Whether you’re preparing to sell your home, settling into a new space, or just craving a little order in your life, decluttering is a powerful way to reset. Not only does it make your home look cleaner and more spacious, but it can also reduce stress, improve focus, and help you feel more in control of your surroundings. And the best part? You don’t have to do it all in one day.
Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you get started:
1. Start Small
Pick one room, one area, or even one drawer. Trying to tackle your whole house at once can feel overwhelming, so begin with something manageable. A small win builds momentum.
2. Sort with Purpose: The Four-Box Method
Grab four boxes (or bins) and label them:
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Keep – Items you use regularly and love.
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Donate – Gently used items someone else could benefit from.
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Trash – Broken, expired, or unusable items.
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Store – Seasonal or sentimental items to be packed away neatly.
As you go through your items, force yourself to place everything into one of these categories.
3. Ask the Right Questions
When deciding what to keep, ask yourself:
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Have I used this in the past year?
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Would I buy it again today?
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Does it add value to my life or space?
If the answer is “no” more often than not—it may be time to let go.
4. Organize What Remains
Once you’ve decluttered, organize your remaining items in a way that makes sense. Use baskets, drawer dividers, and clear containers to keep things tidy and visible.
5. Create Decluttering Habits
Decluttering isn’t a one-time event—it’s a habit. Set a monthly reminder to revisit clutter-prone areas like closets, junk drawers, and your garage.
Bonus Tip for Sellers: Less is More
If you’re planning to list your home, remember: buyers want to see the space, not your stuff. A decluttered home feels bigger, cleaner, and more move-in ready.