Feeling overwhelmed by clutter but unsure where to start? Studies show a clear link between clutter and mental health—but did you know too much decluttering advice can also take a toll on your mental health? (Looking at you, #CleanTok!) With so much decluttering advice out there, it’s easy to get stuck before you even begin. But decluttering doesn’t have to be complicated or stressful. You’ve probably heard it before, but always start small, and focus on the outcome of your work. Here are your pro decluttering hacks.
Pro Declutter Hack 1 – Focus on Zones, Not Rooms
Trying to declutter an entire room at once can be overwhelming. Instead, break your space into smaller, manageable zones.
How to Do It:
- Start with one drawer, one shelf, or one surface at a time.
- Set a timer for 20 minutes and declutter in short bursts.
My Top Tip
Celebrate small wins—reward yourself with something to make your heart sing – a walk on the beach works for me!
Pro Declutter Hack 2 – Apply the `One-Year Rule`
Many items sit unused for years. The One-Year Rule helps you determine what you truly need.
How to Do It:
- Ask yourself: Have I used this in the last 12 months?
- For clothes, use the “hanger trick”: turn all hangers backward at the start of the year. After 12 months, donate anything still on a backward hanger.
My hairdresser`s top tip!
Advertise clothes your kids have grown out of on Facebook`s Freecycle. She had 1 lady who was always first to respond and now she just messages the lady direct and they`ve even become friends!
Pro Declutter Hack 3 – Make the most of your living spaces
Messy floors can make a room feel chaotic and cluttered. The key to a tidy home is ensuring everything has a designated place. Use stylish baskets or storage boxes to keep everyday items like toys, blankets, and magazines neatly tucked away, creating a more organised and inviting space.
How to Do It:
- Sort and Declutter First – Before finding storage solutions, go through your items and remove anything you no longer need or use.
- Use Multi-Functional Storage – Choose furniture with built-in storage, like ottomans with hidden compartments or coffee tables with shelves, to maximise space while keeping things accessible.
My Top Tip
I use seagrass baskets from Ikea for just £9 – stylish but affordable
Pro Declutter Hack 4 Use the ‘Out with the Old’ Rule
To keep clutter at bay, adopt a simple rule: for every new item you bring in, let go of an old one.
How to Do It:
- Every time you buy something new, place an old item in the box.
- Or use the One – a – day method where you remove one item from your home each day.
My Top Tip: I have a large blue Ikea bag (yes, I do visit Ikea a lot!!) in my cupboard under the stairs and keep adding into it. I always donate to Oxfam and use my Gift Aid code so I know exactly how much my donations have made for the charity which I find very motivating.
Decluttering doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By focusing on small, consistent steps, you can create a home that feels lighter, more organised, and less stressful.
Ready to get started? Pick one pro declutter hack from this list and try it today. Small changes lead to big results!
I hope you liked my pro decluttering hacks. If you want to go to the next level then Indoor Self Storage has great solutions for helping you in your declutter and destress quest.
