Spring is the perfect time for a fresh start.
After a long, cold Canadian winter, clutter builds up—closets overflow, storage rooms become chaotic, and forgotten items pile up.
This can leave your home feeling cramped, overwhelming, and disorganized. But a thorough decluttering session can change everything.
Decluttering isn’t just about cleaning—it’s about creating a stress-free, efficient, and comfortable living space. Interestingly, studies show that a clutter-free home reduces anxiety, improves focus, and even boosts overall well-being.
Whether you’re a homeowner looking to refresh your space or a senior downsizing for a more manageable home, now is the time to take action.
Not sure where to start?
This guide will walk you through an easy, step-by-step decluttering process, covering every room in your house.
Plus, if you need a helping hand, Custodia offers professional decluttering, home organization, and handyman services tailored to Canadian homeowners and seniors.
Decluttering vs. Deep Cleaning: What Comes First?
Many homeowners in Ontario make the mistake of deep cleaning before decluttering.
But cleaning around clutter is like mopping a floor covered in toys—it’s inefficient and frustrating. Decluttering first makes deep cleaning easier, faster, and more effective.
Why Decluttering Should Come First
- Creates More Space – Removing excess items makes it easier to vacuum, dust, and sanitize surfaces.
- Prevents Wasted Effort – Cleaning items you later decide to discard is a waste of time and energy.
- Improves Air Quality – Clutter traps dust and allergens, affecting indoor air quality.
Best Decluttering Strategies Before Deep Cleaning
- Sort by Category – Start with clothing, paperwork, and expired products before tackling larger items.
- Use the “One-Year Rule” – If you haven’t used it in a year, it’s time to donate or discard it.
- Declutter High-Traffic Areas First – Focus on kitchens, living rooms, and entryways for maximum impact.
Essential Cleaning Products & Tools for a Fresh Home
- Microfiber Cloths & Mops – Trap dust and dirt more effectively than traditional rags.
- Eco-Friendly Cleaners – Reduce indoor toxins and improve air quality.
- HEPA Vacuum – Essential for removing allergens, pet hair, and dust from carpets and upholstery.
Decluttering first saves time, reduces stress, and makes deep cleaning effortless. Start fresh this spring and transform your home into a cleaner, healthier space.
[Read: Spring Home Maintenance Must-Dos for Seniors in Ontario]
A Room-by-Room Spring Decluttering Guide
Tackling clutter room by room can transform your home into a sanctuary of order and peace. Here’s a guide to help you declutter efficiently.
Kitchen
- Expired Food: Begin by checking your pantry and refrigerator for expired or seldom-used items. Discarding these frees up space and ensures freshness.
- Old Cookware: Assess your pots, pans, and utensils. If they’re damaged or rarely used, consider donating or recycling them to create a more functional kitchen.
- Junk Drawer Cleanup: We all have that one drawer filled with miscellaneous items. Empty it out, sort through the contents, and only keep essentials.
Living Room
- Unused Decor: Reflect on decorative pieces that no longer resonate with your current style. Letting go of these can breathe new life into your space.
- Old Magazines: Recycle outdated magazines and newspapers. Keeping only the latest editions reduces clutter and keeps your living area tidy.
- Excess Furniture: Too much furniture can make a room feel cramped. Identify pieces that are seldom used and consider donating or selling them to open up your space.
Bedrooms
- Clothing: Apply the “one-year rule.” If you haven’t worn an item in the past year, it’s time to let it go. This creates room for pieces you truly love.
- Old Bedding: Inspect your linens for wear and tear. Donating or repurposing those in good condition can refresh your sleeping environment.
- Under-Bed Clutter: Clear out items stored under the bed. Keeping this area free from clutter promotes better energy flow and cleanliness.
Bathrooms
- Expired Toiletries: Check expiration dates on products. Disposing of outdated items ensures safety and makes room for essentials.
- Unused Beauty Products: If certain products haven’t been used in months, consider passing them on to someone who will appreciate them or dispose of them responsibly.
Garage & Storage
- Seasonal Gear: Organize equipment based on the season. Storing winter items and ensuring summer gear is accessible keeps things orderly.
- Broken Tools: Repair or discard tools that are no longer functional. Keeping only what works ensures efficiency.
- Donation Box: Maintain a designated box for items you intend to donate. Once it’s full, schedule a drop-off to keep the momentum going.
How to Stay Organized After Decluttering
Here are some tips to help you keep clutter at bay:
Smart Storage Solutions
- Bins and Shelves: Utilize clear bins and adjustable shelves to maximize space and visibility, making items easy to find.
- Labeling: Clearly label storage containers to ensure items are returned to their designated spots, maintaining order.
Daily and Weekly Decluttering Habits
- Daily Tidying: Spend a few minutes each day putting items back in their place, preventing clutter from accumulating.
- Weekly Reviews: Set aside time each week to assess and address areas where clutter tends to gather, keeping your space in check.
Creating a Seasonal Decluttering Schedule
- Quarterly Check-ins: Align decluttering sessions with the changing seasons to manage seasonal items effectively, ensuring your home adapts to your needs.
- Set Reminders: Use calendars or apps to remind you of upcoming decluttering tasks, helping you stay on track.
Embarking on a decluttering journey can be both rewarding and challenging.
If you find yourself overwhelmed or unsure where to start, consider seeking professional assistance — Custodia declutter and home management services near me in Canada.
[PS: Check Our Updated List Of Areas We Serve]
Professional home management companies in Canada, such as Custodia, offer expert decluttering and handyman services to transform your spaces with precision and creativity.