Clutter can feel overwhelming. Many people look around their homes and don’t even know where to begin. If you’re in that position, know you’re not alone. Let’s explore the reasons why our homes become so cluttered, how to start tackling the mess, and ways to keep it from building up again.
Why Are Our Homes So Cluttered?
The majority of us have more than we need. Buying things has never been easier. With a single click, an item can be at your door the next day. Products are becoming more affordable but also less durable, so they break more easily—and yet, we don’t get rid of them. Meanwhile, our lives are busier than ever. Many of us work long hours to pay bills, raise children, and keep up with friends and family. There’s little time left to organise our homes. As a result, we shove things into cupboards, hoping they’ll disappear, only to trip over them daily, feeling completely overwhelmed.
Why Is It So Hard to Get Started?
Time is a big factor. Many of my clients say they simply don’t have time to tackle their clutter. But another reason is that decluttering is not something most of us are taught. Schools don’t teach it, and many parents don’t pass on the skill. Without guidance, decluttering feels like just another daunting job on our never-ending to-do list. When the entire house feels like a mess, knowing where to start can feel impossible.
Starting the Process
The first step is to pick one room—just one. Choose the room that will make the biggest difference in your life and focus on it until it’s complete. Avoid rushing from room to room. Stand or sit in that space, look around, and identify one item you no longer need, want, or use. Once you find one item, you’ll likely spot more.
Start with easy areas like your bedside table or bathroom. Clear out used tissues, old earplugs, or books you’ve already read. In the bathroom, toss out shampoos you didn’t like, empty deodorants, or worn-out sponges. These small wins build momentum.
Breaking It Down
Here are a couple of different ways of working:
Go clockwise: Start at the doorway and work your way around the room.
Work by category: In your wardrobe, focus on trousers one day, skirts the next, and dresses another.
Set a timer: Dedicate 20-30 minutes and see how much you can accomplish.
Always have three bags handy: one for rubbish, one for recycling, and one for donations.
Staying Motivated
Think about why you’re decluttering. Are you struggling to find things? Is getting dressed in the morning stressful? Are you preparing for a move? Write your reason on a piece of paper and stick it on the wall. When the process feels hard, look at it to remind yourself why you’re doing this. You need to make sure you have really got to the root of the reason otherwise it won't feel motivating.
Avoiding Decision Fatigue
Making too many decisions can be mentally draining. Take regular breaks. If you’re stuck on an item, create a “maybe” pile and revisit it later with fresh eyes. Giving yourself time to rest can make the process feel less overwhelming.
Addressing Emotional Barriers
Sentimental items can be the hardest to let go of, so leave them for last. By the time you’ve decluttered other areas, you’ll feel more confident in your decision-making. Ask yourself why you’re keeping an item and whether a photo could preserve the memory without the physical item.
Guilt is another common barrier. People feel bad about getting rid of things they spent money on. Remember that keeping it won’t bring back the money. Learn from the purchase and try not to repeat the mistake. If it’s a gift, know that the giver’s intention was to make you happy. If the item isn’t serving that purpose, it’s okay to let it go.
Preventing Future Clutter
The key to a clutter-free home is controlling what comes in. Stop buying unnecessary items. Ask yourself why you’re shopping—is it boredom? A momentary high? Be the bouncer of your own home and assess whether new items truly belong there. Once you’ve decluttered, adopt a one-in, one-out rule to maintain balance.
My Approach to Decluttering
As a professional organiser, I see firsthand how clutter builds up and overwhelms. I’ve tried many methods, and my approach is to help you find what works for you. Everyone’s journey is different, and there’s no one-size-fits-all solution.
If you’re feeling stuck, I’m here to help. Whether you want in-person support or online coaching, I offer free consultations to discuss how I can guide you through the process. Start small, take one step at a time, and remember: momentum builds, and amazing things can happen.
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