Being a mum means life is often a whirlwind of packed lunches, school runs, laundry piles and toys scattered across every room. With so much going on, it’s no wonder the house can quickly feel cluttered and chaotic. But a messy space can lead to a messy mind. When your home feels overwhelming, it’s harder to relax, stay focused or even enjoy your time with the kids.
The good news? Decluttering doesn’t have to be stressful or take up your entire weekend. With the right approach, even the busiest mum can take back control and create a space that feels calmer and more organised.
Here’s a practical guide to help you declutter your home without the guilt, stress or fuss.
Start Small and Simple
Don’t try to sort the whole house in one go. Instead, choose one small area to tackle first. A kitchen drawer, a toy box or the cupboard under the stairs are great starting points. Give yourself 15–30 minutes and see how much you can get through. Often, once you start, it’s easier to keep going.
Keep a few boxes or bags nearby and sort items into four groups:
- Keep (you use it regularly and love it)
- Donate (if it’s in good condition, but you no longer need or want it)
- Bin (it’s broken or beyond repair)
- Store (you can’t part with it, but don’t need it right now)
Think About What You Really Use
It’s easy to hang onto things ‘just in case’, but most of us only use a small portion of what we own. Clothes that don’t fit, gadgets that gather dust, toys the kids have outgrown all of it takes up space that could be better used.
Try the six-month rule: if you haven’t used it in the past six months (and it’s not seasonal or sentimental), chances are, you don’t need it.
Be Kind to Yourself
Letting go of things can bring up all sorts of feelings—especially when it comes to sentimental items or gifts. It’s perfectly normal to feel attached, and it’s okay to keep things that matter to you. The aim of decluttering isn’t to throw away everything, but to create a home that works better for your family.
If you’re holding on to things because they remind you of a special time or person, that’s completely valid. You don’t have to get rid of those precious keepsakes just to make space.
This is where self storage can help. Magenta Self Storage provides affordable personal self storage that allows you to keep your home clutter-free without having to say goodbye to those sentimental items. Whether it’s baby clothes you’re not ready to part with, family photo albums or your kids’ old school projects, you can keep them safe without letting them take over your living room.
Get the Kids Involved
If your children are old enough, get them involved in the process. Turn it into a game—who can fill a donation bag the fastest? Let them choose which toys they want to keep and which they’ve outgrown. It’s a great way to teach them about giving to others and keeping their space tidy.
You might be surprised how willing they are to let go of things when they’re part of the decision.
Make a System That Works for You
Once you’ve cleared out the clutter, it helps to have a system in place so things don’t pile up again. Use clear storage boxes with labels, invest in furniture with hidden storage (like ottomans or beds with drawers), and try to stick to the ‘one in, one out’ rule, if something new comes in, something old goes out.
Create a home for everything, whether it’s a basket for toys in the living room or a tray for post and keys near the front door. The more straightforward your systems are, the more likely you’ll stick to them.
Give Yourself Time
Decluttering is a process, not a race. It’s okay to do it bit by bit, especially when you’ve got children and daily life to juggle. Celebrate the small wins. Clearing just one drawer or shelf is still progress, and each step helps you feel more in control.
If you ever feel stuck, take a break, have a cuppa and come back when you’re ready.
Enjoy the Benefits
A clutter-free home often feels lighter, calmer and easier to manage. You might find mornings run smoother, bedtime feels less stressful, and everyone’s a bit more relaxed.
And with the option of using self storage for those hard-to-let-go items, you don’t have to make difficult choices. You can enjoy a clearer home without parting with what matters most.Whether you’re preparing for a new baby, moving house, or simply want to feel less overwhelmed, learning how to declutter your home can make a big difference. It’s not about being perfect, it’s about finding a balance that works for you and your family.
*This is a collaborative post
