House Still Cluttered? (Even after decluttering?) Grey Area Inventory is to Blame

[@TheMinimalMom]

Thank you Blinkist for sponsoring today's video! www.blinkist.com/theminimalmom -- Use this link for a FREE 7 day trial and 25% off of a premium membership and feel motivated and inspired this new year! I hope you have a great day!!! - Dawn

[@TheAtWhatCostBlog]

Boy did I NEED this today! You are such an encouragement to me.

[@joannebailey7463]

I found your channel about 2 weeks and I am hooked!

[@nancyblockcolsky1387]

Did you say you were going to list some of your favorite books in the description? I’m not seeing the list…

[@TheMinimalMom]

@@nancyblockcolsky1387 yes! It’s right below the first paragraph in the description :)

[@ElizabethDohertyThomas]

Jesus tells us say YES or NO. Then you give us that awesome "would you wear this item of clothing THREE times in a week?" I'll call this the "Trinity rule" in my head! It could also apply to say, Christmas decorations, which for the first time, thanks to your holiday-themed videos, I got a donation pile out of things that don't work anymore with a rearrangement of our living room furniture, or don't bring us joy. SUPER liberating!

[@susannovak8263]

If I have a piece of clothing that is in the gray area, I make myself wear it for a full day. I will definitely know at the end of the day if it is a yes or a no. 😂

[@patriciaday7416]

Great idea!

[@katiewilson6561]

Brilliant! Doing this!

[@FrogeniusW.G.]

Perfect! I'll try! Thank you! ☆

[@sandyb34]

I've done that before and haven't lasted five minutes. Clearly I don't like it enough to keep it. LOL

[@kaceybirch394]

Great idea!

[@BridgettOwens]

I also ask myself, “If I saw this in the store right now, would I spend my money on it?” That has made the decision pretty easy for me when I am decluttering.

[@ednarose86]

I was at Goodwill yesterday in hopes of finding a snowsuit for my daughter. I found two! They were only 3 there, and luckily, there was one in the size I needed. And I found a REALLY nice softshell jacket for her. My thought with these items, was "I wish the people that donated these, could see how happy I was to find it!" I think that if you were to see someone snag an item and be so excited to get it home, you would be inclined to say "what else would someone else REALLY love, that I only kinda like or keep because I feel like I have to." I'm sure there are LOTS more things that I would part with if someone came to my house and said "oh my gosh, I would love to have one of these! I've been looking for one of these!"

[@goldajane]

that is the upside of donating, that someone else will find usefulness to you contribution.

[@KTplease]

That’s exactly what I remind myself of when I’m thinking of donating something instead of keeping it…how happy someone will be to find it!

[@tanyapinnock2347]

Thanks I needed this…. I donated brand new ski clothes late last year as we had two ski seasons in lockdown and the kids had grown out of them. Also a reminder to me to not buy toooo much. I hope someone is excited when they grab a bargain too.

[@tanyapinnock2347]

I still struggle with the grey. The stuff I just love or will use but rarely. The house is really good now but could get to the next level. We have achieved it in our holiday home that I have been living in for the past two years….. yet I go back and I have so much more….how could I need it if I didn’t need it for years. I do love my good Dinnerset etc, so need to choose the favourites and keep moving things on.

[@micheledryden1057]

I'm doing a happy dance because your book arrived in the mail today!!! Last year I decluttered 30,000 items (mostly paper products)! Yesterday I took 5 boxes of unwanted items to the thrift store. I've had time to attend my grandkids' events; frequently visit with friends; complete office projects; spend time with God, hubby, and our dogs; and process complex emotions as an abuse survivor and recovering hoarder. Hugs and love... Thank you for holding my hand throughout the last two years!!

[@TheMinimalMom]

Wow!! This is so awesome and THANK YOU!!!!

[@kayelle8005]

Fellow survivor here. It’s interesting to me how every time I physically declutter my space I have more bandwidth to declutter my emotional and mental state. Having an easy to manage home and removing that distraction and procrasta-cleaning is great. Decluttering shame from trauma and abuse is the biggest win. Wishing you all the best on your full decluttering journey Michele.

[@HannahRainbow88]

@@kayelle8005 "procrasta-cleaning" brilliant term for it!!! Bless you both and congratulations on your progress

[@tgayer1]

Congratulations!

[@micheledryden1057]

Thank you for your encouragement!!! We're walking this journey hand in hand!!

[@Simply.Mariela]

the "if it's not a clear yes, it's a no" rule I have applied in my dating life before 😂😂

[@cindytaylor698]

😂😂😂

[@intherockies]

Love it 😂. I'm going to start using it in mine too. Thanks!

[@Simply.Mariela]

@@intherockies haha yes!

[@cassie.minimalist]

I am so happy with the guy who was not a clear yes at the beggining tho 😂🤣

[@sunshine3914]

@@cassie.minimalist So true. I hear so many insisting on an “instant attraction”, but in reality, my best & longest relationships took months to develop. And they all developed over mutual respect. ⚡️ 🔥 😉

[@stepheniedavies4384]

I am by no means a minimalist, but the following question has been really helpful...after seeing people lose all in floods and fires... “would I be upset if I lost this?” That really helps me for clothing, decorative items, sentimental items, etc.

[@StillWatersASMR]

I did another pass of my clothes recently and since then have been trying to wear my "nicer" clothes more and in doing so I discovered that some of my pre-pregnancy favourites just aren't so comfortable in my post-pregnancy body. I am so proud of what my body achieved bringing a baby into the world and I ain't gonna let anything make me feel bad for how my body has changed. So those tops that sit right at the top of my jeans and end up riding up and leaving that gap are all going. They would have been sitting in my dresser for who knows how long if I hadn't made a point of wearing them.

[@cherylwebb8340]

On the other side, I remember going down in my dad's basement and pulling out some discards after my first baby was born. In just a month, I was back in my regular clothes. You never know sometimes. But this is not life or death thank God 🙂

[@margaretvillalpando7722]

I have a thought...every time I have moved with family, which was about 6 times over 35 years, we got rid of lots of things. I have lived in the same house now for about 23 years. But here is my idea, why don't we pretend we are moving and ask ourselves the question: Would I take the time to pack this and carry it to a new home and unpack it and find a new home for it in my new house? Is it worth all of that effort? If we say no, then why are we keeping it?

[@rosywilson3076]

I’ve been doing this, and it’s surprising how much I’ve got rid of because it’s not worth paying to move it!

[@danelleroundabouts2559]

Absolutely correct point. I have also done that

[@marianna6733]

If I imagine packing to travel, I'd trow away most of my stuff: I always travel light...

[@aprilfurcean8302]

Your channel has completely changed how I shop, view my possessions and run my home. I am no longer overwhelmed and feeling shame. I thank God for you and the calling he gave you!

[@karenhanson8004]

AMEN 🙏🏻

[@pinkroses135]

Amen ❤

[@cassie.minimalist]

I was watching a professional helping declutter one girl her closet and they made 3 piles. Yes, no and maybe. At the end professional said "I tricked you, maybe pile is also a no pile but If you struggle, toss it for few months into a box and then decide." It is so smart!!! That girl decided to throw away the maybe pile.

[@TheLanges]

T shirts was so hard for me. What we ended up doing was taking tshirts from different concerts, runs, and such. We found a company online that you send them into and they turn them into a blanket!! So my 30 tshirts is now one blanket.

[@ingridblancafort1429]

What a great idea!

[@abbymoeller8389]

Today was living room/family room cleaning day at our house. My 9 year old and 5 year old were helping me dust, and my 9 year old suddenly said, "Mom, I thought you didn't like knick knacks." I said, "I don't! We always have to move them to dust underneath them, and they make things look cluttered." She responded, "Then why do you still have some?" 😂 Ah ha! Light bulb moment for me! Why do I still have some?!?!

[@angelgirldebbiejo]

I hate dusting!! I wish it would all go away. I wanna live in a yurt.

[@nicola6234]

@@angelgirldebbiejo Get rid of flat surfaces as much as you can!

[@trinam2503]

I don't typically do knick knacks either, as I also hate to dust. But I do have a few that are precious to me and some family mementos. I am grouping them by person and creating shadow boxes for each. Then I will hang the shadow boxes as if they were pictures, and all I have to do dust the frame! This also creates a container for me to only keep the most important pieces as I want all my boxes to be the same size and color.

[@abbymoeller8389]

Trina M that's brilliant!

[@jeannel1065]

My mother was a knickknack collector. When we were very young, my sister and I were assigned to dust them. I hated it and swore I’d never have them. I only have a few that were gifts and don’t display them. My sister has a ton of them and still buys/collects knickknacks. I love the shadow box idea.

[@ashleysmith792]

I used to believe that the flaw in minimalism was that it still kept your mind focused on “stuff” but in the opposite way. Like, it would make you obsessed with constantly thinking about how to have less stuff, to reduce stuff, “do I have too much stuff?” ...a reverse materialism. But since finding your channel and applying your ideas, I’m so happy to discover minimalism really does free your mind from material concerns because it gives you so much more space and energy for the things that matter ❤️

[@aMuse4ever]

Love it and needed this. I've been wanting to take round 4 to my closet but haven't gotten to it. Going to go in there and do it RIGHT NOW. Thanks to you I have gotten my house to that amazing point where my husband says "hey can we have people over for dinner this week" and I don't flip out or need 6 days to stuff things out of sight and shut all the doors lol. I have guilt-free time with my kids instead of feeling like I have to clean non-stop. I recommend you to everyone I can, and minimalism as well.

[@lorrainajacobsen9939]

Dawn listening to and applying your videos have literally alleviated some of my clinically diagnosed postpartum depression symptoms as my house gets easier and easier to maintain. Thank you!!

[@bgholmq]

It alleviated my depression too, and I will always be forever grateful to Dawn and Dana from A Slob Comes Clean. My life is so much easier and my mental health so much better.

[@suzanneporterfield3631]

I experienced the "gray area" today. As I was going through all my sweatshirts, I put them into piles: Keep, Donate, and Not Sure. Not Sure became the gray area, and after seeing how many sweatshirts I decided to keep, it was easy to let go of those gray area ones. You're absolutely correct in saying the gray area is what's holding us back. 🙌

[@samantharorrison2611]

Such a Crazy coincidence, I have a friend’s mom who told her while shopping once, “if in doubt, go without.” She graciously passed this advice on to me and it has helped me with my impulse buying. But I can now see using this while decluttering too. Thank you!!

[@saramartinez_16]

Love this phrase. Def gonna start using that

[@marianna6733]

For istance, what about my Chiffon cake casserole?! I did the cake just once, many years ago. Too much effort, too many eggs, too much waiting (for the cake to collaps from its casserole). But good taste. Is it worth keeping? I bought it on purpose, but honeslty I don't see myself making that cake in the next few years... Maybe when I retire... 😂 Love from Rome ❤

[@debrabowman8750]

I have just began this journey at 60+ years of life...so I am decluttering in layers, I am still working so time and energy are limited, but I am staying motivated so far. I wish I could put into words how your journey has helped me, I have cleaned out drawers, gotten rid of stuff and for each area I have tackled, it is so energizing! Thank you for all you do! God bless you and your family!

[@lonimarie1368]

A way that I get through the gray area is to tell myself “yes, it’s still perfectly good, but it is better for someone else to really enjoy it than for me to hold on to it for ‘one day’”. As strange as it may sound, makes me feel a little greedy if I keep it!

[@hilsr2117]

I love watching these videos. I get inspired and although I move at the speed of a stunned slug I AM making changes in my clutter filled home. Last week my campervan (which is also my daily drive) was stolen with some of my most special clothes and other treasures in. I was devastated and am still reeling at the loss of so many irreplaceable items such as gifts from deceased friends and also the thought of the cost of trying to replace even some of them. One glimmer of positivity was the sudden thought..."well that was the most sudden and expensive declutter ever!" 😊

[@CornflowerBlues5]

Stunned slug LOL! I've always maintained that my natural speed is "glacier", so I get it!

[@southloupriverhomestead4696]

Dawn, I don't even want to be a minimalist. I just watch because I like you. I have not decluttered and don't plan on it.

[@MinimalMTMama]

Minimalism aside.... Dawn's hair & eyebrows in this video are 😍💯 Glowing skin, minimal eye makeup. PERFECTION! Tom's got a Smoke show on his hands 🔥

[@stewarthickman3531]

Hi 👋 how are you doing?

[@aenigmatica8]

Thank you sooo much for addressing this. I don’t have any “easy”s anymore. Instead I just agonize over a ton of things that are sort of nice and I kind of like, but I don’t LOVE. So it’s like a giant brick wall that I can’t get past.

[@FrogeniusW.G.]

Yes, kind of nice and kind of like! 😅 Exactly.

[@aenigmatica8]

@@FrogeniusW.G. I’m glad I’m not alone on this one!

[@Class12Productions]

Sounds like you have some items for the “Time will tell bin!” Or “quaratine bin” ;)

[@aenigmatica8]

@@Class12Productions Thanks for the tip! What if they stay there for a long time haha?

[@Class12Productions]

@@aenigmatica8 bahahaha I feel that!!! I think Dawn has said try 6 months, write the date on it and if you haven’t used it in 6 months- then you probably won’t! Lol (especially if it’s been over a year!)

[@rbrannon7099]

Oh Dawn it has to be the kitchen. We might ,we could and maybe. The kitchen is so hard. Thank you for sharing.

[@KG-wd4id]

Right now I have the trunk and half of the back seat loaded with items to donate!! I’m very proud of myself and appreciate you and your channel more than you will ever know.

[@justmaria5806]

I'm standing with Playtex gloves submerged in soap bubbles when you when you provided that little nugget of insight and self awareness I needed. The light bulb moment (LBM) of self awareness pinged on in my brain. You'd think I was a child of the depression. For years I've gone along accepting hand me downs with that "just in case" mentality. LBM #1 - hand me down clothing: would I have ever purchased that style and color? No. It wouldn't have been my choice then, now or ever in the future. So just letting them hang out in my closet is helping me how? LBM #2 - hand me down linens and towels: doesn't matter that they are in perfect shape. The patterns are busy and the colors obnoxious. They remain stacked and folded in the very garbage bags they came in; 12 years ago! I've purchased other linens instead. What have I been thinking? To the donation box they go. Can't thank you enough Dawn............

[@supergran1000]

I'm the daughter of parents who lived through the Depression and WW2 rationing (UK), and their "just in case" and "never throw anything away" mentality has rubbed off on me and has been hard to shake off. But you're quite right. Our homes just become repositories of unwanted junk! Lol.

[@intherockies]

When donating towels, blankets and even sheets don't forget about the dog shelters. They can always use them for drying the dogs off or for something for them to sleep on

[@williamsmith4899]

I'd like to encourage you to donate those towels and linens to animal shelters in your area - they are always in great need of towels and blankets, especially, in the winter. They won't care about the obnoxious colors - just that they are clean. Thanks.

[@justmaria5806]

@@williamsmith4899 Not to worry. I contribute regularly to our local "no kill" cst shelter.(gentlý used towels, litter and $)

[@emilyfoppert748]

My hands were in soap water doing the dishes too! The question of wearing it three times a week struck me too. I went upstairs and was determined to do it- rip off the band-aid. Got rid of tshirt that I hang out for the sentimental value / who else would want them? (who else wants a shirt from our family reunion?). This is why I have kept it, but the answer truly is - NOT ME! I don't enjoy wearing it. I actually found a shirt that I didn't know was in the drawer. Literally had forgotten about. That being said, I've been off of school for the last month and have worn maybe 10 clothing items the WHOLE TIME. No joke, but then there are school/work clothes I will need so soon! These are the hang ups!

[@Nina.177]

That's so good! "Would I wear it three times in one week?" Yes! My clothes have to be my favorites or they don't stay.

[@PrincessofErised]

It is the perfect approach. 1) Pick a category. 2) Pick your favorites and set aside. 3) Toss the "for-sure" clutter. 4) Look at the keep pile and see if you have enough of it. If it is complete, toss the greys. If it is not, then pick your favorites again from the grey pile and toss the rest.

[@maggiehawkes1131]

This makes so much sense! Especially when you talk about it compounding throughout the house.

[@Diniecita]

Yes. It seems excessive at first but then I look around and see all the grey area stuff. Im working on it though.

[@FrogeniusW.G.]

@@Diniecita You can put all the "greys" in a "Quarantine-bin" ("time will tell -bin").

[@evijade1]

Your videos have shown me that there are so many layers to decluttering. I love when you encourage us to go deeper in the purging of clutter because the second (and third) time is when I find the things I am holding onto but really do not need. Thank you 😊!

[@kathybruner4091]

Hi Dawn 👋🏼. We are prepping to list our home of 34 years in April, last night I was emptying bathroom drawers/under cabinets to box them up to begin sorting… I felt very OVERWHELMED but hearing your voice in my mind and the thought of how much “INVENTORY” do I want to manage going forward into the next phase of our lives really hit me. Time to pull out my timer and start in 5 minute increments. Thanks for all your encouragement 👍🏼♥️

[@evaowens1400]

The color of your top is very flattering to your skin tone! Love seeing you in color!

[@jenniferdierks1501]

I feel overwhelmed with clutter since this last Christmas. I bought too many toys for my kids and now I am just paralyzed with tiny trinkets. Thanks for the motivation and great tips.

[@DH-qz2so]

Oh, I remember the 'tiny trinket stocking stuffers...'... Yes, it is fun to buy, wrap, and stuff... but it ends up not being played with, or their favorite... I like the 4 gift idea saying " One thing to wear, One thing to read, One thing to put together, One thing to share..." or something like that.... start a list now... I found small items cost less than bigger items individually...but in the long run...all the little things did add up...

[@Michelle-by9fp]

I am in the same boat Jennifer

[@jenniferdierks1501]

@@DH-qz2so you forgot the grandparents and aunties that spoil them :)

[@williamsmith4899]

Put half of it away in the attic or somewhere out of sight - bring it back next summer.

[@crossfamilycircus]

Give yourself (and maybe your kids') permission to pass those little things on that they don't love. When I have the energy to, I love using the FB sites that you can give away your things for free. Some of them encourage you to select the person to give them to based on their request rather than their timing. I don't always want to "deal" with that though so even a FCFS situation can be a blessing. Go easy on yourself and write yourself a reminder for next year to find ways to limit the stuffing gifts. Hugs!

[@sharondobby9600]

I just wanted to say thank you. Your channel has changed my life. What I didn't realise was that by decluttering my house it also helped unblock and declutter my mental and spiritual life too!! It is an amazing journey. So much more peace and joy and happiness now. Thankyou and bless you.🙏

[@stewarthickman3531]

Hi Sharon how are you doing?

[@alainapotaduh]

I knew right away I wanted less options as a whole when I fell in love with Aldi. I used to shop at a bigger grocer and between name brand, store brand, coupons and sales flyers, it was just too time consuming and frustrating trying to find the best choice or best deal. I started saving money by shopping in a store with fewer options, but I saved so much time and ultimately stress by making the switch to Aldi.

[@stewarthickman3531]

Hi how are you doing?

[@blockenginestudios]

Yes I love shopping at Aldi for the same reasons! Less options and less time in the store!

[@vanessapowell3719]

I’ve always told my kids when shopping to stop and think about what they are wanting to purchase and decide if they think that in 6 weeks they will still love it and use or wear it. Quiet often they think about it and decide to pass on it. Love, love, love your videos!

[@dibailey540]

Damn it Dawn! Now I have to get rid of some 'grey area' stuff that has been hanging around because I've had the space to store it and haven't been willing to part with it. You're so right.... there are things that I just don't reach for. So why am I keeping it around when someone else might happily wear it often?

[@vsvizcarra]

I just recently accidentally came up with a way to test out my essentials and gray pile. I packed about 2 weeks early for our upcoming road trip (who does that?) from WA to SD. Obviously, I packed my favorite outfits. But while all those were safely tucked away, I was forced to wear my gray pile. I quickly decided what goes and what stays. I thought of you during all my outfit purges and couldn't wait to share! What I really need to do is get it down to all my favorites. Still working on that...love you, Dawn! You've helped me so much.

[@annacama8313]

I listened to this video like 7 or 8 x already all throughout because you're so helpful and what I love about you is that there is no hidden agenda - you clearly just want to help people cut thru the hard parts of decluttering and address the psychological aspects of why we hang on to clutter, how we may accumulate things, accepting and accessing mistake clutter etcetera , and all the grey area this and essentials that makes it so much easier to zero in on the important things which saves us more time, mental energy, and moments of our lives we just can't get back once it's gone. Love you Dawn! God Bless You and your lovely family! - A friend from Guam.

[@mnm25479]

A needed topic! Thanks for sharing!

[@MaxineAnne77]

I LOVE my limited wardrobe, and decluttered household. You and Joshua Becker have been instrumental in bringing me this level of peace. Thank you very much.

[@annaolsen682]

I am a newcomer. Just found your videos last week! I have binge listened/watched quite a few of them. I am traveling out of town for Easter leaving tomorrow morning but I couldn't wait to try it out. So I decluttered my food storage cabinet. I purged most of what was in there and now store all of them with their kids on. PEACE.... it's what I crave. What you and Diana have talked about is what I didn't know I was missing. God has brought this to my life at the right time. I am also making strides in my treatment for an eating disorder and PEACE is what I need with food. PEACE for my body. PEACE for my house. Yay!!!!!

[@susanwheeler2456]

I think that this idea of "the grey area" is so powerful! I'd would love to see more about this topic. It really struck a chord with me.

[@stewarthickman3531]

Hi Susan how are you doing?

[@bgholmq]

I completely agree!! More help getting rid of gray area stuff! I come back to this video often, it really struck a chord with me as well.

[@loriw4765]

My sister had weight loss surgery and gave me all of her clothes. She is quite the shopper and the volume of it is overwhelming. Every time I open one of the boxes and see stacks of really beautiful clothes with the tags still on, I talk myself out of getting rid of them. I think I need to just take all of the boxes out of the house without looking inside them, put them in my car and go donate them. They have been sitting in my basement for over a year - stressing me out every time I walk past them to do the laundry. I actually think that would be such a relief!!!

[@rosywilson3076]

I think you’re right! If you’re not going to wear them, move them on to somebody who will 😀 Are they your size? Style? Colour?

[@loriw4765]

@@rosywilson3076 While they are my size, my sister's build is different than mine. I'm taller and so I don't really like the length of the pants and our tastes are also different. I guess that's why I've never done anything with them. Thanks!

[@ltlt5268]

We have been friends for a few years now, though we are in 2 different corner on the planet 😄 Every time I go declutter or have a hard time getting rid of something I have to play your videos and feel that push that encouragement from you! Please keep making great videos for us to live a better life with less clutter.

[@KellyLeAnne]

Your videos are helping me so much. When YT first started recommending you to me, I was like “oh I don’t need to watch that I’m already a minimalist.” Since I am very protective of what comes into my home, rarely shop, constantly purging and organized. But then occasionally I’d watch something when I needed a little motivation and over a few months now of watching in realizing I have never quite reached that point of feeling “free.” I’m still stressed out a lot about maintaining my home, always blaming that small size (1,000 sq fr for a family of three). Thank you for waking me up and giving me that encouraging push to get to the next level!

[@melaniebernard3688]

Dawn, I've always thought of myself as being pretty good at getting clutter out of the house. I declutter at least twice a year and have for YEARS. But your videos and course have brought me huge light bulb moments. Just doing a second round of decluttering in my kitchen has FINALLY given me beautiful clear countertops and plenty of space left in the cabinets. Thank you!

[@southernsoul152]

“I wore this shirt because you said you like this colour on me” 🥰🥰 You are the cutest!! Such a precious, helpful and truly beautiful person. Thank you for all you do to help us and you do it with such joy and grace 🙏🏽

[@idalia_alba]

😊 Just when I think you have taught us everything we need to know about decluttering...🤯🤯🤯 I learn more every time I watch your videos and I love it because you continue to help me get more out of my house when am stuck. My gray area is my furniture. We don't have alot but we live in a small house that it seems like we have a lot and every piece seems essential. Smh 😔

[@FrogeniusW.G.]

Keep, how much/many you *need* to store (only!) the stuff you really *need*. Means: First hardcore decluttering, then thin out furniture. Namely keep the pieces that you like most (whether it's for practical or for aesthetical reasons)..

[@l.linong3484]

Sometimes this is an issue of scale - depending on your budget replacing with furniture that fits better in the space can help! You notice Dawn has smaller scale living room pieces and they keep her space open and airy even if the living room is small. I also feel like a lot of the furniture out there is for huge homes, not average spaces! Good luck!

[@idalia_alba]

@@l.linong3484 Thank you, I agree. I will put my mind to work and figure out something because it can get frustrating when everything looks crowded.

[@idalia_alba]

@@FrogeniusW.G. Thank you for your advice. I will work on downsizing and maybe I can finally have more space. Everything seems necessary but I know it can be done. 🤞🤞🤞

[@CornflowerBlues5]

Our grey areas are kitchen stuff (my husband is the cook, and he's a gadget junkie, plus he got into bread baking during the lockdowns, so more stuff) and technology (charger cables, network cables, other cables, routers [we have at least 10 in a box!] etc). Those 2 are difficult for me to tackle because my husband must also be involved and he gets completely overwhelmed and paralyzed by decluttering, thus he either avoids it or tell me to do it without him. Oh well, at least my own decluttering muscles are getting strong; I'll find a way.

[@stewarthickman3531]

Hi 👋 how are you doing?

[@reneegagnier3226]

Excellent video!! The grey area, or "messy middle", can be so challenging. It touches every area. Clothes definitely, and Xmas decor is a big one for me. Just because I didn't put it out this year, hard to just let go of something that I've had for years. Thanks for all your inspiration, Dawn! My house is so peaceful and calm, I credit you with my new mindset. Thank you!!!!!

[@FrogeniusW.G.]

@@juliemartin6628 Yes, I love the "let the boundary be the bad guy" - method too!! ♡☆

[@stacygirlbrogden8478]

You are inside my brain! I've done most of the easy stuff but now is where it gets tough and gets most rewarding. Thanks for what you do! 🧡

[@stacygirlbrogden8478]

P.S. I just signed up for Blinkist. 😁

[@trinitadecamp4763]

While I have grey clutter in probably all areas, the first two that came to mind after watching this video was home decor and clothing. Especially home decor. It’s usually cute, small and not used much because mostly it’s seasonal. AND I usually still find it beautiful, so it hurts to get rid of it. But, how many acorns, snowmen, cardinals, sunflowers, pillow covers, artwork with cute sayings does one need?

[@texasmimi5566]

I have found this year I don't want to be bothered with all the holiday decor things I have, for ALL the annual holidays, so I just put out my favorite pieces. I now have a bag of nice Christmas items marked "for the Humane Society Thrift Store for donation next November", when they will have a much better chance of being purchased for the upcoming Christmas season.

[@cindyrumsey3707]

Dawn, I love that you added some color in your wardrobe, that top looks beautiful on you.

[@briannalarsen3601]

I've been a Dawn follower like 3 years now! I think I have grey items in every area... ugh. Haha. Every 6 months or so i feel the need to declutter again to maintain. I'm not quite a minimalist, but I'm a "less is more" fan. I realized the beauty of the container rule recently and the "one in, one out" have both been game changers! I'm a work in progress like all of us, I guess. :)

[@marysimonson3869]

Thank you Dawn! I made huge progress in my closet and dresser drawers in the last 24 hours after watching this yesterday. Your presentation style is like kryptonite to my focus and motivation. Carry on Dawn - you’re the best!

[@ANN.B.3476]

Love you in solid colors. Your energy, smile and EYES come through and I can focus on what you're saying more when you wear solid colors. Not just black though. 🤠🥰😉

[@janetpapageorgiou1869]

After 20 yrs in living in my 5 bedroom home, I am now moving into a 2 bedroom apartment. So, my daughter has helped me declutter 10,000 items especially Xmas decorations. Wow! Dawn, you have helped me to understand that I don’t want to manage all that inventory. Thanks, Dawn.

[@lillianmartinez1593]

You, Dawn, Cass & Dana are what is keeping me motivated! You are all a triple threat!!! In the best way possible! Thank you for your wonderful videos! Please keep them coming!! We all need this information in our lives!! 💕🌴😎

[@23evolution]

I said I had greys in every sector and area of my house. The toys are in the attic, but my child is 37, and I am still in the grey area! Thanks for this video!!!

[@cindyal5715]

I feel like books are my most difficult thing to declutter! I love to read and so do my 4 kids. We go to the library at least once a week and no matter how many books I donate or put in the free little library boxes, I never seem to have less books 😄. They also end up on every surface, in every room of the house!

[@gwenj5419]

I've started using a kindle. So much easier than bringing physical books back & forth to the library. This may not work for kids depending on age.

[@emmamongey675]

I had a hard time with decluttering books too but then I realised I dont enjoy reading most books more than once. So I only kept the one I felt I would revisit. I also use the library. But I keep them contained in a bag (my childrens books too) and as I finish a book it goes back in the bag. I no longer buy books. I realised dusting and storing lots of books wasnt something I enjoyed or benefitted from so I dont do it anymore.

[@trinam2503]

As an avid reader w a child who loves to read, I just embraced it! About once a week, or when they get overwhelming, we go through the house and return all the books to their proper home. 🙂ay.

[@drac1026]

Books are the exception for me.

[@happypace9414]

Agreed! Books are essential! If I could only have one type of decor it is books. Multitasking superstars!

[@seasonalliving2881]

I think one of your best tips EVER was…the quarantine bin. It truly forces you to use or lose it, with the comfort of the item not going away yet.

[@squigglyduck1322]

Your videos are so inspiring! I always tend to watch them on my lunch and then can't wait to get home from work so that I can declutter. Thank you for all that you do to help us live more simple lives.

[@maryanngill3576]

I do really like that shirt and the color of it! Sorry I am just repeating what others have said. You are really helping me start to declutter my home. Today even though I have a child with special needs and a sick husband at home I found 3 (5 minute) breaks and I am donating 15 books and found a small trash bag of trash and got rid of 6 beauty/bathroom products that were expired or I no longer use. I love you too as a sister in Christ! That "I love you" really goes a long way some days! Thanks for what you do.

[@CuriousGreyHedgehog]

I have only found you a month ago and I am binge watching and getting my house dialed down. It is so crazy but when you say you love us at the end of the video I believe you and feel like we are friends hahaha. My husband doesn't like meeting people either. Tom is how I have gotten my husband to watch some videos with me. I have an 8 year old Corban (9 in a week). Thanks for all you do. I am finding my organized and tidy me through less inventory.

[@Brenda-fr5gn]

Yay Amber! I found her about a year ago. My first video was her laundry routine (it's a great one if you haven't watched it) and now I finally am more closely following it. I also try to "eat the frog" by emptying the dishwasher as soon as I can in the morning. Do you have any favorite videos? And I totally feel the same way when Dawn says "I love you." 🥰

[@jeanettekvinlaug2772]

@@Brenda-fr5gn Yes. The "I love you means a lot to me too." I also belive she means it. :)

[@CuriousGreyHedgehog]

@@Brenda-fr5gn my favorite is her wardrobe one. I struggle with keeping everything in my closet, I am working on my closet slowly but the rest of my house is helping so that is easier

[@TheMinimalMom]

This is so encouraging to read! I know we could be friends!!! ❤️🥰

[@lchapter383]

Amber since listening or watching dawn for about 6 to 7ish months but haven’t gotten serious until about November. I feel like feel like I could meet Dawn and her sister and feel like like I had known them for years.

[@guillerminastover7099]

I haven't done any de-cluttering lately per se. But in the last few weeks, I have made several trips to Marshall's (my favorite store!) and have only bought food items which will be eaten: chocolate, nuts, etcetera. I have not bought one single article of clothing. Today I actually tried on a pair of slacks and decided right then and there: no, I am not buying these. That in itself creates the impetus to quit cluttering. I'm actually de-cluttering by NOT buying. That's a win-win for me. And you, Dawn, played a GREAT part of my ongoing efforts! Thank you!

[@baileelong497]

Books are my largest gray area! Its it the one area in my house that I struggle downsizing. I have shelves of books I want to read someday, or reference books I can see being potentially useful in the future, but they are the most difficult clear yes to find!!

[@Deb_Creamer]

Open to an eReader? Starting today you can no longer add more "books" rather ebooks. It helps!

[@NLY1WAY4U]

Oh my I was just going to post this too! Books, books, books! I slowly collected series books, then have not sit down to read. Do not want to rid of them until I read them. So sitting in a basket near my chair is....books. Working my way through them. No more coming in the house for a long time.

[@lyndellstone2738]

I donated all of my novels and reference books just two days ago. I was like you too. I had a clear moment though - I ALWAYS look things up on the internet! Why would I bother keeping a reference book?

[@pippas5808]

You must be my declutter twin! Let me know if you find a solution. People keep telling me to get an eReader, but I have tried and just found it made reading stressful, not enjoyable )-:

[@margaretqueenofscots9450]

@@pippas5808 I too find ebooks just sorely lacking…somehow. Oh well, I love books enough I’m willing to put up with the extra hassle of a family of 6 avid readers 🤪

[@patriciadelany6699]

I want to tell you, Dawn, that your phrase, season of life helps me so much. I just let go of 2 trash bags full of cooking and baking items that I do not use now. I am in my 60’s.

[@rosywilson3076]

I’ve got rid of so much over the last couple of years with your help, Dawn 😀 Now my partner and I are planning to move in together (we’re 55 and 61, it’s taken 16 years to decide this 🤣) I’m looking at everything afresh - do I want to take it with me? Is it really precious? I really really don’t want to start again with 2 sets of everything 🙀 Imagine the kitchen cupboards, just for starters!!

[@rosywilson3076]

Also, things I’ve made - clothes that are now too small but I spent ages designing and making them - how can I let those go????

[@traceybracke3844]

I really needed to hear this today. Your example was VERY helpful to make impression. Thank You

[@stewarthickman3531]

Hi 👋 Tracy how are you doing?

[@VerySelena]

Favorite day of the week - a new The Minimal Mom video!💕😍 Love the top too but I do miss the black tops. Whatever you’re comfortable with Dawn. 💕😊 You’re spot on with the grey area struggle but this video makes me want to go home and work through the grey spots.

[@texasmimi5566]

I agree, I like her in the black tops. The one she is wearing is very cute, but it is strange seeing her in another color.

[@helenquiroz1835]

Childhood things are my current focus, all your videos are helpful and this one on grey areas will get me over the next humps! I started decluttering a few years back and got stuck after removing 1/2 of everything… Now I’m moving ahead and following you for about 6 months now and am so grateful, thank you!!! ❤

[@dig1272]

Thank you Dawn. This was precisely what I needed to hear so that I do not skip over the grey area items as I continue my major house declutter. I have a LOT of shoes that I know fall into this category, plus clothes, so that, and paring down the christmas decorations to two bins instead of 5, before I move on to my garage. Yikes!! No, I am READY!! Not scared!!

[@hollymyers5901]

I've been feeling overwhelmed again with our house. It has been so hard to maintain lately. I was to get it to if someone randomly drops by I won't be embarrassed by how the house looks. That's like my one goal and it's soooo hard to maintain! I always love your tips and videos. Thanks Dawn

[@TheJojo01902]

This is fabulous content, an actionable way of dealing with the gray area. Limiting choice (for example, in wardrobe) does indeed make life easier. Consider going to a Chinese restaurant with a 28 page menu - it can feel impossible to figure out what to order. Compare that with a Chinese restaurant offering a 4 page menu - it’s so much easier to figure out what to order, and you don’t agonize over making your food decision. Great video, Dawn!

[@kristiluce2838]

I have grey area items in every room in my home. But, I am making progress thanks to you, Dana and Cass. Layer by layer!!!

[@lisaweiler1381]

This is AMAZING, and am going to use this method in the hardest section of the house to declutter . . .clothing. Thank you for sharing your wisdom and experience with youtube audience. I am going to tackle my wardrobe . . .again.

[@bernadette6211]

I've lots of grey, I'm going to tackle saucepans and lids today. Your videos are very inspiring, as a 50 year old I've been decluttering on and off for years. Your videos are getting me motivated again

[@TheDedmund]

Mine right now is the cleaning closet. And yes, I will commit to 5 minutes to work on it today. 🤗 Thanks for the inspiration as always. My life has changed these past few months.

[@juliapease6821]

Dawn, I know many people love you in that shirt or in other colored shirts - but I just wanted to say that I think you look so much more elegant and modern in your black shirts! I think the black puts the emphasis on your lovely face and eyes.

[@jlbnerdy]

Ugh this one hit hard. My clothes are especially this way. I’ve gone through most of them but the gray area is definitely hard. And now it’s off to a donation box & putting some gray area things in it.

[@rebeccadewey2111]

You look so nice in that color. Black every day is a little depressing.

[@hanna8492]

LOVE IT! I have been stuck with decluttering for a week and now I know why: grey areas. This video was soooo helpfull. It came just the right time for me! Talking about ”mene to be” 🙏🏾THANK YOU DAWN ❤️ Greetings from Finland 🇫🇮

[@michelleleemootifull]

Your top is gorgeous, the colour suits you so much 💕

[@briellejoysmids3132]

SO SO SO GOOD Dawn ! This is going to help! I have been really trying to declutter but look around what more to declutter, but get lost. This really helps! I’d love more videos for those of us who are a bit into decluttering and want to keep going! Thank you so much for everything! Love ya Dawn! ❤️❤️❤️🤩

[@joannehopesLife_After_40]

That shirt and earrings really does bring out your beauty, Dawn! 👚😍👌🏼

[@HannahMitchell-Art]

I love this new question! "Would I wear it three times a week?" I was getting stuck, and now I might be able to let go of more clothing, books and craft supplies

[@FrogeniusW.G.]

Thank you, Dawn!

[@deborahryan2654]

New Year’s resolution: one box per week to Goodwill. We are way, WAY ahead of this…all due to you DAWN. THANKS!

[@FrogeniusW.G.]

Wow, one box per week! That's huge. 😅 How big are the boxes? 😂 Jokes aside, I do sth. comparable. One box per month.. 😬

[@novaricos]

I love the concept of "if its not a clear yes, its a no!" very freeing for better decision making in all kinds of areas of life! thank you!

[@luciegallagher2710]

Thank you Dawn, this is really helping me to help my mum to declutter her house too! You are absolutely spot on with this! 😀

[@karenhoward8542]

Leverage: Watching your videos over and over again when I am working on specific areas!! Thanks

[@stewarthickman3531]

Hi Karen how are you doing?

[@laurenmanley4616]

Your videos motivate me so much, Dawn! I feel the gray area in my house are the things I use, wear, enjoy 'once in a while'. Things I remember using just not often. I really need to get over those hurdles! Thanks for your encouragement 🙏

[@andrea9797mdd]

Yes, you look lovely in that rust coloured blouse! I was thinking that even before you mentioned it!

[@joannebailey7463]

When my husband was diagnosed with Alzheimer's we moved in with our daughter, her husband and 5 teenagers! My 2 daughters came to the apartment and basically purged about 80% of everything with my blessing! We lived with them for 2 years until he went into a continuous care facility. I moved into an apartment about 5 minutes from the facility and the kids moved into a house closer by. So there was a smaller purge. Hubby passed away a couple months later. My spare room is chock full of stuff, some mine and some his and it's been 5 years plus so very soon basically what's in there will be purged within the next couple months! Other than that the only excess I have are coffee mugs!! I swear they multiply on their own!! My closet only has what I wear all the time with the exception of 2 good dresses 1 fancy 1 not.

[@Jenekks]

Joanne my deepest condolences to you. I just lost my mother last week who had Alzheimer's Disease.

[@madhumitadevivlogger4781]

@@Jenekks rest in peace ur mom..

[@thebusybees2006]

Sorry for your loss. 😢 So proud of you for decluttering . I am a fan of coffee mugs , too ! I try to donate an old mug if I purchase a new one

[@maribelquesada5651]

My Uncle passed away after having Alzheimer’s for a few years. The last few months were tough. He was no longer the Uncle I knew.

[@abbymarie2501]

💕💕🙏💋 sorry for the loss, all the best for the last lil challenge xxx

[@boonlm]

My sister recently introduced me to your videos, and I love all of your tips and tricks! I thought we were pretty good at keeping our clutter down, but I did a whole house clean this week and today I brought a van full of stuff to Goodwill, some of which I had no idea we still had! After 16 years of marriage, we have finally realized that we are just not as fancy as our 21 year old selves' wedding registry expected us to be. We also have 10 and 12 year old kids (in addition to a 22 year old who joined our family through refugee foster care), and God also led us through baby steps over the past several years into being foster parents, so I am enjoying hearing that part of your journey as well! Thanks!

[@jodeeclarklompa852]

I have multiple grey areas, but I know that I'm going to get to them reasonably soon because of what I've learned from you. Granted, I have made adjustments to some of your suggestions to make them better fit my life and habits. I do 15 minutes in an area and then move to another area for 15 minutes instead of 5. I belong to a Buy Nothing group and that is where most of my donations go. True, these items stay in the house a bit longer than donating to Goodwill or elsewhere, but Buy Nothing conforms to my needs for community and reducing landfills. What I want to say is that you got me started and I see the difference in my home and in the weight I carry around by seeing these things that just need to go. Thank you for your lead and I will continue to follow you to enhance my journey. You are the best!

[@cindydolezal2980]

Is Buy Nothing a local group or something online? Very interested.

[@juliatepe5760]

Well said!

[@rebeccafly9432]

"this is where the freedom came" that was it for me too. Getting rid of that gray area stuff is when I really started to see a difference

[@LorreneRomanic]

Dawn, I love the idea of asking the question, "would I wear this 3 times a week?" That absolutely helps me cut down on clothing I don't really need!! I'm currently doing the Wool& 100 day dress challenge. I'm definitely keeping my wool& dress after the challenge :)

[@FrogeniusW.G.]

What is the wool & dress challenge? ☆