Decluttering can be a rewarding process that can breathe new life into your space, helping you feel more organized and in control. But it’s not always as simple as it seems. Many people dive into decluttering with the best intentions, only to make common mistakes that leave them feeling frustrated or overwhelmed.
To help you get the most out of your efforts, here are the biggest mistakes people make when decluttering—and how to avoid them.
Tackling Too Much at Once
One of the most common pitfalls is trying to declutter an entire house—or even a large room—all at once. While the idea of a total transformation is much more appealing, it can quickly become overwhelming. Decluttering is more effective when broken into smaller, manageable sections.
Instead of tackling everything, focus on one area at a time, such as a single drawer, a closet, or a shelf. Completing smaller tasks gives you a sense of accomplishment and keeps you motivated to continue.
Keeping Items “Just in Case”
Holding onto items because you might need them someday can quickly derail your decluttering efforts. While some practical items deserve to stay, too many “just in case” objects clutter your space and rarely serve a purpose.
Solution:
- Ask Key Questions: Consider whether the item has a specific purpose or if it’s been used recently. If not, it’s likely safe to let go.
- Set a Time Limit: If you’re unsure, keep the item for a specific period (e.g., six months). If you don’t use it within that time, donate or discard it.
- Embrace Minimalism: Remember that in most cases, if you truly need something later, it can be replaced.
Not Having a Plan for What to Do with Items
Sorting through your belongings often leads to piles: keep, donate, sell, or toss. But without a clear plan for these items, those piles can linger, creating more clutter instead of reducing it. Decide in advance where you’ll take items to donate or sell. Keep a designated box or bag for donations, and make it a point to drop them off regularly. For items that are no longer usable, research local recycling or disposal options.
Buying Organizational Tools Too Soon
It’s tempting to stock up on bins, baskets, and storage organizers before you start decluttering, but this can actually complicate the process. You might end up with storage solutions that don’t fit your needs—or worse, add to the clutter.
Instead, declutter first. Once you know what you’re keeping, you’ll have a clearer idea of the type and size of storage solutions you actually need. This approach saves time, money, and space.
Letting Sentimentality Take Over
It’s natural to feel attached to items that hold sentimental memories, but keeping too many sentimental objects can make it hard to declutter effectively. It’s important to strike a balance between cherishing memories and creating space for the present. Consider keeping only a few meaningful items and letting the rest go. You can also take photos of sentimental objects as a way to preserve the memory without holding onto the physical item.
Comparing Yourself to Others
It’s a personal journey, and everyone’s process and pace are different. Comparing your progress or results to someone else’s—whether a friend or a minimalist influencer—can lead to unnecessary pressure and discouragement.
Focus on what works best for you and your home. Your goal should be to create a space that feels comfortable and functional for your lifestyle, not to meet someone else’s standard.
Not Following Through
When you start the decluttering process it’s exciting, but not following through can leave you with more chaos than you started with. Whether it’s failing to remove items from your home or leaving half-finished projects, lack of follow-through is a common mistake. To stay on track, set aside time to complete each phase of the process, including donating, selling, or disposing of items. Breaking tasks into smaller steps can make it easier to finish.
Trying to Do It Alone
Decluttering can feel overwhelming when tackled solo, especially if you’re emotionally attached to items or unsure about decision-making. A second pair of eyes can offer fresh perspectives and moral support.
Solution:
- Ask for Help: Invite a trusted friend or family member to assist. They can help you stay focused and provide honest input.
- Hire a Professional: If you’re feeling stuck, consider hiring a professional organizer to guide you through the process. Take advantage of their tips and tricks and incorporate them into your organization days in the future.
Rushing the Process
Decluttering definitely isn’t something that can be or has to be finished in a day. Rushing through it can lead to burnout or poor decision-making, leaving you with regrets about what you’ve let go—or what you’ve kept. Give yourself the time you need to sort through your belongings thoughtfully. Remember, decluttering is a process, and small, consistent efforts often lead to the best results.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can make the decluttering process more manageable and enjoyable. With patience and a clear plan, you’ll create a space that’s less cluttered, more functional, and better suited to your life.