Decluttering Before Cleaning: The Ultimate Guide

Organize First, Clean Later: The Formula for Success

The secret to an efficient cleaning routine is pre-organization. Learn how to declutter like a pro.

Saves time

Less stress

A tidy space calms the mind

Cleaning organized spaces is 3x faster

Better results

Easy maintenance

Order becomes effortless

Full access to all surfaces

Why Declutter First

The 4-Box Method

Prepare 4 labeled boxes or bags:

1. KEEP

Items you use regularly and that already have a designated place.

2. DONATE / SELL

Good-condition items you no longer need.

3. TRASH

Broken, expired, or unusable items.

4. DECIDE LATER

Sentimental items that require more reflection.

Decluttering by Room

Prepare 4 labeled boxes or bags:

Kitchen (2–3 hours)

Pantry: Check expiration dates, group by category

Fridge: Remove expired items, clean containers

Cabinets: Remove duplicates, organize by frequency of use

Countertops: Only daily-use appliances

Drawers: Use organizers, discard broken utensils

Bedroom (3–4 hours)

Closet: 1-year rule — if you didn’t wear it, donate it

Drawers: Fold using the KonMari method, add dividers

Nightstands: Only sleep essentials

Under the bed: Use storage bins or leave empty

Bathroom (1–2 hours)

Medicines: Check dates, dispose of expired items

Cosmetics: Remove old or unused products

Towels: Keep only those in good condition

Cabinets: Use vertical organizers

Living/Dining Room (2–3 hours)

Tables: Keep only intentional décor

Shelves: 70% rule — leave 30% empty

Magazines/Books: Keep favorites, recycle the rest

Cables: Use clips or storage boxes

Strategies Based on Your Available Time

15 Minutes — Declutter Express

Pick up 27 out-of-place items

Fill one trash bag

Clear and clean one visible surface

1 Hour — Targeted Zone

Pick one problem area

Use the 4-box method

Organize what you’re keeping

Clean the area completely

Weekend — Total Transformation

Saturday: Declutter every room

Sunday: Do a full deep clean

Donate/discard items immediately

Questions to Decide What to Keep

Have I used this in the last year?

Is it in good condition?

Does it make me happy or is it useful?

Do I have the space for it?

Do I have duplicates?

Would I buy it again today?

Need Professional Help?

At Cleanest™, we’re experts in all these services. Our professional team can apply these tips—and much more—to keep your spaces spotless.