The little-known decluttering method that can transform your home in just five minutes
When we think of decluttering, most of us picture setting aside a day to go through the contents of an entire room. But this can be so overwhelming and time-consuming that we end up putting it off, resulting in even more clutter building up.
It doesn’t have to be done that way, though – there is a decluttering method that focuses on shorter sessions and smaller spaces. It can be just as effective as a big clean out and set you up with habits that keep the home tidier overall.
A messy open dresser drawer filled with disorganised clothes in a home closet. iStockphoto
Micro-decluttering means tackling one of your clothes drawers instead of the bedroom, or a pantry shelf instead of the kitchen.
“The biggest benefit is that it feels achievable. A full declutter can be incredibly effective, particularly when a home has become very cluttered, but it requires time, energy and a lot of decision-making,” Maria Patisso, professional organiser and founder of Organise My Life, told nine.com.au.
“Micro-decluttering allows you to make progress without turning your house upside down. It also builds momentum. Once people see one beautifully clear drawer or cupboard, they often want to keep going.”
To try this method, the Sydney-based organiser recommended picking a specific spot and setting a timer for five to 15 minutes.
“Take everything out so you can actually see what you own. Remove rubbish, expired products, duplicates you don't need and anything you no longer use. Then put back only what belongs there,” she said.
“Don’t underestimate five or 10 minutes. If you remove five unnecessary things from your home every day, that’s more than 1,800 items over a year.”
Areas that suit micro-decluttering include drawers, shelves, bags and table tops; just make sure to choose one to do, for example the junk or sock drawer, rather than the entire piece of furniture.
But there are some things that are best left for when you have more time and the right headspace.
“I wouldn’t start with sentimental items, photographs or paperwork. They usually involve far more decisions and can quickly turn a 10-minute declutter into a two-hour trip down memory lane,” Patisso said.
Micro-decluttering is a perfect way to get into the habit of tidying regularly and removing items you no longer need or don’t use because it’s so manageable to do on a daily basis. To make it a habit, it’s best to try it during tasks you’re already doing.
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“While you're waiting for dinner to cook, check one pantry shelf. When you put the washing away, pull out three pieces of clothing you no longer wear. When the kids are packing up their toys, identify anything they've outgrown,” Patisso said.
Another tip that helps keep up the momentum of regular micro-decluttering sessions is having a bag or box set aside to pop items you want to give away in.
“When you find something you no longer need, it goes straight into the bag rather than back into a cupboard. When the bag is full, it leaves the house – that’s the crucial part: decluttering isn’t finished until the unwanted items have actually left your home,” she said.
Micro-decluttering isn’t for everyone or every situation though, as Patisso explained that sometimes a big declutter is the best solution.
“For homes with significant clutter, however, micro-decluttering isn’t always a replacement for a proper declutter. Sometimes you need that bigger reset first, and then micro-decluttering is fantastic for maintaining it,” she said.
