The Ultimate Guide to Home Decluttering: How to Create a Clean, Organized Space

Decluttering your home isn’t just about making it look nice—it’s about reducing stress, improving functionality, and even increasing your home’s value. Whether you’re preparing to sell or simply want a more organized, peaceful living space, a structured approach to decluttering can make the process easier and more effective.

This ultimate guide will walk you through every step, from setting a decluttering plan to maintaining a clutter-free home long-term.

1. Start with a Plan

Decluttering can feel overwhelming, but having a structured plan in place helps keep you focused, motivated, and efficient. Instead of aimlessly going through your belongings, follow a step-by-step approach that breaks the process down into manageable tasks. Here’s how to create a plan that works:

Set a Realistic Timeline

Decluttering isn’t a one-day project—it’s a process. Trying to tackle everything at once can lead to burnout and frustration. Instead:

• Set a schedule that fits your lifestyle. Whether you dedicate a full weekend or commit

to 15-30 minutes a day, find a rhythm that keeps you progressing.

• Use a calendar or checklist. Breaking decluttering into daily or weekly tasks makes the process feel less overwhelming.

• Set deadlines. If you’re decluttering for a home sale, establish clear deadlines for each phase—sorting, donating, and deep cleaning—so you stay on track.

Gather Your Tools

Having the right tools on hand will make decluttering smoother and more efficient. Prepare:

• Sorting bins or boxes labeled Keep, Donate, Trash, and Sell to streamline decision- making.

• A “Maybe” box for sentimental items—revisit it after a month to see if you still feel the same way.

• Trash bags for immediate disposal of non-salvageable items.

• Cleaning supplies to wipe down shelves, drawers, and surfaces as you go.

Start Small for Quick Wins

Rather than diving into the most cluttered space first, start with something manageable, like:

• A junk drawer

• A single shelf or cabinet

• A nightstand or small closet

These quick wins build momentum and boost confidence to tackle larger areas.

Use Decluttering Guidelines

To make decisions easier, apply these simple rules:

• The One-Year Rule – If you haven’t used or worn something in the past year, let it go.

• The 20/20 Rule – If an item costs less than $20 and can be replaced in under 20 minutes, you probably don’t need to keep it.

• The 80/20 Rule – You use 20% of your belongings 80% of the time—so declutter the excess that rarely gets used.

Define Your Decluttering Goals

Knowing why you’re decluttering can help you stay motivated and make smarter decisions. Are you:

• Creating a peaceful, stress-free environment?

• Preparing to sell your home?

• Wanting a minimalist lifestyle?

Keep your goal top of mind as you work, and remind yourself of the benefits of a clutter-free home.

2. Decluttering Room by Room

Each area of your home has different decluttering challenges. Here’s a targeted approach to tackle them efficiently:

Living Room

• Remove excess decor and knick-knacks—keep only items that contribute to a cohesive aesthetic.

• Organize cords and remotes with baskets or cord management systems.

• Declutter books, magazines, and media collections—donate or sell what you no longer need.

• Limit throw pillows and blankets to a reasonable number to maintain a tidy look.

Kitchen

• Store small appliances you rarely use to free up counter space.

• Toss expired pantry and fridge items and organize food into categories.

• Donate duplicate utensils, mismatched Tupperware, and old cookware.

• Use drawer dividers and shelf organizers to make cabinets more functional.

Bedroom

• Sort through your closet and donate or sell clothes you haven’t worn in the past year.

• Keep nightstands and dressers clutter-free by storing only essentials.

• Use under-bed storage for seasonal clothing or extra bedding.

• Organize jewelry, accessories, and shoes in designated containers.

Bathroom

• Dispose of expired medications, skincare products, and old makeup.

• Use drawer organizers to neatly arrange toiletries.

• Keep only fresh, good-condition towels—donate or repurpose old ones.

• Install shelves or storage baskets to keep daily essentials easily accessible.

Home Office

• Sort through paperwork—shred old documents and file what you need.

• Digitize paperwork to reduce paper clutter.

• Declutter office supplies—keep only what you use regularly.

• Keep the desk surface as clear as possible for a productive workspace.

Garage & Storage Areas

• Group similar items (e.g., tools, holiday decorations, sports equipment) in labeled bins.

• Get rid of broken or unused items—if it’s been untouched for years, let it go.

• Install shelving and pegboards to maximize storage space.

• Dispose of hazardous materials like old paint or batteries properly.

3. Adopt a Decluttering Mindset

Decluttering isn’t just a one-time project—it’s a shift in how you think about your space and belongings. To maintain a clutter-free home, adopt these mindset shifts and habits:

Reframe Your Relationship with “Stuff”

Many people hold onto items out of guilt, sentimentality, or a “just in case” mentality. Try these strategies to let go:

• Memories are in experiences, not objects. If an item has sentimental value but no longer serves a purpose, take a photo of it and donate it to someone who can use it.

• Let go of “someday” thinking. If you haven’t used something in years, the odds of needing it are slim.

• Embrace the idea of enough. You don’t need 10 coffee mugs if you only use 2. Owning less means less to clean, organize, and stress over.

Make Decluttering a Habit

Instead of decluttering once a year, build small habits into your routine to prevent clutter from creeping back in:

• Follow the “One In, One Out” Rule – Every time you bring in a new item, remove an old one.

• Create a “Donation Station” – Keep a box in your home for items to donate. Once it’s full, drop it off at a local charity.

• Practice the 5-Minute Rule – Before bed, take five minutes to tidy up surfaces, put things back where they belong, and reset your space.

• Do a Monthly Declutter Check-In – Set aside time once a month to assess any problem areas and clear out unnecessary items.

Be Intentional When Shopping

One of the biggest ways to prevent clutter is to stop bringing excess into your home in the first place. Before making a purchase, ask yourself:

• Do I truly need this, or do I just want it?

• Do I have space for it?

• Will it add value to my life, or will it become another thing to manage?

Mindful shopping habits ensure your home stays organized and free of unnecessary clutter.

4. Selling, Donating, and Recycling Unwanted Items

Decluttering doesn’t mean waste—there are plenty of ways to responsibly get rid of items you no longer need.

• Sell – List valuable items on Facebook Marketplace, eBay, Poshmark, or hold a garage sale.

• Donate – Consider donating to local shelters, charities, or thrift stores. Many organizations offer pickup services for larger items.

• Recycle – Properly dispose of old electronics, batteries, and worn-out textiles through recycling programs.

5. Decluttering Before Selling Your Home

If you’re planning to list your home, decluttering is essential for attracting buyers. A clutter-free home looks bigger, cleaner, and more inviting.

• Depersonalize – Remove family photos, personal collections, and overly unique decor so buyers can visualize themselves in the space.

• Minimize Furniture – Overcrowded rooms feel smaller. Consider putting excess furniture in storage.

• Organize Closets & Cabinets – Buyers will open them! Well-organized storage spaces make your home appear more spacious and well-maintained.

• Deep Clean After Decluttering – Once clutter is gone, do a deep clean to make your home feel fresh and move-in ready.

Final Thoughts

Decluttering isn’t just about aesthetics—it creates a more peaceful and functional home. Whether you’re doing a full refresh or preparing to sell, taking it step by step makes the process manageable and rewarding.

Thinking about selling? A clutter-free home sells faster and for more money. Let’s chat—I’d love to help you get your home market-ready! ClickHERE to connect!