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If your home feels cluttered, now is the perfect time to take action and create a cleaner, more spacious living environment. The right decluttering strategies can transform your home from chaotic to organized and comfortable.
Here are 14 practical decluttering and cleaning tips to help you make the most of your space and maintain a tidy home. These strategies will save you time and effort in the long run.
Clear Off All Surfaces
One of the simplest ways to reduce clutter is to clear all flat surfaces, like countertops, tables, and nightstands. Move everything to the floor and only put back what you really need. Store the rest in cabinets, drawers, or bins, and you’ll be amazed by how much neater your space feels.
Practice the One In, One Out Rule
A simple way to prevent clutter from building up is to follow the one-in, one-out rule. Whenever you bring a new item into your home, remove an older one. This approach helps maintain balance and keeps your space from becoming overcrowded.
Remove One Item Per Day
Another low-stress decluttering method is to remove one item per day. Whether it’s an unused piece of clothing or a kitchen gadget, this gradual approach can help you stay consistent without feeling overwhelmed.
Designate a Place for Clutter
To maintain a clean and organized home, designate specific spots for items you don’t need immediately. Instead of spreading clutter across surfaces, create a dedicated cabinet or use a bin for items destined for donation or resale. This keeps things tidy and organized.
Declutter in Stages
Decluttering an entire house in one day can feel like a lot. Breaking it down into smaller, manageable stages lets you work at your own pace and reduces the chance of discarding items too hastily. Start by identifying clutter, making a checklist, and deciding whether to keep or toss each item.
Create a Decluttering Checklist
A checklist can simplify the decluttering process by keeping you on track. Outline your decluttering tasks step-by-step, from the key areas to address to a timeline for when to tackle each part. This makes it easier to see your progress and stay motivated.
Edit Your Decor
Seasonal changes are a great time to reassess and declutter your home decor. If you have an abundance of throw pillows, blankets, or decorative items, consider boxing some up for later use. When the season changes, you can refresh your space by rotating these items.
Sort Items Into Piles
When decluttering, use large laundry bags or containers to separate items into “keep” and “discard” piles. Use smaller bags for items you’re unsure about. Sorting items before putting them away can make the process quicker and more organized.
Use Vertical Storage Solutions
Maximize your home’s space by incorporating vertical storage. Install floating shelves to display decor or hold books you don’t often read. Add hanging bars or hooks in the kitchen for utensils, dish towels, and cutting boards to keep counters clear.
Try the 90/90 Rule
Deciding what to keep can be tough, but the 90/90 rule makes it simpler. If you haven’t used an item in the past 90 days and don’t anticipate using it in the next 90 days, consider letting it go. This rule helps you identify what’s truly essential.
Take Before and After Photos
Seeing your progress is an effective way to stay motivated. Take pictures before and after you declutter an area. When things start to feel cluttered again, these photos can help you identify what needs attention.
Do a 15-Minute Nightly Clean-up
Instead of dedicating hours to decluttering, spend 15 minutes each night tidying up before bed. This simple routine prevents clutter from building up and keeps your home consistently neat.
Choose Multi-functional Furniture
Invest in multi-functional furniture to help organize and declutter your space. Pieces like a daybed that doubles as a couch and storage unit can keep your home clutter-free while serving multiple purposes.
Create a Catch-All Station Near the Door
Small items like keys, purses, and sunglasses can create clutter if not stored properly. Set up a landing station by the door to keep these essentials in one place. A simple bowl or tray can hold keys and other small items, making them easy to find and preventing clutter.
