Declutter Your Home with These 5 Expert-Approved Methods

A fresh start to the year often means refreshing your living space. Beyond just cleaning, decluttering can help create a more organized, stress-free environment. While the process can seem overwhelming, finding the right method for you can make all the difference.

Decluttering isn’t a one-size-fits-all task—different approaches work for different people. Whether you prefer a structured system or a more flexible method, we’ve rounded up five expert-approved decluttering strategies to help you reclaim your space. Try one (or a combination) to see what works best for you!

   1. The KonMari Method™: Spark Joy in Your Home

Made famous by Marie Kondo’s bestseller The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up, the KonMari Method™ focuses on keeping only what brings you joy. Instead of deciding what to discard, you carefully choose what to keep based on emotional value.

How it works:
- Tidy by category (not by room): Start with clothes, then books, papers, miscellaneous items, and sentimental belongings.
- Gather all items in a category in one place before sorting through them.
- Hold each item and ask yourself: Does this spark joy? If not, thank it for its service and let it go.

✅ Best for: Those who value mindfulness and intentional living.

⚠ Potential downside: It can be time-consuming and might not be ideal for minimalists who struggle with letting go of sentimental items.

   2. The One-In, One-Out Rule: Keep Clutter in Check

This simple yet effective rule ensures you don’t accumulate unnecessary items. For every new item brought into your home, one existing item must go.

How it works:
- Before purchasing anything new, ask yourself what you’re willing to part with in return.
- Use this rule for clothes, books, kitchen tools, or any category that tends to pile up.
- Helps control impulse buying and keeps your home consistently clutter-free.

✅ Best for: Shoppers and those prone to impulse purchases.

⚠ Potential downside: If not followed strictly, it can become an excuse to buy more instead of reducing clutter.

   3. The 20/20 Rule: Let Go Without Regret

Struggling with items you might need one day? The 20/20 Rule, popularized by The Minimalists, offers a practical solution. If an item costs less than $20 and can be replaced in under 20 minutes, let it go.

How it works:
- Ideal for decluttering “just in case” items.
- Encourages a mindset shift from hoarding to trusting that replacements are accessible if truly needed.
- Works well for small gadgets, kitchen tools, and bathroom essentials.

✅ Best for: Those hesitant to part with items they might need in the future.

⚠ Potential downside: This method isn’t as effective for sentimental items or expensive belongings.

   4. Swedish Death Cleaning: A Long-Term Decluttering Approach

Though the name sounds morbid, Swedish Death Cleaning (or Döstädning) is a thoughtful, gradual method that aims to reduce the burden on your loved ones by decluttering before it becomes necessary.

How it works:
- Declutter in stages, starting with larger items and moving to smaller, sentimental ones.
- Decide what’s truly meaningful and pass down cherished items to family and friends.
- Simplifies your space, making it easier to maintain in the long run.

✅ Best for: Those looking for a slow, meaningful approach to downsizing.

⚠ Potential downside: It takes time and may not be suitable for quick decluttering projects.

   5. The Four-Box Method: A Simple & Effective Sorting Strategy

If you like structure but don’t want to overcomplicate things, the Four-Box Method is a practical choice. It categorizes everything into four groups, making decision-making easier.

How it works:
- Label four boxes: Keep, Donate, Trash, and Sell.
- Go through each area of your home, sorting items into the appropriate boxes.
- The ‘Donate’ and ‘Sell’ boxes give useful items a second life while clearing your space.

✅ Best for: Beginners or those decluttering smaller areas at a time.

⚠ Potential downside: Indecisiveness can lead to too many items ending up in a temporary “undecided” box. Follow-through is key!

   Find the Decluttering Method That Works for You

Decluttering doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By experimenting with these different methods, you’ll find an approach that aligns with your lifestyle. Whether you prefer a mindful process like KonMari, a structured system like Swedish Death Cleaning, or a quick-fix method like the 20/20 Rule, there’s a strategy that can help you create a tidier, more organized home.

Ready to transform your space? Start small, stay consistent, and enjoy the benefits of a clutter-free home!