You know that feeling when you finally sit down on the couch after a long day—maybe the kids are finally in bed, and you’ve got five precious minutes to yourself—but all you can see is the mess? There are toys scattered across the floor (and probably under the couch too), yesterday’s mail piled on the counter, and a random assortment of stuff that seems to multiply when you’re not looking. It’s like clutter has this sneaky way of making even a spacious home feel tight and overwhelming.

Trust me, I get it. As a mom of three, I’ve definitely been guilty of the “just put it there for now” approach. Spoiler alert: “for now” quickly turns into “forever” if you’re not careful, and before you know it, the chaos takes over. It’s exhausting. But here’s the thing—I’ve learned that a little decluttering can go a long way in making your home feel bigger and more peaceful. Let me share what’s worked for me.

All you need is a plan, a little determination, and these decluttering tips that have worked wonders for me. And, by the time you’re done, you’ll feel like you’re living in a brand-new space.

#1. Start with a “No Judgement” Purge

Let’s get real—decluttering can feel intimidating, especially if you’ve been holding onto things “just in case.” But the first step is giving yourself permission to let go without guilt. Grab a trash bag and a donation box, and tackle one room at a time. Ask yourself: Do I use this? Do I love this? If the answer is no, it’s time to say goodbye.

#2. Adopt the “One In, One Out” Rule

Ever bought a cute throw pillow or a new gadget, only to realize you have no place to put it? I used to do this all the time until I embraced the “one in, one out” rule. For every new item that comes into your home, another one has to go. It’s like a mini decluttering session built into your shopping habits.

And yes, this rule applies to kids’ stuff too. If a new toy comes in, let your little ones choose an older toy to donate. It’s a great way to teach them about gratitude and giving back.

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#3. Rethink Your Storage Solutions

Sometimes it’s not the amount of stuff you have, but how you’re storing it that makes your home feel cramped. Look for creative storage solutions to maximize your space.

The entryway is one of the first places clutter tends to collect. In my post, “10 Simple Entryway Ideas That Instantly Elevate Your Home’“, you’ll find practical storage tips and simple styling tricks to help make this high-traffic space feel both organized and inviting.

#4. Declutter Surfaces Daily

Flat surfaces are clutter magnets. The dining table becomes a dumping ground for mail, keys, and random knick-knacks. The kitchen counters? A battleground of appliances and utensils.

Make it a habit to clear these spaces every day. It doesn’t have to take long—just five minutes at the end of the day to put everything back where it belongs. A clean surface not only makes your home feel bigger but also gives you a mental reset.

#5. Be Brutal with Your Closet

I’ll admit it—my closet used not to be perfect. Clothes hadn’t been worn in years, shoes that didn’t fit, and a mountain of accessories never used. Sound familiar?

Here’s the trick I always use: Turn all your hangers backward at the start of the season. After you wear something, put the hanger back the right way. By the end of the season, you’ll see exactly what you haven’t touched. Those are the items to donate or sell.

And don’t forget about your drawers. If it’s ripped, stained, or hasn’t seen the light of day in ages, it’s time to let it go.

#6. Embrace Minimal Decor

I used to think that more decor meant a cozier home. Spoiler alert: it doesn’t. Too many knick-knacks or oversized furniture can overwhelm a space. Instead, focus on a few key pieces that you truly love.

For example, instead of a cluttered mantel full of random items, pick three or four pieces that complement each other. Less really is more, and your home will feel open and airy.

If you’re looking for inspiration, check out my article “How to Style Books and Magazines in Your Home” for ideas on creating elegant, minimal displays. Or, for a touch of greenery that won’t overwhelm, explore “How to Place an Orchid in Your Interior“.

#7. Set Boundaries for Sentimental Items

Ah, the sentimental stuff—this is where it gets tricky. It’s hard to part with gifts, family heirlooms, or items tied to precious memories. But keeping everything isn’t practical.

#8. Create a Decluttering Routine

Decluttering isn’t a one-and-done thing. It’s an ongoing process, especially if you have kids. (I see you, fellow moms, stepping on Legos daily.)

Set aside time each week to tackle a specific area. Maybe Mondays are for mail and paperwork, Wednesdays are for the kitchen, and Saturdays are for the kids’ rooms. Breaking it into small chunks makes it less overwhelming and more sustainable.

#9. Stop the Clutter Before It Starts

Finally, the easiest way to keep your home feeling bigger is to prevent clutter from sneaking in. Be mindful of what you bring into your space.

Ask yourself: Do I really need this? Will I use it? Do I have a place for it? If the answer is no, leave it behind.

You can also implement a family-wide “clutter ban.” For every gift-giving occasion, ask for experiences instead of stuff. A trip to the zoo or a family movie night is much more memorable than another toy or trinket.

Wrap-Up: Your Space, Your Sanctuary

Decluttering isn’t just about getting rid of stuff—it’s about reclaiming your space and making your home work for you. With a little effort and these tips, you can create a home that feels bigger, brighter, and more welcoming.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab a trash bag, put on your favorite playlist, and start decluttering. You’ll be amazed at how much lighter—and happier—you’ll feel when you’re done.