There is no better time to re-evaluate and declutter your home than Now!! Why postpone your freedom right? Yet, it’s not always easy to start a decluttering task, let alone stay motivated enough to see it through to the end and enjoy the benefits. This is often because we procrastinate—let’s face it, decluttering can be draining—and life tends to get in the way with more important tasks demanding our attention. As a result, that pile of clutter remains untouched, growing more overwhelming by the day hence the 7 Days-15 minutes Declutter Challenge.
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This 7-day declutter challenge is designed to be simple, fun, and totally doable. With the aim to give you momentum to Get Started on your journey to creating a peaceful home you will enjoy. Each day focuses on a specific category, and you’ll spend just 15 minutes tackling a small but impactful task.with the goal of eliminating just 5 items per day. By the end of the week, you’ll see (and feel) a difference in your space—and in yourself.
Not only will you reclaim your space, but you’ll also build the momentum to create a clutter-free lifestyle that’s easy to maintain
Are you ready to jumpstart your decluttering journey? Let’s dive in!
In This Article
7-Day Declutter Challenge: Helpful Decluttering Tools
Panda Planner(amazon)-A helpful journal to stay organized and plan out your decluttering Tasks
Vtopmart Clear Plastic Storage Bins(amazon)-These versatile container dividers make it easy to keep items visible and organized.
IRIS USA WeatherPro Storage Boxes(amazon)-Perfect for preserving special items while keeping them neatly tucked away.
Yamazaki Home Tosca Basket(amazon)– These storage baskets blend minimalist design with practical storage.
Simple Houseware Stackable Cabinet Organizer(amazon) -Perfect for maximizing under-cabinet storage while keeping everything within reach.
Seagate Portable External Hard Drive(amazon)-Ensures your files are safe while simplifying your digital space.
The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo(amazon) -For Motivation on those decluttering hard days
Atomic Habits by James Clear(amazon)-Good Productivity Motivational book
The Ultimate 7-Day-15 Minute Declutter Challenge: Your Step-by-Step Weekly Guide.
Day 1: Clothes and Accessories
Let’s kick off the challenge in the closet—it’s a fun (and sometimes eye-opening) place to start!
It’s like stepping into a treasure hunt with a twist! Closets often become the catch-all for “someday” outfits, sentimental pieces, and a few items we forgot we even owned. Making them one of the most cluttered spaces in our home.
But here’s the fun part: as you sift through those hangers, you’ll rediscover forgotten gems, laugh at past fashion choices, and feel a rush of empowerment as you let go of what no longer serves you.
Imagine creating a space where every piece makes you so happy, fits perfectly, and reflects your current style. It’s not just about tidying up; it’s about curating your dream wardrobe and reclaiming your mornings with stress-free outfit choices.
Also dealing with your closet clutter first allows you to tackle one of the most challenging areas to declutter early in your journey- Giving you a significant head start and a massive quick win.
Goal: In 15 minutes, remove 5 items of clothing or accessories you no longer use.
Quick Wins:
- Toss anything stained, ripped, or unwearable.
- Donate clothes that don’t fit or no longer suit your style.
- Let go of shoes you haven’t worn in over a year.
Sentimental Check:
“Am I keeping this because I actually wear it, or just because I feel guilty letting it go?”
Add to your tracker: Write down each item you’ve let go. Seeing your progress is a powerful motivator!
Day 2 Of The Declutter Challenge: Kitchen Items
Decluttering your kitchen can feel overwhelming, but we’ll make it easy with a focused approach to make it more manageable and satisfying !
Start small to gain momentum by setting a timer for 15 minutes and tackle just one category, like pantry items or utensils.
Here’s how to get started:
In your pantry or spice rack: check expiration dates on spices, canned goods, and dry items, and toss anything past its prime.
Next, open your utensil drawer or cabinets and pull out tools or gadgets you haven’t used in the last six months—these can be donated to someone who’ll actually put them to use.
Finally, give your dishes and containers a quick once-over, recycling any chipped plates, mismatched lids, or warped plastic that’s cluttering your space. In just 15 minutes, you’ll see noticeable progress and feel inspired to keep going!
Goal: In 15 Minutes Discard or donate 5 unnecessary kitchen items.
Quick Wins:
- Throw out expired spices or canned goods.
- Donate utensils or appliances you haven’t used in months.
- Recycle chipped dishes or mismatched containers.
Prevent Clutter Reflection Prompt:
“How many duplicates do I really need? Could someone else benefit from this item more than I do?”
Pro Tip: Set a timer for 15 minutes to keep the task manageable.
Day 3: Digital Decluttering For a More Productive Life.
Let’s move on to the digital world—our phones, laptops, and emails often accumulate a surprising amount of virtual clutter.
And Just like a messy room, a cluttered digital space can drain your energy and productivity.
Start by clearing out old files, duplicate photos, and unused apps on your phone or laptop. Set aside a few minutes to unsubscribe from junk emails and organize your inbox into folders for better efficiency.
Don’t forget to declutter your desktop by deleting unnecessary shortcuts and tidying up your background. With a little effort, you can create a streamlined digital environment that feels refreshing and helps you be more productive.
Goal: Take 15 minutes to delete or organize 5 digital files or apps.
Quick Wins:
- Delete unused apps.
- Clear your downloads folder.
- Unsubscribe from newsletters or delete junk emails.
Reflection Prompt:
“Does this digital item serve a purpose? Is it just taking up space?”
Add it to your tracker: Yes, digital clutter counts toward your 35-item goal!
Day 4: Tackle Those Sentimental Keepsakes Head On!
This step might feel like the most challenging, but it’s also one of the most rewarding.
Sorting through sentimental items can stir up a whirlwind of emotions—nostalgia, joy, and even a touch of sadness.
However, it’s an opportunity to reconnect with the stories and memories behind these objects while deciding which truly deserves a place in your life.
Start small: choose a single box or drawer and take your time. Ask yourself if the item still serves as a meaningful reminder of a cherished moment.
For items you want to let go of but feel hesitant about, consider taking a photo to preserve the memory without keeping the physical object. This process not only clears space but also helps you honor your past while making room for your present and future.
Goal: Let go of 5 sentimental items.
Quick Wins:
- Recycle old greeting cards (keep only the most meaningful).
- Donate childhood trinkets that no longer resonate.
- Digitize photos and let go of duplicates.
Sentimental Check:
“Does this item align with the life I want to live now?”
Pro Tip: Take photos of items you’re letting go to preserve the memory without the clutter.
Day 5: Clear Out The Bathroom.
Next is the bathroom, bathrooms can be clutter magnets, especially with expired products and unnecessary duplicates.
Start by emptying one drawer or shelf and checking expiration dates on skincare, makeup, and medicine. Toss anything expired or that hasn’t been used in months.
Next, look for duplicate items like half-used shampoos, extra razors, or multiple nail clippers, and consolidate where possible.
Donate unopened products that you no longer use but are still good.
Finally, use small containers or dividers to organize what remains, keeping daily essentials within easy reach. In just a few minutes, you’ll transform your bathroom into a tidy, functional space that’s easy to maintain.
Goal: Toss or donate 5 bathroom items.
Quick Wins:
- Throw out expired makeup or skincare products.
- Donate unopened products you won’t use.
- Declutter duplicate grooming tools or old toothbrushes.
Prevent Clutter Reflection:
“When was the last time I used this? Do I really need three of these?”
Add to your tracker: Notice how even small spaces can feel fresher after a quick declutter.
Day 6: Today, Tackle Those Books, Magazines, and Papers That Have Been Laying Around Collecting Dust.
Let’s tackle paper clutter! Whether it’s scattered on your desk or taking up shelf space, paper clutter adds up quickly.
Begin with a quick sweep: gather all books, magazines, and loose papers into one place so you can see what you’re working with.
For books, decide which ones you truly love or plan to read again—donate the rest to libraries or second-hand shops.
And when it comes to magazines, keep only the most recent issues or ones with sentimental value, and recycle the rest.
For loose papers, sort them into three categories: important documents, items to shred, and trash. Use labeled folders or a small filing system to organize what’s essential. In just one session, you’ll feel a sense of relief as you clear away the paper chaos and make room for the things that truly matter.
Goal: Remove 5 books, magazines, or papers.
Quick Wins:
- Recycle magazines you’ve already read.
- Donate books you’ve outgrown or won’t re-read.
- Shred old documents you no longer need.
Sentimental Check:
“Do I truly enjoy this book or magazine, or is it here because I feel guilty letting it go?”
Pro Tip: Commit to a one-in, one-out rule for new reading material going forward.
Day 7: Lastly Get Rid Of Those Miscellaneous Items That Don’t Really Belong Anywhere.
We’re wrapping up the week by tackling those random items that don’t fit neatly into any category—the “everything else” pile that often gets overlooked.
These could be items like cords and chargers, extra batteries, craft supplies, souvenirs, or small trinkets.
Start by gathering all your miscellaneous items in one place and sorting them into categories. Ask yourself: Does this item serve a purpose?
For duplicate or unused items—like that extra phone charger or a souvenir keychain you never use—consider donating or recycling them.
Organize what’s left into clearly labeled bins or drawers to ensure they have a dedicated home.
This step helps you reclaim those forgotten nooks and crannies, leaving your home feeling lighter and more organized overall.
Goal: Eliminate 5 miscellaneous items from your home.
Quick Wins:
- Toss broken gadgets or mismatched cords.
- Donate decor you’ve outgrown.
- Let go of freebies or impulse purchases that no longer serve you.
Reflection Prompt:
“Does this item enhance my home or just fill space?”
7-Day Declutter Challenge: Celebrate Your Success!
Congratulations—you’ve just completed the 7-day declutter challenge! By letting go of 35 unnecessary items, you’ve reclaimed your space and set the foundation for a more organized and clutter-free life.
What’s next? Keep up the momentum by decluttering one small area each week. And don’t forget to celebrate your progress—you’ve earned it! 🎉
With Love
-Dolorese
