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January is when everyone wants a fresh start at home, and decluttering is the fastest way to get one. This checklist goes room by room so it doesn’t turn into one overwhelming weekend. Do one room a day and you’re done in about a week.
I am a natural squirrel, I love collecting things especially during the winter, and then after you get out of your hidey hole, you ask yourself “why did I buy 10 new jars?”
Before you start
Grab three bags or boxes: Keep, Donate, Trash. Anything you’re not sure about goes in a “maybe” box with the date on it. If you haven’t opened it in three months, donate it.
Day 1: Kitchen
- Expired food in the pantry and fridge
- Duplicate utensils and tools
- Mugs and water bottles you never use
- Containers without lids (and lids without containers)
- Takeout menus, extra sauce packets, and junk drawer clutter
Day 2: Bathroom
- Expired medicine and sunscreen
- Old makeup
- Products you tried once
- Worn-out towels
Day 3: Closet
- Anything that doesn’t fit
- Anything you haven’t worn in a year
- Shoes that hurt
- Single socks and stretched-out basics
Day 4: Bedroom
- Nightstand drawers
- Under the bed
- Extra bedding you never use
- Old chargers and cords
Day 5: Living room
- Magazines and old mail
- Books you won’t reread
- Decor you don’t like anymore
- Remotes and electronics you don’t use
Day 6: Paper and digital
- Shred old statements and receipts you don’t need
- Unsubscribe from store emails
- Delete duplicate photos
Day 7: Drop it off
Get the donate bags out of the house the same day. Bags that sit by the door end up back in the closet.
More ideas on the New Year Home Organization board on Pinterest.
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