Tired of the same old decluttering tips? Ready to declutter with a twist? From the joyful KonMari method to the no-nonsense Swedish Death Cleaning, there’s a decluttering method for everyone. Discover the most popular decluttering methods, including my unique approach, and find the perfect fit for your lifestyle.
Discover the most popular decluttering methods
Decluttering philosophies
The KonMari Method
The KonMari method suggests decluttering by category, in a specific sequence – from clothes, then books, papers, miscellaneous items, and finally sentimental items. Physically hold each and every of your possessions and ask yourself if it “sparks joy” (according to Marie Kondo, you should feel a little thrill). Discard it if it doesn’t (your body should feel heavier), after thanking it for its service.
The Swedish Death Cleaning
This method encourages decluttering considering who will sort through your stuff after you die. It can sound morbid, but the underlying idea is for those later in life to declutter your belongings while you’re still able to, making it easier for your loved ones after you’re gone. It can be a long and thorough process, but it’s an opportunity to reflect on your life and create a lasting legacy for your loved ones.
The Minimalists’ Packing Party
The Minimalists’ Packing Party consists in inviting some friends over to help you put all your possessions into boxes as if you were moving. Over a predetermined period (usually 3 weeks), remove items from your boxes only as you need them. These are the things that add value to your life. After the period ends, anything remaining in the boxes is likely something you don’t need or use. Donate, sell, or discard it. And because they’re already packed, you’ll find it much easier to part with them.
It’s an extreme method, but that will give you a real insight into what you need versus what you have. Therefore carefully consider seasonal items and important paperwork not immediately needed but that you shouldn’t dispose of.
My Iterative Decluttering Method
My Iterative Decluttering Method is a gentle approach that focuses on gradual progress. Instead of overwhelming yourself with the pressure to discard everything at once, this method encourages you to let go of items only when you’re absolutely certain you won’t regret it. As you build confidence in your decisions, you’ll find it easier to declutter more deeply and appreciate the benefits of a simpler lifestyle. The number of iterations doesn’t matter. What’s important is that you’re consistently learning to make tougher choices and letting go of items that no longer serve you.
While I developed this method for my own needs, it has proven successful for many of my clients who appreciate its balanced approach. Read how I used this approach to declutter my books.
Decluttering challenges
The 12-12-12 Challenge
The 12-12-12 Challenge is a gradual decluttering method that involves throwing away 12 things, donating 12 things, and putting away 12 things, every day, for as long as you can keep going. This approach can be helpful for those who find it overwhelming to declutter all at once as they make significant progress toward a clutter-less environment. You can always increase or decrease this number to accommodate your own needs.
The Minimalists’ 30-Day Decluttering Challenge
The Minimalists’ 30-Day Decluttering Challenge involves getting rid of one thing on the first day of the month. Two things on the second. Three things on the third. So forth and so on. This gradual approach can help you declutter your space without feeling overwhelmed. The longer the game goes, the more challenging it becomes. It’s highly recommended to do it with a family member or a friend to hold yourself accountable.
Need accountability? My Group Accountability Program offers a supportive, non-judgmental, and empowering community to help you achieve your goals, whatever they might be, at your own pace.
The Decluttering Burst
The decluttering burst method is a process where you give yourself a set amount of time to clear out as many things as possible. It can be a good way to get you started and get motivated if you are overwhelmed. I have created my own decluttering burst where for you focus on one area per day for 30 days. You work on that area for about 15 minutes targeting the easy decisions. Have a trash bag for items to throw, a box for items to donate and a box for items to sell. Set your timer for 15 minutes and get rid of as much as you can during that time. Repeat for another 15 minutes if you feel like it.
Related: Decluttering, the quick-and-dirty way
Decluttering methods based on rules
The “One In, One Out” Rule
The “One In, One Out” Rule consists in getting rid of one item for every new item you bring into your home. It forces you to be a more mindful shopper by forcing you to consider whether you need it and if you’re willing to get rid of something else to make room for it. By following this rule, you can prevent clutter from accumulating and keep your space more organised.
The “Touch It Once” Rule
The “Touch It Once” Rule is a decluttering method that encourages you to make an immediate decision and take an immediate action on every item you touch e.g., put it away, throw it away, or donate it. This helps prevent clutter from accumulating while saving yourself time and energy in the long run.
The One-Year Rule
The One-Year Rule is a decluttering guideline that suggests getting rid of any item you haven’t used in the past year. This rule can be a helpful way to identify items that are no longer serving you and prevent you from holding onto items just because you think you might use them someday.
The “Everything in Its Place” Rule
The “Everything in Its Place” Rule is a decluttering method that emphasises organisation and order. It suggests that every item in your home should have a designated place and that you should consistently return items to their proper locations after use. By ensuring each item has its specific place, you can minimise clutter build-up. Also, when the space you’ve allocated to a category of items is full, it’s a clear visual indication that it’s time to declutter it.
Decluttering methods for specific categories
The Reverse Hanger Trick
The Reverse Hanger Trick is a visual decluttering technique that helps identify unused clothes in your closet. It involves hanging your clothes with the hangers facing the opposite direction. As you wear an item, hang it back with the hanger facing the original direction. After a certain period, items with hangers still facing the opposite direction are likely unused. Once you’ve identified unused items, decide what to do with them, e.g., donate, sell, or discard.
The Seasonal Declutter
The “Seasonal Declutter” is a technique that involves storing away your belongings based on the current season. This can be particularly helpful for items that are only used during specific times of the year, or items you have a large quantity of e.g., clothes, handbags, toys. As seasons change or at regular intervals, swap out seasonal items to make room for the new season’s belongings. By removing unused items from your daily view, you can create a less cluttered and more peaceful environment.
Remember, the best decluttering method for you will depend on your personal preferences, lifestyle and level of overwhelm at the idea of tackling your clutter. Experiment with different techniques to find what works best for you and your family. Feel free to share your experience in the comments section below.
Feeling overwhelmed or uncomfortable at the idea of decluttering? Reach out! I provide structure, accountability and emotional support to make your journey lighter.
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