10 Decluttering Tips to Start the New Year

New Year, New You—we’ve all heard it before. But this time, why not kick off 2024 by transforming your space? A clean, clutter-free home not only looks great but also sets the tone for a fresh mindset. The start of the year is the perfect time to tackle the clutter you’ve been putting off, but we get it, decluttering can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re sorting through holiday leftovers, sentimental items, or trying to make space in those newly overstuffed closets, the idea of getting started can sometimes feel worse than the actual work.

But fear not—small steps lead to big changes. At StoreEase, we know that smart storage is the key to lasting organization. That's why we’ve put together ten practical, straightforward tips to help you clear your space and keep it clutter-free. From efficient storage solutions to letting go of things that no longer serve you, this guide will help you break free from the clutter once and for all.

And here’s the thing, decluttering isn’t just for your physical space. A tidy home can create a more peaceful, productive mindset, giving you the mental space to focus on your goals for the New Year. If you’re a DIYer, small business owner, or just someone looking to simplify your space, decluttering will set you up for success in 2025.

Ready to find out more? Grab those storage bins, clear out the junk, and let’s tackle this together. With our Top 10 Decluttering Tips, you’ll feel lighter, more organized, and prepared for what the year has in store.

1. Start small—focus on one area at a time

We know that decluttering can feel stressful if you try to tackle your entire home at once, so why not start small? Instead of diving into multiple rooms, focus on just one area—like your kitchen pantry, closet, or even a single drawer. Breaking the task down into manageable steps makes the process less daunting and much more rewarding.

A great way to keep track of progress is by using the “one-in, one-out” rule. Every time you bring a new item into your home, commit to removing one. This prevents clutter from building back up and helps you stay on top of things as you go.

And don’t forget, StoreEase is always here to help. If you find yourself holding onto items you’re not quite ready to part with but don’t need day-to-day, our smart storage solutions give you the perfect place to stash them without adding clutter to your living space.

Starting with smaller tasks also builds momentum, so when you’re ready to tackle larger projects, you’ll feel more empowered and in control. Plus, checking off these smaller accomplishments can motivate you to keep going—so it’s a real win-win.

2. Use the four-box method—keep, donate, trash or store

One of the most effective ways to declutter is by using the Four-Box Method. It’s simple and keeps things organized while you’re sorting. Grab four boxes and label them: Keep, Donate, Trash, and Store.

● Keep: These are items you use regularly or bring value to your life. They should have a dedicated spot in your home.

● Donate: This box is for items in good condition that you no longer need or use. Local charities or thrift stores are great places to give them new life.

Trash: Broken or worn-out items that no longer serve a purpose should go in this box.

● Store: Seasonal items, keepsakes, or things you don’t need daily but still want to hang onto can be packed away for storage.

Here at StoreEase, we’re all about giving you flexible storage solutions for that “Store” box. Whether you’re holding onto sentimental items, holiday decorations, or just need extra space for bulky belongings, we’ve got you covered. Our smart storage units keep everything safe, organized, and easy to access when you need it.

This method helps break down the process and makes it easier to decide what stays and what goes. Plus, by having a designated storage space, you’ll avoid future clutter from piling up in your home.

3. The one-year rule

One of the best decluttering tips is to ask yourself, “Have I used this in the past year?” If the answer is no, it’s time to let it go. This simple rule helps cut down on unnecessary items that often pile up and take over your space. Being honest with yourself about what you really need is the best advice we can give.

4. Declutter by category, not location

Instead of decluttering room by room, think about tackling your belongings by category. This method allows you to focus on one specific type of item at a time, making it easier to stay organized and make thoughtful decisions about what to keep or discard. By grouping similar items together, you’ll gain a clearer picture of how much you own, which can be both eye-opening and a reality check. This approach not only reduces overwhelm but also helps you identify duplicates and items you no longer need.

Common categories to consider include:

● Clothing

● Books

● Kitchenware

● Electronics

● Sentimental Items

5. Decluttering services for big jobs

Sometimes decluttering is a monumental task, especially if you’ve accumulated years’ worth of belongings from various members of the family. If you feel like it’s too much, hiring professional decluttering services can make all the difference. These pros offer expertise and an outside perspective, making it easier to part with items and stay organized. They can help you navigate the emotional aspects of decluttering, turning what feels like a daunting job into a manageable, exciting project.

6. Maximize storage with smart solutions

Once you’ve decluttered, it’s really important you maintain that sense of order for the whole of 2025. Invest in storage solutions that work for your space, such as multi-functional furniture, baskets, and drawer organizers. If you run a small business or simply need extra space in your home for your belongings, think about investing in a self-storage unit. Here at StoreEase Self Storage, we offer convenient, climate-controlled units that make it easy to keep your home clutter-free—for every kind of budget. With the right storage solution, you can make your decluttering efforts last and enjoy a tidy, organized space for the entire year.

7. Minimalist lifestyle mindset

Adopting a minimalist lifestyle doesn’t mean you have to get rid of everything. Instead, it’s about being intentional with what you own and creating a space that serves your needs. Keep only what adds value to your life, and avoid accumulating unnecessary items in the future. This mindset shift will not only simplify your surroundings but also promote a more peaceful, focused state of mind.

8. Are you supposed to clean on New Year’s day?

Some believe it’s bad luck to clean on New Year’s Day, but if you’re not superstitious, why not start off the year by tidying up? It’s the perfect time to begin decluttering and organizing your home. Plus, getting a head start on cleaning early in the year sets the tone for a more organized 12 months ahead. A clean slate on January 1st can provide a boost of motivation for the year to come.

9. Donate, sell or recycle

Once you’ve decluttered, don’t let those items sit in a corner. Donate gently used clothes or household items to charities, hold a garage sale, or recycle what you can. Not only will this help others in need, but it’ll also make you feel accomplished and ensure those things don’t creep back into your home. Letting go of items can be freeing, and knowing that your donations are going to a good cause as you start 2025 makes the process even more rewarding for you and your family.

10. Maintain your space all year long

Decluttering isn’t a one-time event—it needs to be a habit. After decluttering your home for the New Year, make it a point to regularly tidy up. Set aside a certain time each month to purge unnecessary items and reorganize your space. This practice will prevent clutter from accumulating and help maintain the organized, stress-free environment you’ve worked so hard to create. Trust us, consistency is key, so make decluttering a regular part of your routine for the entire year.