10 Decluttering Habits to Start in January (and Actually Stick To)

Whether you’re looking to organise your home, free up your workspace, or make better use of storage units, these habits will help you start the year fresh.

1. Start Small and Set Achievable Goals

How can I start decluttering without feeling overwhelmed?
Decluttering doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Begin with a small drawer, a shelf, or one corner of a room. Completing these small tasks gives you momentum to tackle bigger areas.

2. Follow the “One In, One Out” Rule

What is the best way to prevent clutter from coming back?
For every new item you bring into your home or office, remove one. This habit prevents clutter from building back up and helps maintain a tidy space all year.

3. Make Daily Decluttering a Habit

How can I declutter my space every day?
Dedicate 10–15 minutes a day to tidying up. Consistency beats intensity—small daily efforts lead to a clutter-free environment over time.

4. Use Storage Solutions Wisely

What are the best storage solutions for home or office clutter?
Smart storage can transform your space. Use labelled boxes, shelving, and storage units to keep items organised and accessible.

5. Digitise Paperwork

How do I declutter paperwork effectively?
Reduce piles of paperwork by scanning and saving documents digitally. It’s eco-friendly and keeps important files easy to find.

6. Tackle One Room at a Time

What’s the best strategy for decluttering my home room by room?
Focusing on a single room prevents decision fatigue. Start with the area that frustrates you most, whether it’s a bedroom, kitchen, or office.

7. Declutter Sentimental Items Strategically

How do I declutter sentimental items without feeling guilty?
Sentimental items can be tricky. Keep only the items that truly spark joy, and consider taking photos of the rest to preserve memories without the clutter.

8. Create a “Donate or Toss” Box

How can I quickly get rid of clutter I no longer need?
Keep a designated box for donations or items to recycle. Once it’s full, take it to your local charity shop or recycling centre. This keeps clutter moving out of your home instead of accumulating.

9. Make Use of Offsite Storage

What’s the best way to store items I don’t need daily?
If you have items you don’t use regularly but don’t want to part with, offsite storage units are a game-changer. They free up space at home or in the office while keeping your belongings safe and organised.

10. Review and Reset Monthly

How can I maintain a clutter-free home or office?
Set a monthly decluttering check-in to reassess your belongings and storage habits. This helps prevent clutter from creeping back in and keeps your space organised all year.

Make 2026 the Year of a Clutter-Free Space

Starting these 10 decluttering habits in January can set the tone for a calmer, more organised year. Whether it’s your home, office, or business storage, taking small, consistent steps pays off.

If you’re looking for extra space to keep items safe, organised, and out of the way, Store First offers secure, flexible storage units across the UK. From short-term storage solutions to long-term options, our units make decluttering simple and stress-free.

📞 Enquire today to find the right storage unit for your needs and start the year clutter-free.