Have you ever looked around your home and felt overwhelmed by the sheer amount of stuff? Trust me, you’re not alone. Clutter creeps into our lives so easily, often without us even noticing. One day, you’re tidying up a small pile of mail, and the next, you’re buried in things you didn’t even know you had. But No Worries: with the right plan, decluttering doesn’t have to feel like an impossible mountain to climb. In fact, it can be simple, fast, and dare I say, even fun! Today, I’m sharing the ultimate decluttering checklist to help you take control of your space and make it the sanctuary you’ve always dreamed of. And don’t worry if you’re short on time—this guide is designed to fit into even the busiest of schedules.
In This Article
Decluttering Checklist: Step-by-Step Guide to Declutter and Organize Your Home Stress-Free.
Step 1: Start By Setting Your Intentions.
Before you start decluttering, take a moment to envision how you want your home to feel. Cozy? Calm? Functional? Your vision will guide your decisions and keep you motivated. Grab a notebook or even the notes app on your phone and jot down your goals. For example, maybe you want a clutter-free kitchen counter or a wardrobe that sparks joy. Whatever it is, having a clear goal will make the process easier.
Also if you’re struggling or are new to decluttering, my printable 7-Day Decluttering Checklist is the perfect tool. You will be able to declutter 5 Items every day in just 15 minutes a day, making it a total of 35 decluttered items in one week-Trust me, the momentum you’ll gain is incredible. You can grab it here.
HELPFUL POSTS:
Declutter Challenge:35 Items in 7 Days in Only 15 Minutes Per Day.
New Year Declutter Challenge: Easy Decluttering Guide.
A Guide on How to Start Decluttering When Overwhelmed.
Downsize and Declutter: Quick Tips on How to Simplify Your Home!
De-cluttering Hacks for The Lazy Minimalist
The Meaning Of Clutter: Understanding The Chaos In Our Lives!
Step 2: Gather Your Supplies.
Decluttering is so much easier when you’re prepared. You’ll need a few essentials: sturdy garbage bags for trash, boxes or bins for donations, and maybe even some storage organizers for items you’re keeping. If you’re dealing with paperwork, a shredder can be a lifesaver.
Here are a few of my favorite products that make the process smoother:
- Storage Bins with Lids: Perfect for items you need to keep but don’t use daily. These amazon storage bins are durable and stackable, saving tons of space.
- Label Maker: A game-changer for staying organized. Check out this label maker(amazon) to keep everything neat and easy to find.
- Clothing Hangers: Slim, non-slip hangers like these velvet hangers(amazon) not only save space but make your closet look so much more organized.
Step 3 Decluttering Checklist: Declutter by Category Not Room By Room.
Let’s be honest: the idea of decluttering your entire house in one go can feel paralyzing. That’s why breaking it down into categories is key and more sustainable than going room by room.
Tackling one type of item at a time allows you to focus and make consistent progress without getting overwhelmed. Start with a simple category and work your way up to the more challenging ones. The satisfaction of completing one group will motivate you to keep going.
Here’s a quick overview of how to tackle each category:
Item1:Clothing:
Start with your wardrobe. Ask yourself a simple question: Have I worn this item in the last six months? If Yes, then it deserves to find a place in your wardrobe but if the answer is No then get rid of it. Separate items into keep, donate, and toss piles. Once you’ve pared down your clothing, organize what’s left by category or color—whatever works best for you.
Item 2:Paperwork:
Paper clutter is a major culprit for many. Gather all your papers into one spot and go through them systematically. Recycle old documents and set up a filing system for what you need to keep. A desktop organizer(amazon) can help you maintain order going forward.
Item 3:Kitchen Items:
Check expiration dates in your pantry and toss anything that’s past its prime. Next, move to your cabinets and pull out duplicate items. Do you really need three can openers? If not, donate the extras. For items you want to keep, consider space-saving storage solutions.
Item 4:Beauty Products:
Go through your makeup and skincare items. If you haven’t used it in the last year, it’s probably time to let it go. Check expiration dates and dispose of products properly.
Item 5:Miscellaneous:
From tools to random gadgets, gather items from around the house and evaluate their usefulness. If it hasn’t been used in over a year, it might be time to part ways.
Download The Full Checklist Here!
Step 4: Let Go of Sentimental Items.
Let’s talk about the tough stuff: sentimental items. We all have those keepsakes that tug at our heartstrings, but holding onto too much can weigh you down. Here’s a tip: take a photo of the item to preserve the memory, then donate it if it no longer serves a purpose in your life. Remember, the memories aren’t in the object—they’re with you forever.
Step 5: Create New Habits.
Decluttering is only half the battle. The other half is keeping your space clutter-free. Make a habit of tidying up daily or weekly. For instance, commit to putting things back in their place as soon as you’re done using them. Another great habit is the one-in, one-out rule: for every new item you bring into your home, let go of something else.
Step 6: Celebrate Your Wins.
Decluttering can be emotionally and physically draining, so don’t forget to celebrate your progress. Treat yourself to a cozy night in your newly decluttered living room or indulge in your favorite dessert. Recognizing your hard work will keep you motivated to maintain a clutter-free lifestyle.
Why Decluttering is Life-Changing.
Beyond just making your home look tidy, decluttering has a profound effect on your mental well-being. Studies have shown that clutter increases stress and anxiety. When you remove the excess, you’re also clearing mental space, making room for creativity, relaxation, and joy. Plus, when your home is organized, you save time because you’re not constantly searching for misplaced items. Who doesn’t want that?
The Ultimate Decluttering Checklist For Beginners: Final Thoughts.
Decluttering doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a solid plan and the right mindset, you can transform your home into a space that brings you peace and joy. Remember, it’s not about perfection—it’s about creating a home that works for you.
If you’re ready to get started, don’t forget to grab my printable 7-Day Decluttering Checklist to declutter 5 items every day in just 15 minutes a day. Click here to download it now. You’ve got this!
