Are you tired of battling clutter in your home? It's easy for our living spaces to become overwhelmed by accumulated belongings, from forgotten paperwork to unused toys. If you're ready to take charge of your clutter and transform your living space into a serene oasis, here are friendly advice to guide you through the process. 

1. Have What You Love, and Use What You Have

Kylie Browne, the organizing guru behind Get Organized Gal, advocates for a powerful mindset shift: surround yourself only with things you love and use. When assessing items in your space, ask yourself, "Do I truly cherish this, and am I actively using it?" If the answer is no, it might be time to let go. This principle extends beyond mere possessions; Browne also recommends crafting your bedroom into a sanctuary, eliminating stressors and enhancing relaxation with soft lighting, plush pillows, and calming scents. Curate your surroundings to evoke tranquility and joy.

2. One In, One Out

Heather Clark, a decluttering expert, introduces a straightforward rule: for each new item that enters your home, one item must depart. This practice ensures that your space doesn't become overwhelmed by new acquisitions. Teach this concept to your children, involving them in the decluttering process. As special occasions approach, prepare by clearing out items you no longer use, making room for the new without the stress of excess clutter.

3. Embrace the One-Touch Policy

Communal spaces like the kitchen often fall victim to clutter. Interior Designer Adam Watson advocates for a no-nonsense approach. Deal with items promptly—find them a permanent home or dispose of them. Open and handle mail immediately, either taking action or digitizing important information. By minimizing the accumulation of paper and unnecessary items, you can create a clutter-free and functional living environment.

4. The Shop-Worthy Test: Would You Buy It Again?

Founder of Style Curator and Interior Designer Gina Ciancio offers a thought-provoking question: "If you saw it in the shop, would you buy it again?" This query compels you to evaluate the true value of possessions, both monetarily and sentimentally. By grounding your perspective in the present, you can more easily discern which items deserve a place in your life and which should be released. Letting go becomes an empowering act of mindful decision-making.

5. Start Fresh: Pull Everything Out

Confronting clutter head-on may seem daunting, but the reward is a functional and orderly space. Tackle notorious clutter zones by emptying drawers and sorting items into categories: keep, relocate, donate, or discard. Vi Trang from Dan Kitchens advises making use of practical storage solutions while reorganizing. In your kitchen, a DIY drawer insert can revolutionize your spice storage, while a similar approach in your wardrobe will unveil untapped space.

6. Take It One Zone at a Time

Eva Bowker, of the Fantastic Handyman, recommends a methodical approach to decluttering. Instead of becoming overwhelmed by the prospect of tackling every cluttered corner, break it down into manageable zones. Focus on one area per week or month—whether it's your overflowing dish collection or another clutter hotspot. By simplifying your surroundings, you create room for meaningful experiences and cherished possessions, transforming your home into a space of peace and inspiration.

Remember, decluttering is not just about tidying up—it's about crafting a mindful and intentional living space that reflects your values and brings you joy. With these five decluttering mantras as your guide, you can embark on a transformative journey toward a clutter-free and harmonious home.