Mind Over Clutter: Advanced Decluttering Tips for a Clearer Head

1. Try the “5-Senses Reset” for Each Room

Instead of just tidying up, go room by room and assess how each space feels through your five senses—sight, smell, touch, sound, and taste (if applicable, like in the kitchen). Ask yourself if each sense in the room is adding to your sense of calm or clutter:

• Sight: Are there too many items in view? Do certain colors or patterns feel overwhelming?
• Smell: Are there any lingering odors from food, laundry, or even musty furniture? Fresh scents can make a room feel cleaner.
• Touch: Is there clutter on surfaces like tabletops, sofas, or floors that feel chaotic when you interact with them?
• Sound: Is there background noise that you’re tolerating but not enjoying?
• Taste: This is great to apply in kitchens or dining areas, where you can focus on creating a peaceful, appetizing setting.

This approach lets you adjust your environment based on how it affects your senses. When each space feels good across these five senses, your home becomes an oasis, not just a collection of rooms.

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2. Use the “Layers of Clutter” Technique

Clutter often comes in layers—visible and hidden. Use this approach to clear each type of clutter methodically:

• Layer 1: Surface Clutter – Start with the things you see every day: items on counters, tables, or visible shelves. Clear this out first to make an immediate impact.
• Layer 2: Stowed-Away Clutter – This includes items in drawers, closets, and cupboards that don’t get used but take up space. The hidden clutter can be stressful because it feels like a “secret” mess. Dedicate time to one storage area at a time, choosing only items you’ll genuinely use.
• Layer 3: Memory Clutter – The toughest layer to declutter. These are items you’re emotionally attached to but don’t actually need. Start small by donating or photographing items you’d like to remember but don’t need to keep.

This layered method ensures you make steady progress without feeling overwhelmed.

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3. Follow the “20/20 Rule” for ‘Just in Case’ Items

Ever hold onto something because you “might need it one day”? This is the “just in case” clutter that can build up quickly. Try the 20/20 rule: If you’re hanging onto something “just in case,” consider whether you could replace it within 20 minutes for under $20. If the answer is yes, let it go! This rule can help you release items that don’t serve your current life and reduce decision fatigue.

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4. Practice the “One-In, One-Out” Habit

This simple habit is a game-changer for maintaining a clutter-free home once you’ve done the hard work of decluttering. For every new item you bring in, commit to letting go of one item. Whether it’s clothing, kitchen gadgets, or digital files, this principle prevents buildup and makes you more mindful about purchases.

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5. Make Use of “Dead Zones” for Storage

Every home has “dead zones”—spaces that often go unused, like the backs of closet doors, under-the-bed areas, or even vertical wall space. Consider using these spaces strategically:

• Add shelves or hooks to the back of closet doors.
• Use low-profile storage containers under the bed.
• Install floating shelves in small corners.

By repurposing these zones, you create designated spots for items that might otherwise end up on tables or counters, keeping surfaces clear and open.

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6. Set Up a “Clutter Holding Zone” to Revisit Items Later

A “clutter holding zone” is a designated spot (a bin or box) where you place items you’re unsure about discarding. Give it a set time limit—say, 30 days. If you don’t retrieve the item within that time, chances are you don’t need it. This approach is a gentle way to ease into letting go without feeling rushed.

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7. Digitally Declutter with a “Minimalist App Folder”

Our digital devices are often overlooked sources of clutter, even though they’re a constant part of our daily lives. Set up a “Minimalist Folder” on your phone or computer desktop where you only keep the essentials. Delete or hide apps and shortcuts you don’t use daily. Decluttering the screens we interact with every day can reduce distraction and create a sense of calm.

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8. Schedule “Maintenance Days” for Ongoing Clutter Control

Decluttering isn’t just a one-time task; it’s a habit. Set up a monthly or quarterly “maintenance day” where you spend an hour or two tidying up key areas. Think of it as a check-in for any new clutter that’s appeared since your last deep clean. This prevents the buildup of clutter over time and keeps your space feeling fresh.

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Decluttering as a Wellness Practice

When we declutter mindfully, it becomes more than just a way to tidy up our homes—it’s a wellness practice. These advanced tips can help you create a living environment that feels peaceful, energizing, and supportive. Clutter doesn’t have to be a constant source of stress, and with the right strategies, your home can become a space that truly nurtures your well-being.