Skip the Decluttering Trends — Here’s What We as Professional Organizers Suggest Instead
The holidays are a time for excess, but once the new year hits, we’re all trying to do more with less. Spring cleaning is just around the corner, and at Neat Method, we’re here to share our tried-and-true tips for staying clutter-free.
We love a quick fix as much as the next person, but we’ll tell you this: a one-size-fits-all approach rarely works. Real organizing is slower, more customized, and less dramatic than trends suggest.
Here’s the deal: If it works for you, then it works. At NEAT Method, we all agree on the following decluttering tips and tricks.
Make a List (and Check It Twice)
We suggest mapping out which rooms — and the specific areas within them — you want to tackle so you can determine which order makes the most sense. The reality in a home, no matter the size, is that every single space connects.
Additionally, even though you may be tempted to clear out larger areas like your closet or pantry first, keep things manageable by starting small with a junk drawer or entryway table. Once you feel the difference in your daily routine, you’ll have the momentum to tackle something bigger. But whatever you do, we recommend waiting until you have a few projects under your belt before taking on something really big, like a garage.
Check Off One Small Task at a Time
We also suggest dividing a large organizing project into smaller, more manageable tasks. Set a timer for 15 minutes and focus on just one area, drawer, or shelf at a time. This way, you won’t feel overwhelmed, and you’ll start seeing progress quickly — no matter how small the task feels.
Edit with Intention
Your house should be your happy place, and visual clutter creates mental clutter. That’s why it’s important to consider how useful something really is before it earns a spot in your home.
Even if you have room for gadgets and gizmos aplenty, it doesn’t mean you need to hold on to them. That ice cream maker might fit in the cabinet, but if you never use it, it’s just taking up space and adding to the noise.
Honor Your Feelings
Your belongings tell a story. There’s the splurge you saved for, the family mementos you treasure, the glassware you’re saving for a special occasion. While it’s easy to attach sentiment to every item, it’s more likely that only certain pieces in your home truly carry meaningful memories.
Hold on to the items that continue to serve you, and part with anything that no longer does.
It’s easy to get lost in the emotion of it all, so make sure you stay focused on what you’re actually trying to achieve: a home that functions well and feels calm.
Declutter First, Organize Second
Focus on clearing the clutter before adding anything else into the mix. It may be tempting to stock up on organizing supplies at the outset, but the only tool you really need is a calendar with time blocked off to get it done.
Once you’ve sifted through your belongings and have a better sense of your space, call in reinforcements — baskets, bins, and containers that will help you get the job done.
And if you need help, call us at NEAT Method.
