The holidays are over, the decorations are packed away, and the dust settles on another busy season. January always feels like the perfect time to refresh your home and create more space, both physically and mentally. Clutter builds slowly over time, and before we know it, closets, basements, and drawers are filled with things we no longer use. In so many homes we visit before going on the market, this is one of the biggest challenges people face.
The good news is that decluttering does not have to be overwhelming. With a thoughtful plan and small daily steps, you can make meaningful progress and create a home that feels lighter and more functional. Here is our refreshed guide for 2026 to help you get started.
Start With the Small Stuff
The easiest way to build momentum is to begin with something quick and manageable.
Try starting with:
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One kitchen drawer
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A bathroom cabinet
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Your entryway basket or “drop zone”
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A bedside table
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A single shelf in a closet
Small, quick wins build confidence. One habit that works well for us is the “one item out” rule. Whenever you open a catch-all drawer, remove one thing. Trash it, recycle it, or donate it. Little by little, the clutter disappears.
Release the Guilt Items
We all have things we hold onto out of guilt. Gifts we will never use. Impulse purchases that were never returned. Items we kept “just in case.”
If something does not serve your life today, it is safe to let it go.
Ask yourself:
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Would I buy this again today
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Does this item make my life easier or more joyful
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Am I keeping this out of obligation
Marie Kondo’s well-known advice still applies: keep what sparks joy and release the rest.
Donate With Purpose
Many of your items can immediately make a difference in someone else’s life. Alexandria’s local organization ALIVE! accepts furniture, household goods, linens, and unopened food items. They often pick up larger pieces, which makes donating even easier.
For electronics like old tablets and phones, MOM’s Organic Market has designated bins that accept e-waste for responsible recycling.
Reducing clutter and helping the community at the same time is a win-win.
Set Realistic Goals and Take It Slow
Your home did not fill up overnight and it will not declutter overnight either. Slow progress is still progress.
Some helpful strategies:
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Clear one drawer or shelf each day
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Use weekends for larger projects like the basement or attic
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Keep a designated donation bag in an accessible spot
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Take photos of items you may want to rehome to friends or neighbors
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Sort items into clear categories: keep, donate, discard
If you prefer structure, try the one room per month approach. It keeps things manageable while ensuring real progress over a full year.
For more step-by-step ideas, you may enjoy our blog Downsizing: Here Are Our Top Tips which offers practical guidance for evaluating what to keep and what to let go.
Build Decluttering Into Your Routine
Decluttering becomes much easier when it becomes part of your daily rhythm. A few simple habits can keep your home feeling calm and organized all year long.
Here are a few ideas that work beautifully:
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Do a five minute reset at the end of each day
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Keep flat surfaces as clear as possible
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Toss junk mail as soon as it arrives
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Clear your kitchen counters at night so you start the next morning fresh
If part of your 2026 plan includes improving the function or comfort of your home, you might also enjoy our blogs Replacing Your HVAC Filter: What You Need to Know and Signs You Should Get Your Drains Cleaned. Both offer simple home care tips that make daily living easier and more efficient.
Decluttering Matters Whether You Move or Stay
We cannot stress this enough. Decluttering helps you whether you plan to move this year or stay for many years to come.
If a move might be in your near future, decluttering early reduces stress and opens up your options. Many clients tell us decluttering is the hardest part of selling. Starting now makes everything easier later.
Helpful related reads:
Make Room for a Fresh Start This Year!
Decluttering is one of the kindest gifts you can give yourself. It creates clarity, reduces stress, and helps you enjoy your home so much more. Start small, stay steady, and celebrate every step forward.
If you are considering buying or selling in 2026, or simply want personalized guidance on preparing your home, we would love to help!
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Sue Goodhart | sue@thegoodhartgroup.com
Allison Goodhart DuShuttle | allison@thegoodhartgroup.com
Phone: 703-362-3221
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