7 Rules of the Holistic Home Decluttering Method
Creating a harmonious and clutter-free home is about so much more than simply tidying up. It’s about aligning your physical space with your intentions, values, and the life you want to live. The Holistic Home Decluttering Method is a considered and sustainable approach to transform your space into one that truly supports you. Here are the 7 rules that form the foundation of this method.
1. Create with a Clear Intention
Before you begin decluttering, take time to reflect on what you want your home to feel like and how you want to live within it. Do you envision a calm, serene sanctuary? Or a vibrant, lively hub for family and friends? Getting clarity on your ideal lifestyle will act as a compass, guiding every decision you make along the way. When you know your “why,” it’s easier to stay focused and committed throughout the process.
Tip: Create a vision board or write down your goals for your home to keep your intention front and centre — a great thing to do at the start of a new year.
2. Less, But Better
Decluttering can feel overwhelming if you try to tackle everything at once. Instead, focus on breaking tasks into smaller, actionable steps. For example, declutter one drawer or one shelf at a time. Celebrate each small win as you go — these moments of progress will build momentum and keep you motivated.
Quality over quantity is another key principle. By curating fewer but more meaningful items, you create space for the things that truly add value to your life.
Tip: Set a timer for 15-30 minutes and focus on decluttering one specific area during that time.
3. Respect Your Time
Time is one of your most valuable resources, so it’s essential to honour your commitments and make room in your schedule for decluttering. Treat this process as a priority rather than an afterthought. When you set aside dedicated time to work on your home, you’re more likely to achieve your goals and create lasting change.
Tip: Block off specific time slots in your calendar for decluttering sessions and stick to them. (I have been giving myself the target of focusing on one area every evening after dinner.)
4. Take Responsibility
It’s easy to point fingers or blame others for the clutter in your home, but real transformation starts with you. Model the behaviour you wish to see in others — whether it’s tidying up regularly, letting go of unnecessary items, or adopting mindful consumption habits. Leading by example can inspire those around you to follow suit.
Tip: Start with your own belongings before addressing shared spaces or other people’s habits. (My bedroom, bathroom and wardrobe is now back on track and I’m working through the rest of the house.)
5. Edit Before You Organise
Many people jump straight into organising without first addressing the root of the problem: too much stuff. Before you invest in storage tubs, baskets, or storage solutions, take the time to cull the clutter. Editing your belongings ensures that you’re only keeping items that serve a purpose or bring you joy.
Tip: Use the “One Year Rule” — if you haven’t used an item in the past year, consider letting it go.
6. Let Go, With Thanks
Saying goodbye to items can be an emotional process, but shifting your perspective can make it easier. Instead of focusing on what you’re losing, think about what you’re gaining: space, clarity, and peace of mind. Thank your items for the role they’ve played in your life before releasing them.
Tip: Donate items in good condition to charities or community organisations where they can be appreciated by someone else. (I remind my daughters to focus on the joy someone else will experience when they find and get to use favourites they have outgrown.)
7. Establish a New Habit System
Decluttering isn’t a one-time event — it’s a lifestyle shift. To maintain your progress, streamline your daily rhythms and implement sustainable systems that prevent clutter from creeping back in. Whether it’s adopting a “one in, one out” rule or setting aside time each week for tidying, consistent habits are the key to long-term success.
Tip: Regularly reassess your systems and adjust them as needed to suit your evolving lifestyle. (Another mantra I repeat, if it takes less than a minute to clear away or take action, do it!) What I’ve learned about decluttering is that it is not a one-and-done event — just like the laundry! It is a household rhythm, and the more that we incorporate it into our daily routines, the easier it becomes.
Life becomes easier too.
Start small, stay intentional, and celebrate each step forward.
INSIDER GUIDE
Simplifying my spaces is not about buying stuff. However, there are some homewares I have been using for many years (decades!) that have helped keep my home tidy and organised:
Market Baskets — We use these baskets for everything from beach trips to grocery shopping to storing rain coats at home.
Bolga Baskets — Sturdy with an open “mouth”, we use these baskets for our weekly library book haul (with four children, it’s many books!). Other baskets store wooden blocks and interior design material samples.
Glass Jars — We repurpose staple food pantry jars to store everything from nuts to cinnamon.
Timber Peg Rails & Hooks — I have used timber peg rails and hooks for more than a decade now in my homes. They are great for school bags, market baskets, hats, dog leads and more.
Wire Baskets — We use wire baskets to store dry goods in the pantry (rice crackers for school lunch boxes, etc), towels in the bathroom (so they stay neat and orderly) and in my children’s wardrobes (for their socks and underwear which otherwise fall everywhere). We even took them camping for our food supplies - the bonus is that they are lightweight and you can see everything easily.
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