Use Your Spring Cleaning Energy to Make Cleaning Easier all Year Long

Spring Cleaning Energy hits at this time of year, but can be daunting for those of us who truly struggle. I'm sharing my tips for using this energy to make cleaning easier all year long. The key is decluttering (of course).
Get a printable of my five step decluttering process when you sign up for my newsletter at aslobcomesclean.com/five
My books: aslobcomesclean.com/book
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Need to find (or become) a decluttering coach certified in my process? DeclutteringCoaches.com

[@melindaworkman6039]

That part about the less you have, the less to clean up, the less overwhelm you experience, REALLY hit me today! Thanks for this video and I too missed the end comments by Reid lol They always make me laugh!

[@makeanddohandmade]

My 5 year old daughter gets very overwhelmed with cleaning. I did too at her age. I still do 😂 I told her “mama doesn’t feel good and cleaning either but I always just start with trash, that helps me know what to do first” I’m so thankful that I have a way to teach her that works for her little brain and can have compassion for her overwhelm where my mom didn’t quite know how to help me be a “tidy” person

[@maryenglish9314]

I have just started watching you about 2 weeks ago! Oh my goodness! 4 loads in my small SUV to the thrift store! For the last 2 weeks 2 full trash rolling bins and 2 full rolling recycling bins! Favorite lines “Take it there now” and “Where is the first place you would look for that?” I must resist the scarcity mindset. Your 5 step process is brilliant!

[@PigletSaysHello]

Wow that's amazing, good for you! 😊

[@Cinnamindy]

Inspiring. I will be working on that today. ❤

[@lmack6596]

Those lines have really helped me too. Also "make it better". I used to feel too overwhelmed to start because I didn't think I had the time or energy to do it all perfectly - but make it better - I can do that. Then I find it gets quite addictive!!

[@juliasmith3613]

The lady that scrolled back a bit after the video ended because she thought she missed the rolling credits - Julia

[@regenaguinn]

Last year when I was sick, I just binge watched these decluttering videos. When I got well, I moved like a tornado decluttering the garage. Initially, it was decluttering I item per day, but I got hooked early on the great feeling. In just a few days, armed with a trash can and donation boxes, I was able to, clockwise, go all around my garage. I’m so proud. So is my husband. 😅😅😅😅😅

[@sarahlanger2605]

No Reid-commentary at the end? I live for those 😂

[@MelissaB3]

I watched the end twice because I thought maybe I pushed skip or something somehow! 😂

[@CoffeeNancy]

Same

[@PJ-gb1rm]

Me too! Bring back Reid!

[@karrenbrown8453]

Ditto!

[@glendaw5221]

I always enjoy your videos even though I’ve read your books at least twice and have used your 5 step process for 3-4 years. I enjoy you! I also appreciate that you don’t interrupt your videos with “sponsors”. I know that is a necessary evil for some KZbin channels but I love it that you rarely do it.

[@mandywinter8871]

"Start with the trash" has been a game-changer for getting my kids to figure out what I want when I say "tidy up this room."

[@salishheights2320]

Ditto! "Fill this shoebox with trash." Even if it's all they do, it's huge!

[@salishheights2320]

P.S. I have them use a shoebox instead of directly into the trash so I can glance it over and be sure they aren't tossing all their brother's stuff out to get the job over with sooner. ;)

[@imaamericangirl1406]

@@salishheights2320 lol, so true! 🤣

[@lisam5744]

Ruthless...such a good term for decluttering. I have a box of stuff that's being taken to the donation center on Saturday morning. The funny thing is the hardest thing I decluttered on this round was my iron and ironing board. I've used them ONCE IN NINE YEARS in this house. Why was I keeping them? I don't know. Ruthless and gone.

[@granitemoss1451]

I remember reaching that point and saying a long-overdue goodbye to my ironing board. I kept my iron just in case, I could make do with a towel on the table to press out something if necessary. But I read your comment and realize I have NEVER needed or wanted to use it since the board left my home- likely over 5 years ago. That iron's going in the donation box for sure! Thanks for your inspiring comment.

[@juliejackman2649]

You are my kind of cleaning person. Love your 5 steps that actually work for a disabled person who can't stand or walk more than a little bit. Thank You! 🌸

[@elizabethsielaff3414]

Dana, you are so right, start with decluttering! When I get stuck in my housework, I return to your 5 step process, and I am back in track! Btw, I love your top. That color pink is you 🩷

[@CC-xn5xi]

I love Dana's hair.

[@purityandplants]

Me too! 😍

[@janetketron5712]

I do too! You're looking so lovely in this video! You always look cute but this color of top and your hair, just look amazing. Thank you so much for all you do Dana!

[@Chicken_Mama_85]

I love this method. Decluttering what’s left in the closets and cupboards even while your sink and hamper are full is so brilliant. Also, Dana, you are looking so beautiful! Hair is amazing and your face is so bright and beautiful! I really love that dark green shirt you wore last week too. ❤

[@rebeccasourpuss]

OMG this is BRILLIANT! It seems so obvious but I literally never thought of decluttering when most of the stuff is dirty or in use by simply getting rid of the stuff left behind, the not-chosen items. Thank you so much!

[@PigletSaysHello]

Thank you Dana. Awesome advice. I love how you don't judge people who are overwhelmed. Instead you teach them how to fix the problem 😊❤.

[@StarsHollow214]

The shorts were my lightbulb moment. I have 3 adorable pairs of sketchers that slip off my heel when I walk so I never wore them longer than to realize this. They are at the donate drop off now. Thank you.

[@vivianhudacek1556]

“Take it there now” echoes in my head, even for small things. My mother is sending you love from heaven for finally getting through to me.

[@GratefulDeb270]

5 minute tidy … ❤❤❤ … like a 5 minute walk - it’s such a mood boost!

[@lottie1144]

Don’t forget to declutter chipped cups, bowls and plates. And be sure to throw out any scratched teflon pots and pans.

[@TheDriftwoodlover]

Good point. That would be an easy, fast hunt the night before trash pickup.

[@arikaGME]

I’m finding it helpful getting rid of a lot of cosmetics and samples. I’m not beating myself up as much over all the money I spent on items that weren’t used. Much easier to clean up the bathroom. I’m also only replacing as I’m finishing products completely. No more half bottles.

[@GrannyLinn]

I didn’t know people still spring clean. Before vacuum cleaners, it involved removing rugs, hanging them on the clothesline and beating the dust out of them. Cleaning the oven (an all-day job). Removing wax from the floors and re-waxing. We have it SO much better now.

[@annw1395]

In the days of coal heating, you had a coal smoke film, I think, too. In the spring, you could open the windows and let fresh air in, and clean any winter grime. I'm so glad we have vacuum cleaners!

[@kaylas8910]

I am a minimalist, with still too much stuff. (Thanks, fam!) I love wearing a uniform every day due to fewer choices I have to make. Your progress not perfection is the bomb, put it away, donate, trash, one thing at a time. ❤❤❤❤

[@TheDriftwoodlover]

True! As I complete a room, I do a deep clean (or as deep as I can at the time). The more I feel that it’s easier to clean having to move less around, the more committed I am to having less.

[@Pj.explores]

Dana.... pink is your color. That top looks awesome! Good decluttering message too.

[@mjgriffin49]

Totally off topic, but you look absolutely beautiful in that shade of pink. Go You! ❤

[@hs45672]

Thank you so much for this video! I feel like I never get to decluttering because I can't get past the piles of laundry that needs to be put away and the dishes in the sink that need to be washed. But with these ideas, I can declutter a few things that I don't use anyway before I get to the piles of daily chores! ❤❤

[@cheerfulmouse]

Our donation spot was overflowing 👏 So now it's off to the Tahoe to be dropped off today 💃

[@user-wg1dh9ix6y]

Another great video! You look really beautiful too. That color is really flattering, and your hair looks great! I have been helping a friend with a huge amount of stuff using your process and because it has been without emotion, we've made incredible progress. There's still a long way to go... but I think it's feeling more doable and less daunting, and she is feeling the freedom of less. Thanks for all you do! YOUR PROCESS WORKS! Have a wonderful day!

[@MommaBeeb]

I just started reading your book “How to Manage Your Home Without Losing Your Mind,” and it’s been so helpful!! I didn’t even think about using “spring cleaning” energy to start declutterring, so this is perfect!!

[@andreacosta3727]

A 10-minute video of Dana K. White? = An enjoyable 10-minute pick-up while listening to the video! ❤

[@familyhistory-jennings836]

You look extra pretty today Dana. That pink looks great on you.

[@denisemchaney4080]

Decluttering the stuff that repeatedly gets left behind. Yes! Dana K. White; you've hit on a mind shift nugget!

[@suewright984]

Inspired, I went to my pantry and cleaned two of the pull out drawers… oil, vinegar, sauces, condiments etc and baking stuff, grains, nuts etc. It took me an hour to check expiration dates, clean and consolidate. I am so pleased. Thanks ❤

[@LauraRogers-xu1fi]

This idea is mind-blowing! Starting in the cupboards and drawers makes absolute sense!

[@Rose_is_a_Rose_]

One of your best videos! Genious! To declutter the things that get left behind first! This way, its easier, AND you dont have to have your house in perfect order first either. (Which is often an Excuse or reason to never get to the decluttering..)

[@amisklake5711]

That makes so much sense. If you get behind in your laundry or dishes it won't take very long to catch up if you have a limited amount of each!

[@supergran1000]

Such a good idea first decluttering the stuff that you've by-passed. Makes sense. We've all got stuff that we use/wear as a very last resort (or never at all), and identifying those items is key. Thanks, Dana!

[@BB-ej9hk]

I find that the way to keep my closet clean after I've done a big declutter is to notice what I am not wearing and force my self to wear it. If I wear something for a few hours, I know if I can keep it or not. I mostly either put in trash or donate as soon as I take it off. Works almost every time with no ambiguity.

[@supergran1000]

@@BB-ej9hk Good idea. You'll soon know why you never wear an item.

[@carolynvagher5296]

...especially with shoes! If they hurt my feet anywhere, even a tiny bit....they are GONE! Feels good!

[@ludwigvonmiseswasright4380]

Dana's hair is looking great!

[@dawndesrosiers3850]

You, my friend, are such an inspiration!!! You explain things so well!!!

[@PrincessofErised]

Probably the single most motivating video I have watched. It really nailed the mission. I am laser focused on what needs to be done now. Motivation mode activated! Thanks so much.

[@robinq5511]

Pretty in pink - You look really pretty today!

[@angelaromolo6517]

Pink is your color 😍😍

[@shereemoon]

Thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you! Dana K. White, can you tell I am GRATEFUL! You calm me, you focus me, you give me renewed hope! GOD BLESS YOU AND YOURS TODAY!!

[@laurawood4476]

Brilliant just freaking brilliant Dana , have all your books watched you for ever, listened to your podcasts.Yet was gobsmacked by your statement " the dishes in the cabinets are your least favorite " . Love this ! I want to shout it from the rooftops.

[@mangopuppybaby]

I love so many things about your method. It has helped me tremendously. Thank you for changing the lives of many!

[@carlajetton7560]

Dana -- I just want to give you a giant hug. Thank you for your help and logic!! I am so grateful to you.

[@cheerfulmouse]

Still mostly on the declutter train 🚂. Many parts of the house are getting better 🙌

[@lydiacalderon1124]

On a side note Dana, you look terrific. It seems you've lost quite some weight. Thank you for sharing your wisdom and experiences in a way that I can understand. God bless you.

[@PlantHoardingAdventures]

Love listening to you while I clean! You are like my little decluttering angel on my shoulder reminding me it’s all a good idea, just let it go! ❤ thank you 🙏

[@jinglesh1398]

Makes Perfect sense, so off I go to do more decluttering !

[@pearlrichardson4179]

Yes I have started my "spring cleaningI" in February. I love you saying this about the decluttering. I so needed to hear & see this video this morning. I love your channel. I already have noticed a shift in my bedroom closet & have more to do. Clothes have went straight to donation bins &/or the local community thrift shop. And you are right about the dishes & such. I will be decluttering that again soon. I love your hair & hairstyle. 🙂

[@seaspeaktome9167]

Great timing. I’ve got major spring cleaning energy much to my husband’s dismay (aka my growing project list 😂).

[@MFox-tu2co]

EXCELLENT DECLUTTERING TIPS IN THIS VIDEO!!!❤❤

[@sandramoore8903]

Totally agree about if it doesn't go in my dishwasher, it doesn't stay in the house. Personally, my favorites go unused, so they stay nicer for longer. The ones I could care less about getting broken are the ones used all the time.

[@cjp2274]

This is such good advice! I've been decluttering with a goal of minimalism - I'm not there yet. But I have had the urge to Spring Clean. Last year it would have been impossible - so much stuff EVERYWHERE. Yet there's still too much to really deep clean. Thinking of more decluttering as my spring cleaning is energizing and stops the guilty feeling I seem to live with on a daily basis. Thanks so much!

[@xtina1610]

Looking great in this video, Mrs. White! Thanks for your content. ❤😊 "Things in your cabinet are your least favorite thing to use." So true!!

[@SnowySpiritRuby]

No end credits from Reid?

[@janetketron5712]

I thought I had missed them and went back to look for them! Like you, I was so sad that there weren't any!

[@BB-ej9hk]

The other thing that causes us not to wear something is if it does match anything color wise or style wise. If you like the item, buy it a matching item. If not,then let it go.

[@Wendy-WackyWomanCreations]

Things we didn't pick first..... Love this advice. After reading you books and watching youtube, I am pretty good at the 5 step process with stuff I pick up but not starting to declutter a new area Thanks for

[@crimequeencreates8248]

That was an ah-ha moment for me when you said that what's left in my cabinets or closet are things i didn't choose to use. I definitely need to re-evaluate those things that are lurking in the backs of my cupboards and closets.

[@adiconstantin4598]

At least, it's a good thing they stay in the back

[@adiconstantin4598]

Spring is a proper time for decluttering! My parents used to declutter together when returning from summer vacation. For me, as a child, it felt intriguing and mesmerizing 🤩

[@ps0195]

Your 5 step process is gold!

[@kennethbailey9853]

What a Wonderful Teaching!!!Well what else would we expect from You? Thank you as every thing You say is such a Gift to all earthlings!😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😁❤️

[@terrysanchez5205]

Thank you! I feel so much better and hopeful now🎉

[@CoolInOlympia]

I love the tip of bring it to it's "home", right then and there!

[@PuzS]

Thanks Dana! And your hair looks beautiful as always. 🌸

[@GratefulDeb270]

Thank you for such life changing books & strategies! ❤❤❤

[@TeresaJohnson-cw8rc]

I like the way that you explain how we should declutter. My big problem is clothing, I keep everything.

[@nancyfeeser4653]

I set up donation truck each week and I make sure I put out at least three bags/boxes. It feels good but so much more and gets easier.

[@stella8705]

Since finding this method has totally hacked my adhd brain when it comes to cleaning etc. I also make each step a mission ( like it's a video game) if I get distracted and go on a " side quest" I havnt created a mess so when I go back to original mission I can complete the task I started without wiggibg out.

[@cathyteeter5819]

Love that Raspberry top - think Spring!

[@robertakeogh8650]

You definitely gave me things to think about..❤

[@kressten]

You’re such a rockstar Miss Dana!!! Thank you so much❤️💕

[@luckyslug525]

Hi Dana! I just finished reading all your books, and I would like to thank you so much for your work. It’s only been a couple of weeks of this regime and it’s made the biggest difference. Life is so much better, especially with my tornado of a toddler. The house is so much cleaner. P.s The audiobook rocks, you’ve got the best voice

[@chelleduns8700]

I've been doing this the last couple days. Finding things new homes that are not on the floor or on a countertop or any kind of surface. With the goal of making cleaning as easy as possible.

[@donnielledonaldson996]

LOVE LOVE LOVE YOU and your strategies!!! PROGRESS over PERFECTION and NEVER make a bigger mess. my two go twos, and 3 is ALWAYS DO THE DISHES!!!!!!! ;0)

[@kerinbunstock]

I’ve moved and decluttered so many times, but still can learn new things! Dana’s method - especially the “take it there” now rule has been an amazing discovery for me. So many times I had just moved stuff from room to room, or even worse, done the “take everything out” suggestion and ended up with a worse mess than when I started. Thanks to Dana for such great explanations and a well-thought out approach.

[@LaJuana558]

BTW Dana, I just saw Mel Robbins top 8 small habits that will change your life… from her podcast guest last year…and you were featured! I was tickled pink! It came out three months ago so I’m late to the party but it was great! Congratulations!

[@jessicaquiroz7178]

I have dishes, cat litter boxes and tidying up as my daily things to do. We usually go to the laundromat on Friday or Saturday and I will fold and put away clothes on Sunday. Other than that, I have housework for certain days. I still find I have trouble with still doing the housework stuff.

[@nancyelizabeth8364]

You look amazing love that pink

[@mindymudge7247]

Super video, yes love your 5 step process and especially your no mess cleaning process! Thank you😊

[@suzy1676]

Great ideas! ❤ that shirt style on you!😍

[@mamabubu6505]

Dana we love you ❤ you make my day ☀️💐

[@LouLou-22]

Great advise, I have only 4 plates and 4 bowls for my family of 4. ❤👌

[@annamoore3129]

Love this video, I know I will have hardly any stuff left - scary thought!

[@jolenemay4582]

Hello from idaho!

[@elizabethsielaff3414]

Hi from the Upper Peninsula of Michigan 😊

[@janethunt4037]

Thank you, Dana. I went through the kitchen cabinets over a year ago. Lots of stuff has not been touched since then. It will feel better to move that stuff on.

[@mollypitcher9380]

4:10 GENIUS!!!! THANKS!!!!!🌸

[@susanmunoz7688]

As always great advice, thank you Dana. ❤️

[@GratefulDeb270]

And videos! 🤗❤🌷

[@mariahwilson6505]

Great video Dana!

[@jillychandler]

Thank you, you speak sooo much sense. xxx

[@wildsheepc]

Where are the credits?!?! 😁

[@elittlebit493]

Genius!! This is a great way to tackle my stuff, thanks for sharing this.

[@tinaspigener2102]

I love your hair.

[@MC22Scott]

If the straw doesn't work for you don't pawn it off on an unsuspecting buyer - just throw it away. I hate discovering I've wasted money at the thrift store because someone else couldn't bear to trash an item.

[@homeirajaz4037]

Wise tips: Declutter 1- Kitchen :plates, pots& pans 2- wardrobe closet ( laundry loads as references) 3- Shoes 4- Linens, Bedding, Blanket s 5- Bath Towels Thank You ❤ 🙏

[@gbk1t]

Genius ! ❤❤❤

[@SamCurtis-yk8cv]

I really love your method and your videos💜. I just noticed your sink🥰. I would love that instead of my stainless steel. ❣️

[@suzy1676]

So true!

[@mrspalmere]

I love thinking about decluttering by getting rid of things not in my dishwasher or laundry bag. Easy way to start! Thank you