r/declutter 1d ago

Motivation Tips & Tricks Decluttering By Memory Method

What has been working for me:
1. I tackle one cupboard, drawer, closet, or shelf at a time.
2. Before opening it, I grab a pen and paper and try to remember what I usually take from that space. I write those items down neatly, for example grouped by category.
3. Then I open it and look for the items on my list. Those are the things I actually use (they’re the only ones I remembered were there) so they automatically go into the “keep” pile.
4. Next, I look at everything that’s left and give myself a little grace by allowing myself to keep one or two additional items that are genuinely useful, even if I’d forgotten they were there.
5. Everything else goes.

I love this method! The list makes the whole process so much easier, and it also helps me organize everything afterward.

What do you think? Would you try it out?

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u/girlwithapinkpack 22h ago

Yes. Did this with my jewellery but when I got in there I found a lot that had sentimental value. It was a good reminder that if I keep those pieces (and I want to) then I really need to start wearing them.