If you're set on reducing clutter but unsure where to begin, the 30-Day Minimalism Game might be your perfect solution. This method helps you gradually eliminate items from your home.
Developed by The Minimalists, this approach divides your decluttering efforts into manageable daily tasks while making a significant dent in the clutter.
Every day of the month, aim to remove as many items as the corresponding day. For example, discard one item on the 1st, twelve on the 12th, twenty-five on the 25th, and continue this pattern for 30 days. It's a true test!
Embarking on the 30-Day Decluttering Challenge
While the 30-Day Minimalism Game can be a daunting decluttering journey, its benefits are substantial. A former participant, Millie Hurst, encourages trying it for a refreshing start. More details can be found on The Minimalists' website.
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Authors Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus share their impactful insights on leading a meaningful life with fewer possessions in their acclaimed book.
“I partnered with a colleague, Annie, and together we cleared out 351 items from my home, including birthday cards, clothing, and various knick-knacks. Despite a few regrets over some items, it was necessary, especially as I moved shortly after and would have had more to transport,” shared one participant.
“I reached day 26, while Annie got to day 24. The challenge intensifies as the month progresses, requiring more daily removals. Still, the satisfaction of achieving it made me appreciate open spaces more. We invest a lot in our homes, and every item should justify its presence. The Minimalism Game builds your decluttering confidence, making it easier to part with belongings.”
Here are expert tips to guide you through the Minimalism Game and ensure you succeed every day this month.
Millie Hurst is a Section Editor, focusing on providing readers practical guidance for their homes. With six years of experience, she has explored numerous cleaning and DIY strategies.
Essential Tips for the Minimalism Game
These expert insights will support you throughout the month, leaving your home revitalized.
1. Tackle Smaller Spaces First
Starting with smaller areas is a smart choice when decluttering, especially for the Minimalism Game, suggests Sarah Correa, a designer and organizer. This strategy preserves energy for larger tasks later in the month.
“I usually save closets for last as people often have stronger attachments to clothes,” she explains. “By starting small, you build enthusiasm, which aids decision-making on what to keep or discard.”
From a young age, Sarah Correa has been passionate about design and organization, eventually creating her own business to help clients achieve functional and beautiful spaces.
2. Cultivate a Daily Decluttering Habit
Establishing decluttering routines is vital for completing the Minimalism Game, recommends author and organizer Felice Cohen. Missing a day can lead to discouragement.
“Try filling a bag with five items right after breakfast each day,” she suggests. “Making this a daily ritual will help you maintain momentum.”
Felice Cohen has learned to thrive in small spaces, applying her skills to help others declutter and organize their homes effectively.
3. Keep a List to Visualize Progress
Removing over 400 items in a month requires a plan. Consider creating a decluttering checklist to keep track, especially as you approach the month's end.
“There's something powerful about writing down what you're discarding,” says Dr. Tracia Wolanin, a creativity coach. This helps visualize your achievements and counteract feelings of overwhelm.
4. Declutter from All Areas of the Home
If you live with others, involve them to meet your daily goals. Without infringing on their belongings, consider items belonging to shared spaces.
“Clear out dog toys, children's items, or even your partner's unused clothes,” suggests organizing expert Kristy Edwards. “This approach helps you find more items to declutter without overwhelming your day.”
Kristy Edwards is dedicated to helping clients achieve balance through decluttering and organizing, creating harmonious living spaces.
5. Start with Items in Plain Sight
Begin by decluttering visible items that clutter surfaces. Addressing these first helps maintain focus for later tasks.
“Consider why certain objects remain on counters,” advises professional organizer Felice Cohen. “Clearing visible areas can create immediate motivation and progress.”
6. Develop a Consistent Strategy
A common mistake in decluttering is not having a clear strategy. Choosing to work by room or category can streamline your efforts.
Christina Hidek, an organizer and decluttering coach, recommends focusing on one room at a time for efficiency.
“Instead of spreading efforts across your home, dedicate time to one room or section,” she advises. “You don't have to remove the same type of items each day!”
Mary Ann, another professional organizer, supports this approach, suggesting starting with a junk drawer or linen closet to maintain momentum.
Mary Ann has transformed her life through decluttering and now helps others find peace and balance in their homes.
7. Remove Larger Items First
Start by eliminating larger items in the first weeks, as they are fewer in number, then shift to smaller items later to meet your daily goals, suggests Judy Granlee-Gates, a professional declutterer.
“Removing larger pieces initially gives you a sense of accomplishment,” she states. “Dedicate the first week to larger items, then move on to mid-sized things. Reserve small items for later days to avoid overwhelm.”
Judy Granlee-Gates is a professional problem-solver, aiming to help homeowners create beautiful, functional spaces.
8. Involve the Whole Family
Involving family members can bring fresh ideas and strengthen bonds during the Minimalism Game.
“Assign each day to a family member or work together,” suggests professional organizer Mary Ann. “This teaches children the value of maintaining clutter-free spaces while making the challenge enjoyable.”
9. Prepare Items for Donation on the Last Day
Items you declutter will accumulate, so plan to drop them off at a donation center halfway through the month and again at the end. Keeping them in bags or boxes by the door will reduce the temptation to put them back.
“Consider listing items for sale online as soon as you decide to declutter them,” suggests professional organizer Bonnie Borromeo Tomlinson.
10. Don’t Overlook Trash
Mary Ann emphasizes that decluttering isn’t always about personal items. Much of what you can let go of are simply trash.
“Old paint cans, junk mail, and broken toys are all prime candidates. Let them go!”
11. Declutter by Time Instead of Number of Items
While the Minimalism Game is challenging, you can modify it to better suit your needs. For instance, declutter for the same number of minutes as the day of the month, suggests Christina Hidek.
“On day one, spend one minute decluttering, and on day thirty, dedicate thirty minutes to a larger task,” she explains. “This can make a noticeable difference and fit into your schedule more easily.”
Christina Hidek has spent over a decade helping clients organize their homes and eliminate clutter.
12. Be Kind to Yourself
Decluttering can feel overwhelming, so if you struggle later in the challenge, consider reducing your target to one item daily. Removing even one item is progress.
“This simplifies the task and often leads to removing more once you see how easy it can be,” advises Felice Cohen. “Progress breeds motivation!”
FAQs
What is the five-second rule for decluttering?
The five-second rule suggests if you can't remember the last time you used an item in under five seconds, it's time to let it go. This is especially effective for cleaning out spaces like closets and cabinets.
What are the types of minimalists?
There are five main types of minimalists: the essential minimalist who prioritizes essentials; the aesthetic minimalist who values simplicity in appearance; the eco minimalist focused on environmental impact; the frugal minimalist seeking to save money; and the mindful minimalist who uses minimalism for mental wellness.
The 30-Day Minimalism Game is challenging yet rewarding for those looking to significantly downsize their possessions. Are you ready to take it on?
