15 Decluttering Tips I Wish I Knew Sooner

Once you begin clearing things out, it builds momentum. You stop overthinking every item and start trusting your gut. Decluttering isn’t a perfect science…it just has to move you forward. Every small step makes your home feel lighter and your mind a little clearer. Here are fifteen tips I wish I had from the start that would’ve saved me a lot of time and frustration.

Start With the Easy Stuff

Don’t begin with sentimental items or big projects. Start with things you don’t care much about—like junk mail, old receipts, or expired pantry items. You’ll build momentum faster and see progress without getting stuck in decision overload. Once you get used to letting go, it becomes easier to handle the harder stuff.

Set a Timer

Instead of planning a full-day decluttering marathon, try setting a timer for 15 or 20 minutes. You’ll be surprised how much you can get done in a short burst. It keeps things manageable and helps you stay focused without burnout. Plus, it’s easier to squeeze into your daily routine.

Stop Saving Things “Just in Case”

It’s tempting to hold on to broken chargers, random cords, or clothes that no longer fit—just in case. But most of the time, those items sit around collecting dust. If you haven’t used it in a year and it’s easy to replace, it’s probably safe to let go. Trust that you’ll be fine without it.

Use a Donation Box All the Time

Keep a box or bin somewhere in your house for donations. As soon as you come across something you don’t use, toss it in. When the box is full, drop it off. Having a spot ready to go makes it easier to stay on top of clutter without waiting for a big cleanout day.

Ditch the Guilt Gifts

We all get gifts we don’t love. But keeping something just because you feel guilty isn’t doing anyone any favors. If it’s not useful, meaningful, or something you genuinely enjoy, let it go. The person who gave it to you wouldn’t want it to become clutter in your home.

Don’t Organize Before You Declutter

Buying bins and labels feels productive, but it can actually get in the way. Declutter first—only then will you know what you really need to organize. Otherwise, you’re just shuffling stuff around and spending money on storage you might not even need.

Be Honest About “Someday” Items

That project you were going to finish two years ago? The jeans you’ve been saving for when they fit again? Be honest with yourself. If something’s been sitting untouched for a long time, there’s a good chance it’s not going to happen. Letting go doesn’t mean you’ve failed—it means you’re moving forward.

Declutter by Category, Not Just by Room

Sometimes it helps to gather all similar items in one place—like books, kitchen tools, or cleaning supplies. You’ll get a clearer picture of how much you really have. It’s easier to spot duplicates and decide what stays when everything’s laid out together.

Take Before and After Photos

Seeing your progress makes a huge difference. Snap a quick photo before you start and another when you’re done. It’ll remind you how far you’ve come and help you stay motivated. Plus, it makes all your effort feel more real and rewarding.

Use the One-In, One-Out Rule

Every time you bring something new into your home, let something else go. Bought a new pair of shoes? Donate an old pair. This simple rule keeps clutter from sneaking back in and helps you be more intentional about what you buy.

Set Clear Boundaries

Give yourself limits. One bin for sentimental keepsakes. One drawer for takeout menus. One shelf for mugs. When the space is full, it’s time to let something go before adding more. Boundaries create built-in decision points so clutter doesn’t pile up unnoticed.

Declutter When You’re in a Neutral Mood

Avoid decluttering when you’re tired, emotional, or feeling rushed. You’ll make better decisions when you’re clear-headed. You don’t have to be excited, just neutral. That way, you’re more likely to be practical instead of holding on for the wrong reasons.

Don’t Overthink the Value

We often keep things because they were expensive or “still good.” But if you’re not using it, it’s not valuable to you. Think of it this way: you’ve already spent the money. Letting go doesn’t mean wasting it—it means reclaiming your space and peace of mind.

Keep Flat Surfaces Clear

Clutter loves countertops and tables. Try to keep flat surfaces as empty as possible. It makes your home look cleaner instantly and sets a tone for the rest of the space. You’ll be less tempted to drop random things when the surface is already clear.

Progress Over Perfection

Decluttering isn’t all-or-nothing. If your space looks better than it did last week, you’re winning. Don’t wait for the “perfect time” or try to do it all at once. Just keep showing up and doing a little at a time—it adds up faster than you think.

The Shift That Made it Stick

Once I realized decluttering wasn’t about getting rid of stuff—it was about creating space for the life I actually wanted—everything clicked. It stopped feeling like a chore and started feeling freeing. If you focus on what you’re gaining, it’s a whole lot easier to let go of the rest.

This article first appeared on Happy From Home.