The Secret to an Organized Home? Decluttering First and Keeping It That Way
When most people think about getting organized, they picture beautifully labeled bins, tidy shelves, and colour-coded closets. But here’s the truth: no amount of baskets or fancy storage systems will work if you have too much stuff.
Organization doesn’t start with buying containers. It starts with letting go.
Why Decluttering Comes First
Clutter is like background noise. You may stop noticing it but it still creates stress, eats up time, and takes away from the things you actually love and use. If your drawers are jam-packed or your shelves are overflowing, even the best organizing systems will struggle to hold up over time.
By decluttering first, you make space for your belongings to “breathe.” This not only makes your home look and feel calmer but it also makes it easier to put things away, find what you need, and keep your systems working.
Think of it this way: a closet that’s 50% full is a joy to use. A closet that’s 110% full? It’s a daily frustration.
The Organization–Decluttering Connection
It’s tempting to see decluttering and organizing as separate steps, but the reality is: staying organized is contingent on staying decluttered.
If new items are constantly coming in without old ones going out, your home will slowly (or quickly!) slide back into chaos. Systems only work when they’re not overloaded.
The One In, One Out Rule
One of the simplest ways to maintain a decluttered home is by following the “One In, One Out” rule. The concept is simple: for every new item you bring into your home, one item needs to leave.
Bought a new sweater? Donate or sell one you no longer wear.
Upgraded your coffee maker? Give the old one to a friend or a donation centre.
Got new kids’ toys? Pass along an older toy to make space.
This rule keeps clutter from quietly building up in the background and it encourages more mindful shopping.
A Mindset Shift, Not a One-Time Task
Decluttering isn’t something you “do once” and then check it off forever. It’s an ongoing practice and a mindset. The more you get into the habit of evaluating what comes into your home and what stays, the more natural it becomes to live with only what you truly need, use, and love.
And when you stay decluttered, staying organized is no longer a constant uphill battle… it’s simply part of how your home functions.
Where to Start Today
Pick one drawer, shelf, or closet to declutter today.
Try the One In, One Out rule for the next week.
Notice how much easier it is to tidy and find things when your space isn’t overcrowded.
At Home Method, we believe in creating sustainable organizing systems because an organized home isn’t about perfection — it’s about making life feel lighter, calmer, and easier to manage. And the first step will always be: let go of what you don’t need.
Need some help with your decluttering journey? Reach out!