Minimize Clutter: Simple Tips to Tidy Your Home Fast
Feeling swamped by stuff? You don’t need a whole overhaul—just a few tiny moves can free up space fast. Below are the tricks you can start using right now.
Use the 90‑90 Rule for Instant Wins
The 90‑90 rule says: spend 90 seconds on a surface and pull away anything that’s out of place. Then, move onto the next surface for another 90 seconds. In less than five minutes you’ve cleared a coffee table, a kitchen counter, or a bathroom sink. It works because you’re not trying to sort every item, just resetting the visible mess.
Try the 20/20/20 Method for Bigger Projects
When a whole room feels chaotic, break it down with the 20/20/20 rule. Spend 20 minutes gathering items to keep, 20 minutes boxing things to donate, and 20 minutes tossing the junk. Set a timer so you stay focused and stop the overwhelm from creeping in.
Start small: pick a drawer or a single shelf. Apply the rule, and you’ll see immediate progress. Seeing a tidy drawer builds momentum for the rest of the room.
Room‑by‑Room Hacks for Busy Lives
Living room: Keep only two‑to‑three décor items on display. Anything else belongs in storage. Use a basket for remote controls, magazines, and toys—empty it weekly.
Kitchen: Store away appliances you rarely use. A clear countertop makes cooking smoother and makes cleaning less of a chore. Group similar items together—spices in one drawer, baking tools in another.
Bedroom: Make the bed every morning; it instantly looks neater. Pull out clothes you haven’t worn in six months and put them in a “donate” bag. Closet space stays manageable when you rotate seasonally.
Bathroom: Keep only daily essentials on the counter. Use bins for hair ties, razors, and travel kits. Wipe the surface each night; a quick swipe prevents buildup.
Keep Clutter From Coming Back
Set a “one‑in, one‑out” rule: when you bring something new home, let go of something old. This simple habit stops piles from returning.
Schedule a 10‑minute tidy‑up before bed. It’s easier to keep things neat than to scramble into a massive clean‑up later.
Finally, celebrate the small wins. A tidy entryway feels amazing, and that feeling fuels the next round of decluttering.
By using the 90‑90 and 20/20/20 rules, tackling rooms piece by piece, and building habits that stop junk from piling up, you’ll minimize clutter without a massive time commitment. Your home will feel lighter, calmer, and more inviting—just the way it should be.
Tackling a cluttered home can feel overwhelming, but with an aggressive approach, it's possible to create a tidy living space quickly. Learn practical strategies to sort, purge, and organize every room efficiently. Discover the surprising impacts of clutter on well-being and how decluttering can enhance your mental health. Uncover simple, actionable tips to start decluttering today. Transform your home into a peaceful, organized haven.
