How to Start Decluttering When Overwhelmed: Step-by-Step Home Reset
There’s nothing quite as paralysing as standing in the middle of a cluttered home, not knowing where to begin. Whether it’s a kitchen full of random gadgets, a wardrobe you haven’t seen the back of in years, or just the general sense that everything is everywhere, we’ve all been there.
But if you’re feeling overwhelmed by clutter, you’re not alone, and there’s a way through it. With the right mindset, tools, and a step-by-step approach, you can declutter your space, regain control, and create a calm, intentional home that works for your life.
Here’s your complete guide to decluttering overwhelming spaces - without getting overwhelmed!
Why Clutter Feels So Overwhelming
Clutter doesn’t just take up physical space, it also weighs on our mental load. Studies have shown that disorganised environments can increase stress, reduce focus, and even disrupt sleep. It’s no wonder we feel stuck before we even start.
If you're nodding along and thinking, "This is me!", take a deep breath. The goal here isn’t to create a picture-perfect home overnight - it’s to make progress, create clarity, and build systems that support the way you live.
Step 1: Shift Your Mindset
Before you even touch a single drawer, take a moment to adjust your expectations.
You're not aiming for perfection, you're aiming for ease.
Let go of the idea that you need an entire weekend (or week) to get your home in order. Instead, adopt a “one step at a time” mindset. Every drawer you tackle, every item you let go of, is a step closer to the calm you’re craving.
Tip: Replace “I have to do everything” with “What small step can I take today?”
Step 2: Start Small and Visible
One of the most common questions we hear is, “Where do I even start?” The answer? Somewhere small, and preferably somewhere visible.
Choose a space that’s manageable but impactful. Think: your bedside drawer, the kitchen counter, or the top of your bathroom vanity. When you can visibly see a transformation, it motivates you to keep going.
Beginner Decluttering Steps:
Pick one drawer, shelf, or surface.
Set a timer for 15–20 minutes.
Remove everything, group like items together, and return only what you use and love.
Donate, recycle, or toss what no longer serves you.
Step 3: Follow the “One Category” Rule
Instead of jumping from one area to another (hello, scattered chaos), try decluttering by category. This helps reduce decision fatigue and keeps you focused.
Start with categories that tend to carry less emotional weight, such as:
Toiletries
Pantry items
Cleaning supplies
Office stationery
Leave sentimental items, family heirlooms, or photos for later when your decluttering muscle is stronger.
Stress-free Decluttering Plan Tip: Grouping similar items together helps you instantly see duplicates and cut back with more confidence.
Step 4: Create a “Maybe” Box
One of the biggest obstacles to decluttering is indecision. What if I need this later? What if I regret letting it go?
This is where the “maybe” box comes in. Label a box or basket and fill it with items you’re unsure about. Store it out of sight, and set a reminder to revisit it in 1–3 months. If you haven’t needed or missed those items by then, you likely never will.
This trick helps you declutter without getting overwhelmed by taking the pressure off needing to decide everything immediately.
Step 5: Stop the Flow of Clutter
Decluttering isn’t just about getting rid of things, it’s about keeping new things from taking their place. As you reset your home, now’s the perfect time to rethink how new items enter it.
Ask yourself before buying:
Do I already own something similar?
Where will I store this?
Am I buying this to fix a mood or a moment?
Consider a one-in, one-out rule: for every new item you bring into the home, donate or remove one you no longer need.
Step 6: Make It a Habit, Not a One-Off
The secret to a clutter-free home isn’t a giant spring clean, it’s consistent, bite-sized maintenance.
Set aside a few minutes each day or week to do a “mini edit.” It could be your handbag, the fridge, or the mail pile. Keeping up with small zones prevents larger chaos from building up.
Block 20 minutes on a Sunday to scan one area of your home and reset it for the week ahead.
Step 7: Use Storage to Support (Not Hide) Your System
Storage solutions are helpful, but only after you've decluttered. The goal is to contain what you use, not to shove things away and hope for the best.
Smart storage ideas for open layouts or small spaces:
Use clear containers to group items together
Add drawer dividers for utensils, cosmetics, or socks
Use over-door organisers for vertical storage
Label boxes and bins clearly to help everyone in your household maintain the system
If you’re working with an open plan layout, use furniture and storage to define your zones.
Step 8: Break Down Your Space Into Zones
This tip is especially useful if you're decluttering a home with an open plan or multifunctional layout. Instead of tackling your home as one big mess, divide it into functional zones.
Examples of storage zones:
A designated drop zone near the entrance
A coffee or breakfast station in the kitchen
A homework nook for kids
A tech charging station
Breaking your space into these intentional areas helps clarify what belongs where, making it easier to put things away - and keep them away!
Pro Tip: Use rugs, open shelving, or even a well-placed console table to define zones in an open space without needing to build walls.
Step 9: Track Progress (Not Perfection)
If you’ve ever done a wardrobe edit and then reopened it later thinking, "Wait, did I even do anything?", you’re not alone. Decluttering can be subtle at first, but it builds.
Take before-and-after photos, make a list of completed areas, or keep a small journal to track what you’ve cleared. This kind of visual progress keeps momentum going and makes the work feel tangible.
Step 10: Be Kind to Yourself
Decluttering isn’t just about stuff, t’s about your habits, history, and sometimes, your emotions. It can be hard. That’s normal. You’re not behind. You’re not doing it wrong. You’re making progress.
Take breaks. Celebrate small wins. And remember: every item you let go of is a step toward more space, more clarity, and more ease in your everyday life.
Final Thought: You Don’t Have to Do It Alone
If you’re feeling stuck, it’s okay to ask for help. Sometimes, having an outside perspective, whether from a trusted friend or a professional organiser, can make the process feel less overwhelming and far more doable.
At Homefulness, we work with clients at every stage of the decluttering journey - from overwhelmed to organised. Whether you need hands-on support or a little guidance to get started, we’re here to help you create a space that supports your life beautifully.
Ready to reset your home?
Reach out to us at Homefulness and let’s create your calm, clutter-free space, one step at a time.