Refresh Your Space: 5 Expert Decluttering Methods to Try
Spring is the perfect time to refresh your space. As the seasons change, tidying and decluttering can help create a lighter, more organized home which is key if selling your house
Though daunting, decluttering is rewarding. Letting go of items you no longer need frees up space in your home and mind, leaving you feeling lighter and happier.
If decluttering feels overwhelming, you may not have found the right method for you. There’s no “one-size-fits-all” solution, so choose what suits your time, energy, and lifestyle. Here are five expert decluttering methods to help you get started.
Whether you’re trying a new approach or refining your favorite, the goal remains the same: a more meaningful space and the chance to help others by donating what you no longer need. It will also help the new home buyer in Miami, Fl envision themselves in it.
The KonMari Method™
One of the most well-known decluttering techniques, the KonMari Method™, was introduced by Japanese organizing consultant Marie Kondo in her bestselling book The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up. Her Netflix show, Tidying Up with Marie Kondo, further popularized her approach.
How It Works
Instead of focusing on what to throw away, this method encourages you to keep only what sparks joy. Kondo suggests tidying by category rather than location, in the following order:
- Clothes
- Books
- Papers
- Komono (miscellaneous items)
- Sentimental items
Start by gathering every item in a category, place them in one pile, and then decide what stays and what goes. Kondo also recommends thanking items before parting with them.
Who Is It For?
Ideal for those who value mindfulness and intentional living. Also a must if you are considering to sell your property for the most amount.
Any Drawbacks?
This method can be time-consuming since it requires sorting through everything in a category rather than tackling one room at a time. It may also encourage sentimental keepers to hold onto items that still “spark joy,” even if they aren’t practical.
The One-In, One-Out Rule
A simple yet effective rule: for every new item you bring into your home, remove or donate one you already have. This applies to clothes, books, kitchenware, and more.
Who Is It For?
Perfect for impulse shoppers and those who struggle with accumulating too much. It also helps you pause before making a purchase by asking:
- Do I really need this?
- Do I have something similar already?
- What will I let go of in exchange?
Any Drawbacks?
If not followed consistently, this method can turn into an excuse to buy more while promising to declutter later, leading to an endless cycle.
The 20/20 Rule
A quick and easy decluttering decision-maker: if you’re unsure about an item but it costs less than $20 and can be replaced in under 20 minutes, let it go.
Who Is It For?
Great for those who tend to hold onto items “just in case” but haven’t used them in months or years. Also great because it will be easier to move.
Any Drawbacks?
This rule isn’t practical for sentimental or hard-to-replace items.
Swedish Death Cleaning
Despite its morbid name, Swedish Death Cleaning is a thoughtful and meaningful approach to decluttering. Introduced by Margareta Magnusson in her book Dostadning: The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning, this method encourages clearing out unnecessary items to prevent loved ones from dealing with clutter later in life.
How It Works
This process is designed to be gradual and thorough:
- Start with larger items (furniture, appliances)
- Move to smaller items (clothing, kitchenware, junk drawers)
- Save sentimental belongings for last
Instead of discarding everything, this method encourages gifting meaningful possessions to loved ones while you’re still around to share their stories.
Who Is It For?
While originally intended for older adults, this method is beneficial for anyone overwhelmed by too much stuff.
Any Drawbacks?
Swedish Death Cleaning is slow and methodical, so it requires patience.
The Four-Box Method
A simple yet effective technique using four labeled boxes:
- Keep
- Trash
- Donate
- Sell
Some variations include an additional “Rehome” or “Undecided” box.
Who Is It For?
Perfect for beginners and those decluttering small, focused spaces like a single room or closet.
Any Drawbacks?
Having an “Undecided” box can be a trap—if you’re indecisive, it may become a storage bin instead of a decluttering tool.
Final Thoughts
Decluttering isn’t about perfection—it’s about creating a space that serves you. Whether you’re thinking about selling your house in Miami or anywhere else, the key is to find a method that aligns with your lifestyle. Experiment with these techniques and see which works best for you. In the end, you’ll not only free up space but also create a home filled with only the things that truly matter.
Ready to start your decluttering journey? Let us know which method resonates with you the most!