Clutter has a sneaky way of piling up. One day, your home feels perfectly tidy; the next, you’re wondering how that drawer turned into a junk abyss.
Decluttering isn’t just about tidying up — it’s about creating a calm, functional, and welcoming space where everything has a purpose.
If you’ve ever stood in the middle of a messy room thinking, Where do I even start?, this declutter checklist is your step-by-step guide to take control — without getting overwhelmed.
Why a Checklist Works
Decluttering can be emotionally and physically exhausting. A checklist breaks the process into manageable, bite-sized tasks so you can:
- Avoid decision fatigue
- Track your progress
- Celebrate wins along the way
Motivational Tip: Decluttering is less about what you’re getting rid of, and more about what you’re making room for — peace, time, and space.
Getting Started: Your Declutter Mindset
Before we jump in, remember:
- One area at a time — don’t bounce between rooms.
- Keep three boxes handy: Keep, Donate/Sell, Trash.
- Be ruthless — if you haven’t used it in a year, it’s probably not worth keeping.
The Declutter Checklist — Room by Room
This checklist is designed so you can follow it in order or tackle the rooms that bother you most.
1. Entryway & Hallway
The first impression of your home should feel inviting, not chaotic.
Checklist:
- Clear out shoes you no longer wear
- Recycle old mail and flyers
- Donate unused coats, hats, and scarves
- Add a basket or hooks for daily essentials
Quick Win: A slim shoe rack or wall hooks can instantly reduce visual clutter.
2. Living Room
The heart of the home often collects the most “just for now” clutter.
Checklist:
- Remove unused décor or knickknacks
- Sort magazines (keep only the current month)
- Organize remote controls in a tray or basket
- Clear coffee table and side tables
| Keep | Donate/Sell | Trash |
|---|---|---|
| Favorite books | Duplicate throw blankets | Expired candles |
| Working electronics | Extra décor | Broken coasters |
3. Kitchen
Cluttered kitchens slow you down and make cooking less enjoyable.
Checklist:
- Clear counters — keep only daily-use appliances
- Discard expired pantry items
- Donate duplicate utensils and cookware
- Organize spices (ditch stale ones)
Pro Tip: Use clear containers to store pantry staples — it looks neat and helps you see when you’re running low.
4. Bedroom
Your bedroom should be a sanctuary, not a storage unit.
Checklist:
- Donate clothes you haven’t worn in a year
- Clear nightstands of non-essentials
- Organize under-bed storage
- Minimize decorative pillows (keep what you actually use)
Mindset Shift: A decluttered bedroom supports better sleep and lower stress.
5. Bathroom
Bathrooms can feel cramped when overloaded with products.
Checklist:
- Toss expired skincare and makeup
- Limit towels to 2–3 per person
- Store backup toiletries in labeled bins
- Clear sink area of extra items
6. Home Office
Paper clutter and unorganized supplies can tank productivity.
Checklist:
- Shred outdated paperwork
- Organize cords with cable ties
- Keep only working pens and markers
- File important documents in labeled folders
Example: Switching to digital statements and bills can cut paper clutter in half.
7. Closets
Closets are prime real estate — don’t waste space on unused items.
Checklist:
- Group clothing by type and season
- Donate shoes that pinch or don’t fit
- Use vertical storage to maximize space
- Store seasonal items in bins
8. Garage or Storage Room
These areas often become dumping grounds.
Checklist:
- Dispose of broken tools or appliances
- Donate unused sports equipment
- Store seasonal décor in labeled bins
- Hang tools on pegboards to free up floor space
Declutter by Category
Sometimes it’s easier to work by category rather than by room.
| Category | Action |
|---|---|
| Paper | Shred or recycle old mail, manuals, and receipts |
| Clothes | Donate items not worn in a year |
| Toys | Keep only what’s played with regularly |
| Décor | Keep pieces that bring joy or serve a purpose |
| Kitchenware | Keep one of each type of tool unless multiples are necessary |
Speed Decluttering for Busy Days
When you only have 10–15 minutes, try:
- One Shelf Rule: Pick one shelf, drawer, or small surface and clear it completely.
- Fill a Bag Challenge: Grab a bag and fill it with things to donate in under 10 minutes.
- Before Guests Arrive: Focus on visible clutter in living areas and bathrooms.
Handling Sentimental Items
Sentimental clutter is the hardest to tackle.
- Keep only what truly represents a memory.
- Take photos of items before letting them go.
- Pass heirlooms to family members who will use or display them.
Reminder: The memory lives in you, not in the object.
How to Keep Clutter from Coming Back
- One In, One Out Rule: Every time you buy something new, donate or discard an old item.
- Seasonal Checks: Do a mini-declutter at the start of each season.
- Smart Storage: Give every item a designated “home.”
Quick Reference Master Checklist
| Area | Key Actions |
|---|---|
| Entryway | Clear shoes, mail, coats |
| Living Room | Remove excess décor, organize remotes |
| Kitchen | Clear counters, toss expired food |
| Bedroom | Donate clothes, clear nightstands |
| Bathroom | Toss expired products, organize towels |
| Office | Shred papers, organize cords |
| Closets | Sort by season, donate unused shoes |
| Garage | Dispose of broken items, use wall storage |
Final Thought
Decluttering isn’t about perfection — it’s about creating a home that supports the life you want to live. By breaking the process into small, actionable steps, this checklist makes it easy to start (and finish) without burnout.
Once you’ve gone through it once, use it as a seasonal touch-up guide to keep clutter from creeping back in.
Your home will thank you — and so will your mind.
I’m Anastasios Moulios, co-founder of DIY Cozy Living. I enjoy finding creative, practical ways to make small spaces feel warm, stylish, and lived-in — whether it’s a camper, a backyard, or a cozy room inside. I started this blog with Katerina to share real ideas that make home feel a little more personal and a lot more comfortable.
