Ready to transform your living space into a serene sanctuary? Let’s get started! We all know we should declutter our homes at some point, but it’s easy to overlook the clutter that’s accumulated over time. As humans, we tend to take things for granted, including our home. You might be living in a cluttered zone without even realizing it. That’s why I’m inviting you to take a few minutes to step back and reassess your surroundings. Close your eyes and imagine walking into your own home as a visitor would. What do you see? What smells do you notice? How do you feel? Take a moment to really observe the first impression you’d make on others. Are you proud of what you’ve created, or is there room for improvement? This exercise can be eye-opening and help you realize when it’s time to declutter and refresh your space.
How do you know you Need to Declutter your Home?
As you ponder the world of decluttering, you’re likely familiar with the struggles that come with a cluttered space. Perhaps you’ve found yourself consistently searching for misplaced items or feeling anxious about the state of your home. Maybe the thought of hosting friends and family has become daunting due to the overwhelming mess. The once-joyful experience of coming home now feels stifled by the chaos. And, let’s be honest, the lack of space is making it challenging to welcome new additions into your life.
If any of these scenarios resonate with you, rest assured that there is a way out of this cluttered cycle and into a transformed living space – one that can positively impact your entire well-being.
Why you Should Declutter your Home
The striking aspect that caught my attention is the connection between clutter and mental wellbeing. Cluttered spaces are often associated with anxiety and depression. The phrase ‘organized home, organized mind’ resonates profoundly. A mere 10-minute tidy in one’s kitchen can yield an emotional payoff, demonstrating the profound impact of tidiness on our emotional state. Envisioning a decluttered abode evokes feelings of gratitude and good fortune.The concept of mindfulness has been widely touted for its benefits, encouraging individuals to cultivate awareness (refer to mindful.org for further insight). Our minds tend to focus more intently on desirable elements than those we find repulsive. Similarly, the contrast between a cluttered and decluttered home highlights the correlation between tidiness and mindfulness.Moreover, clutter can pose physical hazards, obstructing escape routes and hindering cleaning efforts. In this sense, a tidy home not only fosters mental wellness but also promotes physical safety.
Where to Start Decluttering your Home
Eager to kick-start your journey? It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when there’s a lot on your plate. But the key to overcoming this hurdle is to focus on making small, incremental progress. Remind yourself that every step forward, no matter how seemingly insignificant, brings you closer to your goal. To help you get started, I’ve distilled the process into three simple steps: first, take a moment to plan out your approach; second, identify what’s most important and tackle that first; and finally, celebrate each small victory along the way. By doing so, you’ll build momentum and confidence, making it easier to stay on track.
Step 1: Break it down
You don’t have to tackle decluttering in one marathon session – instead, break it down into manageable chunks that fit your schedule and energy levels. A more effective approach is to focus on completing one room at a time, allowing you to see tangible progress and build momentum for the next task. If a particular room still requires significant attention, further subdivide it into smaller areas, such as a single shelf or section of furniture. Remember that it’s okay if you don’t complete everything as planned – sometimes tasks evolve into more extensive projects than initially anticipated. The key is to celebrate small victories and acknowledge the progress you’ve made, no matter how incremental.
Step 2: Categorise your clutter
To kickstart your decluttering process, I recommend having three boxes ready from the start: ‘Keep’, ‘Put Away’ (for items that are still useful but not immediately needed), and ‘Recycle/Throw Away’. The simplicity of these categories helps streamline your decision-making, making it easier to sort through items quickly. As you work through this process, you may find it beneficial to further categorize items into separate boxes for recycling, rubbish, items to keep in storage, or things that need repair. If you’re willing to have a few extra boxes out at once, you can sort through everything in one go and tackle the task more efficiently.
Step 3: Prepare to be ruthless
While some individuals may find it challenging to part with certain items, it’s essential to strike a balance between sentimental attachment and practicality. As a general guideline, ask yourself two simple questions: do you love the item, and do you need it? If neither answer is yes, consider letting go of the object. Additionally, if an item holds emotional significance but serves no functional purpose, consider capturing the memory through a photo or by writing it down in a memory journal. This approach not only preserves the memory but also frees up physical space. With your mindset and preparation in place, you’re now ready to begin the decluttering process – just be sure to fuel yourself with a big cup of coffee, as I do!
Room by Room Guide to Declutter your Home
While the order of decluttering rooms may vary depending on individual habits and lifestyles, there’s a general sequence that can be followed. The most used rooms should be tackled first, with less frequented spaces coming later. Of course, this approach is flexible to accommodate unique circumstances.To ensure an effective room-by-room process, it’s essential to consider the purpose of each space. As you declutter, take note of any necessary repairs or maintenance tasks, whether immediate or long-term.The rooms that follow are a comprehensive list, with the understanding that not every reader will have all of these spaces in their home. For instance, ballrooms and pool houses aren’t typically found in most residences. Instead, this sequence focuses on more common areas: Bedroom, Kitchen, Home Office, Living Room, Hall/Entranceway, Bathroom, Dining Room, Utility/Laundry Room, and Playroom/Kids Bedroom.
Bedroom
Your sanctuary starts here – the bedroom! On average, you spend about a third of your life within these walls, making it crucial to create a peaceful oasis. The first step is to tackle that mountain of clothes surrounding your bed. Invest in adequate storage solutions that conceal your garments rather than showcasing them like an open rail system. This room is meant to be a retreat from the world, not a clothes shop.Once you’ve achieved the perfect storage setup, put those clothes away and introduce a laundry basket for dirty linens. No one wants to wake up to a sea of dirty laundry staring back at them. Next, it’s time to get ruthless – go through your wardrobe and purge anything that hasn’t seen the light of day in over a year. If you survived the past year without it, you’ll be just fine.As you declutter, adopt a minimalist mindset within the bedroom. This isn’t the space for collecting display pieces or showcasing prized possessions. Your bed is where the magic happens – keep it simple and let the room become your haven.To truly make this sanctuary shine, establish a regular freshening-up routine. Change your bedding every week or fortnight, add some fresh flowers to a vase, and give the room a quick tidy with the vacuum and duster. Believe it or not, a clean and peaceful bedroom can have an astonishingly positive impact on your mental well-being.
Kitchen
In the kitchen, organisation is key. With daily use comes clutter, and without a system in place, it’s easy for your space to become overwhelmed. The solution lies in assigning a designated spot for every item. This means reviewing each cupboard, drawer, and work surface, asking yourself: do I use this regularly? Is it essential for infrequent events? Can I store it out of sight? If the answer is no, consider letting it go – whether that’s by throwing it away, donating it, or attempting to sell it. Uncertainty can be addressed by storing the item in a box and reevaluating its importance over time. If you don’t miss it, it’s likely safe to discard.The struggle to part with Tupperware is a common one. The key is to determine how much you actually need at any given time – not as much as you might think. To minimize storage space, consider investing in stackable containers that can be stored when not in use.When it comes to cupboards and drawers, keep items near where they’ll be used most often (pots near the cooker, for example). This simple approach will help maintain a clutter-free kitchen.It’s also essential to stay on top of dishwashing. To make this task more manageable, try using a ‘start-but-quit’ approach: tell yourself you have to start washing dishes, but give yourself permission to stop after a certain amount of time if you’re still not in the mood. The majority of the time, you’ll find you continue with the task; it’s the initial hurdle that’s often the hardest part.
Home Office
When it comes to working from home, having a well-organized and clutter-free workspace is crucial for productivity. It’s not just about aesthetics; a tidy office can actually boost your creativity and mental clarity. To achieve this, start by removing everything except essential furniture and equipment from the room. This will give you a clean slate to work with. Next, identify the items you use daily and place them in designated spots, not just on your desk. Consider designating specific areas for frequently used items and storing others away when not in use. This will help maintain a sense of order and make it easier to focus. Once your essential items are in place, assess your storage needs and implement the three-bin process for managing paperwork and other miscellaneous items. A reliable filing system is key here – consider investing in a sturdy filing cabinet or repurposing an old one with a fresh coat of paint. The goal is to keep clutter at bay and avoid feeling overwhelmed by piles of paper or disorganized space. Finally, make it a habit to take 5 minutes each day to tidy up your workspace, ensuring you return to a refreshed environment ready to tackle the next task.
Living Room
While not having an all-in-one kitchen/dining/family room space is common, this room can still be designed to balance relaxation and stimulation. A harmonious atmosphere is crucial, so it’s essential to strike a balance between the two extremes.To achieve this, start by decluttering using the three-bin method and then envision how you want the room to function. Will it primarily serve as a TV lounge or a play area for kids? Perhaps it will be used for reading or a combination of all these activities. Whatever your vision, the key is to create a space that adapts to different purposes.Storage is vital in this multi-functional room, especially when you have smaller children. Opt for storage solutions that blend seamlessly with the rest of the décor, such as an ottoman toy box or built-in cupboards for family games and media. Avoid cluttered open shelves by curating a selection of toys, books, and photos that reflect your family’s values.When it comes to electronics like TVs, gaming consoles, DVD players, and cable boxes, conceal them from view using a custom-designed unit or a local carpenter’s bespoke solution. Keep the cables organized using spiral wraps and plug labels to prevent a tangled mess behind the scenes.To maintain the room’s spotlessness, involve your entire family in ongoing decluttering efforts. By working together, everyone will appreciate the space more and be motivated to keep it tidy.
Hall/Entranceway
The entranceway is often overlooked as an integral part of our home’s ambiance. It serves as the initial impression for both ourselves and visitors, making it crucial to curate a welcoming atmosphere from the moment you step inside. A cluttered hallway can quickly become a dumping ground if neglected. After completing your three-bin decluttering task, ensure that every item typically left in the hall is accounted for – think shoes, coats, bags, keys, and mail. Rather than relying solely on the stair banister or side table for storage, establish a consistent routine for managing mail, sticking to it for at least a month to solidify the habit.One of the most significant challenges in maintaining a tidy hallway lies in shoe organization. A dedicated storage space can greatly improve the situation. Designate an area that comfortably accommodates regular wear and reserve bedrooms or under-stairs spaces for less frequently used shoes. The example showcased below provides inspiration for creative shoe storage solutions that would seamlessly integrate into any setting.Coats also pose a problem, as they often appear unsightly but are necessary to be kept in the hall. Consider creating a mini-mudroom with a bench and hooks above, providing additional shoe storage. Alternatively, a coat stand can serve as an attractive and functional solution. A good doormat is vital for preventing dirt from entering your home; coir mats offer a classic option, but feel free to get creative with this aspect. Finally, a reed diffuser can be a lovely touch, ensuring your home always welcomes visitors with a pleasant aroma.
Bathroom
Envision a serene haven within your own home – a spa-like oasis where you can unwind and rejuvenate. Achieving this level of relaxation in your bathroom requires a thoughtful approach to decluttering and organization.
The first step is to purge your bathroom of unnecessary items, eliminating anything that’s empty, outdated, or rarely used. In most cases, only a trash box will be needed here! Once the unwanted items are gone, focus on deep cleaning every surface to create a spotless environment that promotes relaxation and self-care.
Proper storage is also crucial in this space. Whether it’s a vanity unit under your sink, a shelf in the shower, or a cabinet in the corner, make sure you have a designated place for storing your personal care items after use.
One often-overlooked aspect of bathroom organization is the humble trash can. By keeping one nearby, you can quickly dispose of used toilet paper, baby wipes, and empty toiletry bottles, preventing clutter from building up.
Dining Room
I firmly believe that dining rooms are due for a resurgence in popularity – or at least, I wish they were! With the rise of technology and the decline of traditional family bonding time, it’s more important than ever to have designated spaces where we can come together and share a meal. For me, the dining room is the heart of the home, where memories are made and stories are shared.
Utility/Laundry Room
The blessing of having a dedicated utility room in our new home is not lost on us. With only one available in our current setup, we’ve learned to make it count. Avoid falling into the trap of using this space as a catch-all for miscellaneous items that won’t have a designated home elsewhere. Instead, recognize its purpose and keep everything organized within its confines.
A well-organized utility room is all about maximizing storage potential. Make the most of vertical wall space by installing cabinets that reach the ceiling, even if it requires a fold-up step to access them. This thoughtful planning will yield a clutter-free zone where you can store infrequently used kitchen items and pantry staples with ease.
Playroom/Kids Bedroom
While bedrooms can be a challenge when it comes to maintaining a tidy space, it’s essential not to overlook the importance of involving your child in the process. Instead of focusing on what’s ‘wrong’ with their room, try framing it as a collaborative effort. By working together to create routines and systems for organizing toys, clothes, and other belongings, you can help your child develop important life skills like responsibility and decision-making.To get started, begin by setting aside time each day or week to work on decluttering the space together. Start with one area at a time, such as sorting through toys or categorizing clothes. Make it fun by turning it into a game or challenge, and be sure to praise your child for their efforts and decisions.When it comes to deciding what to keep and what to let go of, consider using a ‘one in, one out’ approach – for every new item that comes into the room, an old one must go. This can help maintain a balanced level of possessions and prevent clutter from building up again.Additionally, think about how you can make storage solutions more accessible and user-friendly for your child. For example, consider using baskets or bins with lids to keep toys and other items contained, or investing in stackable shelves that are easy for them to use. By working together to create a system that works for both of you, you can help your child develop the skills they need to maintain their space and develop a sense of pride and ownership.
Keeping Clutter Free after Decluttering
To maintain a spotless home, the key lies in adopting habits that involve small, frequent tasks. By incorporating daily routines and enlisting the help of family members, you’ll be able to consistently manage the little messes that can quickly add up. This approach not only helps keep your home tidy but also fosters a sense of unity among household members. The positive effects of a clutter-free environment on mental well-being are undeniable, making it essential for everyone involved in daily chores to reap these benefits. Ultimately, the effort required is minimal when compared to the lasting impact it can have.
Don’t Stop with the Inside, Declutter the Outside Too
Why stop at just tidying up the inside of your home? Why not extend that sense of accomplishment and pride to the outside as well? A tidy garden can be just as anxiety-reducing as a clean interior, especially if you’re currently staring out at an overgrown mess. In fact, it’s possible to give your outdoor space a quick makeover without breaking a sweat. Whether it’s simply clearing away clutter, mowing the lawn, pruning back unwanted plants, or fixing a fence, taking action can be incredibly empowering. And, who knows, you might just find yourself enjoying the process and discovering new ways to keep your garden looking great. For example, you could start a small project like growing tomatoes, planting an acer tree, or setting up a bird table to attract some feathered friends. Having something specific to focus on can make it easier to stay motivated and tackle other tasks in the process. Ultimately, the key is to find a task that excites you and gives you a sense of purpose. And don’t forget to share your decluttering successes with us – we’d love to hear about them!
