Free tool
Declutter decision helper
Pick up one thing. Answer a few yes or no questions. Get a clear answer: keep, donate, sell, toss or the maybe box. Then pick up the next thing.
How to use the declutter helper
- Pick up one item. Just one. Type what it is if you like; it only appears in your verdict.
- Answer the questions honestly. Yes, no, or "not sure". There is no wrong answer, and "not sure" is allowed.
- Do what the verdict says, right now. Put it back in its home, drop it in the donate bag, take the sell photo, or put it in the maybe box.
- Press Next item. The tally keeps count, so you can see the pile going down.
Tip
Set a 10 minute sprint in the cleaning sprint timer and use the helper for the tricky items only. Easy ones (trash, obvious duplicates) do not need questions.
How the questions decide
The helper asks the same questions a calm friend would, in an order that settles most items in two or three taps:
| Question | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Is it broken, expired or missing a part? | Broken things you will not fix are clutter with extra guilt |
| Have you used it in the last 12 months? | Use is the clearest sign something earns its space |
| Does it have a home? | Things without a home end up on the chair or the counter |
| Would you buy it again today? | Separates "I like it" from "I feel I should keep it" |
| Is it sentimental? | Feelings count, but guilt is not a reason to keep something |
| Will you really list it for sale this week? | Stops "I'll sell it someday" piles |
| Is it in good, usable condition? | Decides donate or toss |
What is the maybe box?
A box for things you cannot decide on yet, so they stop blocking the rest. Seal it, write the date on it, and put it out of sight. Set a reminder for 30 days, or 90 for seasonal things. If you never opened it, donate it without looking inside. The helper can add that reminder to your calendar. Our guide to the maybe box goes deeper.
Where do things go when they leave?
- Donate: clean, usable things. Keep the bag by the door or in the car so it actually leaves.
- Sell: only if you will list it within a week. If it has not sold in 30 days, donate it.
- Recycle or toss: check your local rules. Batteries, paint, electronics and old cleaners need a household hazardous waste drop-off, not the trash, according to the EPA.
Heads up
If letting go of things causes real distress, or clutter makes rooms hard to use, that can be hoarding disorder, which is different from a messy home. A mental health professional can help, and there is no shame in asking.
Questions
How do I start decluttering when I feel overwhelmed?
Start smaller than feels useful: one drawer, one shelf or one bag. Take out trash first, then decide the tricky items one at a time with the helper.
What is a maybe box?
A dated box for things you cannot decide on yet. Put it out of sight, and if you have not opened it in 30 days, donate it without looking inside.
Is the declutter helper free?
Yes. It is free, needs no account, and runs in your browser. Your tally is saved only in this browser.
Should I sell or donate things?
Sell only if you will list the item within a week and it is worth the effort to you. Otherwise donate it, so it leaves your home this week.
Is everyday clutter the same as hoarding disorder?
No. Hoarding disorder is a mental health condition, and a mental health professional can help. This helper is for everyday clutter decisions only.