Summer is the perfect season for a fresh start. With longer days and renewed energy, it’s time to open the windows, let in the sunshine, and clear out the clutter that’s been piling up. Whether you’re overwhelmed by overflowing closets or simply want to create a more peaceful, organized space, these genius decluttering strategies will help you refresh your home and your mindset.
1. Start with a Decluttering Checklist
A checklist gives you structure and prevents burnout. Focus on one room or area at a time. Use a printable Decluttering Binder like the one from Life’s Lists to stay on track and celebrate your progress.
2. Apply the 20-Minute Method
Set a timer for 20 minutes and declutter one small area—like a drawer, cabinet, or shelf. Short, focused bursts of activity make the task feel less overwhelming and build momentum. Start with your junk drawer. Drawer organizers can be an excellent way to create order quickly and practice categorizing an a micro level. Plastic drawer organizers are usually more affordable. For a luxury upgrade use bamboo drawer dividers.
3. Use the “Four-Box Rule”
Label four boxes: Keep, Donate, Trash, and Relocate. This method helps you make quick decisions and physically separates clutter into actionable steps. Setting up boxes or bins with labels before you start sorting a room can make decisions much more efficient. This printable Decluttering Label Pack makes it easy.
4. Declutter Digital Spaces Too
Your phone, desktop, and email inbox can get just as cluttered as your kitchen counter. Dedicate an afternoon to organizing photos, deleting unused apps, and unsubscribing from junk email.
5. Take Inventory Before You Organize
Before buying bins or baskets, declutter first. Once you know exactly what you’re keeping, you’ll make smarter purchases and avoid contributing to more clutter.
6. Let Go of Guilt Items
We all keep things we feel we should use or love—like gifts or expensive items we never touch. Give yourself permission to let these go. Donate them where they’ll actually be appreciated. Peter Walsh addresses this well in his book Let It Go: Downsizing your way to a Richer, Happier Life.
7. Make It a Family Affair
Get the whole household involved by assigning age-appropriate tasks. Turn on some music, make it a game, or create a reward system. Decluttering as a team reduces stress and teaches good habits.
8. Create a “Donation Station”
Designate a bin, basket, or box in a hallway or mudroom for items to donate. Once it’s full, take it straight to your local donation center. Keeping it visible encourages regular purging.
9. Declutter Seasonally
Use summer as a natural reminder to rotate and evaluate. Store or donate winter gear you no longer need, and keep your closets seasonally relevant. I love to use clear bins so I can easily view the items on a shelf or in storage. Under the bed bins work really well for this too if you have limited space.
10. Celebrate Your Progress
Decluttering can feel like a chore, but it’s a major accomplishment! Take before-and-after photos, share your success on social media, or enjoy a relaxing evening in your refreshed space.
Bonus Tip: Use Printables to Stay Organized
Download the Life and Home Decluttering Binder from Life’s Lists for guided worksheets, checklists, and room-by-room organization tools to make your summer declutter a breeze.
Final Thoughts
Decluttering your home doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a clear plan and the right mindset, you can transform your space into a clutter-free sanctuary just in time for summer. Start small, stay consistent, and don’t forget to celebrate your wins along the way.
Happy Organizing!
Kristin
Kristin Vander Wiede is Professional Organizer and Owner of Livable Solutions Professional Organizing and Life’s Lists.
Links to Products:
Let It Go: Downsizing your way to a Richer, Happier Life.
Life and Home Decluttering Binder
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