Slow Decluttering Is the Trend That Makes Home Organization Easy—Here's How to Do It

The slow decorating movement has encouraged us to furnish and style our homes gradually—collecting meaningful pieces, prioritizing craftsmanship, and resisting the urge to finish every room as soon as possible. Now, a similar approach is gaining momentum in another area of home-keeping: decluttering.

Rather than committing to a weekend-long purge or following rigid timelines (like the "30 bags in 30 days" challenge), slow decluttering prioritizes mindfulness and sustainability over speed. This allows us to edit our spaces with care (and keep them tidy for the long haul).

What Is Slow Decluttering?

Instead of rushing to donate, discard, or reorganize everything at once, the goal of slow decluttering is to address your home bit by bit—often one drawer, closet shelf, or category at a time.

It’s less about instant results and more about creating a system you can maintain. Few of us can carve out entire weekends for decluttering. Tackling a single drawer before work or your nightstand before bed feels more manageable.

The trend has been gaining traction with influencers and organizers alike in the years since author Christine Platt published the bestseller, The Afrominimalist's Guide to Living with Less. Platt founded the #1Thing1Day1Year decluttering challenge, where followers commit to letting go of at least one thing every day for a year.

The appeal of Platt's challenge and slow decluttering lies in the methods' practicality—and gentleness. Sorting a whole house in one go can be mentally exhausting. By spreading the work over weeks or months, you’ll reduce decision fatigue and make better, more thoughtful choices.

Slow decluttering not only reduces overwhelm but also leads to more lasting change. After all, a tidy closet achieved through a frantic Saturday session can quickly revert to chaos if you haven’t established better habits. The act of slowing down creates space for reflection—helping you notice patterns in your lifestyle that contribute to clutter.

How to Try Slow Decluttering at Home

If you’d like to give this method a try, start with these simple strategies. Remember that slow decluttering thrives on consistency—even five minutes a day adds up.

Start Small

Choose one manageable space: a bedside drawer, the bathroom counter, or even your purse or wallet. Decluttering just one area gives you an immediate sense of accomplishment (and the motivation to continue).

Set Micro Goals

Instead of “I’ll declutter my kitchen this weekend,” try “I’ll edit my mugs today” or “I’ll organize the spice shelf tonight.”

These smaller tasks are easier to complete consistently.

Create a Donation Zone

Before starting, decide whether you’ll donate, recycle, or repurpose items. (Slow decluttering emphasizes intention!) Designate a basket or bin in your home for items you’re ready to part with.

Once it’s full, make a trip to your favorite thrift store, donation center, or recycling center.

Use the 'One In, One Out' Rule

As you bring new items into your home, commit to removing one you no longer need. This prevents clutter from building back up and helps you pause before making impulsive purchases.

Give Yourself Permission to Wait

Not sure whether to part with something? Place it in a “maybe" box. If you haven’t reached for it in weeks or months, you’ll know you’re ready to let it go.

But remember: Moving items from one room to another isn’t the same as making a decision. Ask whether you truly need it before relocating.