How to Get Rid of Stuff: The Ultimate Guide
We've all been there –– staring at piles of things we don’t need but, for some reason, can’t seem to get rid of. Whether it’s that overflowing closet of old clothes, the junk drawer you haven’t touched in months, or furniture that you don’t even like anymore, it all starts to add up and clutter your space. You’re probably thinking, “Where do I even begin?” It can feel overwhelming, especially when dealing with sentimental items or the fear of wasting something valuable.
The good news? You don’t have to do it all at once. This guide will walk you through simple, effective steps to clear the clutter and regain control of your space. Ready to finally get rid of unnecessary stuff that’s been taking up valuable room in your life? Let’s get started!
Why is it So Hard to Get Rid of Stuff?
We often attach emotions to our possessions, which is why letting go can be so challenging. Old furniture might remind us of a loved one, or you might be holding on to clothes from a time when you felt more like yourself. These emotional connections make it hard to part with things, even if they no longer serve a purpose in our daily lives.
But here's why it's important to declutter: clutter can create mental and emotional stress. Whether we notice it or not, when our spaces are filled with stuff we don’t use or need, it weighs us down.
Clutter takes up physical space, but it also occupies valuable mental space, making it harder for us to focus, relax, and even feel creative. By decluttering, you create a more organized and peaceful environment, which can reduce stress, improve your mood, and even increase productivity.
Step 1: Start Small & Focus on One Area at a Time
The key to learning how to declutter your home or any space is to begin with small and manageable steps. Pick one room, like the living room –– or even a small space, such as your junk drawer or closet. You don’t have to deal with everything at once. Starting with just one area helps you build momentum at a slow and steady pace, preventing you from feeling overwhelmed.
Step 2: Determine Your Goals
Before you begin, take a moment to consider your goals. Maybe you’re
Making space for new furniture
Trying to reduce stress by decluttering unnecessary items
Adopting a minimalist mindset
Defining your goals early on will help guide your decisions as you go through your stuff.
For instance, if your goal is to create a clutter-free home office to boost your productivity and relaxation, you'll focus on clearing stuff that distracts you, including old paperwork, random trinkets, and other things that don't serve your workspace. On the other hand, if you’re decluttering for a move into a smaller space, you may prioritize getting rid of larger items like old furniture or bulky household goods.
Step 3: Sort Your Items With The Four-Box Method
Not sure how to declutter clothes and other items that have piled up over the years? One of the most effective strategies you can try is the four-box method.
Here’s how it works: grab four boxes labeled “Keep,” “Donate,” “Sell,” and “Trash.” As you sort through your belongings, decide which category each item will go to. This method not only helps you organize but also gives you a clearer path to getting rid of items.
Step 4: Let Go of Sentimental Items
Sentimental items are always the hardest to part with. But here’s the thing: those old clothes or that stack of cards from years ago take up valuable space, both physically and emotionally. Sometimes it’s okay to go, and if you feel torn about it, try keeping one or two sentimental items to represent the rest. This way, you can still declutter without feeling like you’ve erased important memories.
Step 5: Sell What You Can
If you have items that are still in good condition, like clothes, or household goods, consider selling them. Not only can you earn some extra cash, but you’re also giving these things a second life with someone else. If you have time, garage sales can also help you clear clutter.
Step 6: Donate What You Can’t Sell
Donating is a great option for items that aren’t valuable enough to sell. Consider local homeless shelters or charities that accept unwanted items like clothes, household goods, or old towels. Donations are a meaningful way to give back to your community, reduce waste by keeping stuff out of landfills, and clear your space. Local thrift stores always appreciate donations, and when you donate to places like your local Goodwill, you support a greater mission of creating job opportunities.
Step 7: Proper Disposal
It's important to dispose of items that can’t be sold or donated, like expired food or broken electronics, properly. Check if your city has a recycling program or hazardous waste disposal options for things like old electronics, batteries, and other junk that you can’t put in your trash bag.
Step 8: Develop a Maintenance Routine
Once you’ve decluttered, keep it that way! Create a regular maintenance routine to prevent clutter from building up again. A simple rule of thumb is: if you bring something new into your home, something old must go. Regularly check your storage space and only keep what’s necessary. By making the decluttering process a part of your routine, you not only tidy up your space but also lessen emotional stress and help the community and environment.
Step 9: Embrace Minimalism: Adopting a “Less is More” Mindset
Adopting a minimalist approach when it comes to your living space is about more than just clearing physically; it’s a mindset. Focus on living with only what you truly need and love. It’s liberating to realize that you don’t need to hold on to everything. Plus, it’s better for the environment. A “less is more” mindset can save you money, reduce stress, and help you appreciate the possessions that truly matter.
Celebrate Your Progress and Enjoy Your New Space
After you’ve cleared out your unwanted items and reorganized your space, take a moment to celebrate. You’ve made a big difference — not just in your home but also in your overall well-being. By decluttering, you’re giving yourself valuable space to breathe, think, and live more freely. Plus, if you sold or donated your items through Goodwill, you’ve contributed to sustainability and helped support local communities. You’re now ready, so go and reclaim your space!
Sources:
Mental health benefits of decluttering. (2024, February 25). WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/mental-health-benefits-of-decluttering
Travers, M. (2023, June 30). 5 Mental health rewards of embracing minimalism, according to a psychologist. Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/sites/traversmark/2023/06/28/5-mental-health-rewards-of-embracing-minimalism-according-to-a-psychologist/
