10 Quick Home Hacks to Declutter in a Day
Clutter happens. One day your home feels manageable, and the next, it’s like every surface is covered in “stuff.” I’ve been there, feeling so overwhelmed by the mess that I had no clue where to start. The good news is decluttering doesn’t have to be a never-ending project. Once I figured out the right approach, I was able to make significant progress in just one day. Here are 10 quick home hacks that have worked wonders for me when I needed a clutter reset.
Hack #1: Start with a “Clutter Sweep”
This is my go-to method when I’m short on time but need results fast. Grab a laundry basket (or any large container) and walk through each room, collecting items that don’t belong there. I like to set a timer for 15 minutes and challenge myself to see how much I can gather. Once the basket is full, sort it into piles: things to put away, donate, or toss.
Hack #2: Apply the One-Year Rule
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve held onto something “just in case” and never used it. And worse, once my parents passed, I found myself hanging on to things as a way to hang on to them. Things I felt like I couldn’t get rid of or they’d be gone forever.
If you’re unsure about an item, ask yourself: “Have I used this in the past year?” If the answer is no, it’s probably time to let it go. This rule helps me stay focused and avoid unnecessary emotional attachments to clutter.
Hack #3: Declutter One Small Space at a Time
When I feel overwhelmed, the best thing I can do to get past that is to start small. When it comes to quick home hacks to declutter, this one is key. Instead of tackling an entire room, I focus on one drawer, shelf, or corner. For example, I recently decluttered the junk drawer in my kitchen. It only took 10 minutes, but the impact was huge—I could actually find things again! Small wins like this add up quickly and do wonders for your mental health.
Hack #4: Use the “Four-Box Method”
The 4 box method hack has saved me so many times it has actually become my favorite decluttering hack. Here’s what you do: grab four boxes or bags and label them: Keep, Donate, Toss, and Relocate. As you go through each area, decide which box an item belongs in. The key is to make quick decisions, don’t overthink it. Once the boxes are full, take immediate action (e.g., donate the items, toss the trash, and put away the things you’re keeping). Do not let them sit around the house due to indecisiveness.
Hack #5: Create a Decluttering Playlist
Music really can make everything better, or at least easier. Decluttering doesn’t have to be boring! Put on some upbeat songs or a favorite podcast to make the process more enjoyable. Sometimes, and don’t laugh, but I’ll even turn it into a mini workout by dancing around as I clean. It’s amazing how much faster the time goes when you’re having fun.
Hack #6: Tackle Flat Surfaces First
Flat surfaces are clutter magnets. For me, it’s the kitchen counter, dining table, and entryway. Clearing these areas instantly makes my home feel cleaner and more organized. I start by putting away anything that doesn’t belong and wiping down the surfaces. It’s a simple habit that makes a big difference, and one that makes a big impact towards decluttering in a day.
Hack #7: Use Bins and Baskets to Corral Clutter
I’ve learned that not all clutter is bad—it’s just a matter of containing it. Bins and baskets are lifesavers for organizing everything from toys to mail. I keep a small basket by the door for keys and sunglasses, and another in the living room for remote controls and chargers. It’s a quick way to tidy up without losing track of your essentials.
Bonus tip: head to your local dollar store where you can find bins of all shapes and sizes. Pick out fun ones or ones that go with your decor.
Hack #8: Declutter Digitally
Clutter isn’t just physical—it can be digital too. I never cease to be amazed at the sheer amount of junk that get saved to my phone and computer. Screenshots, photos, emails, notes, apps, and more! So at least twice a month I make a point to spend 15-20 minutes decluttering tech by clearing out my phone and computer.
Deleting unused apps, old photos, and emails not only frees up space but also gives me a mental boost. It’s like hitting the reset button on my devices.
Hack #9: Get the Family Involved
Another of my most effective and quick home hacks to declutter is to get everyone involved. Decluttering doesn’t have to be a solo mission. Make it a family activity by assigning everyone a small task. For example, ask your kids to sort through their toys or clothes while you and your partner work on another area. For kids, try turning it into a game (like seeing who can fill their “donate” bag the fastest). it makes it more fun and less of a chore.
Hack #10: Set a Time Limit
One of the best hacks I’ve discovered is setting a time limit. I’ll choose a specific area, like the closet, and commit to working on it for 30 minutes. Knowing there’s a defined end point keeps me motivated and prevents burnout. Plus, it’s surprising how much you can accomplish in a short amount of time.
Once that timer goes off, I stop. If there’s more left, I come back to it a few hours later or even a few days later. Just be sure you don’t put off finishing it for too long.
Bonus Tip: Celebrate Your Progress
Decluttering is hard work, so don’t forget to celebrate your wins! After a productive decluttering session, I like to reward myself with something small, like a cup of coffee or a favorite snack. It’s a little reminder that the effort was worth it.
