Decluttering can feel like a huge task, but breaking it down into manageable steps can make it easier. Use this checklist to help you stay organized and focused while decluttering your home room by room. You’ll feel a sense of accomplishment as you check off each item!
General Steps Before You Begin
Set Your Intentions and Goals:
Why are you decluttering? (e.g., reduce stress, make more space, prepare for a move)
What do you hope to achieve? (e.g., a more organized home, a minimalist space)
Gather Your Supplies:
Boxes or bins (for sorting items)
Trash bags (for things to discard)
Donation bins (for items to give away)
Cleaning supplies (to freshen up the space after decluttering)
Labels (if needed for bins)
Create a Timeline:
Decide how much time you will dedicate each day (e.g., 30 minutes per room or 1 hour a day).
Set a Timer:
Set a timer for each decluttering session (e.g., 30 minutes to an hour). This will help keep you focused and prevent burnout.
Room-by-Room Decluttering Checklist
Entryway
Remove shoes, bags, and jackets lying around.
Sort through keys, mail, and small items.
Clean and organize coat closet (donate or toss unused jackets or shoes).
Add hooks, baskets, or trays for organization.
Living Room
Clear off coffee tables, side tables, and shelves.
Sort through magazines, books, and old papers.
Declutter electronics—remove unused remotes, chargers, and cables.
Organize pillows, blankets, and other soft furnishings.
Donate or sell excess furniture or decor you no longer need.
Kitchen
Clear countertops and remove any unused appliances.
Sort through kitchen drawers (e.g., utensils, gadgets) and donate things you don’t use.
Declutter your pantry—dispose of expired items and organize cans, snacks, and spices.
Clean out the fridge and freezer—toss expired or old food.
Sort through mugs, cups, and dishes—donate duplicates or chipped items.
Bedroom
Clear off the nightstands and dresser.
Go through your closet—donate or sell clothes you don’t wear.
Organize shoes and accessories (donate or toss damaged or unused items).
Declutter the bed—keep only the essentials on your nightstand.
Organize your wardrobe by season and store out-of-season items.
Bathroom
Clear the countertops and remove unused products.
Go through the medicine cabinet—dispose of expired medications or skincare products.
Organize toiletries, makeup, and cleaning supplies.
Tidy the shower and tub area (dispose of old sponges, bottles, or shower items).
Donate unused towels or linens that are still in good condition.
Home Office
Clear the desk of clutter—file papers and organize stationery.
Sort through old files, bills, and documents—shred unnecessary ones.
Organize office supplies (pens, paper, paperclips).
Declutter electronics—dispose of old devices, cords, and chargers.
Closets
Sort through clothing—donate or sell items you haven’t worn in over a year.
Organize shoes, accessories, and bags.
Tidy up linen closets—donate extra towels or bedding.
Store seasonal clothes or items you don’t need year-round.
Clean shelves and add organizers or bins for extra storage.
Garage or Storage Areas
Sort through boxes and containers—discard or donate items that aren’t useful.
Organize tools, sports equipment, and seasonal gear.
Dispose of broken or unused items.
Make space by storing large, seldom-used items in bins or containers.
Kids’ Rooms or Play Areas
Sort through toys—donate or sell unused or broken ones.
Organize books and games on shelves.
Declutter clothes and shoes your children have outgrown.
Sort through art supplies and keep only what’s necessary.
Miscellaneous Spaces (Attic, Basement, etc.)
Sort through old keepsakes, photos, or documents—digitize important items if possible.
Organize seasonal decorations and store them neatly.
Discard broken or outdated furniture, tools, or appliances.
Post-Decluttering Tasks
Donate or Sell: Immediately take donated items to a charity or schedule a pickup.
Dispose of Trash: Take out the trash or recycle any discarded items.
Deep Clean: After decluttering each space, give it a thorough cleaning (vacuum, dust, wipe down surfaces).
Organize Storage Spaces: Use baskets, bins, or shelves to maintain a tidy and organized space.
Maintain: Set up a regular decluttering routine (e.g., 10 minutes a day) to prevent clutter from building up again.
Decluttering Tips to Keep in Mind
Be ruthless: If you haven’t used an item in the past year or it doesn’t add value to your life, it’s time to let it go.
Avoid the “maybe” pile: If you’re unsure about something, be decisive. Either keep it or toss it—don’t let it linger.
One in, one out: For every new item you bring into your home, make sure to get rid of something old.
Get help: If possible, ask family members or friends to help speed up the process and keep you motivated.
By following this checklist, you can declutter your home room by room and create a more organized, peaceful living space. Keep the momentum going and maintain the clean, clutter-free environment with regular tidying sessions!