Decluttering can feel like a daunting task, but breaking it into challenges can make the process fun, manageable, and effective. These 15 decluttering challenges will help you clear your home, reduce stress, and experience the freedom of living with less.
Choose one or try them all to make this year your most clutter-free yet!
1. The 30-Day Minimalism Challenge
Each day for 30 days, get rid of one more item than the day before. On day 1, declutter 1 item, on day 2, declutter 2 items, and so on. By the end, you’ll have removed 465 items!
2. The 12-12-12 Challenge
Find 12 items to donate, 12 items to throw away, and 12 items to relocate. This quick challenge can be done in under an hour.
3. One Room Per Week Challenge
Dedicate each week to decluttering a different room in your home. By the end of a month or two, you’ll have a completely refreshed space.
4. The “One In, One Out” Rule
Whenever you bring a new item into your home, let go of one existing item. This prevents clutter from accumulating over time.
5. The Closet Hanger Challenge
Turn all your hangers backward. After wearing an item, turn the hanger forward. After six months, donate clothes on backward hangers.
6. The “Use It or Lose It” Pantry Challenge
Use up food items in your pantry that have been sitting there for months. If you can’t use them within a month, donate or discard them.
7. 10-Minute Declutter Dash
Set a timer for 10 minutes and declutter as fast as you can. Focus on one area, like a drawer or a countertop. Repeat daily.
8. The Digital Declutter Challenge
Spend 30 minutes deleting unused apps, clearing old emails, and organizing your digital files. A clutter-free digital space is just as important as a physical one.
9. The Sentimental Items Challenge
Declutter sentimental items by choosing the most meaningful ones to keep. Take photos of the rest before letting them go.
10. The Paper Purge Challenge
Sort through papers, mail, and old documents. Shred what you don’t need and organize the rest. Go paperless where possible.
11. The “No Buy” Challenge
Commit to a “no buy” month where you only purchase essentials. This helps prevent new clutter from entering your home.
12. The “One Shelf at a Time” Challenge
Declutter one shelf, drawer, or surface each day. Small, consistent efforts lead to big results over time.
13. The “Fill a Bag” Challenge
Grab a trash bag and fill it with items to donate or throw away. This is a fast and satisfying way to clear space.
14. The “No Clutter Zones” Challenge
Designate a few key areas as “no clutter zones.” Keep these spaces clear for a week, then expand to more areas.
15. The “Before and After” Photo Challenge
Take a photo of a cluttered space before you declutter and another after. The visual progress can motivate you to keep going.
Decluttering doesn’t have to be overwhelming. These challenges make it simple and even enjoyable. Pick a challenge and get started—your future self will thank you for the freedom, space, and clarity you create. Here’s to a clutter-free year ahead!