As spring arrives, the days grow longer, gardens bloom with colour, and the sense of renewal is intoxicating. For centuries, cultures across the world have embraced spring as the season of cleansing and rejuvenation. Russian author Leo Tolstoy once remarked, “Spring is the time of plans and projects,” and indeed, this season provides the perfect opportunity to take advantage of reclaiming harmony in our homes through decluttering.

Why Decluttering Matters

A cluttered home does more than affect appearances. Creating a calmer and more organised home can have profound effects on mental as well as physical wellbeing. A study from UCLA’s Center on Everyday Lives of Families found that people who live in cluttered homes have higher levels of stress, difficulty sleeping, and even poorer eating habits. In today’s fast-paced urban lifestyle where daily pressures are high, a clutter-free home offers a sense of calm and control. Also, studies show that decluttering reduces the amount of time spent on housework by 40% in the average home. For South African families managing work, school, and community responsibilities, this extra time can be redirected towards quality family moments, outdoor activities, or simply rest.

Japanese lifestyle phenomenon Marie Kondo has revolutionised homes across the world with her book The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up. According to Kondo, two simple ground rules are necessary to put your house in order:

• Keeping only what “sparks joy” and getting rid of the rest.
• Deciding where to keep things and always putting them back in place.

These simple, yet powerful principles have resonated globally, including here at home.

Practical Steps to Declutter This Spring

1. Begin with Yourself

While it may be tempting to involve the entire household, successful change starts with personal responsibility. Tackle your own belongings first—whether clothing, books, or digital files. By setting an example, you can motivate family members without imposing rules.

2. Start Small and Stay Consistent

Large projects can feel overwhelming. Instead, commit to short, focused sessions. For instance, spend 15 minutes sorting a single drawer or shelf. These incremental steps are manageable and, over time, create lasting results.

3. Schedule Decluttering Appointments

Decluttering is most effective when it becomes a routine. Choose a regular time each week—perhaps on a Saturday morning—to focus on tidying. Treat it like any other important appointment and stick to it. This ensures clutter does not build up again.

4. Apply the 80/20 Rule

Most people use only 20% of their belongings regularly, while the remaining 80% simply takes up space. In South Africa, wardrobes often contain clothing suited to different climates, but if you haven’t worn an item in over a year, consider whether it still belongs in your life.

5. Love It or Let It Go

Each possession should add value, whether functional, sentimental, or aesthetic. Ask yourself: Would I take this with me if I had to move tomorrow? If the answer is no, donate or recycle it. South Africa has many organisations that welcome second-hand goods, such as The Clothing Bank, Hospice, or local churches and shelters. Donating ensures your unused items find a meaningful second life.

6. Eliminate Duplicates

It is easy to accumulate multiples of the same household items—extra chargers, duplicate utensils, or similar shoes. Keep only the best or most used version and let the rest go. This not only frees up space but also encourages more mindful consumption in the future.

7. Recycle Responsibly

For items that cannot be donated, recycling is an important step. Many South African municipalities now offer recycling collection points for paper, plastic, glass, and e-waste. Initiatives such as PETCO provide resources to help households manage waste more sustainably.

8. Commit to Continuous Editing

Decluttering is not a once-off task but an ongoing lifestyle practice. Each new season, reassess your belongings. As life changes, so do our needs. By consistently reviewing what you own, you maintain a clutter-free environment year-round.

The Benefits of a Clutter-Free Home

The benefits of decluttering extend far beyond aesthetics. Research shows that tidy spaces – at home and in the office – have a positive impact on mental health and productivity. In South Africa, where work-life balance is often a challenge, these benefits are particularly valuable. Financially, decluttering discourages overspending by shifting focus from acquiring more to appreciating what you already own. This mindset aligns with the growing minimalist lifestyle movement, which resonates with many South Africans seeking simplicity in a consumer-driven society.

Most importantly, a clutter-free home creates space for what truly matters. With fewer possessions to manage, there is more energy for pursuing passions, connecting with loved ones, and enjoying the natural beauty that spring has to offer.

Conclusion

Spring is a reminder that renewal is always possible. By decluttering your home this season, you are not only creating a clean and organised space but also investing in your mental clarity, emotional wellbeing, and quality of life. From donating to local charities to recycling responsibly, there are ample opportunities to make decluttering impactful.

This spring, give yourself and your family the gift of simplicity and living with less. Clear out the unnecessary, embrace intentional living, and create a home that reflects peace and purpose.

References

• Becker, J. (n.d.). Becoming minimalist: What if the best life is the simplest one? Retrieved August 26, 2025, from https://www.becomingminimalist.com/
• Fedhealth. (2017, September 21). Living with less. Retrieved August 26, 2025, from https://www.fedhealth.co.za/articles/living-with-less/
• Garden Spot Village. (2025, January 5). A fresh start: Why decluttering & organising can transform your home and mind. Retrieved August 26, 2025, from https://www.gardenspotvillage.org/blog/a-fresh-start-why-decluttering-organizing-can-transform-your-home-and-mind/
• Petco. (n.d.). How to collect, sort, and recycle at home. Retrieved August 26, 2025, from https://petco.co.za/consumers/how-to-collect-sort-and-recycle/#at-home
• Ubbenga, J. (2024, March 23). 10 ways to find time to declutter your home this spring. Rich in What Matters. Retrieved August 26, 2025, from https://richinwhatmatters.com/2024/03/23/10-ways-to-find-time-to-declutter-your-home-this-spring/
• Valley Oaks Health. (2022, July 15). The mental benefits of a tidy space. Retrieved August 26, 2025, from https://www.valleyoaks.org/health-hub/the-mental-benefits-of-a-tidy-space/
• YouTube. (n.d.). Marie Kondo. Retrieved August 26, 2025, from https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNaPKFA1niUFRgzkVqqhJVg