A new year brings a sense of possibility—and there’s no better way to embrace it than by decluttering your home. Clearing out what no longer serves you creates space for calm, organization, and new beginnings. If you’re not sure where to start, here’s a room-by-room (and category-by-category) guide to the most impactful things to declutter as you head into the new year.
1. Clothing You Don’t Wear
If you didn’t wear it last year, chances are you won’t wear it this year either. Go through your closet and drawers and remove:
- Clothes that no longer fit or flatter
- Items you’ve been “saving” for a someday that hasn’t come
- Worn-out basics that have seen better days
Tip: Keep only what fits your current lifestyle and makes you feel good when you put it on.
2. Old Paperwork & Mail
Paper clutter piles up fast. Start the year fresh by shredding or recycling:
- Old bills, statements, and receipts you no longer need
- Expired warranties and manuals (many are available online)
- Junk mail and outdated flyers
Set up a simple filing system for what you do need so it doesn’t pile up again.
3. Kitchen Extras & Expired Items
The kitchen is a great place to see quick results.
- Toss expired food, spices, and condiments
- Donate duplicate gadgets and appliances you never use
- Let go of chipped mugs, mismatched containers, and utensils you avoid
A streamlined kitchen makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.
4. Bathroom Products Past Their Prime
Check under sinks and inside cabinets for:
- Expired makeup and skincare
- Half-used products you didn’t love
- Old towels or linens that should be replaced
Keeping only what you use daily helps your bathroom feel like a calm, spa-like space.
5. Holiday Decorations
Before packing decorations away for another year, declutter them.
- Broken or tangled lights
- Decor that no longer matches your style
- Items you didn’t use this past season
You’ll thank yourself next year when decorating feels easier and more intentional.
6. Kids’ Toys & Games
If you have children, toys can quickly take over.
- Donate toys they’ve outgrown or lost interest in
- Toss broken or incomplete sets
- Rotate toys to keep favorites fresh and manageable
Less clutter often leads to more creative play.
7. Digital Clutter
Decluttering isn’t just physical.
- Delete unused apps
- Unsubscribe from emails you no longer read
- Organize photos and files on your phone and computer
A clean digital space can feel just as refreshing as a clean room.
8. Sentimental Items (With Intention)
Sentimental clutter can be the hardest to tackle.
- Keep the items that truly spark joy or meaning
- Consider photographing items you don’t have space to keep
- Store keepsakes neatly instead of scattered throughout the house
Honor memories without letting them overwhelm your space.
Start Small, Stay Consistent
You don’t need to declutter your entire home in one weekend. Choose one category or room at a time and build momentum. Even small changes can make a big difference.
Starting the new year with a decluttered home sets the tone for a more organized, peaceful year ahead. Clear space, clear mind—and make room for what matters most.
