Are you tired of living in a cluttered and disorganized home?
You clean one area (like what you usually do), but before you know it, another space turns into a disaster… AGAIN.
It’s exhausting, and it never feels finished.
But here's the thing though.
Decluttering doesn’t have to be a constant struggle.
With the right approach, you can make progress without waiting for the “perfect time” or spending all day cleaning.
This guide will show you how to make decluttering easier, so you can easily manage your home, even though life happens.
From categorizing possessions and setting decluttering goals to utilizing storage solutions and embracing minimalism, I'll walk you through each stage of the process.
Therefore, get ready to learn how you can declutter your physical space and improve your mental and emotional well-being.
Let's dive in and start decluttering your messy home today!
15 Methods To Declutter Messy Home
So you're looking to transform your messy home into a unique and organized space?
I've got some fantastic methods for you to declutter your home and make it truly yours.
Let's dive in!
1. Envision Your Home the Way You Actually Want It
Instead of thinking about “getting rid of stuff,” focus on what you want your home to look like and function like.
Having a space the way you need and want will help you think more clearly, move freely, and spend less time dealing with messes.
Additionally, it will also create the perfect backdrop for self-care activities like meditation, yoga, or simply unwinding with a good book.
2. Sort Without Overthinking
Sorting items into categories helps, but don’t let it slow you down.
Instead of debating every single thing, start by removing what you already know you don’t need. (expired products, broken items, things you haven’t touched in years)
By consciously curating your possessions, you're cultivating a space that aligns with your values and personal style.
Also, this intentional approach to decluttering fosters a sense of self-expression and authenticity in your home, contributing to your overall well-being.
3. Small Steps, Big Progress
Breaking down the decluttering process into manageable tasks allows you to focus on one area at a time, avoiding overwhelm.
So, you experience a sense of achievement and empowerment as you accomplish each goal.
In addition, this boosts your motivation and self-confidence in your decluttering journey and other areas of your life.
4. Stop Bringing in More Than You Can Handle
If clutter is too much, it’s not just about what needs to go… it’s also about what keeps coming in.
Before buying or keeping something “just in case,” ask yourself this:
“Will this actually make my life easier, or will it just be one more thing to manage?”
This practice encourages you to consider the value and purpose of each item, preventing impulsive purchases and promoting mindful living—a fundamental aspect of self-care.
5. Quick Wins, Lasting Motivation
You don’t need to spend hours decluttering to start seeing results.
Clearing off one counter, putting away a pile of clothes, or organizing a single drawer can make your home feel more manageable (without draining your energy)
These quick wins build momentum, making it easier to keep going, even on busy days.
6. Set up Storage Solutions That Fit Your Actual Life
If putting things away feels like a hassle, clutter will keep piling up.
So, instead of forcing yourself to be “more organized,” set up storage solutions that fit how you actually live.
For example, baskets for quick cleanups, open shelves for easy access, or designated spots for things that always end up out of place.
When organizing becomes effortless, keeping your home in order will be second nature.
7. Elevate Your Storage Potential
If clutter keeps building up, your storage might be not the best for you.
So, instead of forcing things into closets that are already overflowing in the first place or stacking bins you’ll never sort through, use simple, accessible storage.
Wall hooks for everyday items, open shelves for things you reach for often, and containers that actually make sense for your space.
The easier it is to put things away, the less time you’ll spend tackling the mess.
Additionally, this visually appealing setup enhances overall well-being and makes your space more inviting for self-care practices like stretching, art, or displaying treasured items that bring you joy.
8. Personalized Spaces For Purpose
Designating specific areas for different activities or purposes is a self-care life-changer.
Whether it's a cozy reading nook, a dedicated workspace, or a quiet corner for reflection, these zones provide a sanctuary within your home.
When everything has a place, tidying up becomes quicker, and your space stays manageable without the extra effort.
Moreover, they offer a space for self-care practices, such as journaling, creative pursuits, or simply taking a few moments to focus on your well-being.
9. Clear Mind, Clear Space
Stacks of mail, old receipts, and random paperwork can make any space messy.
Instead of letting it pile up, set a rule for how long you’ll keep things—scan what you need, toss what you don’t, and create a simple system for anything important.
Less paper clutter means fewer things to manage and promotes mental clarity and peace of mind.
By having easy access to your documents without the stress of sifting through piles of paper, you create a supportive environment for self-care.
Also, you can focus on the present moment, engage in activities that bring you joy and prioritize your mental and emotional well-being.
10. Declutter With A Purpose
Decluttering isn’t about throwing things away, it’s about keeping what actually improves your daily life.
If something has been sitting untouched for months (or years), ask yourself:
“Is this adding value to my home, or is it just taking up space?“
When you focus on what deserves a place in your home, it’s easier to let go of the rest.
This decluttering catalyzes a positive shift in your mindset and promotes self-care.
It encourages you to prioritize experiences and relationships over material possessions, allowing you to focus on what truly brings you happiness and fulfillment.
11. Develop A System For Incoming Mail
Mail, receipts, and random papers accumulate fast.
So, instead of letting them make your counters cluttered, create one spot for incoming mail and set a rule—sort, file, or toss it as soon as it comes in.
A system just like this means fewer piles, less stress, and no more digging through stacks just to find what you need.
Also, staying on top of your mail alleviates the mental burden of unfinished tasks and creates a sense of order and control.
Therefore, this frees up mental space for self-care activities and promotes a calmer mind.
12. Meaningful Décor With Minimal Clutter
Selecting a few sentimental or decorative items to display in a prominent place adds a personal touch to your home while minimizing clutter.
Surrounding yourself with meaningful objects that evoke positive emotions improves overall well-being.
These items serve as gentle reminders of memorable moments, people, or achievements, fostering a sense of gratitude and promoting self-care practices centered around reflection and appreciation.
13. Make Cleaning Easier by Doing Less at a Time
Keeping your home in order doesn’t mean spending hours cleaning.
A simple habit—like tidying up for 10 minutes a day or assigning certain tasks to specific days—makes it easier to stay on top of messes without feeling like you’re always cleaning.
Small, consistent efforts keep things manageable, so clutter never has a chance to take over again.
Also, a clean, organized environment reduces stress, promotes mental clarity, and enhances well-being.
Therefore, set aside specific time slots for cleaning tasks, prioritizing self-care, and maintaining a tidy space.
14. Use Labels And Clear Containers
Labeling storage containers and using clear bins or boxes is a practical and visually pleasing solution for an organized home.
It simplifies the process of finding items and maintains a clutter-free space.
When you can quickly locate and access your belongings, you save time and energy, allowing you to focus on self-care activities that nurture your body, mind, and soul.
15. Embrace Minimalism
Embracing a minimalist mindset is a powerful form of self-care.
You can create a harmonious and calming environment by consciously simplifying your space and keeping only the items that serve a purpose or bring you joy.
Also, a minimalist lifestyle encourages intentional living, mindful consumption, and focusing on experiences and relationships rather than material possessions.
This shift in mindset allows your unique style and authentic self to shine through, fostering a deep sense of self-care and contentment.
Finally, decluttering is an ongoing journey, and it's essential to assess your belongings and refine your space regularly.
Therefore, maintaining a uniquely organized home that reflects your personality and values creates a supportive environment for self-care.
So, celebrate each step forward, be kind to yourself throughout the process, and enjoy the transformative power of decluttering on your physical space and well-being.
Make Decluttering Easier with the
Declutter for Self-Care Course
If you’re tired of picking up the same mess over and over, it’s time for a different approach.
The Declutter for Self-Care Course helps you build simple daily habits so you can keep your home in order—even on the busiest days.
No complicated systems, no exhausting all-day cleanups—just an easier way to manage clutter without the constant frustration.
In just five weeks, you’ll easily manage your home the way you want it and learn how to maintain it without feeling overwhelmed.
FAQs
Where Do I Start Decluttering A Messy House?
To start decluttering a messy house, begin with one area or room at a time.
Start with something manageable, like a drawer or closet. Create piles for what to keep, what to donate/sell, and what to trash.
This systematic approach will help you gradually tackle the clutter and create a more organized living environment.
How Do You Declutter When You Have Too Much Stuff?
Adopting a systematic approach when dealing with an abundance of stuff is helpful.
Start by setting clear goals and prioritizing which areas or items to tackle first. Break the task into smaller, manageable chunks, such as decluttering one room or category at a time.
Also, be ruthless in your decision-making, asking yourself whether each item is necessary or brings you joy. Consider donating, selling, or recycling items that no longer serve a purpose.
What Is The First Rule Of Decluttering?
The first rule of decluttering is honesty about what you need and use.
It involves deliberately removing items that no longer serve a purpose or bring you joy.
By embracing a mindset of simplicity and minimalism, you can create a clutter-free living space that promotes a sense of calm and organization.
What's The 12 12 12 Challenge?
The 12 12 12 challenge is a method for cleaning out the clutter in which you are challenged to get rid of 12, donate 12, and put back 12 items.
Also, the goal is to quickly identify and remove 36 unnecessary items from your living space.
This challenge helps create a more organized environment while encouraging mindful decision-making about the belongings you possess.
What Is The 90-90 Rule Decluttering?
The 90-90 rule decluttering is a method where you evaluate each item in your home and ask yourself if you have used it in the past 90 days.
If not, and if you don't foresee using it in the next 90 days, it's a candidate for decluttering.
Also, the rule helps you let go of items that have become unused or unnecessary, freeing up space and reducing clutter in your living environment.
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