Decluttering That Sticks: How to Finally Get (and Stay) Organized

You’ve probably tried decluttering before. Maybe you spent a weekend pulling everything out of your closet, only to shove half of it back in when decision fatigue kicked in. Or perhaps you started with good intentions but ended up with a "maybe" pile that never quite disappeared.

Decluttering isn’t just about getting rid of stuff—it’s about creating a space that feels intentional, functional, and peaceful. But for it to actually work, you need an approach that fits your lifestyle, not a one-size-fits-all method that leaves you overwhelmed.

Here’s how to finally clear the clutter and keep it from creeping back.

Step 1: Define Your Why (Because Motivation Fizzles Fast)

Before you start tossing things in a donation bin, ask yourself: Why do I want to declutter?

Less stress?
More space?
Easier mornings?
A home that doesn’t feel chaotic?

Decluttering takes effort, and having a clear reason will help when you hit decision paralysis. Write it down. Remind yourself when you’re debating whether to keep that sweater you haven’t worn in three years.

Step 2: Start Small (Seriously, Don’t Tackle the Whole House at Once)

One of the biggest mistakes? Trying to declutter everything in one go. That’s how you end up sitting in a pile of belongings, exhausted and ready to quit.

Instead, break it down:

Start with a single drawer, not your entire closet.
Pick a category, like shoes or books, rather than an entire room.
Set a timer for 15 minutes and declutter in short bursts.

Small wins add up fast. The more momentum you build, the easier it gets.

Step 3: The "Would I Buy This Again?" Test

When deciding what stays and what goes, forget the guilt. Instead of asking if you might need something "someday," try this:

If I didn’t own this already, would I buy it again today?

If the answer is no, it’s probably time to let it go.

Other quick decision-making tricks:

Have I used this in the past year? No? Bye.
Does this actually fit my lifestyle, or just an idealized version of myself? (Looking at you, unused workout equipment.)
Would someone else get more use out of this than I do?

Step 4: Give Every Item a Home

Clutter happens when things don’t have a designated place. The key to keeping your space organized is making sure every item has a home—one that makes sense.

If you constantly leave your keys on the counter, add a small bowl by the door.
If mail piles up, create a system (a basket for incoming mail, a shredder nearby).
If laundry always lands on a chair, maybe it’s time to rethink your closet setup.

Make organization easy, and you’ll be more likely to stick with it.

Step 5: Stop Clutter Before It Starts

Decluttering isn’t just about getting rid of things—it’s about preventing new clutter from sneaking in.

Adopt a one-in, one-out rule. If you buy a new sweater, donate an old one.
Create a 30-day list for impulse purchases. Want something? Write it down and wait a month. If you still want it, go for it. If not, you just saved money and space.
Be mindful of “free” stuff. Just because something is free (conference swag, hotel toiletries, hand-me-downs) doesn’t mean it deserves space in your home.

Step 6: Declutter Regularly, Not Just Once a Year

Clutter builds up over time, so make decluttering a habit, not a one-time event.

Ways to make it part of your routine:

The 5-Minute Rule: Take five minutes at the end of the day to tidy up a small area.
Seasonal Check-Ins: Every few months, reassess your wardrobe, pantry, or bookshelves.
The "Last Chance Box": Put uncertain items in a box. If you don’t use them in six months, donate the whole thing—no second-guessing.

Decluttering doesn’t have to be overwhelming or time-consuming. With the right approach, you can create a space that feels lighter, calmer, and more intentional—without burning out in the process.