As someone who’s always been a fan of organization, I’ve learned that a clutter-free space is the foundation of a calm, productive life. Over the years, I’ve experimented with countless micro-decluttering tips for small spaces, tested minimalist decluttering hacks, and even crafted my own seasonal decluttering checklist to stay on track during the colder months. So, this guide is packed with everything I’ve learned about organizing your home during winter, from simple decluttering strategies to decluttering hacks that save time. Whether you’re tackling a studio apartment or a family home, you’ll find actionable advice and tools to help you create an organized space that works for you.
For more home organization tips, check out:
- Daily, Weekly, Monthly Household Chores Checklist
- 15 Easy Ways To Simplify Your Life And Home In 30 Days
This post contains affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you.

Quick & Easy Micro-Decluttering Ideas for a Calm Home
Here’s a universal truth: when we spend more time indoors during winter, our spaces can start to feel a little extra cluttered. Granted, when I first started my decluttering journey, I felt overwhelmed and unsure how to start decluttering or where to begin with my messy drawers and overflowing closets. But I soon discovered that breaking it down into quick daily decluttering tasks the entire process became a whole lot easier.
A study highlighted by the American Psychological Association found that living and working in cluttered spaces can cause stress and anxiety, adversely affecting mental health. What’s more, clutter has been linked to increased levels of the stress hormone cortisol. Research summarized by WebMD indicates that women who perceived their homes as cluttered exhibited higher cortisol levels throughout the day, suggesting a direct correlation between clutter and elevated stress.
Plus, when your home feels chaotic, it can actually drain your energy. On the flip side, a tidy space promotes mental clarity and boosts productivity. Insights from Stanford University‘s BeWell program reveal that an uncluttered environment can make individuals less irritable, more productive, and better able to process information.
Personally, I’ve noticed that a clutter-free home also saves me time—no more hunting for misplaced keys or wading through overstuffed closets. It allows you to enjoy life’s little moments without feeling weighed down by “stuff.” That’s why I’m obsessed with finding the best minimalist decluttering hacks; I’ve experienced these benefits firsthand. That “ahhh” moment after clearing just one little corner of clutter? Absolute bliss. And the good news is, you don’t need to spend hours to feel it. You can declutter your home fast with just a few intentional tweaks.
What Is Micro Decluttering?
Micro-decluttering is the process of tackling clutter in small, manageable steps rather than overwhelming yourself with large, time-consuming decluttering projects. Instead of dedicating an entire weekend to organizing your home, micro-decluttering ideas focus on quick, focused tasks that take only a few minutes. It’s an approach designed for busy people who want to see steady progress without burning out.
For example, rather than cleaning out your entire kitchen, you might spend five minutes organizing your spice rack or clearing out one drawer. Essentially, quick daily decluttering tasks are all about finding small wins that build momentum and contribute to an overall sense of order.
Just like micro self-care, the beauty of micro-decluttering is that it fits seamlessly into your daily routine. You can tackle a task during a commercial break while waiting for water to boil, or in between work meetings.
So, without further ado, here is the list of minimalist decluttering hacks for winter that saved me so much time and energy.

How to Declutter a Living Room Quickly
Tidy the Coffee Table
Your coffee table is quite literally the centerpiece of your living room! Start with this simple decluttering strategy: remove magazines you’ve already read (or will never read), stray coasters, and little trinkets. Keep only essentials—maybe a chic tray for organization and a candle to make your home feel cozy. The goal of this minimalist tip for decluttering is to make your space stay functional and fabulous.
Declutter Throw Blankets
Blankets everywhere might scream cozy, but they can also shout “chaos!” For quick home organization hacks, neatly fold your extras and pop them into a stylish basket. One or two artfully draped throws are plenty. It’s decluttering for a calm home and a way to create that perfect Hygge vibe during winter.
Clear the Couch
Your couch deserves some love! Ditch those extra pillows no one uses and give the remaining ones a good fluff. This micro-decluttering idea takes seconds but makes your living room look instantly polished. Bonus: fewer pillows mean less fluffing later!
I also explained in detail how to clean your couch naturally at home (stains & smells) in a previous post.
Streamline Shelves
Crowded shelves are the enemy of calm. Use this seasonal decluttering checklist: pick a few decor items and favorite books to display, then donate or store the rest. Minimalist decluttering hacks like this make your shelves feel curated, not chaotic.
Conquer the Cord Chaos
Tangled cords aren’t just eyesores—they’re stress-inducing! Invest in cord organizers or even decorative boxes to hide the mess. How to declutter your home in winter starts here, making your living room feel as neat as a magazine spread.
Decluttering Small Kitchens in 10 Minutes or Less
Tidy the Countertops
Countertops can feel like magnets for clutter. Start with simple decluttering strategies: stash small appliances you don’t use daily (goodbye, once-a-year waffle maker!) and keep essentials like a coffee maker and air fryers within easy reach. This quick home organization hack opens up valuable space and gives your kitchen a sleek, minimalist vibe.
Purge the Fridge Door
That fridge door is a clutter hotspot! Toss expired condiments, combine duplicates (how many bottles of mustard do you need?), and organize the rest for easy access. Winter decluttering tips like this save you time when cooking and make your fridge a breath of fresh (cold) air.
Organize the Junk Drawer
Dedicate just 10 minutes to this micro-decluttering idea: sort out the trash, group similar items (rubber bands, batteries, pens), and add small dividers for extra organization. It’s a tiny effort for a huge win.
Simplify the Spice Rack
Let’s spice things up—by decluttering, of course! Check expiration dates (yes, spices do expire), toss what you don’t use, and arrange your favorites in a way that sparks joy. Use this minimalist tip for decluttering to reclaim shelf space and make cooking more fun. P.S. For a step-by-step guide, you can check out my full spice organization guide.
Declutter Servewear
We all have that cupboard full of mismatched mugs, glasses, and chipped plates. Be ruthless! Donate extras you never use and keep only the items you truly love. This simple decluttering strategy guarantees that your cabinets are organized and stress-free every time you open them.

Quick Ways to Declutter a Bedroom
Nightstand Reset
Your nightstand isn’t meant to be a dumping ground for books, old receipts, and half-empty water glasses. Give it a fresh start! Keep only the essentials: a lamp, maybe a framed photo, your mini humidifier, and one personal touch like a journal. This simple decluttering strategy helps you wake up to a calm and clutter-free space every morning.
Fold and Store Seasonal Clothes
Say goodbye to summer dresses and hello to cozy sweaters. Rotate your wardrobe and store off-season clothes in under-bed bins or vacuum-sealed bags. It’s one of the best winter decluttering tips to maximize closet space and make getting dressed a no-brainer.
Tidy the Dresser
Set a timer for 10 minutes and tackle one dresser drawer. Sort items into “keep,” “donate,” and “toss” piles. This micro-decluttering idea is quick, satisfying, and perfect for clearing space for your favorite winter gear. Repeat weekly, and you’ll have an organized dresser in no time!
Declutter Under the Bed
Out of sight shouldn’t mean out of control. Under the bed can be prime real estate for storage, but keep it functional. Use labeled bins for out-of-season clothes or spare bedding, and ditch anything that’s just gathering dust. This minimalist tip for decluttering turns chaos into convenience.
Simplify Jewelry Storage
Untangling necklaces at the last minute is a recipe for frustration. Dedicate a few minutes to grouping like items together (think earrings, bracelets, etc.) and tossing pieces you no longer wear. Use a jewelry organizer to keep things neat. It’s a quick home organization hack that adds sparkle to your mornings.
Easy Ways to Organize a Bathroom
Clear the Counter
Your bathroom counter should say “spa day,” not “clutter explosion.” Use a small caddy to corral everyday essentials like toothpaste and lotion, then stash the rest in drawers or cabinets. This simple micro-decluttering strategy keeps surfaces clean and creates a calming vibe.
Purge Old Products
Expired makeup and skincare? Say goodbye! Not only do old products take up space, but they can also irritate your skin. Toss anything past its prime or unused for months. This minimalist tip for decluttering clears space and keeps your beauty routine fresh and simple.
Organize Towels
A pile of towels threatening to topple? Time for some quick home organization hacks: fold towels neatly and store extras in a cabinet or linen closet. Keep only one or two per person within reach. Your bathroom will feel less like a laundry room and more like a sanctuary.
Streamline Shower Supplies
Are shampoo bottles taking over? Limit each person to one or two essential products and store backups elsewhere. This micro-decluttering idea keeps your shower neat and prevents that dreaded bottle avalanche. Bonus: fewer products = easier cleaning!
Declutter the Medicine Cabinet
Your medicine cabinet is prime decluttering territory. Group items into categories like pain relievers, first aid, and skincare. Toss expired meds and recycle empty containers. With this seasonal decluttering checklist, you’ll always find what you need without the frantic digging.

Entryway Decluttering for Winter
Tidy Shoes and Coats
Shoes and coats have a way of multiplying by the door. Simplify your entryway with this minimalist tip for decluttering: limit each person to one or two pairs of shoes and a single coat. Store the extras in a nearby closet or bin. This quick home organization hack keeps your entryway looking tidy and functional—no tripping over boots required.
Organize the Mail Station
Mail is like that houseguest who overstays their welcome. Toss junk mail immediately (recycle it if you can!) and use a designated tray for bills and important papers. This simple decluttering strategy keeps your counters clear and prevents paper clutter from spiraling out of control.
Declutter Keys
Your keyring doesn’t need to resemble a janitor’s. Remove old or unused keys and bulky keychains, then keep your everyday keys on a small hook or tray near the door.
Clear Out Bags
Your purse or backpack deserves a reset! Empty out receipts, snacks, and random clutter that’s weighing it down. This seasonal decluttering checklist keeps your essentials organized and ensures you’re not lugging around half of your home.
Simplify Seasonal Gear
Scarves, gloves, and hats are winter essentials, but not all at once! Hang only the items you’re currently using on hooks, and store extras in labeled bins or baskets. This organizing-your-home-during-winter hack keeps your entryway clean while making it easy to grab what you need on frosty mornings.
Kids’ Spaces & Toy Decluttering Tips for Parents
Tidy Toy Bins
Toy bins can feel like bottomless pits, but tackling them can be fun—really! Get the kids involved and sort toys into “keep,” “donate,” or “trash” categories. It’s a great micro-decluttering idea and teaches kids the value of sharing and organizing. Bonus: fewer toys means quicker cleanups (for you and them).
Streamline Bookshelves
Bookshelves bursting at the seams? Keep a few favorites on display and store the rest in a separate box to rotate later. This simple decluttering strategy keeps their reading area tidy and makes books feel exciting when they “return.” It’s like having your own mini library system!
Declutter Craft Supplies
Craft supplies can quickly go from creative to chaotic. Toss dried-up markers, random scraps, and glitter that’s taken over your life. Organize the rest into labeled bins for easy access.
Limit Stuffed Animals
Stuffed animals are adorable, but do they really need all of them? Encourage your kids to pick their favorites—maybe five or fewer—and donate the rest. This minimalist tip for decluttering keeps their beds and shelves from turning into a stuffed zoo.
Sort School Supplies
Backpacks and desks often hide outdated papers, broken pencils, and who-knows-what-else. Dedicate a few minutes to clearing it all out. Toss what’s no longer needed and organize supplies like crayons and notebooks into bins or drawers.

Organizing Your Home Office During Winter
Clear the Desk
Your desk isn’t just for working—it’s for working well. Remove stacks of papers, random office supplies, and coffee mugs from last week. Keep essentials like your laptop, a notepad, and maybe a plant for a touch of green. As I mentioned before, quick home organization hacks like this one boost productivity and make your office feel less like a stress zone.
Declutter Drawers
Office drawers can be sneaky clutter magnets. Dedicate just 10 minutes to sorting one drawer at a time. Toss out dried-up pens and outdated sticky notes, then group like items together. This micro-decluttering idea keeps your supplies accessible and your drawers frustration-free.
Sort Paperwork
The paper pile-up is real. Go through your documents and digitize important files. Shred or recycle the rest—it’s not only satisfying but also space-saving.
Purge Unused Tech
Do old gadgets gather dust? Donate working devices or accessories and recycle broken ones responsibly. It’s a simple decluttering strategy that frees up storage and makes your home office feel modern and functional again.
Tidy Cables
Tangled cables are an eyesore and a tripping hazard. Use cable ties, clips, or sleeves to group cords together and keep them hidden. This decluttering tip for small spaces transforms your desk area into a sleek and organized workspace.
How to Keep General Areas of the Home Clutter-Free
Set Up a Donation Bin
A micro-decluttering idea that takes zero effort but yields huge rewards: keep a donation bin somewhere visible, like by the front door or in a closet. As you go about your day, toss in items you no longer need. This makes it easy to stay on top of decluttering without feeling overwhelmed. Plus, it’s a simple way to give back!
Declutter One Surface Daily
Decluttering doesn’t have to be a marathon. Pick one surface a day—a shelf, table, or counter—and clear it completely. It’s one of those simple decluttering tips that take just minutes but have a big impact on your home’s overall feel.
Tidy Light Fixtures
We often forget about light fixtures, but they can gather dust fast! Take a few minutes to dust or clean lamps, light bulbs, and ceiling fans. Replace any outdated bulbs for a fresh, calming glow. This winter decluttering tip brightens up the whole room and helps your space feel clean and welcoming.
Conquer Laundry Overflow
Laundry piles don’t magically put themselves away—trust me. Dedicate time to folding and putting away clothes as soon as they’re clean. A quick micro-decluttering hack to stop laundry from taking over your life: do it in small bursts throughout the week instead of letting it build up.
Do a Quick Trash Sweep
Grab a trash bag, and walk through the house for a quick sweep. Toss obvious trash, recyclables, and items that don’t belong. This simple decluttering strategy takes less than 10 minutes but instantly makes your home feel cleaner and more organized.

10 Best Tools for Decluttering Your Home
Whether you’re tackling your closet, pantry, or the dreaded junk drawer, the right tools can make decluttering more efficient and enjoyable. Here’s a list of the best tools for decluttering your home:
1. Storage Bins and Baskets
Perfect for grouping similar items and keeping them organized.
- Clear Bins: Great for visibility in closets, pantries, or under-the-bed storage.
- Decorative Baskets: Ideal for open shelving, keeping things tidy while still looking stylish.
2. Drawer Organizers
Keep drawers tidy by creating separate compartments for items like utensils, socks, or office supplies. Adjustable dividers are especially useful for customizing to your needs.
3. Label Maker
A label maker is a game-changer for staying organized. Clearly labeling bins, shelves, and storage containers helps everyone in the household know where things belong.
4. Donation Bags or Boxes
Have a designated bin or bag for items to donate, so you can easily transport them to a charity or thrift store when it’s full.
5. Trash Bags
Heavy-duty trash bags are essential for sorting out items to discard. Go for large, durable ones to make the job easier.
6. Vacuum Storage Bags
These are perfect for compressing out-of-season clothes, bedding, or other bulky items to free up space.
7. Command Hooks and Wall Organizers:
Maximize vertical space with hooks and wall-mounted organizers. These work wonders in small spaces like bathrooms or entryways.
8. Over-the-Door Organizers
Great for creating additional storage in closets, pantries, or bathrooms. Use over the door organizers for shoes, cleaning supplies, toiletries, or snacks.
9. Shredder:
A shredder helps you quickly dispose of old documents, reducing the buildup of unnecessary paper clutter.
10. Cleaning Supplies Caddy:
Keep cleaning products in a portable caddy for easy access while decluttering and tidying each area.
My Favourite Apps for Decluttering
1. Tody
- Purpose: Cleaning and organizing schedules.
- Features: Tody helps you organize cleaning tasks by room and track when things were last done. It keeps you on top of home maintenance so clutter doesn’t build up.
2. Sortly
- Purpose: Inventory management.
- Features: Ideal for keeping track of your belongings, especially during decluttering. Sortly allows you to create visual inventories with photos, making it easier to organize and decide what to keep, toss, or donate.
3. Facebook Marketplace
- Purpose: Selling or giving away items locally.
- Features: A user-friendly platform for decluttering by selling or donating items you no longer need. Perfect for furniture, clothes, and other household items.
4. Clutter-free
- Purpose: Step-by-step decluttering guidance.
- Features: This app offers challenges, checklists, and tips to help you declutter every corner of your home. It’s great for beginners who need a little extra motivation.
5. Done
- Purpose: Habit tracking for decluttering tasks.
- Features: Done allows you to track daily decluttering habits and set goals to keep your space tidy. Use it to break down decluttering into smaller, manageable steps.
6. HomeZada
- Purpose: Home management and inventory.
- Features: HomeZada helps you track home inventory, maintenance, and even remodel projects. It’s an excellent tool for long-term organization and decluttering.
7. Keepy
- Purpose: Digitizing sentimental items.
- Features: For parents or anyone who struggles to part with sentimental clutter, Keepy lets you digitize keepsakes like kids’ artwork or letters, so you can cherish them without physical storage.
8. TrashNothing
- Purpose: Giving away items for free.
- Features: This app connects you with a community of people looking to give or receive free items. It’s a sustainable way to clear clutter while helping others.
9. Evernote
- Purpose: Paper clutter organization.
- Features: Use Evernote to digitize important documents, receipts, or notes, reducing the amount of paper clutter in your home.
10. Minimalist Phone Apps
- Examples: Minimalist
- Purpose: Streamlined task and goal tracking.
- Features: Perfect for tracking decluttering goals with a clean, distraction-free interface.

FAQ About Quick Micro-Decluttering in Winter
What is the 5-Year Rule for Decluttering?
The 5-year rule is a guideline to determine whether you truly need to keep an item. Ask yourself, “Have I used this item in the past 5 years?” If the answer is no, consider letting it go. The idea is that if you haven’t needed it for that long, you’re unlikely to need it in the future. This rule works particularly well for items with sentimental value or things kept “just in case.”
What is the 20-20-20 Rule for Decluttering?
The 20-20-20 rule also called the “just in case” rule, helps you let go of items you’re keeping out of fear of needing them later. Ask yourself:
- Would I be able to replace this item in under 20 minutes?
- Would it cost less than $20 to replace?
- If the answer to both questions is yes, you’re better off letting go of the item. This rule is perfect for reducing unnecessary clutter without holding onto inexpensive, replaceable items.
What is the 10-10-10 Rule for Decluttering?
The 10-10-10 rule is a structured approach to decluttering that involves making three decisions:
- Identify 10 items to throw away.
- Identify 10 items to donate.
- Identify 10 items to put back where they belong.
- This method provides a clear, actionable framework and makes the decluttering process less overwhelming. It’s ideal for quick daily decluttering tasks.
What is the 90-90 Rule for Decluttering?
The 90-90 rule comes from minimalist principles and asks two key questions:
- Have I used this item in the past 90 days?
- Will I use it in the next 90 days?
- If the answer to both is no, it’s a strong sign that the item no longer serves a purpose and can be decluttered. This rule encourages mindful decision-making and helps reduce clutter by focusing on what’s actively useful.
What is the 80-20 Rule for Clutter?
The 80-20 rule, or the Pareto Principle, is applied to decluttering by recognizing that we use 20% of our belongings 80% of the time. The remaining 80% often goes unused and contributes to clutter. This rule encourages you to focus on keeping only the most useful, frequently used items while letting go of the excess. For example, you might find that you wear only a small fraction of your wardrobe regularly, making it easier to identify what to declutter.
These Were My Quickie Micro-Decluttering Ideas and Organization Tips
Micro-decluttering is a simple, stress-free way to transform your home and life—one small step at a time. The benefits are immediate and impactful: less stress, more mental clarity, and a calmer, more inviting space. When we focus on manageable tasks like organizing a single drawer or clearing off a countertop, we can easily build momentum and prevent overwhelm. Getting started is easy. All it takes is a few minutes a day to spend on the above winter decluttering tips and hacks and voila! Set a timer for 5 or 10 minutes, choose one area to tackle, and watch the clutter disappear. With tools like baskets, labels, and even decluttering apps, you can simplify the process and make it fun. Whether you’re a busy beginner or just looking to maintain order, micro-decluttering makes home organization achievable for everyone.
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