The Science-Backed Benefits of Decluttering
If you’ve ever walked into a cluttered space and immediately felt overwhelmed, you’re not imagining things. Science backs up what we all instinctively know—our environment affects our well-being. And when our homes feel chaotic, our brains follow suit. But here’s the good news: you don’t have to go full minimalist to reap the benefits of decluttering. You just need a few simple strategies to make your home work for you rather than against you.
Why Decluttering Is More Than Just Tidying Up
Decluttering isn’t about creating a perfect, Pinterest-worthy space. It’s about simplifying your home so it supports your life instead of stressing you out. Studies show that a clutter-free home can lead to:
✔ Better Sleep – A study from Princeton University found that too much visual clutter makes it harder for the brain to focus and relax, leading to disrupted sleep.
✔ Lower Stress Levels – Researchers at UCLA discovered that women who described their homes as cluttered had higher cortisol (stress hormone) levels than those who felt their homes were organized.
✔ Improved Productivity – A study in the Journal of Neuroscience revealed that clutter competes for your attention, making it harder to focus and complete tasks efficiently.
✔ Healthier Eating Habits – A study published in Environment and Behavior found that people in an organized kitchen made healthier food choices than those in a cluttered one.
✔ Stronger Relationships – Research suggests that excessive clutter can cause tension in relationships, leading to frustration, arguments, and overall dissatisfaction at home.
So, if you’ve ever wondered why you feel on edge when your kitchen counter is buried under unopened mail, science has your back.
Decluttering Doesn’t Mean Minimalism (Unless You Want It To)
If the word “declutter” makes you think of stark white walls and getting rid of everything you own, let’s reset that thought. You don’t have to purge all your belongings to feel the benefits of a more organized home. Instead, think of decluttering as curating your space so that everything in it serves a purpose or brings you joy (yes, we’re borrowing from Marie Kondo a little).
How to Start Decluttering Without Overwhelm
Start Small – Instead of tackling an entire room, pick one surface, like your nightstand or bathroom counter. Set a timer for 5 minutes. Throw away trash. Put items that don’t belong there in their “home”. Take everything off and wipe the surface. Reset!
Make It Easy – Keep a donation box in your closet so you can easily drop in items you no longer wear.
Use the “One In, One Out” Rule – Anytime you bring something new into your home (with a plan on how you’re going to use it), let go of something else.
Create Zones – Assign specific areas for commonly used items so they don’t end up scattered throughout the house. One idea is a “drop off zone” for your keys, book bags, shoes, or work bag. Add a basket for important papers/to do items (because you’ve already thrown away the junk mail) so you will know where to look.
Ask for Help – If you’re feeling stuck, a professional home organizer in Denver (like me!) can help you create systems that actually work for your lifestyle.
How to Maintain a Clutter-Free Home
Decluttering isn’t a one-and-done task—it’s a habit. Here’s how to make it stick:
The One-Minute Rule – If something takes less than one minute to put away, do it immediately.
The Evening Reset – Set aside 15 minutes each night to tidy your kitchen and living room and put them “to bed" for the night.
Seasonal Decluttering – Use the changing seasons as a cue to reassess your wardrobe, decorations, and household items.
The “Would I Buy It Again?” Test – When debating whether to keep something, ask yourself if you’d purchase it again today. If not, it might be time to let it go.
Final Thoughts
Decluttering isn’t about perfection—it’s about simplifying your home so it feels good to live in. And the best part? You don’t have to do it all at once. Small, consistent steps will make a big impact over time.
If you’re in Boulder or Denver (or anywhere in between) and need help getting started, I’m here to guide you with practical, judgment-free support. Let’s turn your home into a place that works for you, not against you.