Decluttering clears space. It makes deep cleaning faster. You remove items that block dirt. This guide helps you sort your home. Follow it to prepare each room. Use the checklist to stay on track.
Why Declutter First?
Declutter before you clean. It lets you reach all surfaces. Dust and grime hide under clutter. A tidy space stays clean longer. You save time on cleaning days. Many people ask how to deep clean a house fast. Start with this step. It cuts hours from your work.
- Decluttering reduces stress.
- You find lost items.
- Your home feels fresh.
For more ways to sort items, check our KonMari method guide.
Rules for Decluttering
Use simple rules to decide what stays. These help you move quick.
- 20/20 Rule: If you can replace an item for under $20 in 20 minutes, let it go.
- 12-12-12 Rule: Pick 12 items to toss, 12 to donate, and 12 to put back each day.
- 5-Year Rule: If you have not used it in five years, discard it.
- Core 4 Method: Sort into trash, donate, keep, or relocate piles.
Apply these in every room. Donate to local spots like Goodwill. Sell online if items have value. For safe disposal, see EPA guidelines on household waste.
Room-by-Room Decluttering Checklist
Go room by room. Start at the top. Work down. Gather boxes for trash, donate, and keep. Do one room per day if needed.
Kitchen
Empty cabinets and drawers. Check for expired food. Toss broken tools.
- Remove old spices and cans past their date.
- Donate extra mugs or plates you never use.
- Sort utensils. Keep only what you need.
- Clear counters of small appliances not used weekly.
After this, cleaning sinks and ovens is simple. Link to our natural oven cleaning methods.
Bathroom
Clear shelves and cabinets. Throw out old products.
- Discard expired makeup and medicine.
- Sort towels. Keep fresh ones. Donate worn ones.
- Remove empty bottles from the shower.
- Organize under the sink. Use bins for supplies.
This makes scrubbing tiles easier. People often ask about mold. Declutter first to spot issues.
Bedroom
Focus on closets and nightstands. Sort clothes and drawers.
- Go through clothes. Donate what does not fit.
- Clear bedside tables of old papers and batteries.
- Under the bed: Remove dust bunnies and unused boxes.
- Sort jewelry or accessories. Keep daily items.
A clear bedroom helps with vacuuming floors. For small spaces, see our closet organization ideas.
Living Room
Straighten shelves and tables. Remove extra items.
- Sort books and media. Donate unread ones.
- Clear coffee tables of remotes and papers.
- Check under couches for lost items.
- Donate old decor that no longer matches.
This opens space for dusting fans and wiping walls.
Kids’ Rooms or Play Areas
Involve kids if possible. Sort toys and clothes.
- Toss broken toys.
- Donate outgrown clothes and games.
- Organize bins for easy access.
- Clear floors of small pieces.
This prevents trips during cleaning. Families ask how to keep it tidy. Use daily pick-up routines.
Office or Workspace
Clear desks and files. Sort papers.
- Shred old documents.
- Organize drawers. Toss dead pens.
- Sort cables and gadgets.
- Donate unused books or supplies.
A neat desk makes wiping surfaces quick.
Garage or Storage Areas
Sort tools and boxes. This area collects junk.
- Toss broken tools.
- Donate old sports gear.
- Sort holiday items. Keep only used ones.
- Clear shelves for sweeping.
Use storage like bins. For more tips, visit our garage storage systems.
Entryway or Mudroom
Clear hooks and benches.
- Sort shoes. Donate pairs not worn.
- Empty mail piles.
- Organize coats by season.
- Use baskets for small items.
This sets a clean tone for the home. Link to mudroom organization ideas.
What to Do with Decluttered Items
Sort piles right away.
- Trash: Broken or expired items.
- Donate: Good condition clothes and toys. Check local centers.
- Sell: Valuable items on apps like eBay.
- Store: Seasonal items in boxes. Label them.
People ask about storage. Use clear bins. For time-saving systems, see our organization guide.
Tips for Staying on Track
Set a timer for 30 minutes per session. Play music to keep going. Involve family for help. Track progress with a printed list. Do this seasonally. In 2025, minimalism trends make decluttering popular. It helps with mental clarity too.
After decluttering, deep clean. Wipe surfaces. Vacuum floors. Your home will shine.
For related reads, check our seasonal home organization strategies.