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Life can get chaotic. Between work, family, social commitments, and everything else, it can feel like there’s never enough time to focus on decluttering your home.
But what if I told you that small, consistent habits could completely transform your space and your mindset?
As a professional organiser, I’ve seen it all—busy women struggling to stay on top of clutter. And I’m here to tell you that it doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
By adopting these 7 life-changing decluttering habits, you can create a peaceful, organised home that supports your busy life.
1. Start with Just 15 Minutes a Day
If you’ve ever looked at a cluttered room and thought, I don’t have time for this, you’re not alone. When I was starting out on my decluttering journey, I’d get overwhelmed just looking at all the things I needed to sort through. What works much better for me now is setting aside just 15 minutes a day for a quick declutter session.
This might mean clearing a shelf, tidying a desk, or sorting through a drawer. I used to think I needed hours to make a difference, but those small daily sessions really add up. It’s amazing how much you can accomplish in just five minutes, and it’s much more manageable for a busy woman like you.
Pro tip: Use a timer and treat it like a mini challenge. You’ll be surprised at how much you can do in a short amount of time.
2. The One In, One Out Rule
This is one of my favourite tips, and it’s a game-changer. I used to shop for clothes without really thinking about it, and before I knew it, my wardrobe was bursting at the seams.
Things have changed when I’ve adopted the One In, One Out rule—whenever I buy something new, I make sure to donate or sell something that I no longer use.
For busy women, this habit is a lifesaver. It prevents unnecessary clutter from building up and keeps your home organised. You don’t have to feel guilty about buying something new because you know you’ve already made space for it.
Pro tip: Keep a donation box (or bag) in your home. When something no longer brings a joy or serves a purpose, put it straight into the box!
3. Tidy as You Go
One of the simplest habits, yet one I had to learn the hard way. I used to leave items scattered around the house throughout the day. By the time I got to the end of my workday, my home felt chaotic, and I was too tired to deal with it.
Now, I tidy up as I go. If I’m cooking, I clean up as I move through the process. If I’m done with my handbag, I immediately clear out the clutter.
This habit has been life-changing for me. It’s not a big time commitment, but it keeps my space looking organised all day long. No more last-minute stress when it’s time to unwind!
Try it – take 2-3 minutes after each task to put things back where they belong. It keeps clutter from piling up, making it easier to stay organised in the long run.
4. Declutter One Space Each Week
I used to look at my entire home and feel overwhelmed by the thought of decluttering every room. But I’ve learned that the key to staying on top of things is tackling one small area at a time. Every week, I choose one space to declutter, whether it’s a drawer, a shelf, or my desk.
By focusing on just one area, I don’t feel overwhelmed, and I can make noticeable progress without committing hours at a time. This habit has helped me keep everything from my wardrobe to my kitchen under control.
5. Swap Your Wardrobe Each Season
Every time the seasons change, like in spring and autumn, I take a little time to swap out my wardrobe. I pack away clothes I won’t need for the upcoming season, like heavy jumpers in spring or summer dresses in autumn, and bring out the items I’ll actually wear.
This keeps my wardrobe uncluttered and filled with only what I need right now. It also makes getting dressed quicker because I’m not digging through clothes that aren’t suitable for the season.
Tip: Use storage boxes or vacuum bags to keep off-season clothes tidy and out of the way.
6. Create a Donation Box (and Keep It Nearby!)
A donation box is a must-have in every home. I used to pile things I no longer needed in a corner, but it only made the clutter worse. Now, I keep a donation box in a convenient spot, and whenever I come across an item I no longer need, it goes straight into the box.
This simple habit makes decluttering so much easier. And when the box is full, it’s a quick trip to the charity shop. No guilt, no stress, just a much tidier space!
Tip: Keep the donation box somewhere visible, like in your wardrobe or closet, so you’re reminded to use it.
7. Make Sure Everything Has a Home
This is an absolute game-changer. I used to keep things wherever they fit, and it always felt like things were getting lost or piling up. But when I started organising everything with a designated home—whether it’s a shelf for my books or a drawer for my keys—it made all the difference.
Having a home for everything is essential for maintaining order. When everything has its place, tidying up becomes much quicker and easier.
Tip: Organise your items by frequency of use. Things you use daily should be easily accessible, while seasonal or less-used items can be stored in harder-to-reach spots.
Conclusion:
Start Small and Build Your Decluttering Routine
Decluttering doesn’t have to be a monumental task. By adopting these small, life-changing habits, you can create an organised space that works for you and your busy schedule. Remember, you don’t need to do it all at once—just take it one step at a time.
To help you get started, I’ve created a 100 Things to Declutter Checklist—it’s packed with easy-to-follow ideas to help you clear out the clutter once and for all.
And if you’re looking for more support, why not join my 30-Day Decluttering Challenge? It’s designed to help you declutter a little each day, giving you the motivation and accountability you need to transform your home.
Sign up now and start your journey towards a more organised life!
Tip: Start with one habit today, and build from there. You’ll be amazed at the results!