This post may have affiliate links, meaning I may receive commissions if you choose to purchase through links I provide (at no extra cost). As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Read more about these links in my disclosure policy.
Home is supposed to be our peaceful retreat—a place to unwind, make memories, and maybe even enjoy a hot cup of coffee before it turns cold (wishful thinking, right?). But when clutter takes over, that cozy haven feels more like a chaotic storage unit.
Life is busy, and somehow, stuff just multiplies. One day, your countertops are clean, and the next, you wonder how a mountain of random papers, toys, and who-knows-what ended up there. Sound familiar?
If you’re here, you’re probably ready to tackle the mess and bring some order back to your space. This guide will walk you through practical decluttering tips and simple home organization strategies—because a tidy home doesn’t have to be a dream. Let’s take it one step at a time!
Set Your Intentions
Before you begin, ask yourself why you want to declutter. Are you longing for a calmer home? Are you tired of spending countless hours cleaning? Knowing your “why” keeps you motivated when the process feels overwhelming. Write your “why” down and place it where you will see it while decluttering.
Start Small
Decluttering your whole house at once is a recipe for burnout. Instead, start with a tiny area—a drawer, a shelf, or a closet. Small wins create momentum!
Use the Four-Box Method to sort items efficiently:
- Keep — Things you love and use.
- Donate — Items are in good condition and can be used by others.
- Trash — Broken or expired items.
- Relocate — Things that belong somewhere else in your home.
If you are unsure about specific items, create an Undecided Box and revisit it later. You will likely realize you don’t need most of what’s inside!
Interested in learning about other home systems for managing clutter? Read Declutter Your Home with These 8 Must-Have Systems.
What to Do with Your Old Stuff
Now, what do you do with your decluttered belongings?
- Donate — Give gently used clothes, books, and household items to local charities, thrift stores, or shelters.
- Sell — List valuable items on Facebook Marketplace, eBay, or Poshmark. You can make some quick cash this way!
- Recycle — You can often recycle batteries, electronics, and paper.
- Trash – Dispose of anything broken, expired, or beyond repair.
Tip: To eliminate box clutter, make it a habit to take your boxes of donations to the thrift store as quickly as possible.
Hidden Clutter You Might Miss
Some clutter is easy to ignore. Be sure to check these often-overlooked spots:
- Expired makeup and skincare products
- Old receipts and paperwork
- Broken pens and office supplies
- Unused kitchen gadgets
- Instruction manuals for appliances you no longer own
If you want a complete checklist of items to declutter, read Simplify Your Life: 150 Things to Declutter Right Now.
How to Decide What to Keep
Not sure whether to keep or toss an item? Ask yourself:
- Have I used this in the past year? If not, it’s probably time to let it go.
- Does it serve a purpose or bring me joy? If neither, it’s clutter.
- Would I buy this again today? If not, then it’s not adding value to your life.
A great decluttering trick is to flip all your clothing hangers around at the start of a season. Donate it if anything is still turned the wrong way at the end!
Maintaining a Clutter-Free Home
Decluttering isn’t a one-time event—it’s an ongoing process. Keep your home organized with these simple habits:
- One In, One Out Rule — If something new comes in, something old must go.
- Daily Reset — Spend 10 minutes tidying up every evening. As a family, we do a 10-minute reset every afternoon and evening, which helps keep the clutter at bay!
- Everything Has a Home — Assign a designated place for each item.
- Keep Baskets in Living Areas — Place baskets in your main living areas to collect items that must be put away. This keeps your floors clean and makes putting them away at the end of the day easier! You can use what you have already or find baskets at the thrift store. If you need to purchase baskets, these are some of my favorites to keep around the house.
Get Your Family Involved in Decluttering
Decluttering is more manageable when everyone pitches in! Try these family-friendly decluttering tips:
- Make it a game — Set a timer and see who can fill a donation box the fastest.
- Teach kids to value space over stuff — Let them choose what to keep and donate.
- Lead by example — Show your family how a clutter-free home reduces stress and creates a peaceful space.
By making decluttering our home a positive and regular experience, my children have learned to let go of toys and clothing they no longer use. When their rooms become challenging to keep tidy, they help declutter. My older children also enjoy organizing and rearranging their rooms frequently.
Simple Ways to Make Cleaning and Decluttering Fun for Kids
Why Chores Matter: Raising Responsible and Independent Kids
Enjoy the Benefits of a Clutter-Free Home
Decluttering isn’t about getting rid of everything—it’s about creating a home that supports your lifestyle. The less clutter you have, the more time and energy you’ll have for what truly matters. Ready to start? Choose one small area today and take the first step toward a more peaceful, organized home!
Why We Embraced Minimalism as a Family (And How You Can Too!)
