Decluttering tips for your home

A clutter-free home can feel like a breath of fresh air. But when you’re facing overflowing wardrobes, packed kitchen cupboards, and piles of “someday” items, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Whether you’re looking to declutter clothes, organise your kitchen, or simply get started, we’re here to help. This guide is packed with practical decluttering tips to help you clear your space, boost your mood, and make room for what matters.

Interested in more ways to improve your living space? Check out our guide on Creating Cosy Homes for Wellbeing.

Jump to

• How to start decluttering when overwhelmed
• Decluttering clothes
• Let go of sentimental items thoughtfully
• Organise as you go
• Maintenance tips for a clutter free home

How to start decluttering when overwhelmed

Feeling daunted by the task ahead? The first thing to remember is to start small. You don’t need to tackle everything in one day, and you don’t have to be ruthless from the get go.

• Pick one spot: Start with a single area, like a kitchen drawer or a shelf in your wardrobe. Small wins build momentum.
• Set a timer: Give yourself 15 or 20 minutes and go through just a few items. This helps you ease into the process without feeling overwhelmed.
• The 4-box method: Label boxes or bags as Keep, Donate, Sell, and Recycle. As you sort, place each item in the box that fits best, this simple method keeps you focused and organised.

Decluttering clothes

Decluttering clothes can be a challenge, as many of us hold onto items for "someday" or "just in case," which can quickly lead to an overstuffed wardrobe full of pieces we rarely wear. A helpful approach is the 12-month rule: if you haven’t worn something in a year, it’s likely time to let it go—seasonal pieces aside. To make decisions easier, try on clothes you’re unsure about; if they no longer fit comfortably or don’t feel right, they’re probably ready for donation. Not to mention, donating your unwanted items can feel amazing while providing a second life for those pieces. Lastly, limit duplicates by choosing your favourite among similar items, like black t-shirts or jumpers, and consider parting with the extras.

Let go of sentimental items thoughtfully

Sentimental items can be the toughest to tackle. From souvenirs to inherited items, it’s okay to keep some meaningful things, but if these items take up too much space or leave you feeling overwhelmed, it’s time to reconsider. Here are some simple rules to keep in mind when parting with meaningful pieces:

• Be selective with what you keep: Choose a handful of truly special items and let go of the rest. Consider photographing keepsakes before parting with them.
• Display your favourites: What’s the point of keeping hold of items you’re not proud to display? Rearrange items that bring you joy —a framed photo or a few trinkets can bring a meaningful touch to your home.

Organise as you go

As you declutter, think about ways to organise your space for both function and enjoyment. Storage baskets and boxes can be great for grouping similar items, like remote controls in the living room or extra toiletries in the bathroom. Labels also help keep things tidy long-term, making it easy for everyone to know where things belong—whether it's on food containers, craft supplies, or office essentials. If you need extra space, consider furniture with built-in storage, like ottomans or under-bed drawers, to maximise every corner of your home.

Maintenance tips for a clutter-free home

Once you’ve decluttered, maintenance is key! Here are a few ways to keep your space organised and prevent clutter from creeping back in.

One in, one out: When you buy something new, aim to remove one item you no longer need. This is especially helpful for clothing, shoes, and kitchen gadgets.

Weekly tidy-up: Take 10–15 minutes once a week to put things back in place.  Small habits makes a big difference in keeping your home clutter-free.

Seasonal reviews: Each season, go through your clothes and other essentials. Donate or recycle anything you haven’t used and make room for the things you truly enjoy.