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Looking forward to spring, many of us will be considering giving our homes a thorough clean and declutter. Decluttering can be a rewarding yet daunting task, often creating a bit of chaos in the process. However, by eliminating unnecessary items and organizing what remains, it can provide a fresh perspective on our living spaces, leaving us feeling more relaxed and content. It can also help us value the items we own and imbue them with greater meaning.
There are various approaches to decluttering, with methods emerging since the surge in popularity of Marie Kondo’s book “The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up” in 2011. While there is no one-size-fits-all method, these approaches can simplify the task and offer guidance to prevent common decluttering mistakes. Below, I have compiled seven of my favorite decluttering methods to showcase some of the best options available.
1. The ‘Ski Slope’ Method
I personally favor the straightforward ski slope decluttering method, created by Anita Yokota for her book “Home Therapy.” As a therapist turned interior designer, Anita aimed to facilitate decluttering for her clients.
The ski slope method involves systematically and thoroughly decluttering a single space or room. The concept is to work through the room as if navigating a ski slope, moving from one side to the other from top to bottom. This approach prevents overwhelm by breaking the task into manageable sections and providing a clear path to follow.
In her book, Anita explains, “The idea is to visualize your cluttered room as a ski slope. Trying to tackle it head-on like a steep descent can be intimidating. Instead, moving across the room from one end to the other creates a gentler slope, making the process seem less daunting. Rather than looking at the room linearly, view it from corner to corner.”
I can attest that this method simplifies decluttering a room, dividing it into zones to make it more manageable. However, remember to take breaks, as even decluttering a single room can become a time-consuming project. Ensure not to overlook the central areas of the room, which are easily missed.
2. Swedish Death Cleaning
Another noteworthy method is Swedish Death Cleaning, introduced by Margareta Magnusson in her book “The Gentle Art Of Swedish Death Cleaning.” Despite the somber connotation, the purpose is significant. This decluttering approach is designed for individuals in later stages of life to streamline the process for their loved ones after they pass away.
Although originally intended for older individuals, Margareta emphasizes that people of all ages can benefit from Swedish Death Cleaning to declutter and organize their belongings. She remarks, “Age or mortality is not a prerequisite. Sometimes, realizing that you can barely close your drawers or cupboard doors is a sign that action is needed, even in your 30s.”
Swedish Death Cleaning involves
Storage areas like closets and attics are often where clutter tends to accumulate. When decluttering these spaces, focus on getting rid of duplicates but keep items that bring you joy and comfort. Remember, achieving a pleasant and comfortable living environment can also mean reducing the number of possessions you have.
Embarking on Swedish Death Cleaning can be a lengthy process, so it’s important to pace yourself and take breaks to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
One effective method for decluttering, especially for beginners or those tackling small areas, is the four-box method. This approach involves using four empty boxes labeled with purposes such as ‘keep’, ‘throw away’, ‘donate’, and ‘sell’. Sorting items into these boxes helps track progress and make decisions easier. Avoid creating an ‘undecided’ box unless you’re committed to revisiting those items later to prevent creating new clutter.
Another popular decluttering technique is the KonMari method by Marie Kondo. This method involves categorizing items in your home, such as clothes, books, and sentimental items, and deciding what to keep based on whether each item ‘sparks joy’. By following a specific order of decluttering categories, you can streamline the process and develop a deeper connection with your belongings.
For a more hands-on approach, consider the Packing Party method created by The Minimalists. This method involves packing all your belongings as if you’re moving and only unpacking what you need over a few weeks. This exercise helps you identify essential items and prevents unnecessary clutter from being carried forward.
Each decluttering method offers a unique perspective and strategy to help you streamline your possessions and create a more organized living space.
One practical method for decluttering is to focus on keeping only items that hold significant value to you, while getting rid of the rest by donating or selling in bulk. This approach offers a true perspective on distinguishing between what we truly need and what we possess. Keep in mind seasonal items that may be needed later in the year, as well as important documents and other belongings that are not immediately necessary. You may want to adapt this method to suit your specific needs and circumstances.
Another effective decluttering method is the Minimalism Game, developed by The Minimalists. The premise is simple: discard a number of items each day corresponding to the date of the month, starting with one item on the first day and increasing incrementally. This method can become a fun challenge when engaging friends and seeing who can declutter the most. However, as the month progresses, it can become more challenging to keep up with the daily decluttering tasks. It’s crucial to stay mindful during this process to ensure you are not discarding items that you may later regret removing. While the game taps into your competitive spirit to aid decluttering, it is important to strike a balance to avoid rushing through and potentially making hasty decisions.
After completing a thorough decluttering session, adopting the “one in, one out” rule can help maintain a clutter-free environment going forward. Simply put, for every new item you acquire, remove a similar item to keep clutter at bay. This practice not only prevents accumulation of excess belongings but also encourages thoughtful consumption by prompting you to consider if a new purchase is truly necessary and if you are willing to part with something else in exchange. By following this rule, you can prevent unnecessary purchases and maintain a balanced volume of possessions.
