A Step-by-Step Guide to Decluttering Your Home

Most people do not enjoy decluttering! It can feel overwhelming, daunting and let’s face it – when things pile up, it is easy to find something else to do and put off decluttering.

I would like to share with you a step-by-step approach and some practical tips so that you can transform your space into a peaceful and calm space. Here's a guide to help you tackle clutter and reduce stress:

Step 1: Set Clear Goals

Visualize how you want your home to look: Envision how you want your home to look and feel after decluttering. Visualize the space you want to create – serene, functional, and clutter-free.

Decide on priority areas/categories: Identify which areas of your home need the most attention and that bother you the most. Start with small, manageable spaces like a small closet or junk drawer before moving on to larger areas. I recommend choosing a category that you would like to declutter – clothes, shoes, tools, electronics, kitchen pots, kitchen utensils, and mail….

Step 2: Gather Supplies

Boxes, bins, trash bags: Use these to sort items into categories like keep, donate, recycle, or trash.

Labels and Markers: Clearly label your boxes or bins to keep track of what goes where. I like using Sharpies, and Post-Its, or for trash bags use painter’s tape for labels.

Cleaning Supplies: Having cleaning products on hand to wipe down surfaces as you declutter is super helpful. If you are already pulling out everything to declutter, it’s a good idea to clean before you put back your items and organize them.

Step 3: Declutter Category by Category

Start Small: Begin with one category or even a single subcategory. An example would be when organizing your bathroom. The category would be your bathroom but a subcategory would be dental, makeup, creams, or hair. Breaking down the task into smaller chunks makes it more manageable.

Decluttering Criteria: Ask yourself if each item serves a purpose or brings you joy. If not, it might be time to let it go. I’m not a big believer of getting rid of everything but I do believe that you should keep what you need and love.

Sort and Categorize Methodically: Work methodically through the space, placing items into the appropriate categories. You can do this by laying categories out on the floor or any flat service. If you are dealing with liquids or dusty items, you may want to put a garbage back or sheet down as you sort.

Be Ruthless but Kind: Be honest with yourself about what you truly need and use. If you haven't used something in over a year, it doesn’t mean you won’t use it again but really think if it is an item you love and that you want to hold on to. Be kind to yourself if certain items hold sentimental value.

Step 4: Organize and Store

Storage Solutions: Once you have decluttered, consider Investing in storage bins, baskets, shelves, and organizers to help keep things tidy. You may be able to reuse bins that you already have. I always recommend that loose items be binned, especially if you will be storing these items up high in your closet or in other harder-to-reach spaces. It is easy to stack and label bins so when you do need access to it, you can easily find and pull the bin.

Assign Designated Areas in Your Home: Designate specific places for items based on the frequency of use and accessibility.

Maximize Space: Utilize vertical space with shelves or stacking bins. Consider using hooks, risers, stackable bins, under-bed storage, or overhead racks to maximize space.

Label Everything: Clearly label storage containers to easily find what you need later. Things should be placed and organized intuitively, so labels are not always necessary. I do like labeling toys, pantry items, storage items, and different types of tools/housewares.

Step 5: Maintain the Momentum

Daily Habits: Incorporate small decluttering habits into your daily routine to prevent clutter from piling up again. It’s so important to maintain the organization and think about what you are bringing into your decluttered and organized space. Try to check your mail right by a recycling bin – don’t bring any main you don’t need. Try not to accept free promotional gifts. Ultimately, try to have the general rule of only bringing things in that you love and need.

Regular Check-ins: Schedule regular decluttering sessions to reassess your belongings and keep a clutter-free home.

One In, One Out: Adopt a "one in, one out" rule for new items to prevent accumulation. You can also try a 1 in and 2 out rule!

Step 6: Celebrate Your Progress

Acknowledge Achievements: Take a moment to appreciate how far you've come and the positive changes you've made to your living space. Be proud of yourself, this is not an easy task!

Reward Yourself: Treat yourself to something enjoyable (a fun experience, a good meal, a fun activity) as a reward for your hard work and commitment to decluttering.

Final Thoughts

Decluttering your home is not just about creating a tidy space; it's about creating a place where you can feel relaxed, calm, and at peace. By following these steps and staying focused on your goals, you can achieve a clutter-free home that brings you peace and joy. Step by step you’ll get to a clutter-free home!