Which Room to Declutter First? Practical Tips to Get Started

Staring at a messy house can feel overwhelming. The trick is to pick one room that gives the biggest payoff for the least effort. That way you see results quickly and stay motivated.

Start with the Entryway or Kitchen Counter

The entryway is the first thing you see when you walk in. A clean entryway sets a calm tone for the whole home. Clear away shoes, coats, and mail, then add a simple basket or hook system. You’ll notice a neater look instantly, and you’ll have a place for everything right at the door.

The kitchen counter works the same way. It’s the busiest surface in the house, and a cluttered counter makes cooking stressful. Take a few minutes to toss out old receipts, empty the sink, and put away appliances you don’t use daily. When the counter looks clean, you’ll feel more in control of meals and clean‑up.

Why These Two Spaces Matter More Than the Bedroom

People often think the bedroom is the first place to tackle, but a tidy bedroom is harder to maintain if the rest of the house stays chaotic. By fixing the entryway and kitchen first, you create routines that protect the bedroom’s calm. For example, a hook for jackets means you won’t dump clothes on the bed, and a clear kitchen stops you from bringing dishes into the bedroom.

Besides visual impact, these areas affect daily flow. A smooth entryway speeds up mornings, and a clear kitchen makes dinner prep faster. When you experience that speed boost, you’re more likely to keep decluttering other rooms.

Once the entryway and kitchen are under control, move on to the living room. This is where you spend a lot of time with family and guests. Start by clearing coffee tables and TV stands, then sort books, magazines, and remote controls. Keep only what you use daily and store the rest.

Finally, the bedroom follows naturally. With less clutter coming in from the hallway and living room, you’ll find it easier to keep surfaces clear. Focus on nightstands and dressers first – a few minutes each night to put things back in place prevents piles from forming.

Here’s a quick checklist to keep you on track:

• Entryway: shoes, coats, mail, add hooks or a basket.
• Kitchen counter: toss receipts, store rarely used appliances, wipe surfaces.
• Living room: clear coffee tables, sort media, keep only daily items.
• Bedroom: nightstand and dresser only, use a box for weekly clothing picks.

Stick to the checklist, and you’ll see progress after each room. The key is to finish one space before jumping to the next. That sense of completion fuels motivation.

Remember, decluttering isn’t a one‑time sprint. Set a 10‑minute tidy‑up habit each evening, and the rooms stay organized longer. Soon you’ll have a home that feels open, calm, and ready for anything.