How to Declutter Without Adding to Your To-Do List
If decluttering always feels like one more thing on your list, you’re not alone.
The secret is to stop treating decluttering as a separate project and start pairing it with your everyday routines.
When you integrate decluttering with things you naturally do each season, it stops feeling like extra work. You’re already in motion, so taking those few extra steps to edit and simplify feels lighter and more manageable.
With the holidays right around the corner, here are three seasonal activities that double as perfect opportunities to declutter- without adding anything new to your list.
When you are putting out seasonal decor
When you transition from fall to winter (or Halloween to the holiday season), give yourself permission to edit as you go.
While unpacking your decor items, set aside anything that feels tired, broken, or that you no longer love.
Ask yourself, “Would I buy this again”? If not, it’s time to let it go.
As you repack off-season decor, make sure you love, use, or need everything you are keeping.
Group like items together and pop a simple label on each bin.
Pro-Tip: Place the items you’re saying goodbye to directly into a donation box. Don’t stash it in the basement “for later”- take it to your car. The next time you’re near a donation center, drop it off and enjoy the space you have reclaimed.
2. When you are swapping out your closet for the season
The perfect built-in decluttering opportunity arises when the seasons change and you need to rotate your closet items.
When you pull out your winter clothes, gear and accessories:
Try things on. Check fit, comfort, and condition. If it doesn’t fit, doesn't flatter, or doesn't make you feel great, let it go.
For kids, take a quick inventory of sizes before putting away last season’s clothes. Create a donation bin for outgrown or unwanted items and aim to get them out the door the same day.
Pro-Tip: Create a short list of any gaps (e.g., a larger jacket for your daughter or snow mitts for your son) so you know exactly what you need while shopping.
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3. Before hosting or holiday gatherings
Before guests arrive, do a quick pre-party declutter of your entertaining essentials.
Pull out serving platters, table linens, and other items.
Check for chips, duplicates or items you never use. Let go of anything that doesn’t serve your current style or hosting needs (hint: you may not need all 9 of your cheese trays:)
If the thought of getting everything ready for the holidays feels overwhelming, you don’t have to do it alone. Let’s chat about how I can help you create calm before the chaos:)
When you pair decluttering with tasks you’re already doing, it feels more effortless. You’ll make progress without blocking out a whole weekend or feeling overwhelmed.
It’s not about doing more- it’s about being intentional in the moments you already have.
Happy decluttering!
to calmer spaces,
Andrea