Looking for a rapid way to declutter your messy closet or eliminate cluttered cabinets? The Toddler Decluttering Method is a fantastic solution.
This approach is especially beneficial if decision-making feels challenging or you're unsure where to start. Experts highlight that this straightforward technique provides instant results. Simply grab two similar items, choose your favorite, and let go of the other.
A professional organizer will explain how to utilize the Toddler Decluttering Method, along with my personal experience trying it out.
Understanding the Toddler Decluttering Method
Created by minimalist Jennifer Burger, the Toddler Decluttering Method draws inspiration from her experiences with toddlers. Kids often struggle with indecision and can feel overwhelmed, which mirrors how many adults approach decluttering.
Jennifer discovered that simplifying the decision-making process to choosing between two similar items reduces the feeling of being overwhelmed.
Kimberly Corey, a certified professional organizer and owner of Finely Sorted Organizing, shares, 'When decluttering a toddler's room, if they can't decide what to keep, you can try selecting two items from one category and deciding together which one is better to keep. This makes it easier than facing all the items at once.'
This method is equally effective for adults, breaking down decision-making into manageable pairs and minimizing the stress of feeling overwhelmed while decluttering.
I decided to test this method to see if it truly simplifies the process for better closet organization.
My Experience Trying It Out
I've often struggled to clear my closet, so I decided to try the Toddler method in this chaotic area.
Overall, I appreciated how straightforward the Toddler Decluttering Method was. No extensive preparation is needed beyond deciding where to declutter, and the goal of halving your belongings feels achievable when focusing on what you love alongside what you're letting go.
This method may not suit those who cherish their belongings or minimalists, as it could lead to parting with items you like instead of simply reducing clutter without discarding everything. However, if you have excess clothing, kitchen items, toiletries, or duplicates, this method can be very effective.
In my attempt, I focused on my closet. As someone who loves a good sale, I quickly accumulate too many clothes. This meant I had plenty of similar items to work with.
It's important to note that this method is best for areas with similar items, like cutlery sets. If you're sorting through a mixed bag, such as a junk drawer, it might be challenging to use this approach.
I started by emptying my closet and sorting everything into piles of similar items on my bed: cardigans, sweaters, and long-sleeves, which didn't take long at all. This visual comparison helped me see how many of each item I had.
However, I found it tricky to know where to begin. Should I pick any two items from the same category and discard the one I like least? What if I had two favorites and wanted to get rid of a different item?
Kimberly suggested swapping items when comparing favorites, which proved helpful.
I'd rate this method an 8/10 and recommend being flexible with your pairings. If you find two items equally appealing, there's no need to get rid of both. Instead, choose between a favorite and a lesser-loved item. This flexibility, along with reducing decision fatigue, is what makes the Toddler Decluttering Method so manageable.
Essential Organizing Tools
50 pack
TIMMY Ultra Thin Space Saving Velvet Hangers
These sleek, non-slip velvet hangers will help create a visually appealing and spacious closet.
Six pack
Long Underbed Boxes with Wheels
These storage containers are perfect for hiding away out-of-season clothing, spare linens, or items needing easy access.
Three-tiered
Youcopia Upspace 12"x12" Organizer
Under-sink spaces often become cluttered, but a tiered organizer can help maintain order and functionality.
Meet the Expert
Kimberly Corey is a Certified Professional Organizer® and Certified Virtual Organizing Professional. With over two decades of experience, she has assisted numerous clients in creating organized and productive home and office environments.
For another easy decluttering approach, the 'Didn't Know' method can clear entire areas of your home in minutes if you're ready to be decisive. If something has slipped your mind, it's time to discard it.
