Whether you’ve been in your home for just a year or several decades, it’s likely that clutter has accumulated. While it’s easy to gather stuff—especially with children around—getting rid of it can feel daunting. If you’re unsure where to begin, you’ll find it’s not as complicated as it seems. You don’t need an entire day to tackle the mess; even a spare 10 minutes can significantly clear off your coffee table or another small area. Here’s a guide to decluttering your home, including those notorious kids’ toys.
Implement the Basket Method
Start your decluttering journey by grabbing five baskets (or bags, boxes, etc.) and label them: “Put Away,” “Recycle,” “Fix/Mend,” “Trash,” and “Donate.” This system allows you to quickly sort through items and place them in their designated category. Consider tackling one room at a time to avoid mixing items from different areas, which can lead to chaos.
Work in Short Intervals
No one wants to devote an entire weekend to decluttering (unless you’re really ambitious!). Instead, focus on short, manageable sessions. Use pockets of time, like during TV commercial breaks or while waiting for food to cook in the microwave. Even a few minutes can make a difference! If you find it hard to stay focused, try the Pomodoro technique: work for 25 minutes, then take a short break. This method is effective and helps keep you motivated.
Break down your decluttering into smaller tasks. Rather than trying to tackle an entire room at once, focus on one closet or drawer at a time. Before long, you’ll have cleared out an entire chest of drawers or a whole room. If you’re preparing to move or sell your home, you’ll need to pick up the pace, but maintaining a steady rhythm will prevent you from feeling overwhelmed.
Pinpoint Clutter Hot Spots
Every home has areas that attract clutter. Take a moment to walk through your space and identify these zones—perhaps it’s the playroom or your teenager’s bedroom. By recognizing these spots, you can consciously avoid dropping items there. This also gives you a clear starting point for your decluttering efforts, especially if you’re pressed for time. If you’re tackling a child’s room, involve them in the process to instill good organizational habits early on.
Declutter Daily
Committing to remove one item each day may seem small, but over a year, that adds up to 365 items leaving your home. This simple practice can lead to a significant reduction in clutter, whether you choose to donate, give away, or toss items.
Apply the 80/20 Rule
Research suggests that we typically use only 20% of our belongings 80% of the time. Keep this in mind as you sort through your possessions. If you come across items you rarely use or don’t truly need, consider letting them go. A good rule of thumb is to part with any clothing you haven’t worn in the past year—except for special occasion outfits or cherished items.
Seek Outside Perspective
Sometimes we become blind to our own clutter. Invite a friend or family member over to help identify areas that need attention. They can offer a fresh perspective and motivate you to let go of things you no longer need.
Capture Before and After Photos
For extra motivation, take a photo of a cluttered area in your home—like a messy counter. Once you’ve tidied up that space, snap another picture. Comparing the two can be a great reminder of how good it feels to have a clean area. The next time clutter threatens to pile up, look back at those photos to reignite your drive to keep things organized.
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Summary
Decluttering your home doesn’t have to be an overwhelming task. By utilizing simple systems like the basket method, organizing in short bursts, and focusing on specific areas, you can effectively clear your space. Incorporating daily decluttering habits and seeking support can also enhance your efforts. With these strategies, you’ll enjoy a more organized and serene living environment.