Clutter can quickly take over your home, making spaces feel smaller and less functional. Whether you’re a new homeowner or looking to refresh your space, decluttering is the first step toward a more organized and stress-free home. This guide will help you tackle clutter effectively by knowing where to start and deciding what to toss.

 

1. Start with a Clear Plan

Before diving into decluttering, set clear goals for what you want to accomplish:

• Focus on one room or area at a time.
• Decide on a timeline to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
• Gather supplies like trash bags, donation boxes, and cleaning products.

For a detailed checklist, visit The Spruce Decluttering Tips.

 

2. Begin with High-Impact Areas

Declutter spaces that make the most noticeable difference first:

• Entryway: Clear out shoes, coats, and mail to create a welcoming space.
• Kitchen Countertops: Remove appliances or items you don’t use daily.
• Living Room: Sort through magazines, books, and decor to create a cleaner look.

For entryway organization solutions, check out The Container Store.

 

3. Follow the “Four-Box Method”

Use four boxes to sort items as you go:

1. Keep: Items you use regularly or truly love.
2. Donate: Gently used items that can benefit others.
3. Trash: Broken or unusable items.
4. Relocate: Things that belong in a different area of your home.

 

4. What to Toss: A Quick Guide

Here’s a list of common items that often contribute to clutter and can be tossed or donated:

• Expired food and spices from the pantry.
• Unused or duplicate kitchen gadgets.
• Outdated electronics and chargers.
• Clothes that no longer fit or are out of style.
• Old paperwork or magazines you no longer need.

Recycle electronics through Best Buy’s Recycling Program and donate clothes to Goodwill.

 

5. Create Simple Decluttering Habits

Once you’ve decluttered, prevent future messes by adopting these habits:

• One-In, One-Out Rule: For every new item you bring home, remove one.
• Daily 10-Minute Tidy-Up: Spend just 10 minutes a day putting things back in their place.
• Seasonal Decluttering: Reassess your belongings at the start of each season.

 

6. Use Smart Storage Solutions

Decluttering is easier when everything has a designated space. Consider these storage ideas:

• Under-Bed Storage: Use bins or bags to store off-season clothes or extra bedding.
• Drawer Dividers: Keep small items organized and easy to find.
• Wall Shelving: Maximize vertical space for books, decor, or storage baskets.

Find affordable storage solutions at IKEA or The Container Store.

 

7. Donate or Sell Items

Decluttering doesn’t mean everything has to go to waste. Here’s how to give your items a second life:

• Donate: Give gently used items to local charities or shelters.
• Sell: Use platforms like Facebook Marketplace or eBay to sell valuable items.

 

8. Reward Yourself

Celebrate your progress with a small reward after each decluttering session. It could be a relaxing evening, new decor for your space, or a meal out.

 

Save While You Declutter

Use cashback apps like Fluz to save money on storage products from retailers like Target, Amazon, and The Container Store. It’s an easy way to make your decluttering process more budget-friendly.