How to Declutter for the New Year
A fresh year brings a chance to reset, and there’s no better way to start than by clearing out the clutter from your living space. Decluttering for the new year isn’t just about tidying up; it's about creating room for new possibilities and reducing stress.
Ready to tackle the mess head-on? Follow this guide to get a fresh perspective on decluttering your home, refreshing your surroundings, and embracing a more organized lifestyle.
Tips for Decluttering for the New Year
1. Start With a Clear Vision & Mindset
Before beginning the decluttering process, envision what you want your space to look and feel like. Consider the functionality of each room and how removing physical clutter will help you reach your New Year's resolution of a more organized and peaceful home.
Setting a decluttering goal keeps you focused and motivated throughout your journey. Remind yourself that this is about creating a fresh start—letting go of unnecessary stuff so that you can welcome new opportunities in the year ahead.
2. Use the Four-Box Method
One tried-and-true strategy for decluttering is the four-box method. Grab four storage bins or boxes and label them: “Keep,” “Donate,” “Recycle,” and “Trash.” As you go through each area of your home, place items into the appropriate box.
This method encourages you to make clear decisions about every item, helping you avoid the temptation to simply move clutter to another part of the house. Plus, it ensures you’re not adding more to landfills by giving usable things a second life.
3. Begin With Holiday Clutter
Start your decluttering process with the most recent culprits: holiday clutter. The holiday season often leaves behind a trail of decorations, gifts, and wrapping supplies. As you pack up seasonal decor, decide what items you truly love and what you can part with.
If you didn’t use a decoration this year, it might be time to declutter before next Christmas by donating or recycling it. Store what you’re keeping in labeled storage containers for easy access next year, creating a more organized storage space overall.
4. Tackle One Zone at a Time
Trying to declutter an entire house in one go can be overwhelming. Break the process into manageable chunks by focusing on one area at a time. Begin with high-traffic zones like the kitchen or living room before moving to spaces like the closet or junk drawer. Tackling one zone at a time helps you see immediate results, keeping the momentum going as you work through your home organization journey.
5. Clean As You Go for a Fresh Slate
Decluttering is the perfect opportunity to give each space a thorough clean. As you empty drawers, closets, or cabinets, take a few minutes to dust, vacuum, or wipe down surfaces. Cleaning as you go sets a new standard for each area, leaving you with a sparkling, clutter-free environment that inspires regular maintenance throughout the year.
6. Donate or Recycle the Unwanted Clutter
Once you’ve finished sorting, it’s time to get those donation and recycling boxes out the door. Think of all the items that could have a second life in a new home, from gently-used clothes to extra kitchenware. Donating to organizations like Goodwill or selling items not only declutters your space but also supports the community. For items that are past their prime, recycle whenever possible to reduce waste and keep them out of landfills.
7. Consider Digital Decluttering
Decluttering isn’t just about physical stuff. As we head into the new year, consider a digital detox to clear out the clutter from your digital life. Start by tackling your email inbox, deleting unnecessary messages, and organizing important emails into folders. Next, go through digital files on your computer and storage drives, sorting and deleting as necessary.
Consider using digital detox days regularly to help you maintain a clean digital space. And while you’re at it, clear out excessive notifications on your phone for a more peaceful daily life.
Things to Declutter for the New Year
1. Holiday Decor & Seasonal Items
After the holiday season, take stock of your decor. Pack away items you love in sturdy storage containers and let go of anything that didn’t make the cut this year. That inflatable snowman still in the box? It might be time to let it go.
2. Old or Unwanted Clothes
Closet overflowing? Now’s the time to go through your wardrobe, sort through your items, and get rid of old clothes. Not sure how to declutter clothes effectively? Try the “one-year rule”—if you haven’t worn it in the past year, it's time to let it go. Consider donating clothes to your local Goodwill, where your items will find a new home and support our mission of empowering individuals and strengthening communities. At the same time, you’ll create space for new pieces that better reflect your current style.
3. Expired Food
Go through your pantry and fridge, checking expiration dates on food items. Get rid of anything expired or that you know you won’t use. This small step can make a massive difference in kitchen storage space, and it sets the stage for healthier eating habits in the new year.
4. Unnecessary Paperwork
Paper clutter can build up quickly, turning desks and drawers into disorganized messes. Gather all your paperwork and sort it into categories. Keep essential documents and shred the rest. Consider going paperless for bills and statements to minimize future clutter.
5. Expired Medications & Toiletries
Clear out bathroom cabinets of expired medications, makeup, and toiletries. Not only does this free up storage space, but it also ensures you’re not using outdated products. Check local guidelines for safely disposing of medications.
6. Outdated Electronics
Tech evolves quickly, and outdated electronics can pile up in storage units and drawers. Not sure what to do with old computers and other technology? If you’ve upgraded your phone, computer, or other devices, donate or recycle the old ones responsibly. Remember to erase any personal information from digital devices before discarding them.
7. Furniture You Don't Need
Large furniture items can take up valuable space, primarily if they’re not serving a purpose in your home. If you’re wondering how to get rid of furniture that no longer fits your lifestyle or decor, consider selling, donating, or repurposing those pieces.
Creating a Clutter-Free New Year Resolution
A New Year declutter isn’t a one-time event; it’s a journey. Create a New Year resolution that includes regular maintenance of your living space and digital habits. Schedule monthly decluttering sessions to keep clutter at bay. You might also consider setting a rule: for every new item you bring into your home, remove an old one.
Incorporating these decluttering practices into your daily life can help maintain that clean slate you worked so hard to achieve. Whether you’re clearing out the junk drawer or tackling digital clutter, the key is consistency. By taking small steps regularly, you’ll create a more organized and serene space that sets you up for success in the year ahead.
So, as you embark on your decluttering journey, remember: It’s not just about getting rid of stuff; it’s about creating a home and digital life that reflects who you are and what you value.
Sources:
Friedman, Danielle. “Digital Detox: Your 10-Step Guide.” Health. https://www.health.com/mind-body/digital-detox.
