Expert answers: How to get rid of clutter and excess items in your home?

An expert in space organization emphasizes that decluttering is not merely about aesthetics but a crucial factor for overall quality of life. A well-organized space simplifies daily routines, alleviates tension, and restores a sense of control.

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Decluttering is not a matter of aesthetics, but of quality of life. An organized space simplifies everyday life, reduces tension, and restores a sense of control.

In an era of excessive consumption, many find their living spaces overwhelmed by seasonal clothing or fleeting trends. Items accumulate unnoticed, leading to a home that generates anxiety rather than comfort. Cluttered drawers and overflowing shelves transform a sanctuary into a source of unease. This visual disorder translates into a mental burden, impacting mood, concentration, and daily stress levels, making even simple tasks feel more demanding.

The feeling of being overwhelmed by possessions often leads to a perception of lost control over one's environment, further intensifying internal tension. Therefore, cleanliness and organization are presented not as aesthetic choices but as fundamental prerequisites for inner peace and daily stability.

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The most common mistake when cleaning and organizing is deciding to organize the entire apartment at once, and such an approach quickly leads to fatigue and giving up.

To combat clutter effectively, experts recommend avoiding the daunting task of organizing an entire home at once. Instead, focus on manageable sections like a single drawer, shelf, or wardrobe area. Small victories build motivation and foster a sense of progress. Establishing clear criteria for keeping items, asking if an item is regularly used, serves a real function, or brings joy, is vital. Items that fail these tests likely occupy space without justification.

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If the answer is negative, the item probably takes up space in your home without any justification.

Applying a "balance rule" is also advised: for every new item brought into the home, at least one old item should be removed. This practice prevents re-accumulation, acknowledging that a home has finite physical and mental capacity. Designating specific zones for different categories of items, such as documents or seasonal clothing, ensures everything has a place, preventing items from accumulating on visible surfaces like kitchen counters or tables. Clearing these surfaces enhances the sense of order and spaciousness, with only daily essentials remaining visible.

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For every new item you bring into the home, at least one old one should go out.