How to Start Decluttering When Overwhelmed: 10 Easy and Actionable Tips

Decluttering can feel like a monumental task, especially when you’re already overwhelmed by the sheer amount of stuff in your home.

But here’s the good news: it doesn’t have to be as daunting as it seems.

With a few simple strategies, you can take control of your space and your mindset.

Here are 10 easy and actionable tips to help you get started.

1. Start Small

One of the biggest mistakes people make is trying to tackle everything at once. Instead, start with a single drawer, a corner of a room, or even just your purse. Success in small areas will build your momentum and confidence to keep going.

2. Set a Timer

Commit to decluttering for just 15 or 30 minutes a day. Setting a timer creates a boundary for your task and prevents burnout. You’d be surprised how much you can accomplish in a short burst of focused effort.

3. Create a Decluttering Plan

Break down your decluttering project into manageable steps. Focus on one room at a time, and within each room, prioritize areas like shelves, closets, or surfaces. Having a plan keeps you organized and reduces decision fatigue.

4. Use the Four-Box Method

Grab four boxes and label them: Keep, Donate, Trash, and Relocate. As you go through your items, place each one into the appropriate box. This method makes decisions easier and ensures every item has a designated next step.

5. Start with Duplicates

A quick win is to get rid of duplicates. You probably don’t need three can openers or 10 coffee mugs if you’re the only coffee drinker in the house. Letting go of extras clears space and simplifies your choices.

6. Declutter by Category

Instead of going room by room, try decluttering by category—like clothes, books, or kitchen gadgets. This method, popularized by Marie Kondo, helps you see how much you own in each category and makes it easier to identify excess.

7. Adopt the “One In, One Out” Rule

To prevent clutter from building back up, commit to the “one in, one out” rule. For every new item you bring into your home, get rid of one you no longer need. This creates a habit of mindful consumption.

8. Tackle Sentimental Items Last

Sentimental items can be the hardest to declutter. Start with easier, less emotional areas first, so you build up the skills and mindset to tackle these challenging items later.

9. Enlist a Friend or Family Member

Sometimes, having someone else present can make the process less overwhelming. A friend or family member can offer a fresh perspective, help you stay focused, and even make the experience fun.