Drowning in a sea of stuff? You're not alone. Clutter has become a national epidemic, with the average American home containing a staggering 300,000 items. But the solution is simpler than you might think. We've rounded up the 6 best room-by-room decluttering methods to help you reclaim your space and your sanity.

Start with the Kitchen

According to professional organizer Laura Ellis, the kitchen is typically the best place to begin your decluttering journey. "The kitchen is the command center of the home," she explains. "Tackling that space first creates a domino effect, making it easier to declutter the rest of your living areas."

Begin by ruthlessly sorting through your pantry, cabinets, and drawers. Toss expired foods, unused appliances, and duplicates of cooking tools. The 90/90 rule is a game-changer here - if you haven't used an item in the past 90 days and don't anticipate using it in the next 90, it's time to let it go.

Tackle the Closet Next

Your wardrobe is often a hotspot for clutter. Elle Penner of Modern Minimalism recommends starting with clothes you haven't worn in over a year. "If it doesn't fit, flatter, or make you feel amazing, it's time to part ways," she says. Sort items into piles to donate, sell, or recycle.

What this really means is that we often hold onto clothing for sentimental reasons or because of the price tag, even if we never actually wear it. Letting go of those "just in case" items is key to creating a streamlined, functional closet.

Don't Forget the Bathroom

The bathroom is another frequently overlooked clutter culprit. Go through your drawers and cabinets and toss expired medications, half-used beauty products, and old towels. "The goal is to only keep the essentials - the things you use daily," says The Spruce.

The bigger picture here is that decluttering isn't just about reducing physical stuff - it's about creating a calming, intentional environment. An organized bathroom can actually improve your self-care routine and boost your mood.

Other Key Rooms to Target

  • Tackle the home office by shredding old documents, recycling outdated manuals, and finding a permanent home for office supplies.
  • In the living room, get ruthless with decor, knick-knacks, and excess throw pillows that are "just for show."
  • The bedroom is ripe for decluttering - start by clearing out worn-out linens, unused exercise equipment, and piles of papers.

The key is to tackle one room at a time and focus on quick wins. As Elle Penner advises, "Start small and celebrate each accomplishment. The momentum will snowball, and before you know it, your whole home will feel lighter and more serene."

So what are you waiting for? Dive into these 6 room-by-room decluttering methods and watch the chaos transform into calm. Your future self will thank you.