Is decluttering worth it? Organizing experts reveal how 'the magic of decluttering' contributes to a happier home

January is truly the time for embracing the idea of out with the old and in with the new – refreshing and resetting your space for the year ahead.

Top of most people's to-do lists is decluttering, but, as an often stressful and time-consuming activity, is decluttering really worth it? And can it have a positive impact on your home, happiness and outlook?

Here, we spoke to professional organizers to find out their thoughts on whether making the most of decluttering tips is an effective use of your precious time – spoiler alert – they all said yes. Here's why.

Is decluttering worth it?

As Di Ter Avest, professional organizer and founder of Diisorganized advises, 'Absolutely, decluttering is worth it. Imagine walking into a space where every item has a purpose, where surfaces are clear, and where you can actually breathe without feeling overwhelmed,' she says. 'That's the magic of decluttering.'

She's not wrong, either. While a clean house may not necessarily make you happier, it certainly helps – contributing to feelings of happiness and helping to quell stress. As Ter Avest adds, 'It's not just about tidying up your home; it's about creating a space that supports your life and well-being.'

This is something echoed by Ben Soreff, professional organizer at House2Home Organizing, who also points out that decluttering can actually help you to save money at home, too.

He explains, 'Getting rid of clutter and organizing cuts down on multiple purchases, and not only saves you time so you can be more productive, but also saves you money. Items like batteries and even paper towels can be expensive – you know you have them somewhere, but buy more because you can't find them.'

Soreff also highlights the impact of decluttering and organizing on being happier at home, by effectively avoiding ways your home could be increasing your stress levels. This is why lessting is always recommended by experts, particularly for older people.

'I can't tell you how many clients have told us that we saved their marriage,' he says. 'Typically, in a household, one of the partners will be messy and one will be neat. This dynamic creates stress. We want to be able to relax and feel safe in our space at the end of the day, and clutter prevents that.

'Additionally, we have seen children want to have friends and family over and not be able to due to clutter. By organizing your home you can control a few parts of your life, freeing up your mind to focus on those life challenges that crop up all the time.'

To Maria Anderson, cleaning and organizing expert at Henfield Storage, decluttering is also a brilliant way to be sustainable at home, by encouraging thoughtful disposal and donation. 'It thus follows green living practices and enhances the quality of life,' she says.

Why might decluttering feel difficult?

While decluttering is always worth it, there instances where it might feel more difficult, or more emotionally draining.

Rachel Rosenthal, organization expert and Post-it® Brand Ambassador  explains, 'Decluttering isn't always easy, and it's okay to acknowledge the challenges. For example, it can be challenging to let go of sentimental items, or things tied to memories.

'Group items by emotional significance, keep the most meaningful ones, and consider creating a memory box for those you cherish.'

We recommend using a box such as the Carved Scallop Mango Wood Box with Lid available at Amazon for this, and, if you're struggling to declutter sentimental items, our expert-lead guide details how to let go.

And, in general, Rosenthal advises against tackling everything at once (it is one of the things pro organizers never do in their own homes) and recommends using Post-it® Notes, such as the bestselling Post-it Notes available at Amazon, to organize by categories, using the pile decluttering method, and focusing on one at a time to avoid burnout.

Most importantly, as professional organizer Soreff says, organizing, and even decluttering, as a whole is not just about getting rid of things. 'That is a natural part of the process, but not the end goal,' he says. 'Sometimes, it is less important to get rid of things, and more important to have a plan.'

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FAQs

What is the 50% rule in decluttering?

The 50% rule is an effective way to be more ruthless when decluttering, involving picking a cluttered space in your home and getting rid of half the items. This works particularly well in areas with high levels of accumulated clutter, like a kitchen, bedroom or garage.

If you're feeling inspired to put an organizational overhaul in place, try the seven-day declutter challenge to transform your home.