out” rule and setting a regular decluttering schedule are key. Taking a few minutes each week to reassess your belongings can prevent unnecessary buildup.
How often should I declutter my home?
This varies based on personal preference, but a quick decluttering session each week and a longer monthly session generally work well. Developing a regular routine will keep your space organized with minimized effort over time.
Is it worth hiring a professional organizer?
In most cases, you can develop a decluttering plan on your own. However, if the project seems unmanageable by yourself, a professional organizer can provide personalized guidance and hands-on help. Many people find the investment worthwhile for both immediate and lasting results.
