# 5 Decluttering Tips

Source: https://www.theminimalists.com/tips/
Published: 2019-05-26
Updated: 2024-06-12
Author: The Minimalists

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The Minimalists are not fans of so-called “listicles” because lists skew toward trite, vapid, or overly simplistic. Despite our allergic reaction, [the media](https://theminimalists.com/media) frequently asks for “The Minimalists top decluttering tips.” Although we don’t hand them a list, we usually answer with the following advice.

1. **Question**. Start your process by asking the most important question: “How might my life be better with less?” By answering this question, you identify the benefits of letting go—not just the *how-to*, but the more important *why-to*. The benefits are different for each of us. For some, it’s improved [health](https://www.theminimalists.com/p138/) or [relationships](https://www.theminimalists.com/p153/); for others, the benefits are [financial freedom](https://theminimalists.com/freedom) or more time to [create](https://www.theminimalists.com/create-consume/). Understanding the purpose of decluttering will grant you the leverage to keep going.

2. **Start Small**. Once you understand *why* you’re decluttering, get momentum by starting small. We recommend the [30-Day Minimalism Game](https://www.theminimalists.com/game), which makes decluttering fun by injecting some friendly competition.

3. **Packing Party**. Once you have momentum, let go of more stuff by throwing a [Packing Party](https://www.theminimalists.com/packing). Do it in one room—or if you’re feeling adventurous, your entire house!

4. **Rules**. If you need guidance along the way, consider the [Just-in-Case Rule](https://www.theminimalists.com/jic), the [90/90 Rule](https://www.theminimalists.com/ninety), and the [10/10 Material Possessions Theory](https://www.theminimalists.com/material/) to help you stay on track.

5. **Organize**. No matter where you are on your journey, always remember: the easiest way to organize your stuff is to get rid of most of it.

To dive deeper, visit our “[Start Here](https://theminimalists.com/start)” page or listen to our favorite audiobook, *[Everything That Remains](https://www.audible.com/pd/B01MUE1V9L/?source_code=AUDFPWS0223189MWT-BK-ACX0-078537&ref=acx_bty_BK_ACX0_078537_rh_us)*.

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