Episode 2: How and Where to Declutter

How and Where to Declutter: Your Step-by-Step Guide to a Clutter-Free Life

Welcome to The JJs Declutter Podcast blog! If you’re feeling overwhelmed by clutter but aren’t sure where to start, you’re in the right place. Today, we’re breaking down why decluttering matters, how to get started, and where to focus your efforts for maximum results. Whether it’s your home, workspace, digital life, or your parents, decluttering doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Let’s make space for what truly matters!

Why Decluttering Matters

Clutter isn’t just a physical mess—it affects your mental and emotional well-being. Studies show that excess clutter can lead to stress, anxiety, and decreased focus. Think about it: how many hours have you spent searching for misplaced items? Imagine the relief of knowing exactly where everything is!

Decluttering is about more than just tidying up—it’s about creating space to think, relax, and enjoy your home. Plus, it saves time, makes cleaning easier, and helps you appreciate what you truly love.

Getting Started: Small Steps, Big Wins

Many people think they need an entire weekend to make progress, but the truth is small do-able doses add up. Clutter didn’t happen overnight, and it won’t get fixed overnight either—but that’s okay!

The #DeclutteringDozen Method

To build your decluttering muscles, start with this easy system:
✅ Pick one small area (a nightstand, junk drawer, or bathroom counter).
✅ Set a timer for 12 minutes (our #DeclutteringDozen).
✅ Sort your items using the Keep or LET’S GO method:

• Keep – Items you love or use regularly.
• Lives Elsewhere – Things that need to go back to their proper place.
• Trash – Obvious garbage (start here for an instant win!).
• Sentimental – Set these aside to decide on later.
• Goes Out – Donations, recycling, items to sell, or returns.

Use baskets, boxes, or even Post-it notes on the floor to sort quickly!

Pro Tip: Don’t start with sentimental items—they’re the hardest and can slow you down. Work up to them once you’ve built some decluttering confidence.

Where to Start: High-Impact Decluttering Zones

Choosing the right starting point makes all the difference! We recommend beginning with visible clutter—the piles you see every day that instantly make your space feel chaotic.

Top Spots to Declutter First

🧹 Kitchen Counters – Clear off mail, gadgets, and random items. A clean counter transforms the whole space!
🖥️ Desk or Workspace – Toss old papers, clear away clutter, and remove dirty dishes (seriously, take those cups to the sink!). A tidy desk boosts productivity.
🪑 The “Chair of DOOM” – That chair that collects clothes instead of being used? Time to reclaim it! (DOOM = Didn’t Organize, Only Moved)
👗 Your Closet – If it doesn’t fit or match your style, donate it. Stop waiting to lose 10 pounds to wear those pants!
📂 Hidden Clutter Spots – A single drawer, your bathroom cabinet (expired meds!), or even digital spaces (delete those old emails!).

Decluttering That Lasts: The Donation Station

Decluttering isn’t just about sorting—it’s about removing items from your home. Set up a Donation Station in a convenient spot (like by the front door). When the box is full, take it to your car. Once it’s in the car, drive it to the donation center—it’s that simple!

Pro Tip: Find a donation center on your daily route. Drop off items whenever you’re passing by, instead of waiting for a huge pile-up.

Final Thoughts: Progress Over Perfection

Decluttering isn’t about being perfect—it’s about making progress. Start small, keep going, and celebrate your wins!
And remember, decluttering is always more fun with friends, so share your journey with someone who needs a little motivation.

Join the Conversation!

We’d love to hear your decluttering success stories! Connect with us on:

📸 Instagram: @abcdeclutterwithjj
📘 Facebook: ABC Declutter Community
📺 YouTube: ABC Declutter with JJ 

Email us: Hello@abcdeclutter.com

Subscribe & Share

If you enjoyed this post, be sure to follow & subscribe to our podcast and share it with a friend who could use a decluttering boost!

✨ Watch the full episode: How and Where to Declutter

Until next time—
Keep it simple. Keep it intentional. And, as always, Keep Decluttering! 🚀