Written by Andrea Reviewed by Daniel

If You’re a “Borderline Hoarder”, These Decluttering Hacks Will Change Your Life…

Living in a cluttered space isn’t just about having too many things, it’s about the weight they put on your mental wellbeing. If you’ve ever looked around your home and felt overwhelmed by stuff but don’t quite identify as a full hoarder, you’re not alone!

The good news? You can take control of your space with these proven decluttering hacks that are specifically designed for people who struggle with letting go. Whether you’re dealing with emotional attachments to items or simply feeling overwhelmed by the sheer volume of stuff, these tips will help you create a calmer, more organised living space.

Table of Contents

Start With The “One Box” Method

Perfect for those who get emotionally attached to items, this gentle approach lets you ease into decluttering without feeling overwhelmed. Get a medium sized box and fill it with items you haven’t used in the past year. Instead of making immediate decisions, seal the box and put a date on it six months from now. If you haven’t opened it by then, donate the entire box without looking inside!

Create A “Maybe” Corner

For people living in small spaces where clutter builds up quickly, designate a specific corner of your home as your “maybe” space. Put items you’re unsure about keeping here, but set a firm two week deadline. This creates a physical boundary for your indecision while giving you time to process your feelings about these items.

Take “Before And After” Photos

This tip is particularly helpful for those struggling with mental health. Sometimes we don’t realise how much clutter affects us until we see it through a different lens. Take photos of areas before you start decluttering, then after you’ve finished. The visual proof of your progress can be incredibly motivating!

Use The “Touch It Once” Rule

This rule is perfect for families trying to help their loved ones manage clutter. When you pick up an item, make an immediate decision: keep, donate, or bin. No putting it down to “decide later”, as this often leads to endless cycles of moving things around without making progress.

Set Up A “One In, Two Out” System

For those who find their spaces filling up quickly, this rule helps prevent new clutter from accumulating. For every new item you bring home, two similar items must leave. This creates a natural decluttering rhythm that’s particularly effective in small living spaces.

Create “Zones” In Your Home

This strategy works brilliantly for people who feel overwhelmed by the whole house. Divide your space into specific zones, like “reading corner” or “crafting area”. If something doesn’t belong in that zone’s purpose, it needs to find a new home or leave altogether!

Use The “90/90 Rule”

Ask yourself: Have I used this in the last 90 days? Will I use it in the next 90 days? If the answer is no to both questions, it’s time to let it go. This rule is particularly helpful for those who keep things “just in case”.

Implement The “Four Box Method”

Label four boxes: Keep, Donate, Bin, and Relocate. This system works especially well for those who need clear categories to make decisions. The “Relocate” box helps identify items that belong in other rooms, making the whole process more organised.

Schedule “15 Minute Declutter Sprints”

Perfect for those who feel paralysed by the enormity of decluttering. Set a timer for just 15 minutes and focus on one small area. When the timer goes off, you can stop! This prevents burnout and builds momentum gradually.

Try The “Outward Spiral” Technique

Start in the centre of a room and work your way out in a spiral pattern. This structured approach helps prevent feeling overwhelmed and ensures no area gets missed. It’s particularly effective for those who struggle with knowing where to begin!

Last Thing Before You Go

Remember, decluttering isn’t about getting rid of everything, it’s about creating a space that brings you peace and joy. Start small, be patient with yourself, and celebrate every win, no matter how tiny it might seem!

Share this article with someone who might need these tips, because sometimes all we need is a gentle nudge in the right direction to make positive changes in our lives!

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