When it comes to decluttering, the hardest step is often the first one—just starting. If you’ve ever wondered how to start decluttering, you’re not alone. You look around at the piles, cupboards, and drawers overflowing with stuff, and it’s easy to feel paralysed by the sheer scale of the task
Sure, having a specific starting point can be helpful. Maybe it’s the kitchen junk drawer, the laundry room shelves, or that daunting corner of your garage. But the truth is, you can begin anywhere, and the momentum will carry you forward. The key is simply to take that first step.
Step 2 of the Space and Time Organising System: Your Commitment to Being Organised
This process fits right into the second step of the Space and Time Organising System—Your Commitment to Being Organised. Learning how to start decluttering is about making a decision to prioritise your space and wellbeing.
Start Small, Start Easy
One of the easiest ways to dive into decluttering is to look for the “low-hanging fruit.” That means tackling the obvious rubbish—expired food, old receipts, broken toys, or worn-out socks. These are the things that don’t need any thought. You know they’re not staying, so let them go!
If you’re standing in the kitchen wondering where to begin, check your pantry for out-of-date food. If you’re in the bathroom, toss the empty bottles and ancient beauty products. The point is to build confidence by clearing out the easy stuff first.
Let Go of Perfection
Sometimes, we hold ourselves back from decluttering because we feel we need a grand plan or strategy. But starting small and imperfectly is better than waiting for the “perfect time” to begin. The act of letting go—even just a few items—can be a huge mental shift.
Each item you remove creates a little more breathing room, not just in your space, but also in your mind. That sense of relief grows as you continue, and suddenly, the idea of decluttering feels less overwhelming.
Decluttering is Like Clearing a Path
Once you’ve learned how to start decluttering, you’ll find that removing obvious rubbish is just the first step. From there, you can confidently move forward, creating a home that supports your lifestyle.
Once the obvious rubbish is gone, you can move to the next layer—items you don’t use, don’t need, or simply don’t love. By this point, you’ll likely have more clarity about what truly belongs in your home.
Remember: Progress Over Perfection
It’s not about doing it all in one go or creating a picture-perfect home overnight. Decluttering is a process. Every bag of rubbish, every item donated or recycled, is a step in the right direction.
So, if you’re staring at the clutter wondering where to begin, remember this: just start. Start anywhere. There’s always something easy to get rid of, and before you know it, you’ll be on your way to creating a space that feels lighter, calmer, and more purposeful.
Need a Helping Hand?
If you’re in Melbourne or Geelong, Space and Time is here to support you in your decluttering journey. Whether you need guidance to get started or hands-on help to keep the momentum going, we can work with you to create a more organised, stress-free home. Book a session today and take the next step in your commitment to being organised!
📞 Call Jules at Space and Time or visit our website to get started.
🌏 Not in Melbourne or Geelong? No worries! Our online coaching sessions provide personalised support and guidance no matter where you are. Let’s work together to create a space that works for you—wherever you are in the world.
Space and Time: Simplifying Spaces, Simplifying Lives.