Decluttering That Sticks: 5 Game-Changing Tips for a Tidy, Stress-Free Home
Have you ever spent an entire weekend decluttering, only to find your space looking like a tornado hit it again just weeks later? You’re not alone.
Decluttering isn’t just about tossing things out—it’s about changing how you interact with your space. That’s why I don’t believe in “quick fixes.” I believe in systems that last.
So today, I’m sharing five game-changing decluttering tips that will help you not just clean up—but create a home that stays tidy, stress-free, and functional for the long haul.
The “6/6 Rule” (Is It Really Worth Keeping?)
This is one of my favorite tricks, and it’s brutally effective.
Ask yourself two simple questions:
Have I used this item in the last 6 months?
Will I use it in the next 6 months?
If the answer is no to both—it’s time to let it go.
Space Coach Tip: If you’re unsure, put it in a “Maybe Box.” Revisit it in 3 months. If you had completely forgotten this items exists, then that’s a sign you’re not going to need it.
2. Declutter by Category, Not by Room
One of the biggest mistakes people make is decluttering room by room instead of tackling categories.
Here’s why category-based decluttering works better:
It helps you see exactly how much you have (do you really need 15 coffee mugs?)
It prevents duplicate items from sneaking into different rooms.
It stops you from shifting clutter from one place to another.
Try This Instead:
Gather all your clothes from every room. Sort them at once. Find categories within categories, to keep your tasks tangible. For example, start with all t-shirts, then shorts etc.
Do the same with books, toiletries, paperwork—whatever piles up in your home.
Space Coach Tip: This is the Marie Kondo method, and it works because it forces you to see the full picture of what you own.
3. The “One-Touch Rule” (Stop Creating Piles)
How many times have you picked something up, placed it down somewhere else, then had to deal with it later? That’s clutter in motion.
Instead, follow the One-Touch Rule:
Every item you touch should go straight to its final destination.
Laundry? Fold it and put it away immediately.
Mail? Sort it as soon as it comes in.
Keys? Have a designated spot so they never get lost.
Space Coach Tip: Clutter happens when things don’t have a home. Give every item a place, and suddenly, your home stays tidy with half the effort.
4. The 10-Minute Reset (Small Wins, Big Impact)
Decluttering doesn’t have to be an all-day event.
Try this challenge:
Set a timer for 10 minutes.
Pick ONE small space (a junk drawer, your bedside table, a kitchen cabinet).
Declutter and reorganize as much as you can in that time.
Why It Works:
It builds momentum without feeling overwhelming.
It helps you form small, daily habits that keep clutter from piling up.
You get an instant win that makes you feel accomplished.
Space Coach Tip: Make the 10-minute reset part of your evening routine. It’s the easiest way to wake up to a tidy home!
5. Declutter by Category, Not by Room
One of the biggest mistakes people make is decluttering room by room instead of tackling categories.
Here’s why category-based decluttering works better:
It helps you see exactly how much you have (do you really need 15 coffee mugs?)
It prevents duplicate items from sneaking into different rooms.
It stops you from shifting clutter from one place to another.
Try This Instead:
Gather all your clothes from every room. Sort them at once. Find categories within categories, to keep your tasks tangible. For example, start with all t-shirts, then shorts etc.
Do the same with books, toiletries, paperwork—whatever piles up in your home.
Space Coach Tip: This is the Marie Kondo method, and it works because it forces you to see the full picture of what you own.
Decluttering is a Lifestyle, Not a One-Time Task
A clutter-free home isn’t about perfection—it’s about making life easier.
If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or just need a push to get started, I’m here to help.
Need a plan? Let’s chat!
WhatsApp me: +31 6 41273515
Visit: thespacecoach.com
What’s the hardest part of decluttering for you? Drop a comment below!
