If decluttering feels daunting to you, you're not alone. The 10-10-10 decluttering challenge could be exactly what you need to simplify the process.
While I usually manage clutter pretty well, the renovation work in my home last week left me feeling stressed. Cleaning and organizing were the last things on my mind.
Yet, I knew I had to do something to alleviate my anxiety. That's when I decided to try the 10-10-10 decluttering challenge, which turned out to be just what I needed for my space and my peace of mind.
Understanding the 10-10-10 Decluttering Challenge
The 10-10-10 method is straightforward: spend 10 minutes in 10 different areas and eliminate 10 items from each space. You can choose different rooms or focus on various storage spots, like drawers or bags.
I typically dive into various decluttering techniques, combining methods to tackle a room all at once. This challenge offered a refreshing shift in my approach.
To maximize my ten minutes, I created a decluttering checklist. I listed the areas I wanted to address and any specific goals I had for each location.
For instance, I kicked off in the bedroom, aiming to declutter 10 summer clothes from my closet. Then I moved to the bathroom, where I decided to clear out anything that stood out—like empty shampoo bottles and products I didn't like. After that, I tackled my dining room sideboard, which was overflowing with miscellaneous items.
Setting a 10-minute timer on my phone, I turned on some music to inspire me and got to work. I also grabbed my handy collapsible laundry basket to gather items to discard or relocate.
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I love these stylish laundry baskets for organizing and sorting clothes. Their collapsible feature makes them easy to store when not in use.
I was surprised that removing 10 summer items from my closet took less than 10 minutes—something I had previously put off due to the fear of it taking too long. With time to spare, I continued clearing out a few more items to donate, which I added to my basket for the car.
Similarly, clearing the bathroom took just under 10 minutes. I grouped half-empty shampoo bottles into one container, disposed of the rest, and got rid of some unused products from the drawers. I didn't need to push myself to fill the full 10 minutes since everything was already cleared out, leaving me some extra time to relax.
I continued with this method across my 10 chosen spots: closet, bathroom, sideboard, fridge, office drawers, craft box, living room cabinet, gym bag, nightstand, and coat rack. To my surprise, I completed the decluttering in under an hour and a half. Best of all, I had managed to declutter without making a mess, and everything was either stored, thrown away, or bagged for donation.
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This downloadable planner is perfect for tackling your home's mess while keeping you on track. It's an excellent tool for both maintaining order and starting a major declutter.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the 10-10-10 decluttering challenge was effective, but it may not be a sustainable long-term strategy. I hadn't completely decluttered these areas recently due to renovations and seasonal changes, making it easier to find items to discard.
If you've recently purged or have well-organized spaces, you might want to consider a '5-5-5' challenge instead. Spend five minutes clearing out five items from five different spots.
Regardless, it was a fun way to break my routine, especially during a hectic time.
Common Questions
How can I stop procrastinating when decluttering?
To overcome procrastination, consider enlisting a friend or family member for support. They can guide you through the decision-making process and help keep you accountable. Making it a social event with music and refreshments can also add an element of fun.
Why do I keep putting off decluttering?
Procrastination can stem from feeling overwhelmed or unsure of where to start. Finding a structured method, like this challenge, can help motivate you. A checklist can also provide guidance. Working alongside someone can ease stress as you declutter.
Before diving into challenges like this, look out for signs that indicate you need to declutter. Ensure you're decluttering for the right reasons and not just for the sake of a trend.
