Let’s Declare This Decluttering Month!

Decluttering doesn’t have to be a dreaded chore. Many organization experts agree: it’s all about how you approach it. Rather than treating it like a cleaning task or household obligation, think of decluttering as an act of self-care. Studies show that a more minimalist environment can reduce stress and ease the shame that often comes from feeling overwhelmed by too much stuff.

Reframing decluttering this way makes it easier to do regularly. Instead of waiting for a big free weekend (that never comes), you’ll be more likely to tidy up in small, manageable bursts.

Here are five decluttering methods to help you get started. Try one—or all—and see what works for you.

1. The 20/20 Rule

We all keep things “just in case.” That leftover box of nails? The random gadget charger? You haven’t used it in years, but you might… someday.

Enter the 20/20 Rule, created by The Minimalists (Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus). The idea is simple: Can you replace the item in 20 minutes for under $20? If yes, let it go—guilt-free. You’ll free up space without losing peace of mind, knowing you could easily replace it if needed.

2. The One In / One Out Rule

Not ready for a full purge? This rule’s for you.

Every time you bring something new into your home, one item has to go. Bought a fresh set of linen sheets? Great. Now donate that old single-bed set you’ve had shoved in the back of the closet for a decade. (Bonus: shelters love old linens for animal bedding.)

This rule keeps clutter from creeping back in and makes you think twice before impulse buying.

3. The Move-Out Method

Think like you’re moving—even if you’re staying put.

When you move, you naturally become more ruthless about what stays and what goes. You don’t want to pay someone to haul a broken Barbie Dreamhouse across the country, right?

Apply that mindset at home. Go drawer by drawer and ask: “Would I take this with me if I were moving tomorrow?” If the answer is no, out it goes. Plus, if you ever do win the lottery and move to that Tuscan villa, you’ll be ahead of the game.

4. Swedish Death Cleaning

The name’s a little intense, but the idea is deeply thoughtful.

Swedish Death Cleaning asks you to consider how your possessions will impact loved ones after you’re gone. Will they appreciate your things—or be left overwhelmed?

Ask yourself:

• Will anyone want this?

• Would I want to burden someone with this?

• Can I pass this on now to someone who truly wants it?

It’s not about being morbid—it’s about being kind, to both yourself and others. Bonus: fewer odd socks in your legacy.

5. The Clutter Countdown

This is a fun 30-day challenge that builds momentum.

• Day 1: remove 1 item

• Day 2: remove 2 items

• Day 3: remove 3 items… and so on.

By day 30, you’ll have removed nearly 500 items!

Don’t stress if you fall short on certain days—this method is flexible. Got only 3 things on day 14? That’s fine. Find extra on another day to even it out. The goal is daily action, not perfection.

Final Thoughts

Here’s a surprising stat: we regularly use only 20% of what we own. The rest? It’s just taking up space.

Think about that stack of winter gloves. Do you really wear all 10 pairs? Or just the same four depending on the outfit? Apply any of the methods above to decide what stays.

Clutter isn’t just annoying—it’s stressful. It encourages procrastination, zaps energy, and can even hurt relationships. But with a steady, simple approach, you can reclaim your space—and your peace of mind.

So, what’s the first thing you're letting go of this month?