Getting rid of belongings can often feel daunting, but intentional decluttering is a different approach altogether.
Fortunately, being deliberate about what to release can be simple. Designer Nate Berkus has distilled his effective decluttering strategy into three essential commandments.
These golden rules for decluttering are designed to help you create a more intentional living environment and explain why they are effective in simplifying your space.
Nate Berkus' Essential Decluttering Commandments
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Similar to Nate Berkus' three-step organizing method, these three decluttering rules focus on the fundamentals to help you prepare for a successful decluttering session.
1. Focus on Large Items First
Start by removing the larger items when your energy is highest.
While many experts recommend beginning with smaller items, Nate suggests tackling the larger pieces first, keeping only what suits your space and lifestyle.
As a '#triplevirgo', Nate organizes based on his zodiac, utilizing his natural knack for order to kick off the decluttering process by addressing the most substantial items while he has the energy to do so.
Punteha van Terheyden, from Solved, states that addressing larger items can seem daunting, but it's an effective way to make significant progress early on if you're feeling motivated to declutter.
Dealing with those bulky items at the start is ideal, as it's when you're physically and mentally prepared to tackle the bigger decisions and transport items to donation or disposal.
When moving large pieces like furniture, take care to avoid injury. Consider a small moving trolley from Walmart to assist with heavy items.
Items in good condition can be sold locally on platforms like Facebook Marketplace or eBay, including bookcases, desks, and sofas.
However, avoid parting with sentimental items initially to prevent feelings of regret later on.
2. Prioritize Quality Over Quantity
Choosing quality pieces ensures longer-lasting items in your home.
While it may seem counterintuitive, Nate advises replacing low-quality items with fewer, high-quality ones. He emphasizes, 'Select fewer pieces that have character and craftsmanship. Invest in items that tell a story.'
Investing in quality prevents clutter from accumulating by minimizing the chances of items breaking or going out of style.
Whether it's furniture, art, or clothing, asking yourself about the quality and longevity of an item can help curtail clutter and reduce future mess.
Utilizing the ETC method before making purchases can help filter out low-quality or impulse buys, allowing you to conserve resources.
This strategy also promotes sustainability by minimizing waste and overconsumption.
Nate Berkus is beloved for his elegant, narrative-driven interiors that are layered and deeply personal. In this beautifully photographed book, filled with Nate's years of knowledge, he shares his Four Tenets of Good Design. They are not a recipe to follow, as much as they are inspirational ideas to help get you started.
3. Create Homes for Your Belongings
Designating a specific place for each item helps prevent clutter in your space.
Nate's final commandment is to 'Assign a home for everything. Utilize baskets and trays to keep smaller items organized and within reach.'
This decluttering technique is repeated often for a good reason—it's effective!
Professional organizer Meghan Cocchiaro, founder of Organized by Meg, explains that determining a designated space for each category of items helps maintain order.
Once you establish the ideal location based on how frequently an item is used, you can decide if you need additional storage solutions. Consider factors such as whether an item is bulky or if it's suitable to remain in a designated spot.
For items that are less frequently accessed, such as seasonal decorations, using clear bins with latches from The Container Store with labels can be an effective option. However, displaying memorable items whenever possible is encouraged to appreciate their significance.
Being intentional about what you store helps avoid unnecessary purchases of containers or mindlessly packing items without considering what to keep.
Smart organizing investment
Woven baskets are a classic choice for organizing and minimizing clutter. They're versatile and can be repurposed in other areas of your home once the contents are cleared out.
14.5"L x 8.25"W x 11"H
The Reid Storage Trunk is a stylish and functional accent that enhances any space while helping to keep clutter hidden for a more organized home.
Creates uniformity
A label maker is an excellent tool for maintaining clear organization in your home, ensuring everything's labeled for easy reference and preventing messy handwriting.
Meet the Expert
With five years of experience, Organized by Meg provides in-home professional organizing services, assisting busy individuals and families in overcoming clutter that impedes their well-being.
Seeking simple solutions to enhance your home's intentionality? Explore our curated list of quick tasks that boost your home's appearance for an instant uplift or a rapid clean before guests arrive.
