Transform Your Home: A Room-by-Room Decluttering Checklist

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the clutter in your home? Don’t worry! It’s time to restore your living space and make it a comfortable, organized haven.

Tackling the clutter can be daunting, but with the right strategy and easy-to-follow tips, you’ll be on your way to a more organized and inviting home.

In this article, I share simple yet effective home decluttering tips and provide you with a handy printable checklist that guides you through the process of decluttering each room of your house.

Get ready to transform your space and experience the benefits of a clutter-free home environment!

BENEFITS OF DECLUTTERING

Decluttering your home not only leads to a cleaner and more organized living space but also offers multiple health and mental benefits.

First and foremost, decluttering helps improve your focus by making it easier to process information and reduce stress levels. Less clutter means fewer distractions, thus allowing you to concentrate better on the tasks at hand.

Another benefit of decluttering is that it can boost your energy levels. Clutter often drains our energy because we must constantly decide where to place items and how to maintain them. When you declutter, you reduce the number of things to manage, consequently freeing up energy for other important activities.

Decluttering your home can contribute to better mental health. A cleaner and more orderly environment leads to less anxiety and stress. Decluttering creates such a peaceful and calming atmosphere for yourself and your family.

Another advantage to decluttering is that it also has a positive impact on time management. When you have a well-organized space, locating items and completing tasks more efficiently becomes easier. 

This, in turn, saves you time and allows for increased productivity.

15 EASY HOME DECLUTTERING TIPS

Decluttering your home may seem daunting, but breaking it down into smaller, manageable steps can make the process much more efficient and enjoyable. 

Here are 15 easy tips to help you navigate the decluttering process:

1. REMOVE TRASH: Start by removing trash from all areas of your home. This includes any old papers, broken items, and expired food products.

2. SELECT ONE AREA: Choose one small area to organize first, like a drawer or a specific countertop.

3. SORT: Sort items into three piles: Keep, Donate, and Toss.

4. FIND A HOME FOR ITEMS: Find a specific home for everything you intend to keep, such as a hook for your keys or a designated drawer for kitchen utensils.

5. STORE BULKY ITEMS: Consider storing away any bulky appliances that are not used daily to clear up countertop space.

6. STORE ELECTRONICS: Organize your electronics and store chargers and gaming equipment near where you use them.

7. REMOVE DUPLICATES: Remove any duplicate items or things that you don’t use and decide whether to donate or toss them.

8. SET DESIGNATED PLACES: Make it a habit to put things back in their designated places after using them.

9. DECLUTTER WARDROBE: Organize your wardrobe by decluttering clothing you no longer wear, and consider donating or selling these items.

10. UTILIZE ORGANIZATIONAL TOOLS: Utilize storage bins, baskets, and other organizing tools to store similar items together.

11. LABEL CONTAINTERS: Label containers, drawers, and shelves for easy identification and access.

12. TACKLE ONE ROOM AT A TIME: Tackle one room at a time, first focusing on the most cluttered spaces.

13. MAKE DECLUTTERING A HABIT: Treat decluttering as an ongoing process rather than just an occasional event.

14. ESTABLISH GOALS: Establish goals and deadlines to help you stay on track with your decluttering efforts.

15. ROUTINELY GO THROUGH ITEMS: Make sure to maintain your newly decluttered space by keeping up your organizing habits and routinely going through your items.

Following these 15 simple tips will make you well on your way to a more organized and functional living space.

Remember to focus on small tasks and be patient with yourself as you make progress.

STARTING THE DECLUTTERING PROCESS

SET GOALS

Before decluttering, you must set clear goals for yourself. Take some time to think about what you want to achieve with this process.
Consider the desired outcome for each room, the level of organization you want, and the amount of time you’re willing to dedicate to decluttering your home. Setting specific goals will help you stay focused and motivated.

CREATE A PLAN

After setting your goals, it’s time to create a plan, and use the comprehensive printable checklist below, to tackle your home’s clutter. 

Focus on one room or even one zone within a room (e.g., kitchen cabinets) at a time, and complete each job fully before moving on to the next space.

When creating your plan, consider the following steps:

• Choose a starting point: Begin with a small area, such as a drawer, to build momentum.
• Sort items: Use the three-pile method: Keep, donate, and toss, as suggested by AARP.
• Designate a home: Assign a specific place for everything you intend to keep.
• Set a timeline: Establish a realistic timeframe for each room.

HOW TO DECLUTTER YOUR HOME ROOM BY ROOM

LIVING ROOM

HOW TO DECLUTTER YOUR LIVING ROOM

The living room is often the heart of the home, where family and friends gather to relax and socialize. However, it can also become a clutter magnet, accumulating unnecessary items and detracting from its inviting atmosphere.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you declutter and reorganize your living room, transforming it into a welcoming and functional space.

Step 1: Clear The Surfaces – Start by clearing off all surfaces, such as coffee tables, side tables, and entertainment centers. Remove any items that don’t belong in the living room and relocate them to their appropriate place. Be mindful of what you choose to display, and aim for a balance between aesthetics and functionality.

Step 2: Sort Through Items – Divide your living room items into three categories: keep, donate, and discard. As you go through your belongings, be honest with yourself about what you truly need, love, or use. Don’t be afraid to let go of things that no longer serve a purpose or bring joy.

Step 3: Organize and Store – Once you’ve decided what to keep, create designated storage solutions for each item or group of items. Consider investing in attractive baskets, bins, or shelves to keep everything organized and out of sight. Be sure to label your storage solutions for easy identification and access.

Step 4: Assess Your Furniture – Evaluate your current furniture layout and decide if it serves your needs and maximizes your space. Consider removing or repurposing any unnecessary or oversized pieces to create a more open and inviting atmosphere.

Step 5: Add Finishing Touches – After decluttering and reorganizing, take a moment to personalize your living room with a few thoughtfully chosen decorative items, such as throw pillows, artwork, or plants. These finishing touches will help create a cozy and inviting space for you and your loved ones to enjoy.

By using these steps, you’ll be well on your way to a decluttered and organized living room that offers both comfort and functionality.

Embrace the process, and watch as your living space transforms into a haven for relaxation and connection!

KITCHEN

HOW TO DECLUTTER YOUR KITCHEN

A clutter-free kitchen not only looks more inviting but also makes cooking more enjoyable and efficient.

Step 1: Clear Countertops – Begin by clearing your countertops, removing all items, and giving them a thorough cleaning. Aim to keep only frequently used appliances or essentials on the counters, storing the rest in cabinets or drawers to maintain a clean and spacious look.

Step 2: Empty and Clean Cabinets and Drawers – Empty all cabinets and drawers, wiping them down as you go. This will give you a fresh start and allow you to see the available storage space.

Step 3: Sort and Categorize Items – Divide your kitchen items into three categories: keep, donate, and discard. Be selective about what you keep, focusing on items that you use regularly and that are in good condition. Donate or discard duplicates, broken items, or rarely used gadgets.

Step 4: Organize and Store – Return the items you’ve decided to keep to your cabinets and drawers, organizing them in a logical manner. Group similar items together, such as pots and pans or baking supplies. Utilize organizational tools like drawer dividers, shelf risers, or lazy Susans to maximize storage space and accessibility. Use these kitchen organization tips to help you.

Step 5: Declutter the Pantry and Refrigerator – Tackle your pantry by removing all items and checking expiration dates. Discard expired or stale food and donate any unopened, non-perishable items that you won’t use. Organize the remaining items by category, using clear containers and labels for easy identification.

Step 6: Maintain A Clutter-Free Kitchen – Establish a routine to keep your kitchen clutter-free, such as a weekly or monthly review of your pantry and cabinets. Make a conscious effort to put items away after using them and avoid accumulating unnecessary gadgets or appliances.

Enjoy the benefits of a tidy, functional space that inspires creativity and fosters quality time with loved ones.

BEDROOMS

HOW TO DECLUTTER YOUR BEDROOMS

A clutter-free bedroom promotes relaxation, better sleep, and a sense of tranquility. Follow this step-by-step guide to declutter and organize your bedroom, creating a soothing and restful sanctuary.

Step 1: Remove and Sort Items – Begin by removing all items from your dressers, nightstands, and closets. As you go through your belongings, categorize them into three groups: keep, donate, and discard. Be selective about what you keep, focusing on items you use regularly, serve a purpose, or bring you joy.

Step 2: Assess Your Wardrobe – Examine your clothing, shoes, and accessories. Donate or discard items that no longer fit, are worn out, or haven’t been worn in over a year. Organize your remaining wardrobe by type, color, or season, and consider investing in slim hangers, drawer dividers, or shelf organizers to maximize storage space and keep everything tidy.

Step 3: Declutter Surfaces – Clear off the surfaces of your dressers, nightstands, and other furniture. Keep only essential items and a few carefully chosen decorative pieces to maintain a clean and serene atmosphere.

Step 4: Organize Storage Areas – Optimize your bedroom storage using under-bed containers, shelves, or multi-functional furniture. Store items you use less frequently, such as seasonal clothing or extra linens, in these spaces.

Step 5: Evaluate Your Furniture – Consider the layout and function of your bedroom furniture. If your space feels cramped or crowded, consider removing or repurposing unnecessary or oversized pieces to create a more open and inviting environment.

Step 6: Add Personal Touches – After decluttering and organizing, personalize your bedroom with a few thoughtfully chosen decorative items, such as artwork, throw pillows, or plants. These finishing touches will help create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

Enjoy the benefits of a tidy and peaceful space where you can unwind and recharge at the end of each day!

BATHROOM

HOW TO DECLUTTER YOUR BATHROOM

A clutter-free bathroom looks more appealing and promotes a more efficient and enjoyable daily routine. Follow this step-by-step guide to declutter and organize your bathroom, creating a functional and inviting space for self-care and relaxation.

Step 1: Empty Cabinets, Drawers, and Shelves – Remove all items from your bathroom cabinets, drawers, and shelves. This will allow you to assess your available storage space and create a clean slate for reorganizing.

Step 2: Sort and Categorize Items – Divide your bathroom items into three categories: keep, donate, and discard. Be selective about what you own, focusing on things you use regularly and in good condition. Dispose of expired or unused toiletries, makeup, and medications, and donate unopened items you won’t use.

Step 3: Clean and Sanitize – Before reorganizing your bathroom, take the time to clean and sanitize all surfaces, including countertops, sinks, and storage areas. This will help create a fresh and hygienic environment for your newly decluttered space.

Step 4: Organize and Store – Organize your remaining items by category or frequency of use. Invest in storage solutions like drawer dividers, clear bins, or hanging organizers to keep everything neat and accessible. Be sure to label your storage containers for easy identification.

Step 5: Declutter Countertops and Sink Areas – Clear off your countertops and sink areas, keeping only essential items or a few carefully chosen decorative pieces on display. Store less frequently used items in cabinets or drawers to maintain a clean and clutter-free appearance.

Step 6: Evaluate and Declutter Linens – Go through your towels, washcloths, and bathmats, discarding worn-out or stained items. Keep a reasonable number of linens on hand and consider repurposing older items as cleaning rags or pet towels.

Create a decluttered and organized bathroom that streamlines your daily routine and encourages a sense of calm and well-being.

GARAGE

HOW TO DECLUTTER YOUR GARAGE

A cluttered garage can be overwhelming and make it difficult to find and access the items you need. By decluttering and organizing your garage and storage spaces, you’ll create a more functional and efficient environment for your tools, equipment, and belongings.

Step 1: Remove and Sort Items – Begin by removing all items from your garage and storage areas. As you go through your belongings, categorize them into three groups: keep, donate, and discard. Be selective about what you keep, focusing on items that you use regularly, serve a purpose, or hold sentimental value.

Step 2: Assess and Categorize – Divide your remaining items into categories, such as tools, gardening equipment, sports gear, or seasonal decorations. This will help you determine the best storage solutions and organization strategies for each group of items.

Step 3: Clean and Prepare Your Space – Before reorganizing your garage, give the space a thorough cleaning. Sweep the floor, dust shelves, and remove any debris or cobwebs. This creates a fresh and clean environment for your newly decluttered space.

Step 4: Invest In Storage Solutions – Consider investing in storage solutions like shelving units, pegboards, cabinets, or wall-mounted racks to keep your items organized and accessible. Designate specific areas for each category of items to create a logical and efficient layout.

Step 5: Organize and Store Items – Place your categorized items into their designated storage areas, using labels or color-coding to make identification and access even easier. Be mindful of safety, keeping hazardous materials or sharp tools out of reach of children and pets.

Step 6: Maintain Your Organized Garage – Establish a routine for maintaining your decluttered garage, such as a quarterly or annual review of your items and storage areas. Make a conscious effort to put items away after using them and avoid accumulating unnecessary belongings.

Transform your garage and storage spaces into a well-organized area that you’ll love when you pull into your garage and actually can use!

SORTING ITEMS

When decluttering your home, it’s essential to have an effective sorting process in place. Breaking this task into three primary categories can make the decluttering journey more convenient and productive.

Consider the following sub-sections:

KEEP

Items in the “Keep” category are those you genuinely need and use daily or at least frequently. The aim is to retain only what adds value and function to your life.

To declutter effectively: 

• Start by removing trash and sorting through items in a chosen area of your home, like a drawer or closet.
• Identify the things you use daily, like clothes or appliances, or serve a particular purpose.
• Have special spots to keep certain items. It will be less stressful and will save you time if you store the “keep” items in specific places, such as a key hook. I have special areas for keys, hair ties, and seasonal accessories the family wears daily, so these can be easily found without hunting them down (and even losing them!)

DONATE

The “Donate” category includes items that are still in good condition and can provide value to someone else. By donating, you contribute to reducing waste and helping others.

To donate efficiently, ensure that:

• Your items are clean and usable.
• You select reputable charities or organizations that accept donations.
• You pack and label your donation boxes according to the specific items, making it easier for the recipient organization to sort and distribute them.

DISCARD

The “Discard” category covers items that are damaged, broken, or no longer functional. It’s best to dispose of these items in a responsible and eco-friendly manner.

To discard items properly:

• Identify local recycling programs for materials such as electronics, glass, or plastics.
• Dispose of hazardous waste, like paint or batteries, according to local regulations and guidelines.
• Consider repurposing or upcycling items if possible, giving them new life and functionality.

ORGANIZING YOUR HOME

Here I discuss some strategies to help you organize your home once you have decluttered. Implementing these tactics will make it easier to maintain a tidy living space and locate items when needed.

STORAGE SOLUTIONS

Proper storage plays a significant role in keeping a home organized. Here are some storage ideas to help you maintain a clutter-free environment:

• Use vertical shelving units to maximize space.

• Divide drawers and shelves with adjustable dividers or storage containers.

• Incorporate furniture with built-in storage, such as ottomans or coffee tables with hidden compartments.

• Utilize storage bins and baskets to group similar items together.

LABELING

Labeling your storage solutions will further enhance your organization’s efforts by making it simple to identify and locate items.

Consider these labeling tips:

• Create custom labels with a label maker or pre-made sticker labels.

• Label storage bins, boxes, and baskets, so you can quickly identify their contents.

• In the kitchen, label your pantry containers for easy identification and tracking of expiration dates.

• For children’s toys, use picture labels alongside text labels for easy understanding by younger children.

• When using clear storage containers, consider skipping labels and letting the contents speak for themselves.

By implementing these storage and labeling strategies, you will be well on your way to maintaining a clutter-free and organized home.

MAINTAINING A CLUTTER-FREE HOME

Establishing habits and check-ins is important to help you maintain a clutter-free home. These simple yet effective strategies can make a significant difference in keeping your space clean and organized.

ESTABLISH DAILY HABITS

One key to maintaining a clutter-free home is to establish daily habits that help prevent clutter from building up in the first place. 

Consider incorporating the following practices into your daily routine:

• Put things away immediately: Instead of placing items on countertops or other surfaces, store them in their designated spot immediately. This can significantly reduce clutter over time.

• Take care of paperwork: To avoid paper clutter, deal with mail, bills, and other documents as soon as they arrive. File, recycle, or shred them to keep your space tidy.

• Daily cleaning tasks: Make a list of quick cleaning tasks you can do every day, such as wiping down surfaces, sweeping floors, and fluffing pillows. By doing a little bit of cleaning each day, you can prevent messes from accumulating.

REGULAR CHECK-INS

Regular check-ins on your space can help you address any clutter that may have crept in.

Implement these check-ins to maintain your clutter-free home:

1. Weekly walkthroughs: Each week, walk through your home and evaluate each room. Identify areas that may be accumulating clutter and take action to restore order.

2. Monthly decluttering sessions: Dedicate time once a month to declutter a specific area or category of items in your home. Doing so will help prevent clutter from piling up and becoming overwhelming.

3. Seasonal deep cleans: Conduct a deep clean of your home several times a year. This includes washing windows, cleaning out gutters, and maintaining appliances. Not only will this help keep a clean and organized home, but it can also extend the life of your belongings.

Establishing these daily habits and conducting regular check-ins can go a long way in keeping your home clutter-free and organized. Remember, consistency is key to maintaining an organized living space.

CHECOMPREHENSIVE HOME DECLUTTERING CHECKLIST

This comprehensive home decluttering checklist is a useful tool that helps you systematically tackle clutter throughout your house. 

Focusing on specific areas or items can make the process more manageable and achieve a more organized and comfortable living space. 

A step-by-step plan provides a clear path to a clutter-free and organized home.

Use this home declutter checklist to guide you through each room and help you achieve a clean, functional, and enjoyable living space.

GATHER SUPPLIES:

Before you begin decluttering, gather some essential supplies to make the process easier.

These may include:

Trash bags

Boxes or bins for donations

Labels and markers for organizing

Cleaning supplies, such as a vacuum, duster, and all-purpose cleaner

CREATE A DECLUTTERING SCHEDULE:

Break down your decluttering project into manageable chunks by creating a schedule. Allocate specific days or weekends to tackle each room or space in your home.

KITCHEN:

Clear countertops and remove any unnecessary items

Empty and clean cabinets, drawers, and pantry

Discard expired food items and products you no longer use

Organize pots, pans, and cooking utensils

Sort through dishes, glassware, and silverware, donating duplicates or items in poor condition

Clean out and organize the refrigerator and freezer

Organize and declutter under the sink

LIVING ROOM:

Remove and sort through all items on shelves, bookcases, and entertainment centers

Declutter and organize electronics, cables, and remote controls

Evaluate decorations and artwork, keeping only items that bring joy or serve a purpose

Sort through books, movies, and music, donating or recycling items you no longer use

Organize and declutter coffee tables, side tables, and other surfaces

BEDROOMS:

Go through all clothing, shoes, and accessories in closets and dressers

Donate or discard items that no longer fit, are worn out, or haven’t been worn in over a year

Organize clothing by type, color, or season

Remove and evaluate items stored under the bed and on top of dressers

Declutter and organize nightstands and bedside tables

Evaluate and organize linens, pillows, and blankets

BATHROOMS:

Empty and clean all drawers, cabinets, and shelves

Discard expired or unused toiletries, makeup, and medications

Organize remaining items by category or frequency of use

Clean and organize countertops and sink areas

Evaluate and declutter towels, washcloths, and bathmats

HOME OFFICE:

Go through all paperwork, files, and documents

Shred or recycle unneeded documents and create a filing system for important papers

Organize and declutter office supplies, including pens, pencils, and notepads

Remove and evaluate items stored on bookshelves or in cabinets

Organize and declutter desk and work surfaces

LAUNDRY ROOM:

Declutter and organize laundry supplies, including detergent, fabric softener, and stain removers

Evaluate and declutter cleaning supplies, keeping only items you use regularly

Organize and declutter shelving or storage areas

Clean and maintain the washer and dryer

GARAGE AND OUTDOOR SPACES:

Sort through tools, lawn equipment, and gardening supplies

Dispose of any broken or damaged items

Organize and declutter storage areas, shelves, and cabinets

Evaluate and declutter outdoor furniture, toys, and recreational equipment

Decluttering your home may seem daunting, but with the tips and strategies outlined in this article, I’m confident you can successfully transform your living spaces into organized, functional, and inviting environments.

Just take it a step at a time, and remember to take breaks and reward yourself for any of your decluttering accomplishments, even the smallest ones!