The 30 Day Minimalism Game: Everything I Decluttered & Reflections | Minimalist Home

This is now the third time (and perhaps last time, at least for a while) that I have completed the 30 Day Minimalism Game, and it has completely changed how I think about my possessions and decluttering in general.
In this video, I share everything that I got rid of during the month of June, along with some new observations learned from the game this time around.
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Videos mentioned:
The 30 Day Minimalism Game: Everything I Decluttered + Review | Minimalist Home (First time) - • The 30 Day Minimalism ...
30 Day Minimalism Game: Everything I Got Rid Of | Second Pass, Minimalist Home (Second Time) - • 30 Day Minimalism Game...
How to Style a Minimalist Home - • How to Style a Minimal...

[@DropsOfJupit3r]

In love with how straightforward your presentation is. It is exactly what I needed!

[@VestedInterests]

Yay! Good luck with your own decluttering!

[@Lashlove16]

Lol for a second I was thinking you are decluttering the cat 😂 BAKING SODA -could have been used for your fridge/ to deodorize your carpets / to clean your sink or toilet or bathtub paper shopping bags - I hoard as well but then again I am using 2 per week to give others something. To make sure I don’t have too many I only allow what fits in a box

[@VestedInterests]

Baking soda loses its potency over time, as it starts absorbing whatever is around, so I'm sure that box was dead. I did end up using the bags to haul away donations though.

[@Lashlove16]

Vested Interests that’s true . But still good to clean the bathroom. I am just super not wasteful. Glad you reused the bags ... I think everyone has a surplus of those reusable bags mostly from companies as freebies .but most ppl I noticed have very specific ones they like as often the size or shape of the free ones is not that great . Keep your kitty in the videos it’s soo cute and very typical cat behavior loool

[@WeAreDamasDoRESTELO]

Exactly!!! Getting rid of things just because you're not using them today or so, IS NOT SAVING MONEY, which is the main objective minimalism... So many supplies that will later be purchased again... 🤦‍♀️

[@mayanrobinson]

lol...ha ha...i thought she was ditching the furry friend too!

[@yesiownfrodo]

NEVER criticize something someone is getting rid of, especially when it is something worthless like baking soda. Really? 50 cents a box at wally world, of absolutely no value. Don't be a critic, be a supporter.

[@jeanriggs6617]

Because of your previous challenge I just finished a 31 day challenge as a birthday present for myself. Two of my friends and my husband decided to do it with me. If my husband did not get enough items for a day, he had to take me to my favorite restaurant. He didn't miss any days because he had the garage to go through to declutter. It was a wonderful challenge. Thank you. I need to do another one because I never opened the linen closet or the spare bedroom closet.

[@VestedInterests]

That's amazing!!! Congratulations, and major props for getting others on board! Someone else actually mentioned that she and her husband did something similar: whoever finished first got to pick the restaurant. I love that food has somehow become the natural reward for couples doing this challenge together 😂

[@emboudreaux]

Cold-blooded, man. Only Day 9 and she's getting rid of a cat. Would've thought the cat would have lasted until at least Day 15.

[@matilda2]

Wow shocked you had so many things left. Envious of how easy it is for you to make decisions

[@samevans1289]

I love the concept of "sentimental duplicate", it makes you more aware of the fact that you don't need several items to remember an event, time period etc, or 1000 souvenirs from the same trip.

[@bossladysells97]

Why do I find these de clutter videos so interesting 🤔 I love this super satisfying 😂

[@VestedInterests]

Thanks! It's cathartic. Watching can feel good and motivating (or I hope it does when you watch my videos), but doing it yourself can feel a lot better!

[@Susanb89]

It’s so funny when you have decluttered so much and you think you can not possibly declutter anything else....but nope! I just filled up another bag 🙄

[@VestedInterests]

That's so true! At least for a little while, I think I've finally hit my happy place, and it took me ages to get here. However, as I said in the video, I completely expect that to change with time. Good luck with your decluttering!

[@rebeccajanegoddard]

I’m like that all the time. I’ll feel like I’ve decluttered so well and that I have nothing else I can declutter anymore then find bags worth!

[@mereditheyusten7732]

I know what you mean, but I'm now at the point where i cant get rid of anything else. Even though I still wish I had less

[@ktrudy1]

U can say that again. Lol

[@alison2984]

Tell me about ive been working towards minimalism for about 4 years (constant moving house made it difficult to declutter, in a stable home now tho) and I go through stuff every other day and am slowly getting round the house and decluttering the places I missed in my 2/4 time a year massive declutters house feels so much better and more freeing x

[@rao433]

I've really lost count of how many times I've re-watched/binged on your decluttering videos. Isn't it amazing how the cabinets look instantly 'Zen like' once they lose the extra items!

[@lenapena87]

I got married last year (in a long white skirt and Breton striped top). I got rid of the skirt and kept the top in a memory box along with some flowers, invitations and the cards we received. Do not regret it :)

[@VestedInterests]

Very nice! I love a Breton stripe!

[@hikegardentravel6546]

The cat always makes me laugh. My son is so distraught over the Harry Potter items, haha. He’s six. You did a fantastic job. I’m going to do some decluttering tomorrow!

[@VestedInterests]

Ha! We still have two mugs that show the marauder's map when you put hot liquid in them, and we have a ticket to Hogwarts via platform 9 3/4, plus, you know, the books. We watch the movies every October, so we're still bona fide fans! Good luck with your own decluttering!

[@michellecallahan9496]

Um 41 and I'm traumatized about the Harry Potter items lol

[@vivianp5962]

Im 45, and im traumatized about the "Harry Potter" mug too. :'(

[@AZHITW]

I've been decluttering for about three years, but your video has struck a cord with me and I think in the morning I will reevaluate some of my choices. Thanks.

[@VestedInterests]

I think/hope that's a good thing. If so, best of luck!

[@susanrobinson408]

I watched the other two yesterday. Now it seems like you are doing these in fast speed!! Great decluttering!! After these three videos, I can't imagine you have anything else left to get rid of. I would love to see a home tour....do you ever do that?

[@VestedInterests]

It's on my list of videos to make, but, of course, there's always something in the way. One day I'll get around to it though!

[@rebannparo08]

I love the idea of not keeping a "sentimental duplicate"! I had a memento i bought on vacation that reminded me of an amazing day. But I had a couple others that were more meaningful and useful, so I decided to get rid of the one that was mostly ignored on a shelf. Your cat makes the best appearances in the video. :)

[@VestedInterests]

I have a video all about sentimental items where I talk more about sentimental duplicates, in case you haven't seen it and want to check it out, but yes, you probably got the gist in this video. Dani-the-cat goes wherever she wants to go, and she loves to check out the action, so she does make a lot of appearances!

[@NessaBlack]

Also, your cat is insanely cute!

[@VestedInterests]

She is and she knows it!

[@nemo7782]

@@VestedInterests I think she helps with decluttering. I know my bird helps me with it in my home. :)

[@millenka8089]

You just inspired me to do some decluttering.

[@NikoletteTsampos]

This video made me happy! I love watching people free themselves of the crap! As you were counting, the 12 days of Christmas came to mind 😊

[@alexandra109]

Great video. I was thinking that I’ve decluttered so much I don’t know if I could do a 30 day game, but I’ve been thinking about it and I think I could do this. I’m going to give it a try for August. What convinced me - your comment about gift bags. Yes, I think I have some of these. So as much as I’ve gone and decluttered, I bet I have a lot of small things like this hiding in my home. Can’t wait to see what my challenge reveals!

[@VestedInterests]

I don't know much about your situation, but yes, if that comment got you thinking, I'm willing to bet you have enough items to finish the challenge. I hope you enjoy the challenge!

[@stylesofsorts4149]

I love that you mentioned treating closed cabinets and drawers as if they are on display all the time. I do this too and it helps to let go of those things that "don't go!" I will be starting this game tomorrow! Thanks for sharing!

[@VestedInterests]

That's awesome!! Best of luck with it! I'm clearly a huge fan, so I hope you enjoy it at least half as much as I do.

[@giovanasouza2200]

I found your channel today and your videos encouraged me to do the minimalism game! I have decluttered my things before but I always thought this game would be hard, but watching you do it 3 times changed my mind. And I am loving all your videos

[@VestedInterests]

Thanks! As I said in the video I made the first time around, I Kon Mari-ed my house first and then used this method. It's incredible how much stuff slips through the cracks! Good luck if you try it (and you should)!

[@patriciafisher3108]

Thanks for your June decluttering video. I have been looking forward to seeing it. You and your husband have come to a good point in which you are able to part with some sentimental items. I am referring to the yearbook and wedding clothes. I am glad for you that your husband is on board in the decluttering process. Oh ! I also want to mention I too want the inside of my cabinets to be as tidy as the outside areas. Keeping my cabinets and drawers organized is a gift of happy ( : I give to myself.

[@VestedInterests]

Yay! I'm glad you liked it and I'm glad the inside of cabinets is important to you too! One day I may get around to actually putting open shelving in my home, but I'm happy for now to at least spend a little time on them to make them look nice inside. Of course, decluttering those spaces helps tremendously!

[@graceday7203]

I really enjoyed seeing all of the items as you decluttered day-by-day. It is so much more helpful than the ones I see where everything is tossed in a sped-up video. We have a large home with a lot of unneeded stuff in it. I can't ever see myself as a true minimalist, but I'd still love to get rid of a lot of our possessions... which end up possessing us! I also just love your kitty - she seems to be almost a twin to one of ours. Ours gives amazing hugs and massages.

[@VestedInterests]

Thanks! I tried to show where those things lived, instead of just showing you piles of stuff with no context. Minimalism is a mind set, so what looks like minimalism to one person may look very different to the next, and that's ok. Just make sure you know what you want your end game to be--know what your goals are, even if they change down the road. That can help keep you motivated to achieve them. Best of luck with your efforts, and make sure to give those kitties lots of snuggles along the way!

[@H37P5kY57]

I love ALL your videos. You are well spoken and practical.

[@VestedInterests]

Aww, thank you!

[@withyoctopus]

Your cat is lovely.

[@tawnytuppence5573]

So many great principles here! Thanks so much. I especially like the ones about making the interior just as lovely as the exterior, and about moving stuff around. It‘s true that, sometimes, when something shifts out if it’s regular context, it doesn’t fit in anywhere.

[@VestedInterests]

Thanks! I hope the tips help!

[@MrsKore20]

i use "nicer" paper bags for gifts instead of wrapping paper around them. looks nice and when you are invited to birthday parties you can bring your present without taking a huge bag.

[@VestedInterests]

Clever idea!

[@TSunshineful]

Actually I think it’s easier to go backwards, start with 30.

[@VestedInterests]

Others have said the same. I think that's a great idea, especially if you have a ton of stuff!

[@Siures]

Thank you for the advice. I read it10 month ago and now make it that way. Much better. I have much more momentum and do not simply forget to go on. And even if I (as the last times) forget purging on at day 15 to 20 I will have said goodbye to so much more items.

[@sarahsuero]

That’s a new idea, cool.

[@GiGiWellness28]

You're such lucky lady that your husband's willing to take part in this exercise, mine likes to collect stuffs, so it's very difficult to declutter our stuffs (I've been decluttered my own stuff for the last few years). Over the weekend we've donated few boxes of items that were approved by him 🙄 Then we went through & cleared out more items from our rumpus... the area is much breathable now 🤗 Yes, I'm guilty of keeping nice looking gift bags for future use and it seemed those opportunities never came 😅

[@salp7426]

Excellent points you made at the end of the video. Thankyou 🌸

[@dianasocho883]

i would love a minimalist house tour as well. :)

[@H37P5kY57]

I love how you have your kitty in these videos

[@VestedInterests]

She goes where she wants to go. If I'm in a room moving things around, she wants to check it out!

[@Flynaneganshenanegans]

It’s amazing when doing this challenge you find more and more stuff to get rid of. I’ve done this challenge(successfully) two times and trying again for the third and I still have so much I find to get rid of! And we live in an apartment that’s under 400sqft.. I’ve been getting rid of bins too because I just find I try to fill them back up. This inspires me to keep going, thank you for sharing!

[@VestedInterests]

That's awesome! You go! I totally agree with getting rid of bins--they just beg to be filled back up with things I'll end up forgetting about. Good luck!

[@soundgal17]

I am so motivated right now! I am a first time subscriber/viewer of your videos and the timing could not be more perfect. When I first heard your description of the 'game' I thought "there is no way that I would have enough stuff to do that with. " ... I was wrong!! You have shown many many many things that I had totally forgot about. Now I am off to find your other videos for more ideas. Thank you for all that you do! :D

[@soundgal17]

Also.. I just love Kitty's cameo appearances. LOL!

[@VestedInterests]

Thank you!! I'm glad you like the videos! I always say this, but, if I can do the 30 day minimalism game three times, anyone can do it once. (By the way, it was invented by "The Minimalists," not me--just credit where credit is due.) Anyway, once you get started, it will completely change how you view your possessions, and you will magically remember things all over the place that you've been holding on to for no good reason. Dani-the-cat says thank you, and best of luck with your decluttering!

[@blacksheep9772]

You've inspired me to start my own 30 day minimalism challennge today! Im so excited!!!!! 😃😃😃😃😃 Oh and Im quite impressed you use all those chilli flakes!! You are so hard core 😁

[@VestedInterests]

It does take us a little while to go through them, but we got tired of buying tiny jars of them so frequently, so now we buy them in bulk online. And congrats on starting the challenge!!! I'm so excited for you. I've actually been thinking about doing it again soon... we shall see.

[@cornwellemily]

I love your minimalism game videos! I did the Kon- Marie method and had been decluttering for about 2.5 years already and you inspired me to try the 30 day challenge! I’m almost done - just day 30 to go! It really pushed me to dig that much deeper and delve into a couple areas I had been avoiding 🙃 feels amazing!! ☺️

[@cornwellemily]

Also you’ve inspired me for day 30! Now I realized I can do with a lot less reusable bags, plastic containers and pens!

[@VestedInterests]

Yay! All of those sticky little items are really easy to ignore, but getting rid of them makes such a difference!

[@shawanalulu]

Love the Idea, particularly like the 🐈 appearance. Brilliant.

[@pattygioffre2366]

I have to say that Day 9 with your cat on your work papers was my favorite part. My cat's do the exact same thing 😂

[@VestedInterests]

If it's square shaped, she's wants to sit on it.

[@robynroberson4848]

Just found your channel and I am inspired by your style. My husband and I are moving as soon as we sell, so I have much decluttering to do. Thanks to you I know I can get much done in 30 days.

[@VestedInterests]

Thanks, and good luck with your move! Once you get the decluttering ball rolling, you'll be amazed how quickly it starts to change your perspective on your possessions. You can declutter way more than this in 30 days. Again, best of luck!

[@Achayok]

Loved watching this😍🙌🏼 In my head I was singing: And a partridge in a pear tree🎶

[@VestedInterests]

Ha! You're not the first to say that!

[@amyhowe4640]

I just stopped mid video and went down to my kitchen. Pulled out everything from just one cabinet, and found 10 items to get rid of. I have family coming this weekend, so I'll see if there is anything they want, if not it will go to one of the local thrift stores that is meant to help out the community. Thanks for the inspiration. It felt really good.

[@VestedInterests]

That's awesome!! I konmaried my kitchen a long time ago, but it was a particularly problematic area for me to declutter, because a lot of kitchen items have obvious utility. That said, it doesn't mean I was actually using them and getting any utility out of them, so it was wonderful to finally realize that and let those things go. Have fun with your family this weekend!

[@abundantlyinspired]

I did this two years ago after doing a major declutter and could not believe how much I still had that I could get rid of!! You did a great job 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻❤️love your sweet cat!!

[@VestedInterests]

Thanks! Kitten says thank you as well. I Kon Mari-ed my house years ago and was still able to complete this challenge three times. I've found it to be a wonderful way to uncover those little things that slip through the cracks.

[@missrobinhoodie]

Same with the pretty gift bags😂👌🏻 I convinced myself to keep only 1.

[@Iheardyoulikeplants]

Ooooh I'm inspired now! I feel like you might already know this, but animal shelters like donations of pillows, towels and blankets.

[@jennifers7134]

Mcfilibuster i just donated a bunch of older towels & blankets to our local animal shelter! they were so grateful & it made me feel incredible. the towels were too far gone to be useful for people, i felt, & i've been driving them around in my trunk for a year waiting for a place to donate! thanks for the suggestion :)

[@VestedInterests]

Of course! I have donated to the animal shelter in the past. I don't think my local shelter accepts pillows, but they do take sheets (but not fitted sheets as dogs will eat the elastic, and not pillow cases for safety reasons) and towels. Definitely a great option!

[@nancynurse4552]

I finished a round a few days before posted this video. I was incredibly amazed we made it through easily and a hundred extra items. We moved across country this spring in a 5x8 Uhaul trailer. I am still astonished we could find anything else to declutter after we just downsized so much to make the move possible. Relooking at our items again months later and in a different home shed a different “light” on them.

[@VestedInterests]

That sounds awesome!! I'm not sure we could fit all of our furniture in a 5x8 uhaul... maybe if we only had one bedroom. Sometimes I wonder what the total volume of our possessions is, but I'm in no hurry to move to find out! Congrats again!

[@nancynurse4552]

Vested Interests you could always try a “packing party” for your next minimalism challenge. Then you would know 😊 I measure off the inside dimensions of the trailer in one of our bedrooms -marked via painters tape. We were constantly reminded how little we were going to be taking. Worked quite well.

[@VestedInterests]

That's a great strategy!

[@PastPresentNow]

I enjoy your pace and editing. Its soothing as my back round. Personally when I declutter it's all in on one area, room, or type of item. This weekend is a all fabric clear out. Followed by craft items later. Your video is motivating as I'm decluttering.

[@VestedInterests]

Great! I'm glad you liked it! I've decluttered room by room and category by category before, but that was a while ago, and my relationship to my possessions has definitely changed. I think both (or really any) methods have their benefits though.

[@PastPresentNow]

Vested Interests I agree, different methods have their benefits. Maybe when I've had major progress on my items it would be nice to have a smaller daily challenge. At the moment we plan to move in the fall and anything we don't have to take is awesome! The new place will be a new start. We experienced serious flooding this past winter and don't trust half the living room now. Really forced us to clean out.

[@VestedInterests]

Oh wow, sorry to hear about the flooding! I'm glad it seems you've been able to get something positive out of it though. Good luck with your move!

[@jessdalton185]

A week prior to viewing this video, I donated a ton of gift bags that I was holding onto. I don’t need 14 wedding gift bags when I normally give a cash gift. I kept one wedding, two birthday and five holiday bags. I was able to combine two wrapping paper/gift bag containers into one, and it felt amazing!

[@emilleepayten3262]

I was so sad when you got rid of you Harry Potter mug until you mentioned you have 2 more. Potterhead forever! :D Also, your cat is the cutest thing.

[@VestedInterests]

Part of the marauder's map that appears when you put hot liquid in the mug was flaking off. Fortunately my husband and I stocked up when we went to the Harry Potter exhibit at the Field Museum years ago in Chicago.

[@emilleepayten3262]

Oooooh, I've seen those mugs before. Very cool! I think I went to that exhibit with a friend when it was in Canada. Had a bunch of movie props and such.

[@VestedInterests]

Yep! That's the one!

[@Level12Self]

Wow! When I first started watching your video, I thought you meant get rid of one item a day for 30 days. That's a lot of stuff by the end of the challenge!! INSPIRING!!

[@VestedInterests]

Haha, nope! 1 on day 1, 2 on day 2, 3 on day 3... 20 on day 20... 30 on day 30. The people who invented it (The Minimalists) perhaps explain it better here: www.theminimalists.com/game/

[@whatever9770]

You are so down to earth, which is refreshing.

[@VestedInterests]

ty!

[@liannemarie8831]

I came to a realization in our lives and that’s that we are a family of four living in an apartment that we’ve grown out of. In reality we’ve just accumulated too much “stuff”. For me it’s hard to get rid of sentimental items but we still start slow and get rid of the no essential items. Thanks for the inspiration!!

[@VestedInterests]

I've seen so many TV shows with families that claims they "need" a bigger house, and then they show clips of their current home and it's crammed full of garbage. I'm glad you realized the issue if your stuff, not your space! If you haven't seen it, I have a video all about sentimental items that may help. Best of luck!

[@Aj-nu3zy]

Good job!!! It never ends, huh.... but still, way to go! Less attachments, more living mindfully in the present. Not easy

[@VestedInterests]

Thanks! I actually think I am done, for a while at least.

[@susanashton6608]

It does end, in the sense that you hit your "sweet spot" of possessions which you are happy with, which it sounds as though you have done, VI. From now on it will be just quick declutters which take no time at all.

[@VestedInterests]

Even after just a few weeks, I've started noticing a couple of areas that are beginning to look like they could use a little more love, but I'm not in a hurry. I think I need some time to recalibrate and focus on what's in front of me, which is much easier to do without all the extra stuff!

[@lesliee6870]

Thanks for showing this. I had to pause my challenge in June and just restarted it. I could probably do this game every month for a year. It does get easier as I go on. Thanks for giving me more ideas of things I can get rid of.

[@VestedInterests]

Oh good, I'm glad you picked it up again! Best of luck finishing (and maybe starting another)!

[@CeliaAWhite]

I love this challenge. I did it in June and will do it again in August. I live in just 700 square feet and doing this challenge is just wonderful for removing clutter. Plus its fun! Thank you for these videos. Your channel is awesome.

[@VestedInterests]

Thanks! It's wonderful that you're doing it a second time! After three rounds (and Kon Mari-ing a few years ago) myself, I think I'm done, at least for a while. You mentioning your square footage reminds me of an apartment my husband and I lived in during grad school. It was 650 square feet, and we probably packed more stuff into that apartment than we have now in our 1100 square foot home. If only I knew back then what I know now! Congrats again and keep having fun with it!

[@callalilly63]

I'm so glad you mention the cat everytime he us around. He is a keeper.

[@smokingrooves1]

Love your tip at the end of the video about the items that you are familiar seeing all of the time, and moving it somewhere else. I decluttered a ton of things from my home last year, and right now I'm in the middle of trying the Minimalism game for the first time, and I'm finding it definitely is getting more challenging now that I'm at day 18. I think your tip will help me as I continue through this process. Thanks!

[@VestedInterests]

You can do it! If I can do it three times, anyone can do it once. And if it gets tough, just take a break and then pick up on the day you left off on. Hope the tips help and good luck (but you don't need it)!

[@MyMontana52]

We had a yard sale and I was combing our house to get rid of as much as possible. I was used to seeing those items in their regular locations. What I found was, once those items were lying random on the yard sale tables, all of a sudden it looked like junk because they weren’t in their usual place. This made it so much easier to let them go. There was no way that I wanted them back in our house. I have actually done this at least several times, so I have let go of more & more. I always think “ I couldn’t possibly gather enough for another yard sale”, but then I manage to gather more things each time than I thought I could. It is a great feeling yo de clutter. My house feels so much lighter after a purge. I pretend I am preparing to move into a tiny house so I can only have the things I truly need. That helps me get rid of more. I have purged in stages. I actually comb through our house pretty much every week, so I manage to clear out some things I wasn’t ready to let go of previously, but now am.

[@VestedInterests]

Congratulations!! That sounds amazing!! I am a big believer in the power of defamiliarization and I love your "imagine I'm moving into a tiny house" technique. I've considered imagining the same, but I haven't really put it to the test yet. I remember seeing a show on tiny houses once where each of the family members were given one plastic tub--that's the total volume of personal possessions they were allowed to keep. I could probably make the important things fit, but I still own a lot of excess that wouldn't make it into the bin. It's a great mindset for approaching decluttering though!

[@CanadaMills]

Thanks for another insightful video. Although I have not yet participated in the 30-day minimalism game, we have been majorly decluttering over the past year or so. Many of your categories are familiar to me, as well as the items we have shed, e.g., plastic containers, office supplies, kitchen items. I agree that it takes some time to get used to a living space that displays fewer items than an average house. We are now very comfortable with it and prefer it that way. Friends and family members often remark on how sparse our house is now. But I don't feel pressured at all to go back to the way it used to be. Most of the time it's just him and me in our home, so makes sense to have it the way we prefer. And some people say it feels light and airy like a spa. That's a good thing!

[@VestedInterests]

For some reason your comment was flagged as spam, so I had to approve it and I'm only now seeing it... Anyway, I couldn't agree more that our homes should primarily be places that give us enjoyment--we shouldn't design them for other people. Re: it taking time for decluttered spaces to look normal again: I went on vacation recently. Before leaving, there were a few areas that still looked a bit sparse to me after this challenge, but, upon returning, it was overwhelmingly refreshing to come back to a (mostly) calm, clutter-free home. On the other hand, a few other areas managed to seem cluttered by comparison, so our perspectives definitely do change! Enjoy your spa-home--that sounds amazing!!

[@tuberrosa1092]

Thank you. The tips on adjusting are helpful. I like your curtains in deep lavander and your gray cat, which matches your interiors.

[@VestedInterests]

I personally wouldn't call them lavender; they're way too dark for that. And my cat definitely has more brown going on than grey. Maybe I need to check my color quality! But anyway, thank you! Not only have I adjusted to seeing less, I've even started to notice areas that now seem cluttered in comparison! Good luck with your own decluttering, if that's something you're doing!

[@CellaBella241]

I'm not a clutter bug by any means but it's amazing how much you can get rid of if you scrutinize how you live and what you really use/don't use. I purge my items on a regular basis but the 30-day challenge (I extended it to 45 days) took it to a whole other level. Awesome!!!

[@VestedInterests]

Oh wow! I extended it to 31 days once because there were 31 days in the month, and I thought I was cool. 45 days is no joke--congratulations!!

[@cutiepiedaina]

baking soda can be poured down the sink and chased with hot water to clear out pipes :)

[@BermetJamankulova]

Love your videos! You inspired me to do a 30 day challenge!! I love that you are getting rid of nice things, somehow it helps me to get rid of my "might need one day" nice things. You are right, all those little things are sticky and often hang around unnoticed. Decluttering my "junk" room and did 20 days worth of stuff in 1 day. Counting stuff got tiring, perhaps I should just declutter as a first go to get as much out as possible on the first go. Please post a video about your office supplies, if you keep any. Also would be interested in your pantry and how you deal with not stocking too much.

[@VestedInterests]

That's awesome! I'm glad you're trying the 30 day challenge! I mentioned this in the video I made the first time I did the challenge, but, if you have a lot of stuff, it might be better to do some other kind of decluttering first (like the Kon Mari method). That way, you can purge all of those things you know you're ready to let go of, and then you can follow up with the game and be shocked at all the things you can still find that you really don't need. If, however, you're someone who wants to declutter, but has a lot of trouble being motivated and getting started, using this game first might be a good way to dip your toes in. It sounds like you don't have that problem, so I agree with you, do a full home purge first and then follow up with the game. Re: office and crafting and gift wrap supplies (I kind of lump them together in my mind): I would have essentially none, but my husband wants to keep them, so they're living in that drawer I show in this video. Re: pantry: It's on my list! We're going on vacation soon, but I can try to make a video on it when we return. Good luck!

[@lilianax5943]

Great video! We always use paper bags to give gifts in, works great and gives an extra touch

[@VestedInterests]

If the bags were plain, that could work, but all of the bags I had had some kind of brand or store name on them, so I would feel a bit awkward if the gift inside did not correspond with the name, e.g. "Here's a bag that says 'Neiman Marcus' on the front... just kidding, it's a Bath and Body Works candle!" To be fair, that's probably just me being neurotic and no one in reality would care.

[@nerd_alert927]

I love when you do these videos. Inspires me to declutter as well. I've been on a personal minimalism journey for about 2 years now.

[@VestedInterests]

Thanks! I hope the videos help, and best of luck with your own efforts!

[@foreverirish132]

Wow that’s a lot of items😊 fair play to you and your husband

[@absloutelyRasha]

I am so proud of you! Congrats! I am doing the same and I started with purging my storage crap then will do the place by section . again! Bravo again :)

[@VestedInterests]

Thanks! I feel like I focused more on particular spaces in my house the first time I did this challenge, but, my the third time, I was definitely all over the place! I suppose my kitchen did get a lot of attention this time though...

[@absloutelyRasha]

YW. My space was a guest room that I kept bins and bins of junk that I was moving with me for years without looking in it. I was able to donate tons of items that I really do not use or I have emotional attachment to. It feels so good to see the empty room and now I can furnish it with a sofa bed and have a comfortable space for guests for real. Thanks that you encouraged me. It seems now as an easier task to keep decluttering as the beginning is a little hard.

[@NessaBlack]

Awesome job! We have decluttered from a huge house to a tiny apartment that looks pretty sparse in the last few years but watching your last 30 day minimalism game prompted me to challenge my husband to compete in one. We made it to day 10 each, not too shabby since we weren’t sure we’d make it past day 4! It’s crazy what you dig up when you really want to win so you can pick the restaurant you’ll go to at the end!

[@VestedInterests]

Hahaha, that's a great way to do it, and I love the winner's prize! For the first time ever, I think I have fewer personal possessions than my husband, especially if we count the shed stuff as his. One day I may get him to realize that we only use about two of the tools out there...

[@kimberleeastin1374]

Lol for a moment there I thought the cat was a goner...glad kitty stays 🤣🤣🤣

[@VestedInterests]

Nope! I need to put a note on this video--so many people make the same assumption.

[@FolloEmoPrincesse]

This video was so straight forward. Really loved it that you didn‘t try to make the video longer with rambling around.

[@VestedInterests]

Thanks! It was long enough already...

[@bethmathews3567]

What a great challenge! Your video came up as “recommended”.... just subscribed, looking forward to watching your other videos! P.s.... love your cat .....

[@VestedInterests]

Thank you and thank you! I'm on vacation now but heading home tomorrow and I cannot wait for 48 hours of snuggle time with her. Hope you like the videos!

[@lisamorice4701]

Great effort to gather and remove your items! I keep any sturdy paper bags I get too but I do tend to reuse quite a few so I don't worry too much about them. They are easy to recycle if I feel the need to thin them out.

[@VestedInterests]

I had some of those bags for years, just sitting in a cabinet. I do use the compostable ones to hold compost, but some of those paper bags wouldn't be good for compost, so there they sat, doing nothing. It felt great to finally get rid of them!

[@natashagangal]

I LOVE watching your 30-day challenges - I think they're better done than most of the others that're filmed out there. -In terms of reusable bags, I usually bring them to the grocery store with me and give them to the people in front of or behind me if they've forgotten the bags because goodwill will prob throw them away. -For the nice paper bags from stores, you could probably take those sephora ones back to the store with you if they're still in good condition and they'll just re-use them! -School supplies! Bring them to your local elementary school. I totally recognize that bringing all of these things to proper places seems like a lot of work, and it is but it's also sort of worth it.

[@VestedInterests]

Thanks for the tips! I've taken things to women's shelters, children's shelters, animal shelters, schools, reusable building supply stores, charity shops, thrift stores, specialized recycling facilities, and, rarely, offered them for free on craigslist. In another life, I worked retail and I know that we would not have been allowed to re-use bags (we could recycle them, but for safety and liability reasons, they couldn't be re-distributed to other customers), so it may be good to check with the store first.

[@EasyAlaa]

First time I’ve come across this type of 30 day challenge - and I love it!

[@VestedInterests]

Good! I didn't invent it, The Minimalists did. I'm just a huge fan of it. Best of luck if you try it (and you really should)!

[@colinkulowcreative]

Can’t believe I missed this video! Welcome back ; )

[@VestedInterests]

Hahaha, glad you caught it!

[@naturalsunrider6660]

I need a support group. I am so traumatized between setting my intention to minimalism with a material mom, two children (14 and 16 and resistant! I can't even say more. I'm shaking. This decluttering thing has many layers and may take many years but remind yourself to keep going when you feel you're slipping backwards again. I've moved every year since 2015 so that has helped. Yet I spent a few years reaccumulating things again, like spices because you think you're going to cook more, then moving and giving away boxes of culinary things again. And the kids thing is a whole nother chapter. It's disgusting and stressful but I have to keep plowing!

[@VestedInterests]

Instead of focusing on what you're getting rid of, try to focus on what you're keeping. Those are, after all, the most important things. I recommend sitting down, closing your eyes, and visualizing what it is you want you home and your life to look like. Once you get a good sense of your goals, it will be a lot easier to identify what things align and what do not align with those goals. Decluttering should not be stressful--it's a path forward to a simplified, edited life--so if you're stressed, take a break, take some deep breaths, and do things at your own pace!

[@Cecibug1]

For a second i thought you were getting ride of the cat. And im with you on the red pepper flakes 😄

[@jvb7179]

This inspired me to try the challenge as well! I decluttered with the Konmari method some time ago but now the surrounding has 'normalised' again so I think it's good to open my eyes to the amount of stuff I actually own.

[@VestedInterests]

That's awesome!! I Konmari-ed my house a few years ago, but, as it was my first attempt to declutter, I didn't have the mindset that I do now and I kept way more than I needed. I said this in the video I made the first time I did the 30 day challenge, but I think this game is the perfect compliment to follow up something like Konmari-ing. Best of luck and have fun with it!

[@ShayAasmr]

Another great video. I saw a few kitchen items that made me wish I lived near you so I could pick them up from the thrift store.

[@VestedInterests]

Haha, nooooo! This video is supposed to have the opposite effect!

[@lindatwyman8739]

I really like the way you go on through this without going over every thought you had. It was long enough, but not too long. I was thinking about buying a big dutch oven, but I probably would never use it either.!!

[@VestedInterests]

Thanks! This one is actually longer than my two other 30 day minimalism game videos, in part because I decided to make those little clips showing where the item came from. I wanted to give a better sense of where those items lived, rather than just showing you a pile of stuff with no context, but it did make it longer. Re: dutch ovens: I actually talk about this in my latest video on decluttering expensive items, but they are heavy! Since ours was coated in enamel, it was easy to wipe food off, but, moving it around in the sink when we had to clean it was always kind of nerve wracking because I was afraid I'd break my sink or the oven or both.

[@joyceepperson5219]

Dutch ovens are for people who cook from scratch and or have large families or teen aged boys.. Chili, spaghetti sauce, minestrone soup, bean dishes. They are cast iron which is very heavy and can’t be used on glass topped stoves. That’s another reason people get rid of them.

[@Irene-gq4jr]

What you said about the insides of cabinets and closets looking nice too resonates with me. I like to be able to see and easily access what I have. I did a big purge of my bathroom cupboard recently and now it's much more pleasing to look at. I also used to be terrible for buying too many groceries with grand plans of what I was going to cook only to have food expire both in cupboards and in the fridge because I forgot about the things at the back - my fiancé is much better organized in this respect and I have been adopting his good habits and wasting a lot less.

[@VestedInterests]

That's awesome! We too have become much better about not over-buying groceries, and now I don't get stressed out when I open my pantry and see something I bought a year ago and never made. It sounds like you're on the right path, and you're lucky to have a fiancé who seems to have similar goals--so that puts you ahead of the curve!

[@Irene-gq4jr]

@@VestedInterests Thank you :-) We both have more than a dash of OCD yet a similar level of tolerance for temporary mess, which really helps us live in harmony. Compatible habits and aspirations in a partner who is happy to split tasks fairly make life so much simpler and easier. I've never been happier in my life than I am now with him.

[@lailamaly7522]

Enjoyed the video and I will throw out something as soon as I leave this note - I plan on starting the game on September 1st - since there are 30days in September and it’s just in time for the upcoming holidays. I too hoard or save bags on bags from various stores and I always have the best intentions on reusing the, and then they multiply exponentially. Lol. Thanks for posting your reflections at the end - I thought you had a lot of valuable info to share and it’s motivated me to be excited for this game.

[@VestedInterests]

Aww, thanks! Best of luck in September!

[@TheA2ID]

I don’t have my glasses so I was staring at ur husbands wedding suit thinking he got married in camo until u mentioned ur cat 😅

[@VestedInterests]

Hahahahahaha! I would not have married him if he tried to wear a camo suit.

[@TheDriftwoodlover]

LOL

[@serendipitysue3255]

I declutter on a regular basis. I am making a new pile to disperse and decided it might be a good idea to make a pile family can go through when they come over for the holidays. One of my sons passing through the other day all ready took something.

[@VestedInterests]

I did the challenge again (literally just uploaded the video) and probably half the stuff if not more was taken by friends passing through. It's wonderful to know that all of those things are going to good homes where they will be used!

[@katherinegreen1117]

I love how savage you are when grabbing stuff youre going to get rid of - decision making goals

[@VestedInterests]

Ha! Well, I made the decision to get rid of them, and then filmed myself whipping them away, but it does become a lot easier to make decisions with time.

[@SuperDogBiscuits]

Great video, but I think we can all agree that kitten stole the show. What a damn cutie pie

[@VestedInterests]

That's her M.O.!

[@PamVanEeJournalMaker]

Great decluttering! You did a great job! I am also in the process of getting rid of stuff.🙄 I did the konmari process before. But, never tackled my craft supplies...😲

[@VestedInterests]

Ahh, the never-ending komono category. I was finally able to tackle my crafting supplies, which exploded a few months ago when I had what I thought was a brilliant idea at the time... You'll see all about it in my next 30 day minimalism video. Best of luck with yours!

[@PamVanEeJournalMaker]

@@VestedInterests I look forward to seeing that! I subbed to your channel!😁

[@andreablassingame5415]

Really cool. Thanks for sharing!! I may have to try this.

[@VestedInterests]

Give it a go! I'm thinking about doing it again, which would be my fourth time around!

[@ShipCreek]

Between 9am and 2pm I decluttered. I usually do a round every 3mths but got extra busy this year. Was truely surprised how much I actually threw out as apposed to giving to charity. I have 38 items in my wardrobe. But I did vacuum pack 2 small bags of summer wear. At the end of summer I told myself I had enough clothes for the next 2 years. That was after I bought 3 pairs of shoes😉😊 Im enjoying your vids.

[@VestedInterests]

That sounds great! Please do try to find textile recycling in your area though if your items are not appropriate for donation. Keep up the good work!

[@chunkylass8671]

Charity shops in UK will give rags to textile recycling and get money for it

[@jessieg5502]

Day 9 pops up and I cried out "oh no not the kitty"

[@VestedInterests]

Never! She's right here; not going anywhere.

[@imposible145]

You are absolutely awesome! I’m on my way of getting rid of more stuff, I love your videos!

[@VestedInterests]

Aww, thanks! Hope they help!

[@mylenebarry]

i loved your previous videos so much that l ended up doing the challenge myself I have 2 days left to go and I'm so happy i did it thanks for the inspiration and good job on this round 3 :)

[@VestedInterests]

Oh yay!! You're so close! Congrats in advance on finishing the challenge!

[@always4ever68]

Thank you! I needed to have perspective on declutter and you mentioning that you need to depersonalize "things" makes me understand that they are just things.

[@always4ever68]

By the way, your video inspired me to begin my own declutter but I did most of it in one day. Extreme declutter!

[@VestedInterests]

That's so great!!! Things really are just things, but it can take a little while for that idea to really sink in and for the nuance and weight of the idea to take hold. I'm glad you're now able to approach your possessions for what they really are, and congrats on decluttering so much in such a short time!

[@Im4hm]

I watched this video this morning and decided to play the 30 day minimalism game as well. I think I am currently on day 15. I'm obviously playing the fast forward version.

[@VestedInterests]

That's awesome!! Very nice that you have momentum. I would say "good luck," but I don't think you need it!

[@ninashields8193]

I really like this concept of cleaning out things that go unused. I am going to try this now 😁

[@VestedInterests]

Give it a try! If I can do it three times, anyone can do it once!

[@Sweetgotham]

Me: "..Day 9: I am decluttering all 9 lives of this cat" lol Great job- I love these kinds of declutters; very motivating! Today I am going through all of my shoes, bags, and jewelry!

[@VestedInterests]

Noooo! The cat is staying. We may have actually acquired a new, outside cat, if he sticks around, so the cat count is not decreasing! Good luck with your pare down!

[@Jessie-fl1rr]

Your wedding dress and your husband’s suit must have been hard. And your year book? I must admit, I don’t have any of mine either and I don’t miss them😆 great job! I agree with you about behind close cabinet doors, I need mine to be neat and presentable as well.

[@VestedInterests]

Thanks! I probably looked through my yearbook twice: once when I received it and once before I chucked it out. I have fond memories from school, but I don't need yearbooks to remind me of them.

[@deborahmac1997]

I just hired two people to clear my attic. I also started this 30 day game in the rest of the house. I've been been on this mission for about a year and I'm down to those last bits. This game put new enthusiasm in the process.

[@VestedInterests]

That's great! The game made me see all of my possessions in a new light. I hope it does the same for you!

[@petmomful2260]

Defamiliarization. Yessssssssssss. I got rid of a candle the other day. My ferret got up on my desk, knocked it off, and broke it! Easy peasy! lol I like your videos.

[@VestedInterests]

Hahaha, welp, I suppose that does make the decision really easy!

[@petmomful2260]

Seriously, tho, I have been going thru my house and getting rid of a LOT of stuff, including papers. It is so satisfying!

[@dianeyoung8068]

I really agree with all your observations at the end of the video.

[@chloecharlton3837]

Your cat is so cute :) I loved your reflections on this one!

[@VestedInterests]

Thanks! Hope you're well!

[@jorobinson8835]

I just had another big declutter last week. I love these video's and your upstaging cat :) Thanks! Jx

[@VestedInterests]

She really does steal the show!