Decluttering Tips for Small Spaces You Can Do in a Day

Living in a small space doesn’t mean you have to feel cramped or overwhelmed. With a little creativity and a few practical strategies, you can create a more open, organized, and peaceful environment. Whether you live in a studio apartment, a tiny house, or a compact family home, these decluttering tips for small spaces can be done in just one day—no major renovations required.

1. Start with a Clear Goal

Before you begin, decide what you want to achieve. Do you want to free up closet space? Make your living room more functional? Clear goals help you stay focused and motivated.

• Tip: Take a photo of your space before and after it’s incredibly satisfying!

2. Use the “One Room at a Time” Rule

Don’t try to tackle your whole house in one go. Instead, choose one area or one room, like your kitchen counter or bedroom closet.

• Why it works: It prevents burnout and keeps progress manageable.

3. Apply the 3-Box Method

Label three boxes or bags:

• Keep

• Donate/Sell

• Trash

As you sort through your items, force yourself to place each one in a box. No “maybe” pile allowed!

4. Declutter by Category, Not Just Location

Sometimes it helps to focus on types of items, like books, clothes, or kitchen gadgets, rather than just spaces.

• Example: Gather all your shoes from every room and sort them at once.

5. Use Vertical Storage

Small homes often lack floor space, so think up. Wall shelves, hooks, and tall organizers can free up valuable square footage.

• Tip: Install floating shelves in the bathroom or above desks for a minimalist, airy look.

6. Store Seasonal Items Out of Sight

Items you don’t use regularly (like winter coats or holiday decor) don’t need to occupy prime real estate.

• Suggestion: Use vacuum-sealed bags or under-bed storage boxes.

7. Follow the “One In, One Out” Rule

Every time you bring a new item into your home, remove an old one.

• Why it helps: Prevents clutter from creeping back in.

8. Use Multi-Purpose Furniture

Choose furniture that doubles as storage, such as ottomans with hidden compartments or beds with drawers underneath.

• Great for: Studio apartments and small bedrooms.

9. Set a 15-Minute Timer

Decluttering can feel overwhelming. Break it into short bursts of 15–30 minutes.

• Tip: Play music or a podcast to make it feel less like a chore.

10. Be Ruthless—Keep Only What You Truly Use

Ask yourself:

• Have I used this in the last 6 months?

• Do I love it?

• Would I buy this again?

If the answer is no, it’s time to let it go.

Quick Decluttering Projects (Each Under 1 Hour)

• Clean out your junk drawer

• Sort the medicine cabinet

• Declutter your purse or backpack

• Organize the fridge

• Go through your shoes

Conclusion

Decluttering doesn’t require a week-long vacation or a professional organizer. With these simple tips, you can transform your space in just one day and feel calmer, happier, and more in control of your home. Remember, the goal isn’t perfection it’s creating a space that works for you.