We all know we should declutter, but it so often slips to the bottom of the to-do list. Then suddenly, panic hits: your in-laws are arriving in two weeks, and the guest bedroom is still doubling as a storage space. You’re left wondering: how can I declutter faster?
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The truth is, decluttering doesn’t always need to be a long, drawn-out project. With the right mindset and a few smart strategies, you can see quick results without creating even more chaos along the way. Let’s dive into how to make fast decluttering work for you.
Why decluttering fast works
There are plenty of reasons to pick up the pace when it comes to decluttering. First, quick results are motivating. You can see progress right away, which makes it easier to keep going.
When you’re staring down a deadline, like guests coming over for the holiday season, having a faster plan makes the whole process feel doable.
And maybe you’re the type of person who prefers to finish one project before starting the next. Fast decluttering helps you do just that: move through a space with intention, tie it up neatly, and enjoy the results without feeling stuck in a never-ending loop.
How to declutter faster
One of the simplest ways to speed things up is to keep a box nearby while you declutter. Anything that belongs in another room goes straight into the box. Just keep 5 minutes at the end of your session to put everything back where it belongs. That way, you’re not constantly interrupting yourself and running back and forth.
Another trick is to start small. Instead of tackling an entire room and burning out halfway, pick a single drawer, one shelf, or even just the nightstand. Seeing the difference in a small area is a quick win that will boost your energy to keep going.
And here’s a golden rule: once you touch an object, make a decision. Keep it, donate it, or toss it. This “one-touch rule” saves you from moving the same item back and forth a dozen times without ever actually deciding its fate.
Fast decluttering in everyday life
Decluttering doesn’t always have to mean a special event with hours set aside. You can build it right into your daily life. Keep a donation box in an easy-to-reach spot (opaque if possible, so you don’t second-guess yourself later. And when it’s full, donate it as is.
Don’t rummage through it one last time; that just slows you down and invites clutter back in. If the idea of this ugly box in your interior makes you grimace, you can buy or craft a nicer box where the actual donation box will live until it’s full.
You can also declutter as you go about your day. Tried on a shirt you no longer like? Don’t put it back in the closet, drop it in the donate box. Found expired pasta sauce hiding at the back of the pantry? Straight into the bin. Little actions like these add up quickly and keep clutter from creeping back in.
How to declutter fast when you’re short on time
Sometimes you need speed because you’re short on time. That’s when decluttering sprints come in handy. Take 10–15 minutes, grab your donation box, and work on just one section of a space. It’s amazing what you can get done when you focus for a short burst.
Another great tool is body doubling: decluttering with someone else. Whether it’s in person or virtually, having someone there for accountability helps you stay on task. Set a timer, choose a goal, and see how much progress you can make together. Personally, I love the Flow Club website for body doubling. I prefer one-hour sessions, but do what works for you!
And if you’d rather not overthink it, use a decluttering checklist. It saves time deciding what to work on and gives you a roadmap to follow. You can grab mine here: Decluttering Checklist.
How to declutter faster for instant results
Decluttering doesn’t have to drag on forever. By starting small, making decisions quickly, and building the habit into your daily routine, you’ll see progress in less time and without the overwhelm. The best part? Fast decluttering isn’t just about speed. It’s about building momentum, lightening your load, and creating a space that feels calmer right away.
And if you’re in a hurry to see even bigger changes, check out my guide on how to declutter your home in one day.
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