A simple guide on how to start decluttering your home
Decluttering, once viewed as a once-a-year chore, has evolved into a popular lifestyle movement that promotes clarity, functionality, and emotional well-being.
In today’s fast-paced world, where consumerism is everywhere, from YouTube, TikTok, to Facebook, almost all social media platforms, this often leads to cluttered living spaces.
This has seen more people seek simplicity and peace at home.
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Decluttering, once viewed as a once-a-year chore, has evolved into a popular lifestyle movement that promotes clarity, functionality, and emotional well-being.
Whether inspired by minimalist trends or the viral success of tidying experts, many homeowners are now turning to decluttering as a way to reclaim their space and reduce stress.
If you are feeling overwhelmed by a mess but unsure where to begin, this simple guide can help you start the journey to a cleaner, more organised home, one step at a time.
Step 1: Set a clear intention
Decluttering starts with purpose. Ask yourself why you want to declutter: Are you downsizing? Do you want to reduce stress? Are you preparing for a move?
Defining your motivation will help you stay focused and make tough decisions easier.
“The goal isn’t to just have less stuff,” says home organisation coach Leah Martin to Real Simple during a previous interview.
“It’s to create a space that reflects what matters most to you.”
Step 2: Start small
It is easy to get overwhelmed by the idea of tackling your whole house.
However, experts suggest narrowing it down. Choose the room you want to declutter first.
From there, choose a corner or the section of the room you would like to declutter.
You can choose to start with one drawer, shelf, or surface. This allows you to build momentum and confidence.
Next, set a timer for 15–30 minutes, and focus only on that space. As you progress, you can gradually take on larger zones like closets or storage rooms.
Step 3: Sort with purpose
Use the classic four-box method: Keep, Donate, Recycle, and Trash.
As you go through each item, be honest. Ask yourself: Have I used this in the last year?
Do I love it or need it? Is this item adding value to my life? If the answer is no, it is time to let it go.
Step 4: Create systems that stick
Decluttering is not just about removing things; it is about maintaining order.
Once you have pared down, organise your belongings with systems that are simple to use and easy to maintain. This could mean trying to use clear bins for pantry goods, labelling boxes in storage areas.
Adopting a “one in, one out” rule for clothing also helps, in that when you buy one cloth, you have to declutter another one.
These small adjustments can prevent clutter from creeping back in.
Step 5: Embrace a mindful mindset
Many find that decluttering has emotional benefits beyond a tidy room. Letting go of unnecessary items can feel like letting go of old burdens or past identities.
“Decluttering is as much a mental process as a physical one,” says therapist and wellness writer Alex Chen to Real Simple.
“You begin to realise how little you truly need to feel content.”
Practising mindfulness during decluttering, pausing to reflect, expressing gratitude for what you own, and making intentional choices can make the process more meaningful and less stressful.
Decluttering is not about perfection or achieving an Instagram-worthy space overnight.
It is about doing your homework for you. So be patient with yourself, celebrate small wins, and remember: every cleared surface is a step toward peace of mind.
In fact, you can always declutter and give those clothes to mali mali vendors for a good laundry basket and all.
Gently used items like clothes, utensils, and furniture can also be donated to local children’s homes, church outreach programs, or community centres.
Decluttering does not have to be a solo mission; get your whole family involved, including the children, to make it fun and teach them good habits.
You do not have to finish everything in one day, so start small, even just one drawer or shelf at a time, and you will begin to feel the change.
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