Even the mere whisper of the word “decluttering” can make you stiffen a little bit with dread. After all, these organizing projects often feel like overhauls, requiring you to dedicate a lot of mental and physical energy to the task along with a good chunk of your time. The “soft decluttering” method aims to nix that tension so it’s not so overwhelming.
The “Soft Organizing” Decluttering Method
This organizing method says to forget about massive cleanouts, rigid rules, and the notion of magazine-perfect minimalist spaces. Instead, the idea is to gradually get rid of things by working in small increments, naturally release items as you go about life, and make peace with imperfection. Your shoulders are already relaxing, aren’t they?
“People sometimes assume they need to set aside an entire weekend, empty every cabinet, and completely overhaul a space to make meaningful progress,” says Carrie Wallick, professional organizer and founder of Carrie on Organizing. “This approach encourages people to start small instead of putting things off until they have the time or energy to do everything at once.”
This creates momentum and might just teach your brain that hey, this whole decluttering thing isn’t so bad after all.
Pros & Cons of “Soft Decluttering”
The biggest benefit is that you can work decluttering into your everyday life rather than treating it like a major project. Wallick says, “It's also a good way to build habits that prevent clutter from piling up again.”
The only true downside is that you may feel like these short bursts or gradual decluttering isn’t always enough to tackle everything. Wallick says that if you notice overflowing closets or piles accumulating, then you can tackle those as needed so your space is comfortable and functional.
Tips for Adding “Soft Decluttering” in Your Life
Here’s how you can incorporate soft decluttering philosophy into your approach to keeping the house tidy.
- Start with easy decisions. It’s easier to let go of expired items versus sentimental pieces.
- Make projects small and specific. “Instead of putting ‘organize the kitchen’ on your to-do list, pick one manageable task,” Wallick advises.
- Build decluttering into everyday routines. For example, when you're putting away laundry, take a minute to pull out the clothes you no longer wear.
- Make peace with imperfection. It’s OK for donation piles to sit a little while, and your space doesn’t have to look picture-perfect when you’re finished.
Wendy Rose Gould is a lifestyle journalist who routinely contributes to Real Simple, Martha Stewart, Women’s Health, and House Beautiful, among others. She covers home and garden, wellness, and travel, focusing on thoughtful storytelling and detailed reporting. When not writing, you can catch her perusing thrift stores, singing, hitting the gym, and petting any cat or dog that'll allow it.
