Decluttering your living room can feel overwhelming, but with these simple steps, you’ll be on your way to a peaceful space. To get started, remove any unnecessary items and clear all surfaces. Then, prioritize what you want to keep and consider multifunctional furniture to maximize space. Use side tables and baskets to tidy up, and add a shelving unit or hutch to keep items organized.
By following these steps and maintaining a clutter-free living room, you’ll find it easier to relax and enjoy your space. By learning how to declutter a living room, you’ll be able to create a harmonious space that reflects your personality and style.
What Are the Essential Steps to Declutter a Living Room Effectively?
A cluttered living room can be overwhelming and stressful. But by following these essential steps, you can quickly and efficiently declutter your space and make it a relaxing oasis.
Gather Supplies
Before you start decluttering, assemble a few essential supplies:
- Trash bags
- Recycling bins
- Storage containers (for items you want to keep)
- A “donate” box
Sort Items Into Categories
Divide items into three piles:
- Keep: items you use regularly or hold sentimental value
- Donate/Sell: items that can be given away or sold
- Toss: items that are broken or no longer useful
Tackle Clutter Hotspots
Focus on the areas of your room that are most cluttered, such as the coffee table or bookshelves. Remove everything from the surface and sort items into their respective categories.
Discard Unwanted Items
Be ruthless – if you haven’t used it in a year, it’s probably safe to get rid of it. Toss or recycle items that are broken, outgrown, or no longer useful.
Organize Items to Keep
Once you’ve purged your unwanted items, organize the items you’re keeping into storage containers and label them. Keep frequently used items in easy-to-reach locations and store less frequently used items on higher shelves or in out-of-the-way areas.
Donate and Sell
Set an appointment with a local charity or donate items to a friend. You can also sell items you no longer need at a garage sale, online marketplace, or consignment store.
Maintain Your Space
- Set aside time each week to tidy up
- Store items in their designated places
- Avoid clutter from building up in the first place
What Are Some Clever Ways to Use Baskets and Bins to Declutter My Living Room?
Living rooms can quickly become cluttered with remote controls, magazines, and other knick-knacks. Baskets and bins can be a simple and effective way to keep your living room tidy. Here are some clever ways to use them:
Designate a Bin for Remote Controls
Store all your remote controls in a bin or basket labeled “Remotes.” This keeps them organized and easy to find. You can place it on a side table or coffee table.
Keep Magazines and Books Organized
Use a basket or bin with a lid to store magazines and books. This prevents them from getting scattered around the room and keeps them dust-free.
Create a Storage Ottoman
Use an ottoman with a storage compartment to store throw pillows, blankets, and other small items. This keeps them hidden from view and provides a cozy spot to rest your feet.
Utilize a Shelf*
Use a shelf and add baskets or bins to store board games, movies, or other items. This keeps them organized and out of the way.
Label Bins for Clutter-Free Zones
Label bins or baskets for specific items, such as “Toys” or “documents.” This creates a clutter-free zone and makes it easy to find what you need.
Add a Tray for Additional Storage*
Use a tray or dish to add extra storage to a side table or coffee table. This can hold small items like coasters, napkins, and keys.
Corral Cables and Adapters
Use a small basket or bin to store cables and adapters. This keeps them organized and prevents them from getting tangled.
What Things Should I Prioritize When Decluttering My Living Room, and Why?
Renovating your living room often begins with decluttering. This crucial step helps you create a clean slate, allowing you to refresh the space with new furniture, decorations, and decor. But where to start? Here are the essential things to prioritize when decluttering your living room:
Sorting Items into Categories
Begin by gathering items from the room and categorizing them into three piles: keep, donate/sell, and discard. Be honest with yourself about each item’s purpose and function. Ask:
- Do I use this regularly?
- Is it in good condition?
- Can it be repurposed or upcycled?
Tackle Cluttered Areas First
Focus on the most cluttered areas of the room, such as the coffee table or bookshelves. Clearing these spaces first will give you a sense of accomplishment and momentum.
Prioritize Furniture
Next, tackle the furniture. Sort through items like throw pillows, blankets, and decorative objects. Rarely used items can be stored in off-site storage or donated. Consider rearranging furniture to create a more functional and harmonious layout.
Don’t Forget the Little Things
Pay attention to often-overlooked areas like:
- Drawer organizers: Clear out items like batteries, cords, and receipts.
- End tables: Remove items like coasters, magazines, and remote controls.
- Closets: Sort through clothes, accessories, and storage containers.
Create a Maintenance Plan
To avoid future clutter, establish routines for maintaining your newly decluttered space. Set aside time each week to tidy up, and consider implementing a “one in, one out” policy for new items.
By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to a more organized, functional, and comfortable living room.
