Alright, let’s talk about something I think we all struggle with—clutter. Whether it’s the random pile of papers on your kitchen counter or your closet that looks like it was attacked by a tornado of jackets, the clutter creeps in, doesn’t it? Top Decluttering Tips? Oh yeah, I’ve got a few up my sleeve, and I promise they’re not the usual “throw everything away and feel better” kind. I mean, sure, sometimes I throw things out—usually the stuff that’s been sitting in my closet since 2016 (I’m really hoping those shoes come back into style)—but Top Decluttering Tips is more than just making a mess disappear. It’s about creating an environment that feels good, you know? That’s the real win.
And trust me, simplifying your space can simplify your life. We all know that, right? Less stuff, less stress, and—if we’re being honest here—less time spent looking for missing socks. So, let’s dive into some legit ways to take control of your space and—dare I say it—your sanity. Spoiler: You don’t have to live like a minimalist to find some balance here.
Why Top Decluttering Tips Is Actually a Big Deal
First, let’s just talk about why clutter can feel like a thousand-pound weight on your chest. It’s not just about the stuff—it’s the chaos it creates. My friend Karen once said, “My house looks like an episode of Hoarders… minus the rats.” And honestly, she’s not wrong. When everything is out of place, it messes with your head. Seriously. When I get too much stuff piled up, I can’t focus. It’s like the stuff starts talking to me, whispering, “Hey, you forgot about me! Look at me! I’m taking up space in your life.”
Here’s the kicker: Getting rid of excess stuff doesn’t just open up physical space. It opens up mental space. That’s the magic. Less stuff means less to think about, less to take care of, and more room for things that actually matter. It’s like hitting reset on your brain.
- One quick example: The other day, I was cleaning out my desk—okay, it was more of a “panic clean” because I had a Zoom meeting in 15 minutes—but I found this half-empty jar of pens I’ve been holding onto for years. Pen hoarder? Guilty. But when I finally tossed them? I felt a strange sense of freedom. Like I just uncluttered my brain a little bit.
Start Small (Or Medium, Whatever You’re Comfortable With)
Look, we all know you’re probably not going to wake up one day and suddenly feel like conquering your entire apartment, right? It’s intimidating. I mean, I’ve tried it, and I ended up staring at my kitchen for an hour, thinking, “Where do I even begin?” Spoiler alert: I got nothing done that day. My point? Don’t overwhelm yourself. Start small. Even tiny victories count.
Pick one room or one area to focus on. Maybe your closet, maybe your desk—heck, even just your nightstand. And just start there. (Or, if you’re like me, start by sorting through the socks—you know, the ones that mysteriously lose their partners every laundry cycle.)
Pro tip: Set a timer for 20 minutes. I know, I know, it sounds like I’m being dramatic, but trust me. This is how I trick myself into actually doing something. Once the timer goes off, you get to stop. But you’d be surprised how much you can clear in 20 minutes. And let me tell you, nothing feels better than a 20-minute victory.
The 80/20 Rule—But Make It Your Own
Now, let’s talk about the 80/20 rule. No, it’s not some life-changing business strategy—it’s a tip for how to declutter. Basically, it says 80% of the value in your life comes from just 20% of your stuff. Let that sink in. That pile of clothes you never wear? The random souvenirs you picked up during a trip to Walmart? They’re not adding anything to your life.
Here’s what you do: Look around, and start evaluating. Keep only what you truly use or love. If something hasn’t seen the light of day in over a year, it’s probably time to let it go.
- Fun fact: I once spent an entire Sunday afternoon holding onto a vintage T-shirt from a concert I thought was life-changing (it wasn’t, by the way). My partner was like, “Why are you still holding onto that?” And I’m like, “It’s the memory!” But, in the end, it wasn’t really the memory I was attached to—it was just the fact that I had too many random things taking up space. Anyway, I finally tossed it, and no, I didn’t feel a thing (except for maybe a tiny wave of freedom).
Top Decluttering Tips by Room—Let’s Break It Down
Alright, enough with the “inspirational” rambling. Let’s talk specifics. What do you need to tackle in each room? Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered. Just don’t say I didn’t warn you about the living room.
Living Room
So, the living room. It’s where everything goes, right? Books, magazines, random board games you played once in 2018 and haven’t touched since. I’m looking at you, Monopoly.
- Top Decluttering Tips: Keep it cozy but organized. Invest in some storage—under-coffee-table baskets, ottomans with hidden compartments, or a good ol’ shelf that actually fits stuff you need. And please, get rid of any dead plants. We all have that one dead succulent—don’t lie.
- Personal confession: My couch cushions have more crumbs in them than I care to admit. It’s embarrassing, y’all. It’s like every time I sit down, there’s a whole buffet hiding in there. But guess what? No more. I’m working on it. Slowly.
Kitchen
The kitchen, huh? The place where you plan to cook every healthy meal, but then end up making instant ramen because, well, life. Nods in sympathy.
- Top Decluttering Tips: If you can’t remember the last time you used that blender, it’s time for it to go. Keep the essentials—your favorite pan, your most-used spatula—and everything else? Donate or toss. And for the love of all that’s good, organize your pantry. It’ll save you from buying the same jar of peanut butter three times.
- Fun anecdote: I once hoarded every jar, bottle, and spice container I could find after “that time I tried making homemade curry.” I mean, who am I kidding? That was a disaster. My kitchen smelled like a spicy swamp for days. But hey, I still have that curry powder in the back of the pantry—someday…
Bedroom
If your bedroom feels like a closet exploded, it’s time for action. Seriously, you need space for your dreams (or, okay, at least a clean space to sleep).
- Top Decluttering Tips: Start with the bed. Make it every morning, even if you’re just throwing the blankets over it. A made bed makes the entire room look more put-together. Then, tackle the closet. You know the drill—donate, toss, fold. And get rid of those jeans you “might” fit into someday. We both know you’re never going to wear them again.
Bathroom
This is where things get tricky. The bathroom is full of things we forget about until we need them—and, by then, half of them have expired.
- Top Decluttering Tips: Toss any expired lotions, makeup, or half-empty shampoo bottles. Keep things streamlined. Trust me, it’s easier to take a shower when you can actually see the edge of your bathtub.
- Side note: I spent a whole month using expired face cream (don’t ask) because I couldn’t bring myself to toss it. RIP, my skin.
Maintaining the Decluttered Life—The Real Deal
Here’s the thing: Once you’ve decluttered, the hardest part is over. But it’s like making a salad—you have to keep the lettuce fresh. The clutter will try to sneak back in, like a bad ex. The trick? Habits.
- My secret weapon: The “one in, one out” rule. For every new item I bring into my house (thanks, online shopping), I get rid of something else. It’s simple, but it works. Also, shoutout to Pete’s Hardware down the street—half of my house is powered by their random-but-essential tools.
In the end, this is a marathon, not a sprint. So, as you start Top Decluttering Tips, remember that there’s no perfect timeline. Just keep chipping away, and your home will be a more peaceful place. Not to mention, you’ll feel a lot better about that old sweater you’re finally getting rid of. RIP, sweater.
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