18 Minimalist Habits You Can Start Today! (Decluttering Motivation)

Call it #minimalism, call it intentional living or call it simple living - whatever you call it, the #minimalist trend looks like it's still going strong in 2020 - so in this video, Melissa Maker shares 18(!) habits to simplify your life and maybe give you a little #decluttering motivation!
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0:00 Start
1:26 Learn to say no
2:22 Start small
3:13 Embrace empty space
5:06 Seasonal closet clean out
6:09 6 second rule
6:57 Actually donate your donations
8:04 Always be pruning
8:53 Small kitchen appliances
9:30 Return items nightly
11:06 Sentimental items *
12:08 DIY instead of store bought
12:55 Packaging and boxes
13:26 Clean surface challenge *
14:54 All the cables *
15:44 Avoid single use items
16:58 Declutter pillows *
17:36 Declutter make-up
18:09 Declutter towels
18:49 Declutter old medication
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[@cleanmyspace]

7 EXPERT CLEANING TIPS YOU NEED TO BE USING: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y3SQmpZofZdnhbc

[@Alice_Walker]

The thing I always like to remember about minimalism is that it's not having the LEAST amount of things... It's having the RIGHT amount of things. That's different for everyone.

[@annalp7520]

Alice Walker thanks so much for sharing this concept - I really like that way of thinking about it 😊

[@Michelle-qw4pl]

Alice Walker that’s a perfect way to say it!

[@amasion2882]

YES. A “downsized” kitchen is useless if you don’t have the right appliances and utensils to prepare and serve meals. It’s having the RIGHT amount of the RIGHT things.

[@065176adb]

Strongly agree!

[@dedhampster4730]

Yes Alice! We are absolute nerds in our house with D&D, all the video games (all the way back to Atari), board games and all the toys! So we will never not have things, but we can let go of the Wal-Mart Pokémon figures, only keep the collector's items and say no to cheap sci-fi swag from conventions. And always donate what is still usable.

[@cellachic4442]

This might sound morbid, but sometimes I clean things out thinking of how it would be for someone else to go through it when I pass. I don't want to go and leave a big junkyard of things for someone else to handle.

[@jodyfro1312]

Swedish Death Cleaning

[@alibalibeehive]

I do this too! Whatever helps eh?!

[@marilufresquez8943]

I do this too! a lot lateley. Will be 68 soon :( It does help. It keeps me realistic.

[@jadoreluv6891]

I do the same...not morbid at all! God forbid someone finds something that might embarrass the poor soul that has to go through my life😳

[@cellachic4442]

@@jadoreluv6891 🤣👍

[@sharkboy6952]

"Maybe one day I'll need that thing. " That day is always a few weeks after you've thrown it away.

[@mdwill9537]

So funny. So true.

[@DrShanSKP]

Is she talking about minimalism? Seriously 😂. In this video she's wearing 8-10 dresses and talking about minimalism 😂😂.

[@ohpatricia1276]

@@DrShanSKP I thought the same thing when she was going through her closet. I don’t even consider myself a minimalist but know I don’t need a closet so full I can’t find anything. Or an entire wall for my makeup🤦🏼‍♀️. Her video was probably catchy to some but the constant outfit, makeup, and hair change, damaged my simpler experience expectations when I clicked on this video 🤣

[@pearlofyahuah8472]

🤣😂🤣😂🤣

[@RFernandez18]

Happens to me all the time. One of them was a huge bottle of hand sanitizer. About 4 days before we learned about the virus and hand sanitizer was hard to come by, I literally threw out a large bottle of sanitizer because I figured we never used it enough to have it so why keep it... Next thing you know, we had the virus. It was gold! 🤦

[@loseta1234]

I had problems tossing things until I started watching back to back episodes of Hoarders. They all have in common the good intentions and they see potential on every single item like for crafts or just for possible future use. That was enough to flip my brain switch and started getting rid of things.

[@jodyfro1312]

I miss Hoarders so much. Such great inspiration.

[@julielainez8045]

That show will make you want to throw your whole house away real quick lol 😂 All of sudden I’m in the mood for a deep cleaning when that comes on 🤣

[@linda8485]

Yes! I realized watching that show that these poor souls are either living in the past , or living in the future. They are not living in the present because it is so painful. But there is no way to deal with the problem unless you are in the present moment.

[@joanhaselman444]

@@linda8485 You sound like a Catholic, you have just quoted a whole lot of Saints.

[@c8Lorraine1]

A person who hoards things, is someone who has unresolved grief. Before I could sort out my house, I had to have counseling sessions to work through the root cause of my hoarding behaviour. Some two years later, I cleared out my entire house, re-purposed each room and started a new life. Easy to do over a 5 month period, because I’d worked through the loss of my son, my career, and the loss of peak health I’d come to take for granted, until I lost it. Once I allowed myself to acknowledge my losses, and grieve , I then worked on making the rest of my life, the best it could be. Today I’m a happier person for having taken those steps rather than the *abuse* the poor people on the tv program, endure. I’m glad that show is off the air

[@cadena141]

I'm not really into minimalism, but I am doing this: getting rid of one item, no matter how small, every day in 2020. So far, I'm batting 100% and I don't miss a thing - so far!

[@GiGiWellness28]

Good job! Keep it up 👍🏻

[@KimFirsttimemom]

cadena great idea! Are you documenting it?

[@sheena3913]

Thats such a great idea.

[@AmandaD33]

I love throwing stuff away. I'm about to move and I'm about to get a trash bag LOL I make sure I don't need it of course because sometimes things you just need to keep like important documents. But some things are just old and useless. If I can't donate it to Goodwill it's trash

[@Miss_Annlaug]

Everyone benefits from decluttering evrn 8f the end goal is not minimalism. Great initiative!

[@clairecheney]

Easy way to slim everything down: Pretend you're moving. Belive me, I've just moved and I got rid of massive amounts of stuff, like literal mountains of stuff. Get some boxes and go through things as if you were moving. Ask yourself if you really want to go to the trouble of packing it up, transporting it and finding a new place to put. If you don't want to go to that trouble, get rid of it.

[@carmiecruz4596]

Yeah right.

[@clairecheney]

@@carmiecruz4596 are you being sarcastic? Because I can't tell your tone from your comment

[@KimFirsttimemom]

clairecheney yass! Great one! Maybe this helps also; pretend you are going on a 3 week trip. Mix and match outfits. Most of the times you will realize you will have enough 🙏

[@carmiecruz4596]

Nope... Clairecheney actually we've just moved and did the same. We also declutter... 😊

[@nurita4]

Yes! I moved countries and you really have to think about what you really, really need or want.

[@angelicasmith9357]

She is the first person that I actually listen and pay attention to about advice on how to clean and stay organized. She is direct in her communication....getting to the point and within it, gives the advice and suggestions I came here for. Excellent.

[@kathygoebel3248]

When I clean an area, the rest of my family sees it as an empty space to put their belongings or groceries when they come home. When I say something, they act as if I’m the bad guy. I can’t keep cleaning up these places for others to put their s*** there.

[@eathomelive]

@@Terri.46 I would go a step further and give them 48 hours to remove the stuff and find a place for it, or it gets tossed.

[@thebudgetbee9694]

Crafting is my biggest hurdle. I can see the craft potential in just about anything and that makes it hard to toss things.

[@abbyzarger2932]

Yes... me too....

[@dayle783]

Same! I'm trying to slim down which crafts I really enjoy. Also making an effort to craft with supplies I haven't touched in a long time. Like the 20 tin cans I saved, I painted a few and then recycled the rest. Now I need to get to all the boxes I've saved!

[@leahmarks7867]

BudgetBee, you said it, honey, and holy shamoly I hear exactly what you're saying! I suffer from the same creative-perspective disease... almost everything can be turned into or used for something else rather than tossing it out. Plus, after seeing the most recent PBS documentary on global garbage [The Plastics Problem] which shows where all our "recyclable waste" is actually ending up, now it's even harder for me to throw things out... i feel guilty if I know I can use it another way but throw it out regardless. I argue with my mother and daughter about this... when is something still perfectly and useful and when is it trash. Their wastefulness is so frustrating to me! Like when my kid will leave food in her room and it will get dried and stuck inside a dish, and she would rather throw it out than invest the time to clean it. I get that certain things are just that cheap nowadays, but they have an environmental cost that far surpasses their monetary one...

[@heatherweber531]

I've just found my herd, I live here now:) hello my fellow crafters and artist. lets take that unwanted items and make wonderfully creative stuff that the masses will pay good cold hard cash for. these days it pays to think out of the box. I've been able to help my child's school to come up with un-thoughts of options for this years graduates.

[@novanettle7497]

Ah yes, the pained existence of the creative crafter/aspiring minimalist. I can only relate. Normally I go with the "if it makes you happy, it is essential" point of view, but I really do have to many hobbies at this point. And all the materials that go with them. They take up to much space and more time than I have. I have to start picking my favorites. Should also mention I am a master at starting new projects and not necessarily finnishing them...

[@robertanderson6929]

I actually use my suitcases to store my off-season clothing. In the Spring I place my Winter coats, sweatshirts and etc in my suitcases and remove shorts, swimwear, and etc. I reverse the process in the Fall. During this swap out is a great time to eliminate items which I no longer wear. If I need to use my suitcases for travel, I simply unload them onto my bed then replace the items when I return from my trip.

[@kristinradams7109]

Thanks for that! I think I'll start doing that, too.. . . . ... :)

[@zvezdapadalica15]

My husband and I do this as well. It’s the perfect place to store off-season items. I need the suitcases and they take up space in the basements anyway so might as well use the space inside them :) it helps the closets feel fresh and clean every season!

[@ramonagram238]

I use one suitcase to store bags... duffels, backpacks, beach bags, tote bags, purses etc

[@janeyd5280]

I used to do that when first married with 2 babies and No storage space. the suitcase was kept under the bed. now 48 years later I have plenty of cupboards but too much clothing and clutter..

[@irmatorres5306]

So what do you do when you need your suitcases for a trip? I would have a pile of clothes until I was done with the suitcases. 🤨

[@lovinglife3954]

FYI an eco-friendly tip: if you can clean out your closet at the beginning of the season instead of the end, all the better. Most donation centers, especially shelters, don’t have space to keep out of season items. They will end up discarded if not in season and usable.

[@debburt251]

Great suggestion!

[@sgejupiter9740]

LovingLife I bet she won't see your comment and it's a great suggestion🌞People need the clothes during the season not after😔

[@rikajohannas8894]

LovingLife best advice found

[@kariay50]

Good advice. Thanks for sharing

[@emmaschauer5409]

I do this, also, because I am on a significant weight loss journey, and often times the things that I loved last spring/summer either don't fit me or just don't look right anymore.

[@careykurtz2559]

Whenever I get new pillows, the old ones get "handed down" to the dogs' crates. They love them, since they already smell like us and it really makes them feel more comfortable in their crates when they have to be in them. Bonus, we don't have to wash their worn-out, old doggy-smell pillows, they just go to their final resting place in the trash.

[@carolallison9685]

Just buy good quality pillows and be done. A good pillow can last up to 20 years with proper care. You can even rip a seam on throw pillows and restuff them with better material. Thats what i did when my cheap throw pillows on my couch started the breakdown. Saves me tons of money, and its less waste going into the landfill

[@swylie830]

Just did this today!!

[@kaylapappas7715]

Yes and it served its purpose, as opposed to a $20-$40 dog bed that gets shredded in one week.

[@liliannamathers3428]

Carol, what's proper care that can keep a pillow free of dust mites and such for 20 years?

[@kariay50]

👌🐾

[@jujume2010]

My MIL is keeping me out of my minimalist lifestyle for a season. She has moved in with us so we have to put things on the counter for her to be able to reach. I am learning to be patient as this too will pass when she is gone. Right now, I will live with it as I want to make her last year(s) on this earth as pleasant as possible since her husband of 66 years just passed on 2 weeks ago.

[@lifebeginswithaseed]

Well that's sweet and a great attitude to have. Stuff is just stuff after all. ❤️

[@LB-vl3qn]

You know, your MIL probably doesn't even realize the gracious gesture you're making, which makes it even more gracious. To accommodate someone else out of love for them, especlally when it is hard for us to do, is a beautiful act of charity. She doesn't need to know. God sees. ~ Lisa

[@cheryljune1603]

Julie Mellon so kind of you

[@margarethill8442]

Julie you are a wonderful daughter in law. Bless you for seeing things through your MIL's eyes. It takes strength and heart to do what you are doing. Keep on!

[@meggarstang6761]

You clearly have your priorities in order and your heart is huge! I hope you have a good long time to enjoy her company and for her to spend her final years knowing how much she is loved.

[@cleanmyspace]

1:26 Learn to say no 2:22 Start small 3:13 Embrace empty space 5:06 Seasonal closet clean out 6:09 6 second rule 6:57 Actually donate your donations 8:04 Always be pruning 8:53 Small kitchen appliances 9:30 Return items nightly 11:06 Sentimental items 12:08 DIY instead of store bought 12:55 Packaging and boxes 13:26 Clean surface challenge 14:54 All the cables 15:44 Avoid single use items 16:58 Declutter pillows 17:36 Declutter make-up 18:09 Declutter towels 18:49 Declutter old medication

[@sv2253]

Helpful timestamps, thank you!

[@user-zx9nw7fy5p]

So inspiring!! Thank you!! :)

[@philipiiijoyner8463]

Excellent decluttering tips, Melissa Maker! I already know my limits for my bedroom. ☺💗☺💗☺💗

[@alexandrasalvador9672]

Clean My Space great help!am always a minimalist whenever watching a lengthy video

[@menakak905]

Question, how do you store seasonal clothes so that they air but moths don't get in?

[@Charalldredge]

I wear aprons with great pockets when I am home. It holds my phone, and I can put items that need to be put away a lot easier. I can move items from room to room and even gather trash and throw it away.

[@sj2760]

That’s a great idea 👍👍

[@MR-kt1vx]

I actually like this idea

[@amanda_0034]

This is a great idea!

[@anashappydays]

Thank you for the tip 💚

[@Charalldredge]

Ana ́s Happy days no problem. AND if your not wanting to wear “support” as a women cause who wants to do that when they are home and comfy, it helps with that too! Lol!

[@michelleperram5875]

Today I finally decided to tackle my craft/crap room. I’ve been dreading this so I decided to just work on it for an hour. I got a lot accomplished in just 60 minutes and now it doesn’t look so overwhelming.

[@tinag7381]

Cracked up when you and Chad were wearing the life jackets in everyday scenarios!

[@evenicholmain]

Definitely emotional items. Guilt in getting rid of things that belonged to someone you loved and have lost. I think this is the hardest thing to do.

[@anashappydays]

I agree 😅

[@auntiem1093]

You can take a picture of something that is sentimental but you don't want to keep. And then frame it so you can see it and remember it but it won't take up space

[@peggypeggy4137]

I know how that feels--like you are throwing away the memory or a part of the person that has passed away. I think what it is for me is, if I know where these things are going then it is easier to get rid of them. Get a good box and put in(all together) that set of dishes. Donate to a church, Salvation Army, etc. My husband hardly took anything when his mother went into the nursing home. He would say. I have the memories. I don't need the stuff!! Photos are good too.

[@lynnroney1234]

What I did with my parents things is that I have a "treasure box". Its a large jewelry box. I have really personal things like my mom's hairbrush that still has her hair. Her reading glasses. My dad's hair comb. His military discharge papers. Things like that. I also have a military window box for other things. They're my treasures and they're all I need.

[@scrappinfrine]

I would like to add also, when we put our home for sale, we did so much decluttering and my husband and I did really love the fact that the house felt much lighter. We have decided to change now and become minimalist in decorating and having things we regularly use around the house. We started with our clothes and our son's toys! If it fits in the house and if it has a home, then it can stay. Our sons holds dear to our rule-if we get one toy. We donate two toys. So far. So good. We don't request gifts for birthday parties and when he collects money, we ask what clothes he needs and any left over, he uses for Tuesday treats at school or we put into his college savings. Just wanted to share this part. Thanks

[@Hollym59]

I was a Navy brat growing up. My Scottish dad wanted to keep EVERYTHING because "we might need it one day." My mom wanted to get rid of everything. I'm stuck in the middle!! But I yearn for minimalism and clean spaces. Thanks for the inspiration.

[@Roguey84]

I’ve been taking pics of my sons drawings and storing them on a cloud. I decluttered a lot and let him keep key things. I got rid of so many things over the years but recently happening upon this made me loving living with less and keeping it that way

[@udderlylost1178]

I love this idea!

[@MindBodyMom]

My biggest hurdle is living in a home that is under 1000 square feet as a family of 4...2 young children...a hoarding husband (who’s trying to improve), I literally spend hours a day cleaning up after everyone. I need to just start throwing things out without telling anyone. We also don’t have a laundry room, play area, office, every room serves 2-3 purposes. It is hard but I never ever give up! Being is isolation now is actually creating more time to get our home in order. Loved this video!

[@menakak905]

It feels like I'm throwing away our hard earned money when we're throwing away or even giving away perfectly good things. That's what makes it difficult for me. Also, it forces me to acknowledge that I made a bad purchase. I don't like the guilty feelings...

[@hillarywalker4587]

If you keep the thing and continue to not use it, you experience that guilt every time you see it. If you decide to get rid of it, you can acknowledge that it was a bad purchase, commit to spending more mindfully and then try to find a place to donate it so someone else can actually use it.

[@rebeccadbates]

One philosophy that has helped me SO much is this: however much I buy something for, use it that many times and then I’ve gotten my use out of that. For example, if I buy a really unique top for $40 will I wear it 40 times? That’s just a personal thing! Not everyone has to do it though :)

[@rachelsanchez3979]

Don’t feel like it was a mistake. Some things’ only use is to make us happy when we buy it or receive it. If it has outstayed its time, it is okay to pass it on to bring that happiness to someone else.

[@griseldaguerrero7199]

You can also sell those items you dont need on Offerup, Letgo, Ebay, yard sale etc that way you make some money from it rather than nothing.

[@Skittl1321]

The money is already spent though, you aren't getting it back. Having it clutter up your home and cause stress isn't helping. It's a good reminder to stop aquiring.

[@pamsnider1930]

My hurdle is totally the sentimental stuff. Baby clothes, toys, artwork. Also, old magazines and cookbooks.

[@robinhall1543]

For me decluttering is emotional. I feel guilty and wasteful tossing stuff that still has life in it. Giving to someone else eases the guilt but getting to the point where I can identify what to toss and finding someone to accept it, is difficult. Your videos are helpful and I appreciate the inspiration. I’ll keep trying!

[@janeyd5280]

robin hall some charity shops would be grateful for your unwanted stuff.x

[@mariadionisiodionisio3062]

Robin Hall you are not alone me too 😔

[@rachellindsey8660]

I got a friend who is not emotionally attached to my stuff to help with the donate/trash issue.

[@joanalcala7303]

Robin Hall...the Salvation Army will take your donations...and they help people through the the donations that get sold through their stores...I think they are non-profit also.

[@goldenparachute392]

You can take it to Goodwill and feel that you are helping others.

[@moondancer9066]

I left everything behind when my husband passed away and I moved. Now I'm in a small apartment and I don't have ANYTHING I don't absolutely NEED.

[@paula9197]

I'm sincerely sorry to hear about your loss. I also recently moved and was just brutally honest with myself about what I really needed to take with me. Living so clutter free makes me feel a lot more focused now on my priorities and that feels great.

[@cheryljune1603]

Moon Dancer someday I will do it too

[@meggarstang6761]

You don't realize how much money you save when you consider where you will put something you want to buy. I adore new towels, but there's only one shelf in the linen closet designated for towels and it's full. So, it's easier to say no to new towels because I know I have no place to put them.

[@janeyd5280]

@@meggarstang6761 I love new towels too and find them hard to resist.x

[@lightgivener]

@@meggarstang6761 if you really adore new towels you could make it a personal splurge to allow yourself new towels once a year and donate the old pile to an animal shelter for example. Of course we shouldn't be wasteful but it is OK to have some specific luxuries especially if you can give onwards. Also it makes you aware which ones you prefer, the towels that you have or the feel of new towels.

[@mimikennedy1914]

I love that I found "Clean My Space" today! I have been stuck for the last 5 years. Melissa, you inspire me, motivate me and seem to be speaking to me. Thank You!

[@karengill6214]

I am learning to live with less clutter. In my earlier adult years i was great with minimalism but then i got hit with health problems that left me unable to move properly, things slowly got worse over the next 25 odd yrs then finally i was able to get treatment for my health that was unattainable in the past, now i have a new lease of life im going crazy clearing out but also facing sentimental tasks of letting go of what took me yrs to earn, i know i can do it but it helps to have support of people like your channel to give tips. I needed to go back to minimalism because im still limited to some degree with abilities so for the sake of physical and mental health this is the best thing for me. Thanks for sharing

[@sara19847777]

I love being a minimalist! I get it from my mom. I live in a penthouse condo with 10 ft. ceilings, and as much as I would like to add more "things" to my home, I think it looks nicer and more spacious with less stuff! Similarily, I also pack light when I travel. I always travel with a carry-on and I don't check anything....same feeling! :) I'm at work right now but can't wait to go home and do some more de-cluttering hehe.

[@anashappydays]

Me too! It relaxes my mind 💚

[@sherrieluvsseahorses9540]

I want to become like that. This video helped my thinking. Wish i loved to clean and organize. I get overwhelmed.

[@zn4317]

Am currently Swedish death cleaning my office/library. I have always been a decluttering fiend and now that I am older I have the insight to realise that it is likely directly linked to my mother’s hoarding,

[@christinejames5286]

I laughed SO HARD at the life jackets!! OMG... haha. Thank you for the giggle!

[@mkitten13]

I feel I'm doing well, here. It's even pretty addictive to get rid of things, lol. I find myself scouring my possessions trying to identify what I no longer love or need, lol.

[@amberthompson1596]

I was feeling really down and unmotivated. I can't thank you enough for creating such helpful content. Instead of watching mindless t.v. for three hours. I am making mini projects and trying tip "packaging and boxes" and "clean surface challenge" Thank you for helping me out! They need to give you and Chad a Netflix show!

[@foodandhomeprep8425]

I just paused the video and moved my donations to my trunk.

[@liliannamathers3428]

Where did you take them?

[@susanparker9407]

It's been almost 14 years and I am almost done getting rid of things my only child,a son had.What you said is so true,you can still honor their memory even if you dont keep ALL their stuff.The guilt was so great(he chose to take his life) but I have some things in a curio cabinet of his to look at every day and remember the good times.

[@neelkemateboer9704]

I still can't believe how big American closets are, and still you manage to get that cluttered.. It amazes me.

[@crystalnichols7224]

"Politely say no, but thank them for the gesture." My mother-in-law runs off crying. lol Sometimes we just keep something long enough that they see us "using" it, and then it's gone if it's not truly something worth keeping.

[@eathomelive]

I hate having to keep junk so as to not hurt people's feelings. I stopped inviting relatives over because they were always looking for whatever chotchkies they gave me. Now we meet at restaurants, or at my mom's house, or drive to see my in-laws.I donate stuff I don't like straight away. When we buy a house, I don't think I will be able to pull that off anymore. But, I will tell people we are minimalist and prefer gift cards, charity donations, etc...

[@sherireuther9678]

This is timed perfectly for me-I am in the process of moving and packing. OMG I really think I have had a problem bordering on mania as I have all colors or sizes or iterations of items as available to purchase. I have been really picky with what I am taking. It’s not easy to do this. I have asked my friends who are helping me to challenge me to rethink the boxes for moving. I am transitioning to a basement space, fully finished, to companion my ex- mother-in-law with some dementia. Then when she passes I’ll move to a condo/apartment so I have to scale back anyway from my house. Thanks Melissa and Chad.

[@rachelfraise9352]

As a result of some mental health issues, I became a hoarder. Im now working my way through the stuff I had accumulated. What I find hardest is the sheer volume of the task, its like a mountain I need to climb. But, I am learning to set myself little tasks and portion the job up. That way I get a sense of achievement rather than focusing on what is still left to be done. Your tips are going to be such a lifeline as I work my way through the process

[@lynnroney1234]

I understand it feeling like a mountain. I really do. Where I live there is a mental health association that had counselors who would even come to your house to help. Don't be embarrassed. They've seen a lot. When the counselor came to my home we sat together and went through things. She's here so I have to do this and she helped talk me through. It worked so well. If you have something like this try contacting them. But ya, this covid thing is keeping so much on hold. Just one little area today. It's done. Be proud. Then another little area tomorrow. Mark off what area you are going to do tomorrow right after you've finished for today. It's not an all day thing. For this hour I will work on the area. When the hour is up, that's it. Until tomorrow. That was my system that worked for me.

[@Jessicat76]

Y’all wearing the life jackets cracked me up!! Like i belly laughed!! 😹😹😹

[@kaseyringer4114]

I tend to keep things that I only use/need or love, but my husband is a bit of a packrat. We have a system where the common areas are clutter-free, and he has space for his stuff. I feel like it helps, because it allows him to keep what he wants to and also helps me feel like the home isn't overrun with things. And, as a (small!) bonus, it's helped my husband see that he can get rid of things, so he's culled some of his belongings!

[@whitneyhaynes6207]

I am living in complete clutter chaos. My hurdle is I am too overwhelmed to start. lol things don't have homes and it gives me anxiety. I am horrible at organization which makes it even harder! My boyfriend is also very cluttered and messy and his CORDS are the bane of my existence.

[@weridplusho]

Check out clutterbug. You may get some tips on starting the organization process.

[@MyLifeMyExpression]

I get overwhelmed too. We moved into a much smaller home so what we have and love doesn't fit. My husband is also a hot cluttered mess. If you make a space, he fills it. I never realised how bad this was until we moved and didn't have room for anything let alone his clutter. What I do now is to go through one drawer or one box a day. Start small so it's easier and doesn't take heaps of time. It very quickly becomes rewarding but also gives inspiration to do more.

[@lynnroney1234]

Oh Whitney, do I hear you on that one. Totally overwhelming. I get a space done and it only takes a few days and there it is again. Cluttered. I truly don't know how I do it.

[@sweetsbystaci7471]

No - I have 5 kids all at different ages with different interests. It's incredibly hard to have a minimalist lifestyle. Mostly because between homeschooling, cake business, working full time and trying to just maintain the daily needs...it's soooo hard because I'm always tired. You're an inspiration though!

[@meggarstang6761]

FINALLY! Practical, helpful advice - none of that "sparks joy" nonsense. I've approached my house using many of Melissa's ideas and I can tell you it all works. I moved from the Bay Area to So California a year ago and had to sort and cull so much stuff. It was exhausting. That last contractor helping me get ready for listing went home with an entire truckload of great things I was just too tired to pack. He was engaged and was excited to show his fiance all of the "treasure." I still haven't missed any of these things. Now that I have my new house, I'm having a blast keeping it clean and well ordered without going overboard. A clean, organized space gives me room to enjoy hosting my clan and living my new life.

[@27yioda]

Since finding CMS my house is cleaner and less cluttered. Loving the Three Wave Method and cleaning my kitchen sink with baking soda 😍

[@puffsleeveskindagirl]

I'm consistently decluttering as I like to organize and I sell as an alternative income but I can't be a full-on minimalist as I love decorating my place and it's too hard to have a minimalist style in that sense: it's just not me!

[@its_not_it_apostrophe_s]

That advice on disposing old pillows was just what I needed at the moment. I would never have thought of animal shelters. Thank you!

[@katia.luna213]

I was so annoyed with myself that I paused this and reorganized my closet 😂😂😂

[@lrlal3874]

Well done 👌👌

[@malinf7779]

I’m watching this after my bedtime & have a very strong urge to go through my wardrobe right NOW. 😃

[@DrShanSKP]

How can this lady be a minimalist 🤔. Even those KZbinrs who do makeup videos and waste a lot of stuff won't wear these much dress in a single video as this lady wore. There are 8-10 dresses in a single video & she's telling she's a minimalist. wtf 😂😂😂

[@thatswhatisaid8908]

@@DrShanSKP these clips have been filmed over a period of months. In some of the clips, she is still pregnant.

[@eathomelive]

@@DrShanSKP She filmed it over multiple days. They don't always get everything in one take, and 5 minutes of video can take 2 days to film. A two hour movie can take 6 months to a year to finish. She is not wasteful, she is just filming on multiple days.

[@scrapjoy]

I'm asking myself, when decluttering or shopping, whether I want to clean the thing(s) short-term or long-term. This helps me weed out impulse items and stuff we don't regularly use.

[@belbe417]

We still use old towels n cloths for cleaning rags then chuck them when to grubby

[@pamelalopez23]

Watching this made me realize I am on the right path and I have been doing these practices unconsciously. Which makes me feel good, yet I still have a long way to go but doing these things day in and day out has helped me so much! On the path to achieving the full minimalist and I’m so happy about that! 😁✨

[@KenNakajima07]

Melissa is the real deal! all will be tidy and clean now... I've been such a pig lately and she explains all these things very simple.

[@bbyluvpnay]

I started the minimalism lifestyle a few months ago. It has been the best decision I’ve made. I have been mindful of what I need to buy. I work in the medical field and I ended up purging a Lot of my clothes. Realistically I only wear clothes on the weekend so why do I need a closet full of clothes that I rarely wear? Then I started to do that in every room of the house. So I am mindful now of items I buy. Do I really need this? It saves me money and clutter in my home.

[@trishhudson151]

So you go naked the rest of the week????

[@lovewithoutthelover]

I see all the effort in this video!! The days it took to film, outfit changes, showing examples of you actually doing each item, and the timestamps! Thank you - THIS is quality content!

[@Miss_Annlaug]

These guys create really good videos . I agree

[@quadri87]

pay attention more closely. they previously made videos about cluttering not just in the current house they're living but also in their old house as well. few of the clips it actually showed that Melissa was pregnant. basically they fished out clips and made into a video that makes sense. the only thing they did is recorded the intro/exitro for this video and incorporated it. yes its tiresome to fish out the clips and editing it. awesome effort for sure!!

[@lovewithoutthelover]

@@quadri87 Hafsa, I recognized that the clips are old and filmed on different days. It takes effort to compile clips over time and make a video visually interesting, where they could have selected to simply state the step and give a basic visual. The attention to detail, like not showing the same setting back to back, is apparent. I am commending them for their effort in making a pleasing and informative video, not in their laboring to change hair and makeup for every scene like the overzealous cast of a local theatre. Thanks!

[@ccvirginia7098]

I discovered minimalism a few years back. I am still a work in progress but have made great strides in simplifying our home. This will help tremendously when we decide to downsize (once the nest is empty). I like for my home to look lived in but the less visual clutter I see the calmer I feel.

[@cindy1274]

It feels good! To declutter, now it's easy to do. I also keep a box in my garage for things I don't need then take to good will.

[@maryriley6163]

You have some good advice. Especially about hanging onto empty boxes that look so useful but only contain "boxed space". Also getting rid of single use appliances. I use my old dish cloths and towels for scrub rags. Thanks for all the tips.

[@devil200723]

I definitely tried to like this video like 3 times lol! I love minimalist things. I've realized living with so much stuff is just so dumb! Thank you melissa! I love your channel!

[@sharsendinglove7799]

Love this channel. Wish it was around 20 years ago but I'm grateful to have it now. I grew up in a home where I was not taught how to clean. It was gross and unsanitary. I did my best to learn how to clean from others. Thank you for all the help. It's much appreciated.

[@kathy3178]

You gave some great wisdom on moving to a bigger home. Looking at the reasons why are so important. It is okay to go bigger if it truly is what works best for your family. Don't go bigger because you have too much stuff and you need a place to put everything.

[@gingerlawson9612]

Love love your lifejacket decluttering part it sounds like something my husband would do (save them) lol lol. I'm slowly decluttering to be a minimalist, saw a YOU TUBE on what a family was going through after there parents passed and I can not do that to my 2 kids. One is a keeper and I mean a keeper and the other is just the opposite, so I rather be the one to decide what is what. Love all your series and the home made cleaners.

[@lesliwiese4121]

When your home is on the market, it's a great time to implement your clean surface minimalism challenge! I was a bit surprised that I really enjoyed seeing less on the kitchen counters and I now keep it that way!

[@cleanmyspace]

Makes for a more calming kitchen experience!

[@GiGiWellness28]

Recently I've reorganized the things on our kitchen bench, so the cooking utensils are now all put in the drawer, my husband (who cooks more than me) asked, "Who cooks more?" I replied, "You. But I like how it looks now!" That was the end of our conversation of this topic ✌🏼😅 Then few days later, our friends came over, one of them noticed the change and remarked how "empty" the bench is 🤦🏻‍♀️ I hope I did tell her the beauty of a "empty" bench top (she remarked when I was busy arranging things with other guests, so can't remember 🙄)

[@justinlowder3927]

So true. My house is on the market and it looks much better with less stuff out on the counters 😃

[@lcg2483]

I'm currently transitioning to becoming a minimalist. I started decluttering yesterday and it feels good. I kinda also feel like I can get rid of more. I live in a 3 bedroom 2 and half bath and it's just me. I plan on downsizing in the near future and can't wait to begin my journey. Loved the video.

[@beth3853]

I have watched this multiple times since you posted it. It has really motivated me! We have moved most photos or special cards, etc. to the cloud. It just makes so much sense when you can actually enjoy them more if they are easier to access. We are at about a dozen bags of shredded paper. It was all taking up a closet that now holds our games. I don't hate to look in that closet anymore.

[@andylise08]

We say no thank you to samples, free toys at the dentist, giveaway stuff at events/parties. There's a donate box in the garage, I encourage my kids to fill up every few months with things they do not play with, read, use or grew out of. I'm not a minimalist but I do embrace open space and enjoy decluttering/organizing. I also enjoy shopping, owning things I want rather than need and I do seek life experiences.

[@carmenarroyo9235]

Elle W. lol

[@jackieclingman9707]

We are working on one space at a time. Recently went through all of our DVDs and donated MANY that we hadn’t watched in years to a local shelter. My struggle: “I spent money on this and I hate to get rid of it!”

[@judithkimball2125]

Jackie Clingman; What helped me with this dilemma was remembering a quote, “Does your stuff and things around you represent who you are today?” “Get rid of clutter and you may just find it was blocking the door you’ve been looking for...” “You can’t reach for anything new if your hands are full of yesterday’s clutter.” “ *The* *more* *you* *own* *things,* *the* *more* *they* *own* *you...”* I hope this helps. Best wishes to you, on this minimalist journey.

[@newfie_mom7300]

We’re planning on moving this year, and having these list of things you mentioned Melissa...Thank you! I’ve been working on stuff, but having time this summer will give me a big opportunity to get rid of SO MUCH MORE. I wanna make time for my hobbies and taking care of my health. THIS will give me that opportunity!

[@notefullliving8760]

I’ve learned so much from you over the years. I didn’t realize how much of each clip you shared from past videos that I’m doing this automatically all the time, there’s no spring clean anymore it’s just a year round thing! Clutter still happens, we are a family of 5 and a dog now! Hopefully I’m an example to my kids and they will live with less too!! Fellow Canadian here, love your channel 💕

[@mooabdzar3972]

I just found out your channel today, and just watched about 4 of them and i found it all very useful! So thank you so much for that! I wish you all the best and please keep up the good work 🙏

[@sevenmilestretch]

To make sure donations exit my home, I call GreenDrop. They drive by my home on a scheduled day, and I can designate that my donations go to support the American Red Cross or to Purple Heart. My goal is to have a weekly appointment to keep items moving out the door. Another plus is that I can download all of my charitable donation receipts from the websites if I misplace the door hanger card they leave behind.

[@laylalyn5485]

“One day I might need that” and “freebies” are my pitfalls. I love your tips!!

[@bongothom]

Thanks for Not apologizing for wanting to live in a bigger space. There is nothing wrong with having what you have earned

[@melindasalinas1821]

I'm SO happy to have found your channel! I recently noticed that I have begun to accumulate clutter and I hate that. I'm excited to get started in my one bedroom apartment so I don't feel it smaller than it is. Thank you!

[@cleanmyspace]

Thanks for watching Melinda! Good luck!

[@lindabyrne5692]

Sometimes I just feel confused and overwhelmed.

[@jmo5186]

That's me, overwhelmed and not always knowing where to start, now I just pick a place and set a timer and start. If I keep doing it, then that's ok, but if something I find needs immediate attention, then that is what needs to be focused on in that moment. Sometimes it is better to do anything, then do nothing. Priorities tend to bubble to the surface. If I were wholly successful, I wouldn't be here looking for hope and inspiration.

[@RFernandez18]

Same here. I don't know where to begin or if I really want to keep it so I leave it and tell myself I'll handle it later. I also keep things because of the memory that comes with but really I should get rid of it.

[@sharon_irishgirl]

Declutered my whole bedroom in a few hours have a minimal wardrobe now My personal space On my minimalist journey over 5 years slowly getting there Routines are so important for me Don’t go to bed with a dirty sink was a starting point for me Love watching your videos 😊

[@murielaveline5809]

I just discovered this video and Boy do I need it ! Here are my 2 main problems: 1/ I don't put things away every day so then it accumulates and becomes a pile that you don't want to get to because it looks overwhelming...... 2/ it's not really the sentimental thing but it's the famous "One day I may"..... need it.... and I never do ! I'm working on all that..... I have been for over 50 years..... but this will help me..... so Thanks !!

[@bedi09]

I used my magic bullet for years. To a point where the blades refused to rotate. Lived the 5 beautiful years together.

[@anashappydays]

That is something I cannot live without 😍

[@shirleyfretty487]

I'm truly a procrastinator, I'm going to try and do better!!! Thanks!!

[@lynnroney1234]

Yes. I'm going to start tackling things tomorrow. And then if I havent started yet well you can't start something after a certain hour so it gets put off until tomorrow.

[@niemoge5576]

Hi Melissa, I wanted to thank you for this great channel. A few months ago I found a video tutorial about using garment steamer (didn't have a clue how to use it properly :D ) and I checked out a few random videos on this channel... after one day I was a cleaning enthusiast. Your approach and advice completely transformed the way I clean my house - I am more efficient, using the right tools and for the first time in my life I am able to actually maintain everything in order instead of forcing myself to clean everything once a week for hours. You made my life so much easier! Can't thank you enough!

[@autumngreenleaf3390]

Thanks. Yes I practice. I did a major haul out a couple of years ago and never looked back. From time to time I find items to get rid of, in fact I did that today. It feels great. Great therapy.

[@misschanandlerbong92]

Two big rules i go by especially as a recovering shopping addict when im buying something is “where will this be in 6 months? Is this an impulse buy? Do i LOVE it? Is it useful? Will i get bored of this item and sell it?” And when im decluttering i use the 20/20 rule, “have i not used this item in 3-6 months or its appropriate season? Can i rebuy it for $20 in under 20 minutes? Get rid of it!” I swear i have never rebought anything ive gotten rid of with this method.

[@JenniD1990]

MissChanandlerBong (nice handle by the way) can you elaborate please on your 20/20 think, like can i rebuy it for $20 in 20min, I don’t understand?

[@misschanandlerbong92]

JenniD1990 absolutely! if you are struggling to get rid of an unused item that you have been holding onto, the question to ask yourself is “can i rebuy this item anytime for under $20 within 20 minutes? If you can answer “yes” then get rid of that item because its very easy to replace and you havnt needed it in the past 6months + so if for some unlikely reason in the future if you do need to rebuy it you can very cheaply/easily. Doing this method i have yet to rebuy a single item, it makes getting rid of those “well i might need it someday” purchases Easier. does that make more sense? 🙂

[@juliebryant6438]

The last time that we replaced our pillows, they were put in the dogs beds. They had torn up their old beds so I put them in their petcarts because that is where they sleep at night.

[@anashappydays]

And they can smell you and be extra happy ❤️

[@am2brok]

I purge SO much more clothing when I decide ahead of time...how many of each item I need. We typically wear only 20% of our clothing anyway. If I do laundry weekly, then I know I need 8 seasonal tops (7 days +1 spare). I choose to only keep what fit, was comfy & that I actually liked! I ended up denoting a few bags of clothing; but still had to shop for 2 tops to get to my # of 8. I shopped to fit my new criteria (mostly had to find ones that I actually liked)...and I shopped guilt free because I wasn't getting much & I knew I'd wear it : )

[@dorothymaness1528]

Thank you so much I was so overwhelmed by my clutter listening to you over & over really helps 💗 NOONE ELSE HAS EVER BEEN ABLE TO MAKE ME THINK THE WAY YOU DID ❣️

[@alanad2339]

I'm great at decluttering but it's the follow through on where to send the stuff that I fail at. Still working on it. My garage would be much happier place if I followed through haha

[@prettyacct]

I post things on Craigslist for free and people will come and pick up practically anything.

[@patriciabond2227]

Its definitely the emotional side of it that gets me everytime I try & I really do try especially this year I've been what I think is ruthless but when I turn around theres still loads of "stuff"😏 I love the idea of putting everything away & trying it out so I think I'll give that a go👍 thanks for the ideas😀

[@Miss_Annlaug]

If your emotional about stuff its perfect for you to get help from a rational and practical friend when decluttering.the friend can lovingly yet rationally guide you. being emotional is not a bad thing its really beautiful: but it makes it harder to let go of things.its ok to ask for help. Emotional people really do well with hiring professionals to help them let go as long as the professional is kind and sensitive

[@johny9004]

This video has given advice on how to approach "minimalism" in a way that I can actually do it and ACOMPLISH it. Thank You.

[@julies9267]

Yes! I am living a minimalist lifestyle and trying to be an example to my family! ❤️ Thank you for sharing your ideas! 🌿

[@princesswarrior6945]

The life jackets bit is too funny! I've never imagined to see someone doing laundry in a life jacket! 🤣🤣🤣

[@rebeccalunsford9372]

Getting started when trying to keep up on everything else.

[@hameley12]

Thank you, Melissa, for this vlog! After watching the full video I read most of the comments. Yes, I have to agree that it is hard and sometimes emotional to let go of items that bring us happy memories, albums and other items. It did take me two years to reevaluate my life and my spending habits, and finally, last year before Covid-19 started (when I was moving). It took me a month to donate and sell most of my items. Yes, out of one hundred and ten things now I have twelve things in a box wrapped and in a USPS box. If someone on Facebook clicks buy, I can send it immediately. It has been a difficult year, but thanks to great and inspiring minds like yourself, and Ashlynne Eaton, Nate O'Brien, and Matt D'Avella other KZbin creators; clearing your home and your mind from all the clutter and noise the world throws at you does become easier. Life is a journey and we can make it. Take good care, Melissa. ❤️ New happy subscriber.

[@martiskclife8908]

Just got back from Salt Lake City where our friends live with their children who are minimalists.....it was almost stark and shocking but by the time I left I felt like I needed to dash right home to cleanse. I have way too much stuff and your approach is something I can live with. Thank you so much.

[@alexandralarco]

And a way is to everyday I look for something we don’t need anymore, my kids clothes... we saving clothes for baby number three but not overwhelming savings so it’s better to keep the good quality and sentimental items :)

[@nida1990]

Omg! I just realised you are expecting! Congratulations 🐣

[@elisakuratli1213]

I’m currently slowly transitioning toward a more minimalist lifestyle.. I’ve accumulated so many things over the years that I find it pretty overwhelming to go through them. I realized that the best thing is to just start, even with a drawer or something small. Then, when I realize how much better I feel when looking at the decluttered space, it motivates me to keep going. It’s a slow process as I have a three months old baby, so when I start decluttering I often have to make a lot of breaks to breastfeed or more generally give him some needed attentions.. It will probably take me a long time to go through all of our stuff, but I can’t wait to finally have a more minimalist and decluttered home! Sentimental items were an hard task for me as well, but I found out what works for me! I have a “memories” folder in Dropbox divided with other categories folders where I digitally store the pictures of the sentimental items I don’t want to keep anymore. So for example I have a folder for clothes, one for gifts, one for postcards, etc... By having a picture of that item, I know I still can go back to it if I want to and I feel way less guilty giving it away.

[@HenryJohnsonCenter]

I don't know why but I love the name "Clean My Space" so much!! Genius!!!

[@ItCantRainForever2]

My ex called me a hoarder but he's a narcissist. 😂 I'm a very organized person and I am always trying to declutter. Haters. Lol

[@Anywhooo]

😂😂🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@adriannegonzalez3277]

That’s hilarious bc cleaning and decluttering is the literal opposite of hoarding

[@ariliving]

My OCD was bothered by the inside of the fireplace. I recommend painting it with fire safe black paint, it helps make it look more streamlined and hides burn marks

[@kj5123]

Ariliving same 😂

[@tammieparrishmiller3669]

I plan to move into an RV within a few yrs. so my and I will be FORCED to declutter and downsize everything. I look forward to that day! I am so overwhelmed that I don't even know where to start cleaning, let alone declutter. It's not like I'm hoarding, but I have to many pots and pans/dishes and not enough cabinet space. I'm married to a carpenter and have been begging for a wall of just open box type cabinets for years! He's busy and I get it. I'm just going to have to buy something to make due. I'm going to binge on some of your videos. I want my house to be open and airy and easy to WANT to clean! I very much enjoyed your video and look forward to getting some motivation from you! Thanks, Tammie