Conquering Clutter Together

Kathi Jensen

July 25, 2024 | 3-4 min read

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Decluttering isn’t just about having a tidy home; it’s about building a stronger relationship by working together towards a common goal. When you and your partner approach decluttering as a team effort, it can become a fun and rewarding experience. Here’s how you can conquer clutter together, with a sprinkle of humor and a few funny stories along the way.

Contribute What is Needed

In a perfect partnership, each person brings their strengths to the table. When decluttering, share the responsibilities so that no one feels overwhelmed. Each person’s contribution makes a difference.

Picture this—one of you is a master organizer who loves sorting things into neatly labeled bins, while the other is a “creative genius” who thrives in organized chaos. Instead of arguing about whose method is better, embrace both styles. The organizer can create systems, while the creative one decides on the quirky labels. “Why does the kitchen drawer say ‘Mystery Drawer’?” “Because it’s full of stuff we can’t identify!”.

Open Communication

Talking openly about your needs and preferences for your living space is crucial. Clear communication ensures everyone’s needs are met and creates a harmonious environment.

One couple we know had a major breakthrough during their decluttering journey. She loved keeping old magazines for “future crafts,” while he couldn’t understand why they needed 20 issues of “Vintage Car Enthusiast.” After a heartfelt conversation, they compromised: she could keep five issues and recycle the rest, and he wouldn’t ask about her secret stash of glitter glue. Open communication for the win!

Step Up as Needed

There will be times when one person may need to take the lead. Being willing to step up and support each other ensures that the decluttering process remains smooth and stress-free.

Imagine a Saturday morning where the clutter situation in the garage has reached critical mass. One partner springs into action, armed with garbage bags and determination. The other, still groggy from their morning coffee, gets dragged into the fray. “Wait, why am I in charge of the spider relocation unit?” Sometimes, stepping up means facing your fears—like the eight-legged inhabitants of your storage boxes.

Stay Flexible

As your lives evolve, so will your space needs. Staying flexible and ready to adjust your decluttering strategies keeps your home organized and functional for everyone.

Flexibility can be key, especially when life throws you curveballs. One couple had just finished a massive decluttering session when their children returned from Grandma’s house with what seemed like every single toy ever made. “I thought we just cleared space!” “Well, now we have room for all the new toys!” Flexibility means accepting that decluttering is an ongoing process and sometimes requires creative solutions—like an impromptu toy rotation system.

Tips & Tricks

Here are a few of my tips for making it easier to achieve team decluttering.

  • Schedule Decluttering Dates: Set aside specific times to declutter together. Make it fun by turning on your favorite music and turning it into a mini dance party as you sort through items.
  • Celebrate Small Wins: After each decluttering session, celebrate your progress. Whether it’s treating yourselves to a nice dinner or simply enjoying the newfound space, acknowledging your achievements keeps you motivated.
  • Create Zones: Divide your home into zones and tackle one area at a time. This approach prevents overwhelm and makes the task more manageable.
  • Use Humor: Keeping a sense of humor can make the process enjoyable. Share laughs over the strange items you find—like that gadget you bought five years ago and never used.

Decluttering together strengthens your bond and makes your home a place of peace and happiness. By approaching it as a perfect partnership, you create a clutter-free environment that reflects the love and teamwork in your relationship. Remember, it’s not about achieving perfection; it’s about creating a space that works for both of you.

So, grab your partner, roll up your sleeves, and start conquering clutter together. Who knows? You might just discover that the journey is as rewarding as the destination.

Send us a DM on social media of your funniest decluttering stories. Let’s inspire each other to create homes filled with love, laughter, and harmony!

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Kathi Jensen

Co-Owner

Kathi is not just a co-owner of Clutter B Gone, but also the mastermind behind our vibrant social media and marketing campaigns. When she’s not crafting engaging content, you’ll find her coming up with the next thing to organize, always with a smile!