4 Questions To Ask While Decluttering

living room with striped chairs white fireplace and exposed post and beam ceiling in decluttering ranch renovation

Lu Tapp

We all love to look at clean, open spaces, but getting there isn’t always a reality. If you’re ready to get your house in order with some decluttering, we’re here to encourage you! Here are four questions to ask yourself as you’re decluttering.

fall farmhouse bedroom with 4 poster bed and blue mural — Part of having a decluttered look is choosing specific areas to concentrate your decor items. In this bedroom, homeowner Brendt Blanks added plenty of fun budding, but kept the nightstand and floor around the bed clear of clutter. Photo by Jean Allsopp

1. Why Am I Keeping This?

Are you keeping this item because it’s pretty, or because it’s functional? If it falls into the “I might need it someday” category, be ruthless and get rid of it. Those “maybes” translate over time into clutter. However, if you have a specific use for it that you know you’ll need within the next few months, feel free to keep it.

2. Have I Used This In The Last Year?

This applies more to clothes and kitchen utensils than décor pieces, but it’s still a useful question to ask. If you haven’t used it in the last year, evaluate whether you’re likely to use it in the next six months (for example, maybe you haven’t used it because you forgot you owned it). If the answer to both questions is no, give it away.

decluttering blue vase and southwestern rug on clear table in ranch renovation — By choosing just one or two items per area to make a statement like homeowner Jennifer Maxcy did here, the chosen items get to show off their style instead of being lost in the clutter. Photo by Lu Tapp.

3. Do I Still Like This Item?

Our styles often change and evolve over the years. But you want to make sure you’re not keeping the items you’ve grown away from. Sometimes you see a piece so often that it almost ceases to exist. Really look at these items while you’re decluttering—maybe even remove them from their current location. Then you can truly evaluate them and replace them if they no longer suit your tastes.

Counter Points: Countertop Pros and Cons

4. Would I Keep This If I Moved?

This is a great litmus test to help you decide if you really like an item, or if you really need it. Whether it’s a sweater you only wear once per year or the five kitchen spatulas you’ve accumulated, it’s helpful to pare down as if you were moving. Then you’ll make room for breathing space and declutter your home at the same time!

If you’ve finished decluttering, check out this barn renovation rescue mission! Of course, don’t forget to follow us on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest for more daily inspiration and farmhouse style.