How to Declutter WITHOUT Making a Mess!

[@TheMinimalMom]

THANK YOU for watching! I was able to visit with Dana after this, you can see our interview video here as well as another video I added answering some questions that came up after: www.ithinkwecouldbefriends.com/2020/07/13/how-to-declutter-without-bigger-mess/ (if you have ad blockers installed you may not be able to see the videos!!) We talked about if this method works if you have health challenges, physical limitations, ADHD or anxiety- Dana had great insight and advice!

[@ANNtique]

I had heard of this book and was sure I must have read it. Nope. Currently listening to it on scribd and loving it. I really like her way of explaining it! Thanks for the recommendation!

[@katiebellejohnson3442]

I love this book!!!! It changed the way I do things and see my stuff. An excellent method! So glad to see someone on YT implementing it.

[@nicole1184]

I listened to it as a audio from the library. It was a GREAT book. I should listen to it again.

[@bonniebeach9861]

The Minimal Mom - Thanks so much for sharing her with us!!!

[@ShaGemDropper]

Hello, @The Minimal Mom where did you purchase your bench with shoe storage locate near your door?

[@moegirl76]

I LOVE this method! There's nothing worse at the end of a declutter than a pile to put away when you're already TIRED! What a great idea.

[@suzum5689]

Dana White is awesome that way.

[@shelleykapp9637]

Cass from Clutterbug also addresses this. Instead of the "throw all your clothes on the bed to see what you've amassed" approach, she talks about taking 1 item out at a time from the closet, make a decision about it and, if it's a keep, put it back in the closet with the hangar hook pointing in the opposite direction from the items still hanging but needing to be assessed.

[@christinaparker5594]

The "declutter mess" is one of the things that keeps me from actually decluttering .... This video was VERY helpful! Thank you!

[@walshjoy51]

I began decluttering at 68 because I don’t want my adult children to have to do it after I’m gone. I’m retired and have all the time in the world but the state of California stay at home orders became the push I needed. My children don’t live in California so I send them pictures and ask them if they want something I was going to toss or donate. The donation pile became a problem because there no one was taking donations. Good thing we have a 3 car garage. Your channel has kept me motivated and my husband is so happy ( except for the bags in his garage ).

[@Julie-rc7wl]

Joy, that is such an act of love you're doing. ❤️ After my dad passed away, my mom spent the last few years of her life organizing and fixing up her home. It's been several years ago now, and we still sometimes talk about what a selfless gift that was on her part. It was really beautiful to open her cupboards and closets and see what she had done. And it made things so much easier for us. You're a great mom.

[@marieavila7100]

Oh man if I could only get my own parents to do that!!!

[@kristadrummond5928]

This was my exact thoughts. I have so much trouble cleaning some days because each stop I make I see something I could do. Maybe I could have my kids be the runners! lol

[@christined2495]

Joy Walsh, I am 68 and also doing the same thing as you, it actually started for me after my Mom passed, I knew then I would never want my daughter to have to work so hard, plus the hard job of ridding memories. I was always minimal, but trust me I was able to declutter so much. If I didn’t love it, need it, or if my daughter wouldn’t want it one day, I donated it. My total donations last year were $5K.... when I drive to the thrift store the girls that work there are so excited. The thrift store helps women who are starting over, maybe because of a abusive relationship etc. I even went thru photo albums, threw out scenery photos, doubles, or any photo that wasn’t great. My daughter and son in law always joke with me and my husband they will be able to pack my home in a weekend lol But I love living this lifestyle. I believe it’s called death cleaning what we have accomplished

[@hannahcrumley3103]

This is a wonderful gift to give your family!

[@debranielsen2002]

Most other organizers tell you to pile so you are not running to other rooms and getting distracted, but this is actually making a lot of sense to me. Not to mention it would help me with my often elusive goal of 10,000 steps a day.

[@BVoshol]

If you're likely to get distracted.... this might not be the best option to declutter for you! I tried this method for a long time as it's my mom's go-to method (as we all tend towards whatever we grew up with!), but I have ADHD and as soon as I get someplace else, I forget what I was doing! I would have never come back inside from the garage... So for *me* the better option is to have a laundry basket for everything that doesn't belong. Then when the basket gets full, I go and put everything away (it's easier for me if I keep the laundry basket on my hip to stay on task) But this method worked fantastically for my mom, so it's all trade-offs!

[@emmkaa2099]

You hit the nail on the head with your comment - except for the part about your mom cleaning... my mom didn't clean 😔 . I would wind up, I really do think, with as bunch of smaller honey-I'm- decluttering piles all over the house instead of one big one in maybe the bedroom where I could, at the very least, shut the door. I'm wondering if we can high-five each other since we saw trouble coming and swerved to avoid it?? ✋

[@trish5805]

I have the same problem with ADD! I get so distracted with every thing it drives me crazy. I start every thing and finish nothing. Thanks for showing me I'm not alone with my ADD!

[@emmkaa2099]

@@trish5805 Oh my sistah! No, you're not alone. ... even to the point of tears? I gotcha!

[@Kate98755]

BVoshol this how I do it, but you have to actually distribute the bins...but if I want to do a short session I do what she did. I don’t get finished but I make progress, some is better than none

[@s.wilson2702]

@@trish5805 oh my goodness, I just saw y'alls comments about the ADD/ADHD/distractedness right after I left my own. Hope y'all get a laugh out of my own self diagnosis and humor over our struggles!

[@RedandBeard]

My husband was watching this over my shoulder and said "That makes me feel better to know that she has to keep working at it too." Love your videos!

[@bonnew6435]

Thank you! This is exactly what I need! Also, I have a tip for storing gloves- use a binder clip for each pair, then hang them on a hook. Benefits: You never lose a glove; if they're wet, they will air dry; they're easier to store & quicker to find.

[@Handsoflight7766]

I think that is a great idea

[@monkandgoose890]

For kids gloves, i just store one glove inside of the second glove. I do the same for all of our socks. No more missing matches!

[@TheIdeabaker]

Brilliant, thank you!

[@gailremp8389]

It's a great idea. Now all I need is at least one pair of gloves. I'm in Florida. Don't use them. What a great idea

[@jennifernorton5885]

Work gloves I keep in our garage where all our gardening stuff and hardware is stored. They don’t get lost then.

[@cassandraclary9019]

I love the idea of taking the item straight to its home! I’ve read/saw many different recommendations from other sources to just throw relocation items into a basket...every single time I’ve done that it stays in the basket. I have countless bags/boxes/containers full of “relocation” items. I don’t care if I get distracted; just putting the item in its home is the win for me!

[@MrsApril-kx9wt]

Was anybody else shocked/relieved to see that Dawn had a messy closet in her house?😂 Love you Dawn and thanks for the great tips and for showing us real life situations that happen in most of our homes. ❤️

[@sundoesshine8800]

Yes! And she does all those little things like squirrel away seed packs (then forget where we put them).

[@erikasolgos2066]

yes! so grateful Dawn keeps it real for us!

[@carolg.6838]

Yes, I actually checked the date of the video and thought it might have been a look back. It was a typical closet for anyone else. Yes, glad she kept it real so some of us could relate.

[@tobydanieljones]

I was surprised, rather than shocked, but I took succour in knowing that clutter happens to the best of us, and that my mess doesn't mean there's something wrong with me.

[@traceycutler9924]

I have watched this video. 3 times. Finally put it into practice today. Got my lounge tidy and already on nearly 4000 steps before midday and I haven't left the house yet. Thank you again for the inspiration!!!

[@jennerationcreations5982]

I love this method. The biggest thing that stalls me from decluttering is e idea that you have to make a bigger mess before it gets better. I run out of steam before I get through it all and then I have an overwhelming pile just staring at me. Lol. Gonna try this method!

[@lindenpeters2601]

Yes, I agree! And this is great if you only have limited time/energy to put into decluttering. You can just set a timer and see how much you can get done in that time. In 20 minutes with this method, you make actual progress. 20 minutes into the Konmari method and you just have a bigger mess!

[@RedRockingBird]

Going to try and have a de-clutter tomorrow too, being a creative i always have so much creative stuff out ALL over the place, seems like a huge task, we can do this! 😆

[@alycewich4472]

@@RedRockingBird I agree!

[@mllegordon1]

@@RedRockingBird I’m creative too and always have various projects completed at various stages! My projects should be in their own bags/baskets but that doesn’t always happen. I need to find vlogs that address this problem.

[@deirdrefalatico1972]

I really appreciate how you talk through your process , including how it’s tempting to create a pile to go to the garage or the basement, but you went ahead and took care of them right away, and how good it felt. I needed to see this video!

[@debbiesmith4582]

Confession: “what did you do today?” Made messes to try to get organized... NOT ANY MORE!!! Thanks sooo much for sharing !!!

[@thegoodlife1238]

So, you will never believe this, but my 13 y.o. daughter loved your videos and told me to watch you. I am so glad I did. We are on a small farm and homeschool. Trying to keep up everything has been so overwhelming. Your videos are inspiring me to have a winning, "stay-on-top-of-it" type of attitude! First the house... then the workshop and barn! Thanks.... definitely a thumbs up and subscribe!

[@bonniebeach9861]

Found her a week ago and have been binge watching and listening to her Podcasts- I’ve found my people!! Will be a minimalist soon!!!

[@jjohnson8549]

Me, too, I am feeling relieved just having some advice and proof that it can be done! I don't even need to get rid of this much. Her house is too minimal for my taste. I like a cozier feel, but I am feeling confident I can get there (for the first time in a long time!)

[@jessicamcelroy7879]

Our first child is now 3 months. I grew up in a home that could have been on an episode of Hoarders and I can’t imagine child services would have let us stay at some points. I’ve struggled so much in my life with keeping things clean and organizing. I really feel like this channel has been an answer to a prayer I had forgotten about. And this method is going to help me get it done. I want to give my baby and my family the comfortable and calming environment that they want and deserve to be in. Thank you for all you’ve shared!!!!

[@klarab84]

I love to see how you “still” need to declutter - because I’ve also been a minimalist for a few years and can sometimes feel so tired that I still need to declutter areas in our house.... but it’s encouraging to see that other minimalists ends up with messy spots I their homes 😊

[@phoenixspirit9530]

Even as a minimalist, you live in the real world. You live a real life and messes tend to happen. For most of us, minimalism is an ongoing journey. Oh how nice it would be if , It were as simple as...do it once and done ! I think we all get tired sometimes... It's okay.

[@klarab84]

Exactly! And if you compare recent declutter if with the ones in the beginning off the minimalist-journey- it’s so easy and quick nowadays 😊 Greetings from Sweden 😊

[@carnamilinga]

Especially with children or pets it can be so hard. I am struggling with my children on a daily basis to have a decent amount of organization and clutter free space. Feels like an endless journey.

[@minimalzebra]

I’ve been living minimally for a few years too and I still declutter.things change and get worn out decluttering is part of life.

[@lauramorris4632]

Decluttering is a forever thing haha I've been a "minimalist" for 5 years and am CONSTANTLY reevaluating and decluttering. I think being intentional about your things is what makes you a minimalist, which means you will continue to be intentional and aware. Such a great thing! Keep up the good work!

[@MissMaxdalena]

Oh wow! This just clicked so many gears in my head - amazing! Paused half-way through and did a 5 min declutter in my own hallway and it feels fantastic! Thank you both for sharing!

[@mommaneedshelp6741]

The motto I always use is "Don't waste a trip!" If I see/know something needs to go to the other room while am walking to said room, I'll grab it and take it with me. This is really helpful when going up and down the stairs. 99% of the time I tend to take it exactly where it needs to go.

[@debbiescott6349]

This is my method too - my energy needs to be conserved so I tend to make use of shopping bags, fill up at the bottom of the stairs, unload at the top.

[@GearMaven]

@@debbiescott6349 Exactly! At 2-story home in Ireland, we'd have a basket or bag at top and bottom of stairs for next person going either direction!

[@judycanales4767]

My Mom taught me this because she learned it when she was a waitress

[@alycewich4472]

@@GearMaven I did that with a basket at the bottom of the stairs for my sons to take up to their rooms when they went upstairs. Their legs were younger so I never bothered with a basket at the top of the stairs.

[@Jazzy_]

I keep my reusable bags in the car so I always have them! When I'm done shopping, they go under/by my keys so I take them back out next time I leave. I also keep a blanket in my car (similar to the stadium blanket). I rarely use it, but it takes up very little space and I've always been so glad to have it the few times I've needed it!

[@dubosesjoy]

I’m impressed because not only are you walking to these places, but you are also setting up your camera with each transition, too! It’s even more of a work out/time commitment. Good work!

[@melodyrankin722]

I had not really thought of that! Maybe she has a volunteer videographer ready to help with those!

[@hulamama2870]

DAWN! YEEEEAAAHHH!!!!! 200 THOUSAND SUBSCRIBERS!!!!! WHOOP! WHOOP!!! WAY TO GO GIRL!!! YOU HAVE HELPED SO MANY, INCLUDING MYSELF! YOU AND YOUR FAMILY ARE SUCH A BEAUTIFUL BLESSING!!! MAY GOD CONTINUE TO ENCOURAGE YOU AND CONTINUE TO LIGHT YOUR PATH IN FRONT OF YOU. CONGRATULATIONS!!!!! SO HAPPY FOR YOU LOVE!!! KEEP LETTING YOUR LITTLE LIGHT SHINE!!!🌞🌞🌞🤩😍😍😍🥳🥳🥳🥳🥰🥰😘😘😘💖💖💖

[@dirgniflesuoh7950]

A basket for carrying the relocation stuff seems like a good idea.

[@alycewich4472]

@Dirgni Flesuoh - I was thinking the same thing. That way I could take things to the shop and the garage at the same time, saving me a trip by carrying more things.

[@alexiswittman3876]

@@alycewich4472 but then you end up with clutter on the foyer floor. Her whole point is to have only the trash bag and donation box around so that if interrupted, there's no disorder.

[@Pretty_Pastry_609]

I would have just used one of the reusable bags.

[@jeanvignes]

Thanks for the very interesting ideas. I'd like to add that the best advice I can give people about decluttering is to SHRED AS YOU GO. Much like your extra trips to the car/basement, shredding as you sort papers prevents you from having a monster pile of documents to shred when you're done. I put on some non-distracting instrumental music, hold each piece of paper in my hand, and decide: action, file, recycle, or shred? If the answer is shred, I do it immediately. It's very satisfying.

[@jennilulu6692]

Dana's youtube chanel is one of my favorites! While the Konmarie makes logical sense, we live in a small house with three animals who will curl up in the piles and make more work (laundry). With Dana's method I can take one drawer, one cabnet, or one closet and in usualy 10-20 minutes, have it done. And once that happens I am motovated to do more : ) If I have to leave in the middle of the task (dinner needs to happen, my husband needs to be picked up at the auto repair shop, the chickens got loose), that closet is better than it was! Better done than perfect!

[@regdesousa9763]

He he ... why do animals love to sleep on stuff..

[@itsacarolbthing5221]

What is her YT channel called, please? X

[@jennilulu6692]

@@itsacarolbthing5221 Her channel is- Dana K White (A Slob Comes Clean) kzbin.info For a good laugh, watch her skits in the playlist "Clutter Avoidance Conversations." : )

[@taunyaw2181]

Okay. I will admit that when you first started talking about this on this video, I was a bit skeptical. I was actually clean out are lower level. LOL and I looked behind me and saw all of my piles. So I did the biles. Take the recycling out to the recycling, check the food pantry stuff out to my Jeep, check the returns out to my Jeep, took the stuff to the barn to the barn, and brought stuff upstairs and the closets where they needed to go. I even decluttered some other things. It was a nice change of pace to be outside instead of in one place for instance. And I just got done and I have no piles! Time for lunch :-)

[@suzysholar5151]

When I have multiple returns, I put a list in my phone with the dollar amount and store names. Then, I can prioritize based on my travel route and or the value of the returns. Sometimes, the lower dollars get donated. I also look for receipts and put them in the bag with the items; one bag per store. Other times I hand my kids a bag and receipt and have them make the return, then they get to keep the cash. I figure it is a good way to teach them how to do a return, on their own. Waiting in line and interacting with cashiers can be intimidating, but knowing they get the money encourages them!

[@janisboyd1619]

Super ideas!

[@NJ-xp4eb]

That is brilliant idea to teach kids how to return items and consider saving or spending money, superb tip

[@colleenrainbowblack8762]

Excellent idea. It makes your children more responsible and teaches them the value of a dollar.

[@twinboys6401]

I did this and now my kids are return happy. I sleep with one eye open so they don’t try to return me lol

[@alycewich4472]

@Suzy Sholar - What a great idea. My kids are grown and gone, but I can suggest it to young parents that I know.

[@NCottageDesigns]

I subscribed to your channel a couple of weeks ago. I started decluttering last year then stopped. I never finished decluttering. Then stuff crept back in the house. I am a crafter and have a KZbin Channel, which I really don't feel like doing videos. My house has gotten so cluttered and my crafts stored every where. Mind you, you can walk through my house. I know and my husband has told me that he hates all the clutter of my crafts every where. I would be organizing all the time. I use our dining room as my craft space. I realized a few weeks ago after seeing the program/ course Take Your House Back and have joined. I also live in northern Minnesota. I love your channel. Our son is away at college and hasn't been home during the summer for 3 years. I don't feel quite yet that I can take over his room. The day I joined Take Your House Back I decluttered my kitchen. My husband seen written on a piece of paper Take Your House Back and asked me what it was. I told him that I was going to declutter the whole house and Take my house back. Thank you for all the videos, it helps so much. 💖

[@pamboatwright8281]

Oh Dawn, I so needed this. I just declutter all the time. I want to get it done and complete. I’m getting older day by day and I don’t want to do this forever. I just love you; Rusty, and your kids. They are precious. Keep inspiring us lady!

[@jemma50]

For a minute, I thought - Who's Rusty? Then I remembered Tom's channel - Rusty Judgment. LOL

[@carolg.6838]

@@jemma50 I thought the same...the dog? Her husband's name is Tom... Thanks for explaining.

[@PatriseHenkel]

I love this idea- for someone like me who is missing the tidy gene, it reinforces “put away, put away!”

[@AWanderingEye]

Old Sneakers: The Tightwad Gazette has a great idea for sneakers. It's the 3 year/pair system. 3 year old sneakers for the dirtiest of the dirty chores (I think of lawn mowing). 2 year old sneakers for your every day wear, but generally in the house. 1 year old (or newest pair of sneakers in the best condition) for out and about, here I think of dining out, picnics where I care about having a really nice outfit, looking my best, at least as far as wearing sneakers can go. This way as the oldest pair gets exhausted, they get tossed into landfill trash you then have the next beat up pair take their place and you get to buy a new pair to become your best. Your previous "best" pair now become you around the house pair. Presumably you buy 1 pair of sneakers per year, (hence 3 years of use per pair of shoes) but you might last as long as 3 years between purchases depending on quality of sneakers you buy to begin with (hence it is frugal). This is more for adults since kiddos outgrow their old shoes and they need complete replacement. Hope this helps anyone else with a shoe buying habit they want to wrangle! As with all things frugal or minimalist your mileage may vary.

[@breezybird403]

Good idea. I'm trying to keep my newest sneakers for my inside pair. I want to have a no shoe or clean inside shoe policy and am having trouble. It is such a pain to remove and change shoes, or have to even remove socks to wear sandals. I live in southern CA, so snow isn't an issue.

[@pjpeace]

I totally do this! It’s a great system.

[@carabenfield4240]

My husband does this!

[@michellebright8403]

I wish! I go through a pair of shoes every few months.

[@TheDriftwoodlover]

The Tightwad Gazette still exists?

[@MoonFoxASMR]

I needed this.... my decluttering attempts look like explosions and then I get mentally overwhelmed.

[@alycewich4472]

@MoonFoxASMR - I get frustrated and overwhelmed. AND it ends up even MORE cluttered, because of all the aptly named explosions all over the house. :(

[@MoonFoxASMR]

@@alycewich4472 💜

[@MixitupMarci]

I love how you still declutter like us, like I knew you did, but the fact that you share it is really cool and makes me feel like im not alone, between this declutter with me videos and the amazing private facebook group i dont feel alone, and I feel very very confident and supported, you have created an amazing community here and I will forever be grateful and thankful you did. The world need more people like you Dawn, thanks so so so much for everything! you rock! 😘🤔🤔 tons of hugs and kisses from your crafty friend in Spain! xo Marci

[@ednarose86]

I have watched a few of your videos today, and this was the first one. Prior to today, I've watched a LOT of decluttering, minimalist, purging, cleaning videos and I haven't found that "get up and go" mentality yet. I feel like so many that I watch are in homes completely different than mine, with tall ceilings and what looks like beautifully remodeled (or new) spaces. I LOVE seeing your other videos, that you have a realistic sized home and that you're REAL. That you share the "This is the attachment I had to this item and why I want to keep it, but why I'm okay getting rid of it." My husband always says I'm the pile queen because I tend to put things in piles. This pile is paperwork that needs to be filed, to be put in the sentimental box, coupons to go through, a pile to go upstairs, a pile to go to the laundry room, to the bedroom. It gets out of hand sometimes. LOL! And I tend to get distracted when I take this item to the garage, I see something that belongs in the kitchen, then something that belongs in the bedroom. Think, If You Give A Mouse A Cookie.

[@carriemartin4772]

I love Dana White's books! "Decluttering at the Speed of Life" was my "gateway" to minimalism (definitely not there yet but working toward it!) Also, FYI, I read a while back that you should always donate clothing regardless of the condition because many thrift stores/donation centers actually sell worn out/unsellable clothing by the pound to manufacturers of things like carpet padding. Win win!

[@loribrejcha4676]

I make a separate bag for the recyclable clothing and write RECYCLE in black marker so they don’t have to sort it!

[@sarahkleimeyer3792]

The guy at the Goodwill store once told me they sold the bad-conditioned clothing and cloth things that just won't sell to a company that repurposed them into shop rags and rugs that are sold. It has been a few years since he told me that but I have always had a box for things I think would be best to be recycled that I clearly mark. I don't think they want to sort through that stuff without knowing what it is! Old t-shirts and towels are recycled within the house. If a towel has outlived it's time, it goes to the garage and is used for cleaning the cars and gross stuff. When they are finally worn out or oil-soaked, they get thrown away. I suppose they could still be recycled but they get a pretty good work out. I use old t-shirts for cleaning but we have so many after a while that some just get donated or recycled. Another idea for t-shirts -- I know a woman who made a great quilt from her husband's old concert tees! I think it gets more use than it did when they were just t-shirts! I don't know anything about making quilts but she did a great job with it and anyone interested in a project might want to take it on.

[@ginic7932]

@@sarahkleimeyer3792 you can also cut T-shirts into a nice stretchy yarn. In addition to new life as knitted/ crocheted items this "yarn" makes very comfortable ties for face coverings!

[@alycewich4472]

@@loribrejcha4676 Good idea. I wrap anything in newspaper that's breakable before putting it in a donation box and label it fragile.

[@patriciagechei8145]

@@ginic7932 yes. I used 1" strips of T shirts as mask ear pieces.

[@rosemarynasralla3768]

My two mantras: the obvious “a place for everything and everything in its place” hut this one really makes the tidiness happen: “Handle it once”. I repeat that anytime I get the urge to put something down in a temporary place. Handle it once and put it in its correct place

[@meln5499]

Stellar advice! I have a toddler, so being able to close the closet mid declutter to deal with him and not having him digging through piles is genius! Going to employ this method this weekend - thanks.

[@marie-louiseweerheim4224]

Yes!

[@amandagoodlett5185]

That is exactly what I was thinking too! I never know if I have 10 minutes or 30 with a toddler running around, and having messes and piles laying around just stresses me out

[@dplj4428]

I saw Dana video a few days ago. Without realizing it I’ve been homing, boxing to donating, and trashing. After each energetic day, I promised myself and did honor reclaimed clear space. Also I refuse to let the not-done chew on my spirit. 3🌟⭐️💫

[@rustysz1064]

This is my favorite book to recommend for decluttering. Her "de-layering method" Is simple and makes so much sense. Both her books bring humor into what can be daunting tasks. Thanks Dana and Dawn!!

[@elizabethcallihan9971]

Agree!

[@smithyrayner]

I tried kon Marie and it worked well in the kitchen but just caused chaos elsewhere. I work away in the week and coming home at the weekend to the piles was so demotivating. I watch a few channels including this dana, a slob comes clean, messy to. Inimalist and you all return to declutter an area you have done before. There is no judgement ever. I now declutter using Dana's method sometimes or konmari for smaller areas. I think use whatever works for you without creating anxiety or stress. The biggest help from Dana I find is she says do trash first, then the easy stuff things you know belong elsewhere. Sometimes I just do 15 mins trash throughout the house and the world becomes a better place!

[@vunderwood100]

I work at decluttering every couple of months. This is by far the best method I have come across.

[@natashalindner2059]

Thank you, I did my smalls drawer last night after watching you. First aid packs to the bathroom, jewelry to the jewelry box, dead elastic smalls in the bin, a donation bag and perhaps the biggest thing of all I STARTED, after taking an online course to declutter, the method you explained worked. Many, many thanks and for me starting has been the hardest thing xox

[@kimberlywallace6102]

I really like the idea of putting stuff away as you are cleaning. Like you Dawn, I want to just pile stuff where they need to go & do later, but the whole idea of doing as you go is so much better. Than when you are done with your cleaning you have nothing else to deal with except the trash & the donation stuff. That is so much better & easier to deal with. Thank you for sharing. Love watching your videos, it has helped me to get motivated to do my own cleaning & de-cluttering. The ideas you have shared has been so helpful too because sometimes I am not sure what I need to do.

[@lindaneese3586]

I have always love to declutter this way, even though books, videos and most people tell me I am doing it wrong. So a big thank you for acknowledging there are many ways to declutter and all are OK. The point is to get the job done. 😊

[@diywithjanelle2687]

Hey there, I’m just now seeing this video....LIFE CHANGING!!!!! I decided to clean my upstairs hallway cause it seems like the best drop off area 🙄. I watched this as I cleaned and my trash is outside in the trash, my goodwill stuff is in the van, my laundry is getting done as we speak folded and put away.......awwww, feels so good to feel like I accomplished something today!! Thank you so much for sharing your tips!!

[@reneetittle2408]

Love this way of decluttering. I would put that blanket in the camper. It could be used for so many things when camping and if it gets ruined or lost, no problem. Love your channel, look forward to each episode!

[@ericaterrones16]

Love that you did all this IN the video so we see the real process and not just before and after.

[@lindenpeters2601]

I am only 4 minutes in, and I can relate to this method! While I love the idea of quickly decluttering by throwing all the stuff that "doesn't belong" into a basket, I ALWAYS end up with a basket full if clutter that I NEVER feel like putting away!! So I think this method will work better for me, personally. I like being finished when the space is clean and tidy. I don't like having to keep working after the space is tidy. This is a true version of the "touch once" method.

[@lovefortruth3414]

Dawn, I was a,skeptic of this method for a whole. But I just did one round of the steps in 15 minutes yesterday, and I loved it! It was easy, non-emotional, and no mess to come back to when I got pulked away from the project. I DID cheat with a de-clutter box for our-of place items. And tgen I added a de-clutter run-tgrough of the house, putting away the items on the box. That was a 5 mi ute task. And I did not do alk tge steps at once. I did a step, wzlked away to do other housework, then just went onto ghe next step, and conti ued that way. This is how I'm going to de-ckutter from now on, one no mess de-clutter round at a time :) ❤

[@hotmessmomtv4117]

While putting stuff away as I go tends to be distracting for me, since I tend to find other things to get into in other rooms, I do find it to be much more satisfying and motivating to put things away immediately, because of the visible progress that's made so quickly. ❤️❤️

[@nikistein6689]

Thank u for ur videos! I just started decluttering for my 2021 resolution. I have been working really hard this 1st month & have my 3rd (big) donation box ready to go. I just had to share that I cleaned out my hall linen closet & threw out 31 boxes/packages & organized it all into 6 bins. For the first time I can actually see the shelves! It feels SO good! Like a rush, & I can't wait to do more! Thank u again for the inspiration.

[@stepht5]

I’ve been following Dana’s advice for a while - I love all of her books! It’s made a huge difference in my decluttering life! I used to just take everything out and make lots of piles! Ugh! Too many times I was left with a mess!

[@angelasnodgrass6621]

I listened to two of Dana’s books. Great ideas. I like her. I listen to your videos when I am decluttering. They help me so much. I don’t feel alone. It goes a lot quicker when I am listening to your videos. My home feels calm and peaceful. It all started with one video of yours. Thank you, thank you.

[@jamiewagner7066]

I do this method without even realizing it was a thing, hahaha! It works so well, and the exercise is great too! Thanks for sharing your messy closet with us--- it was great to see that this really is an ongoing process that can keep on being empowering when we buckle down and tackle it. :)

[@valv4008]

This is great, just found your channel ! ❤️. I’d put the stadium blanket in the car, multiple uses, picnics, cold kids, cover for bigger valuables in back , pet blanket etc....

[@melaniegaeth]

Another thing I’m thinking is sometimes I’m decluttering and I don’t have a ton of time. This method makes it so if I can’t finish, whatever I’ve done so far is finished! The problem is that my current method leaves a mess because I run out of time and the piles are all still sitting there. They end up getting reshuffled and a bigger mess is made and the job is harder to finish later and I avoid it! 😬😳 I’m going to try this!

[@irinam8709]

I thought the same thing! It's a good method for small laps of time.

[@longfield0023]

I completely relate.

[@tracyjones6013]

I like this method a lot. I hate the big mess when I stop so definitely going to try this.

[@stephandozzie]

I am SO glad that I came across this tonight! I had a stroke of inspiration to get some organizing done and in the length of this video, I'm already feeling like I've been so productive! Even paying bills as I come across them. I often end up just shuffling papers around when I try paper organizing. Thank you!!

[@scaredofmice8658]

Love this system because it helps a disabled person like me We get tired very quickly and have to quiet thank you for doing this for us disabled

[@CarlaTreeMiss]

8 months in and I still need this kind of encouragement! I remember you setting that closet up and it's a relief that it got messy!! Lol. I cleaned my linen closet at the same time and it needs a going through too. Thanks for letting us see the messy bits - very helpful!

[@midtownfarmgirl5494]

I love Dana's method. It's changed my life. I'm still a slob but it's much neater than it was. And my kitchen sink is always clean before I go to bed. I've been keeping it up for more than 2 years.

[@kylablack8990]

THANK YOU for this option! I've been binging The Home Edit episodes, but even the THOUGHT of taking everything out all at once overwhelms me because I KNOW I'll be rocking in a fetal position once it's out. I am willing and able, ABLE, to try this method immediately. My therapist also thanks you.

[@LittleQueenie64]

I’m so glad you shared this. I am the person who keeps pulling stuff out, but never gets to finish. Since my laundry room is off my carport, I’m going to back my car in so the donations can go straight into a box in my trunk and pull the outdoor trash bin up and toss everything that needs to go. I put plenty of shelving in there to be better organized, but it’s turned out to be a junk collector. You have motivated me!

[@renaewilks3762]

I love Dana and love her first book “a slob comes clean”😍

[@artfulbarb5775]

As soon as I finished watching this, I went to work. Several trips to the garage. I finally finished organizing my home office with everything in its place and nothing out of place. Also straightened up 2 bathrooms, my bedroom and living room!! Thanks. I enjoy your videos!

[@Nicole-yi2lo]

I get distracted going to another place, so seeing you stay focused was inspiring. Thanks for modeling this project!

[@MCSK711]

I watched this on vacation & knew exactly what I wanted to tackle when I got back. We got back last night & today I jumped on my kitchen bar. It has been the catch all of no return during this covid mess. It just got to the point of being overwhelming & I didn't know what the heck to do with the pile of mess. I wish I could show you the before & after. I worked on it for about 2 hrs but was also distracted by 3 kids & my mom. Still at any point I could've stopped & at least something would've been done. I just kept going like you said, putting things in their place or finding a place since many times things get put there because I don't know where to out it or in the trash. I can't believe it's been hanging over my head for months stressing me out & in 2 hours I have a kitchen bar again. THANK YOU!

[@snowbearty]

We keep blankets like that in the car. I would never think to bring it anywhere, but we have been happy to have it a few times.

[@shellyk5423]

When my kids were young, I kept a blanket like that in my car. We used it for early morning soccer games, soccer/baseball practices, going to a park, beach or unexpected swims and when they got cold. I loved having it.

[@jmknudsen5357]

I was just going to suggest that.

[@vickimontgomery5271]

Us too! I keep blanket, towel, rain ponchos, shopping bags in the back of my van. They get used a lot that way. Otherwise I forget them.

[@jemma50]

Totally agree with you all. I would keep the blanket, as well as the shopping bags, in the car. If she remembers to take the shopping bags, why not remember to take the blanket? But if they are already in the car, no need to remember! :D And...if you can use your feet when decluttering, you can also use them to put the bags back in the car when you've unloaded your purchases. ;)

[@lindenpeters2601]

Yeah, for me, that blanket would be put away with the winter coats, and get put into the car when cold weather comes back again!

[@TheGeneralAnesthesia]

Not only is it fully done when you go put away what you see doesn’t belong, but going back and forth made me realize how often I was lazy and thought, ah! now I’m paying for that laziness and I vow to never do that again. It really worked well for me. I was so annoyed at having to go back and forth that I became determined. Thanks for sharing!!!

[@victoriachanel2493]

I started my decluttering during the quarantine, making a lot of progress. I made my first video on it😁, thank you!

[@MargotKeyes]

We lived in MN and now live in NH. YES! Winter gear is plentiful! Once my girls were 8, 8, 10 and 12, I started having them keep all their OUTERWEAR in their own rooms. Frees up so much space in our mudroom!

[@annejoyner3729]

I so needed this today. I set myself the task of doing one decluttering "project" a day to go through my whole house in 35 days. Unfortunately, that means creating a mess almost every day. I was putting off today's assignment until now. As soon as I take my walk, I'm trying this way of decluttering.

[@TheDriftwoodlover]

I admire your plan and determination. 😃

[@annejoyner3729]

Thanks- I just needed a plan to feel more in control.

[@RedRockingBird]

Hope it started off well. Going to try and have a de-clutter tomorrow too, being a creative i always have so much creative stuff out ALL over the place, seems like a huge task, we can do this! 😆

[@annejoyner3729]

@@RedRockingBird This strategy really helped me. Hope it works/worked for you.

[@RedRockingBird]

@@annejoyner3729 onward and upward to that perfect home : )

[@tamra9124]

I am so happy I found this channel. THANK YOU!!!! I've been struggling with not enjoying my space because of all of the unnecessary "STUFF" that accumulates! I fantasize about clean and tidy "everything has a space" mentality. Thank you for the great ideas. I am now feeling very motivated knowing I will accomplish my goals.

[@stacyhigginson170]

This is EXACTLY what I needed! We moved in a few months ago and we still have boxes full of stuff everywhere 😓😓😓 but I think if I try this that it will help a lot! My method was to make piles but then those piles never got put away..... 🙈 Thank you!

[@alycewich4472]

@Stacy Higginson - I downsized from an almost 3,000 sq ft home to one a little under 1,000 sq ft home a little over 4 years ago. I'm still struggling with boxes bull of stuff everywhere, with piles that never got put away with other piles on top of them (paperwork especially) But it's getting smaller and I have places to sit now. I'm so glad I found this channel!

[@HumbleVoyager]

Thanks for the video. This really confirmed my theory that there should only be two piles: throw away and donate when decluttering/cleaning. I used this method to declutter and clean out my son's room when he went away to college last year. The donate and trash piles were big, but since I put away the stuff that was staying as I went along, the job was manageable and really, just felt easier to deal with. It took me a day, but in the end the room was well organized, free of trash and the Goodwill received lots of great resalable items! A win for everyone. I only discarded one item that I later discovered was not trash (I felt so bad). However, you can't make an omelette without breaking some eggs! Thanks again! Great video!!

[@minnesotagal507]

That is a great plan, the messy piles are a pain.

[@Desjardins50]

Life changer. I thought it was ridiculous at first because my closets are not this messy. BUT I had to declutter a bad ass basement storage. I’ve used this method and it’s wonderful. One box or area at a time and bring things where they really belong. You don’t have to set a time limit your stop when you want there never is a big mess to clean out in the other areas. You don’t have to worry about throwing things back in that mess. It helps you stay on track no matter how big the job.

[@donnaromeo2223]

Thank you for all your tips on starting the decluttering process, usually I would get distracted. However your tip on cleaning your closet with a garbage bag, gave me to motivation I needed to start clearing out our mess junk closet. Which was something I’ve have been putting it off for months. What seems to be working best for me is planning my decluttering session in fifteen to twenty minutes at a time. By only giving myself the small time frame to get it done, I’m not so overloaded or stressed.

[@kristywhited8857]

Love this video! I'm one of the mess-makers. One who says decluttering always makes a mess, and things will certainly get worse before they get better....it's just part of the process. Well, I can't say that anymore. Love this method! Thanks for posting this great demo!

[@katrinaseavers]

Thank you for trying this method on your own space and sharing with us! So many things sound good in theory but then it’s a bit different in real life. This method works!! 🤩

[@ahill4642]

Impressive. Often I make a disaster doing projects like this and I am exhausted at that point and don't want to deal with the "piles". Too often I've said, "Oh, I'll finish this tomorrow".... and DON'T! And we're making a goat path around the MESS and it's way worse than the original messy closet. 😳 So this works. Very cool.

[@melodyrankin722]

“Goat path” says it pretty well! Made me laugh!

[@SarahSmith-kv2ic]

I enjoyed watching you declutter this closet. It has motivated me to go downstairs and start on a room that makes me depressed when I see it! You have such an uplifting spirit and an infectious smile. You also are so positive and have such a great outlook. Isn't it amazing that a once organized area got so disorganized but organizing it again took very little time!

[@cindygildesgaard2892]

FINALLY making a comment to you Dawn! I have been watching (and gleaning little by little) for almost a year. How your tips reflect your personal personality/style have really helped me in my process of change. I am learning a lot about myself and am learning to accept, validate and even appreciate my personal ways in this process. This has been a key to the success. (Not trying to be someone I'm not; comparing myself to others and their styles.) I am not a person who loves and lives and breathes organization but definitely loves having less and a having a more "neat" less cluttered home. I thank you, and I thank God for you girl! Keep it up!

[@thenourway]

Thank you for this. I stopped decluttering for a while now because inept making bigger messes and it was making me crazy. I am trying this today.

[@sallydavidson4471]

Great video! Not taking items to where they actually belong is a big deal. We stop our decluttering because we need to do something else or are exhausted only to find the "stuff" is still staring at us like a trip hazard it will be if left where it landed instead of where it SHOULD BE! I have 2 recommendations that I personally have used: 1) wash all the winter coats, gloves, mittens etc BEFORE you bring them to their storage area. This makes sense because in the fall when you need them it'll be a mad rush to make sure everyone is looking clean and tidy plus some items like wool scarves need to be line dried. Additionally all the mittens will be matched up ready to go OR donate to someone less fortunate! There's nothing worse then realizing you need to launder big fluffy items when all you really want to do is be outside enjoying the firepit! 2) I use clear bins on the few places in my house that are actually organized. And I label them too! You can see what is actually in the bins and they are rectangular so there is less wasted space in between them. Thanks again! I'll be getting my steps in too!

[@madonnahagedorn5649]

I'm not sure how to have 4 children and be a minimalist. You must be a genius. I'm staying tuned for your video. Thanks!

[@riostar7604]

I like this kind of video where you go through each piece to declutter or throw away. It was very helpful.

[@harmonypetty4423]

I'm just so happy to see that you still have some cluttered spots! :) I just assumed all of your closets were immaculate ;) I really resonated with Dana's chapter about recognizing that decluttering will be a lifelong process but that it gets much easier over time.

[@heatherschrader9043]

This is the whole reason I have never succeeded in the past - I make a bigger mess with piles that aren't immediately dealt with, phone rings, work calls, etc and then I feel so discouraged I cram it in a closet or throw a blanket over it but I feel like a failure. TY for showing us start to finish how this worked, I have read Dana's book but immediately cheated with my old 'pile pile' ways after reading it the illustration is amazing. You and Tom are fantastic!!!

[@meagankeele2835]

Haven't watched the video yet. Just want to say I look forward to your videos as it's just a nice happy break from current news. 💖

[@lesliearrington9096]

I actually got to thinking today that I need to make some changes and the first thought that came to my mind was, "I need to declutter".So I got on KZbin and saw Too Overwhelmed to Start? Declutter with Me and then this video. I used methods from both videos and I must say it is much easier to put away as you go. I went through two boxes in our basement in no time. I just hope I can keep up the momentum. The basement is a HUGE task so I am breaking it up into manageable pieces so I don't get overwhelmed and give up. I also took a few notes. Thank you!

[@alidaodonovan4008]

I read two of Dana's books and they CHANGED MY LIFE!! Love seeing your review of some of her key points in action. Good job! Thanks!

[@valeriethompson493]

As I watched this, I thought: Seems like a lot of wasted time to go put things away throughout the decluttering session. BUT, I decided to try this new method because, in the past, I have benefited so much from your other videos. Sure enough, this "decluttering without making a mess" REALLY worked!!! I loved not having a huge mess to deal with at the end of the decluttering session, and I was able to take a break at any point, and no one even knew I was in the middle of a big decluttering project!

[@akamelrod8872]

I prefer emptying the whole thing out, I would want to wipe everything down and vacuum etc

[@tanyawitt9638]

akaMelRod me too. Clean walls , shelves , vacuuming and spray for pests.

[@leab7789]

I feel like you could do this method then take everything out to clean the area.

[@arty04]

Exactly

[@LucyLynette]

That's me, too. Strip the piece of furniture or closet or whatever of all of its things, clean the area, and dust/wipe down anything that's going back into the space as it goes. Decluttering and cleaning are all one process for me. It's not "done" until it's clean, and regular maintenance of the area after will be a combination of clutter check/tidy up and cleaning, basically treating that closet or drawer the same way you treat a living room accent table. Clean and declutter in one sweep, every time.

[@ellyw7201]

Yeah, I definitely want to end up with everything clean, not just decluttered and well-organized on dirty shelves etc. But I've found it works well to work on closets or bookshelves one shelf at a time, starting at the top. I like to set up a small folding table, empty the shelf onto it, do any necessary cleaning, then sort things and neatly put what I'm keeping back on the clean shelf. This works great! It also works great for cleaning my refrigerator -- I used to hate that job, but doing it shelf by shelf makes it easy, and if I can't do the whole frig, no problem, I can get one or two shelves done and do more another time/day.

[@MsPatriciadelaGarza]

Ridiculously satisfying watching you tidy. Normally, I get annoyed watching people put their stuff away in videos, but I liked that you were sharing tips along the way. Also, I appreciated all the returns - I'm not the only one! 🌸

[@dawnaskey4975]

I'm a recovering hoarder so there is tons to declutter. I think that I will use this method when I know that I only have a few minutes or I know that my health is going to get to interfere with a longer burst. That said, even on my longer organization days, I take frequent pauses to put things away. It gives the visual representation of the work you have already done.

[@Marissathered]

I like that (frequent pauses to put stuff away)! Its the best of both worlds! I deal with pain and flare ups so I will set a timer for the declutter and then add 5 or 10 minutes at the end to put things away.

[@dawnaskey4975]

Marissa Mandeville I don't know what your relationship with God is like, but I want you to know that whenever my pain is high, I pray for everyone else who is dealing with chronic pain that God would do one of 3 things: a miracle/healing, a reprieve from the situation or give more grace to endure. I didn't know that I was praying for you before, but I pray for everyone who is in pain. Now I know your name and I will pray specifically for you every time He brings your name to my mind. I hope that this brings you hope.

[@missmary8878]

@@dawnaskey4975 That's very kind of you. My friend is in hospital his name is Joe would you be so kind as to say a prayer for him. Thank you from Ireland God Bless and I will say a prayer for you too!

[@dawnaskey4975]

Miss Mary, I sure will pray for both of you!

[@helengren9349]

@@dawnaskey4975 & Miss Mary: I use to pray for ALL in need : children, adults, etc.. I also visualise our Mother Earth bading in Divine white light🙏💓💕🌍 love & peace to all from Scandinavia. PS I miss Ireland so much.. 💓☘️ Visited Ballyshannon, Dublin & Cork...

[@nhobby11]

I helped my friend declutter her kitchen today and we used this method! Thank you, this video was super timely for me and we got her kitchen, mostly, done, and it wasn’t a total mess. Yay, you! I appreciate your videos a lot. 👍🤩

[@Ann.CreatedToCreate]

Dawn! I’m as excited about this as you were!! I thought the same thing and then you said it...getting my steps and workout too! Making a bigger mess has always hindered me...feeling SO good about the space being cleared just to turn around and still have piles and piles to deal with, ugh. This is brilliant!! I followed “Noni” back in the day...not sure how I drifted, but you’ve brought me full circle and I bought her book through your link...thank you again for sharing life with us 🙌🏻 🙌🏻 🙌🏻. Many blessings to you for the blessing you are to many 🥰

[@elisabethjohannes7391]

Thank you for this episode. After watching the video I subscribed to Dana‘s podcast and listened yesterday and today to the first 5 episodes. Then I decided to buy her audiobook „How to manage your home without loosing your mind“ and listened straight through it, while washing the dishes, cleaning the kitchen and bathroom, doing 2 loads of laundry (including hanging it all up to dry)... a very successful Friday afternoon/evening. Thank you for the inspiration.

[@deverdunnett1416]

First time I’ve seen you (nice recomendation!) love your positive attitude, realistic expectation...(Progress, not perfection!) thanks!