Clutterfree is more than a project, it is also a process.
It is one thing to declutter your home one time. But keeping it clutterfree requires healthy habits going forward.
One of the most simple and effective rules for getting your life under control and keeping your home clutterfree is the “one-minute rule” introduced by Gretchen Rubin.
Complete any task that can be finished in one minute immediately.
Followed consistently, this rule will make an amazing difference in your home and life. It has for me. Here’s a list of places where you can begin implementing this rule right away—I call them one-minute clutterfree habits.
21 One-Minute Clutterfree Habits
These micro-habits will definitely help keep your home clutterfree.
1. Make Your Bed
First thing, right away, as soon as you get up.
2. Put away your coat and shoes.
Also scarves and gloves and hats. In the coat closet where they belong.
3. Recycle the junk mail.
In fact, I throw it into the recycle bin in the garage and don’t even let it enter my home.
4. Put clean dishes away.
Don’t leave them out—on the counter, in the sink, or the dishwasher.
5. Don’t leave clothes on the floor or furniture.
Dirty clothes in the laundry pile. Clean clothes back in the closet/drawer.
6. Put away your keys and change.
Wherever your drop-zone is (ours is a drawer), use it always. Bonus: You’ll always know where your keys are. :)
7. Don’t leave out your bathroom toiletries.
In the morning after getting ready and at night before going to bed. Twice/day. Keep your bathroom counter clear.
8. Put kids’ school items away.
Teach/Show your kids where their backpacks belong and get them trained early.
9. Empty the car entirely when you arrive home.
Whatever you brought into the car that day, take out when you return home. You’ll love driving a clutterfree vehicle!
10. Wash your snack dishes/cups immediately.
Pots and pans can take longer than one minute. But the bowl you used for ice cream won’t. Wash snack dishes quickly with a dishwand.
11. Store those kitchen appliances.
Toaster, coffee pot, blender… store them all out of sight (even if you use them every day). Trust me, you’ll love it.
12. Pick up toys.
There is no age too early to teach your children how to clean up after themselves.
13. Tear down cardboard boxes.
Even if you’re going to keep them, flatten and free up space.
14. Put away the remote controls.
Don’t leave remote controls scattered all over the living room. Put them back where they belong after each use.
15. Return chargers and cords to drawers.
Especially if you charge electronics in shared spaces.
16. Fold your blanket after use.
Wadded up on the couch or folded nicely? Choose folded every time.
17. Empty full trash cans/bins.
Someone has to take out the trash. If the bin is full, remember the “one-minute” rule and get it done.
18. Return reading materials to their designated home.
Magazines, newspapers, books, Sudoku, whatever.
19. Throw out any expired leftovers/food.
Clear up the space in your fridge or pantry.
20. Put away your tools.
You know who you are…
21. File those papers.
Few things clutter a room quicker than piles of paper.
Followed consistently, these micro-habits will make an amazing difference in your home. And who doesn’t love a clutterfree home?
