7 Effective Ways to Help Someone Else Declutter

We all know the feeling of wanting to help someone declutter. Whether it’s a partner, family member, or friend, you want to share the benefits of a clean and organized space. But how do you go about helping someone else declutter when they aren’t ready to let go of their things? Here are seven practical tips that can help you support someone on their decluttering journey.

1. Share Your Own Decluttering Story

Think back to what inspired you to start decluttering. For me, it was a combination of living in a tiny apartment and reading Marie Kondo’s The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up. Sharing your personal decluttering story and the positive impact it’s had on your life can plant the seed for others. Whether you recommend a book, article, or blog, offering helpful resources can help them take the first step. If they’re struggling with certain items, find specific articles that address their challenges—whether it’s dealing with sentimental clutter or paper piles—and share these resources with them.

2. Lead by Example

Sometimes, the best way to inspire others is to show them the benefits firsthand. Declutter your own space and make it look appealing. Let others see the results of a minimalist lifestyle, and talk about the process regularly. Share small victories, like how much easier it is to find things or how refreshing it feels to live in a tidy space. When they see the positive changes, they may begin to consider decluttering for themselves.

3. Be Sneaky (But Respectful)

In some cases, you might be able to do a little organizing on the down-low. For example, if your partner has a collection of items they’re hesitant to part with, you can discreetly store them out of sight for a while. If they don’t notice, that’s your cue that maybe it’s time to part with them. If they do ask, simply tell them where the items are stored. This method works best in shared spaces where you can make small, non-intrusive changes without causing conflict.

4. Never Declutter for Them

One of the most important rules of decluttering is to never, under any circumstances, declutter someone else’s stuff without their consent. I learned this lesson the hard way when I tried to declutter my husband’s things. It didn’t go well, and it only caused tension. If someone isn’t ready to let go of their belongings, forcing the issue will only make them cling to their items even more. The key is patience and respect for their process.

5. Offer Your Help, But Don’t Force It

If someone is open to decluttering but struggling to get started, offer to help them physically and emotionally. You can offer to go through their belongings with them, help organize the space, or even assist with donating or selling items they no longer need. Let them make the decisions while you help with the physical labor. Start with small areas and keep the mood light by chatting or reminiscing about items you come across. This can make the process feel less overwhelming and more enjoyable.

6. Be Patient and Avoid Pushing Too Hard

Decluttering is a deeply personal journey, and it’s important not to push too hard. If the person you’re helping is hesitant to part with items, try a different approach. Encourage them gently, but don’t force the decision. If they’re not ready, respect that and come back to it later. It’s a process, and patience is key to success.

7. Start With Easy Items and Work Your Way Up

When helping someone declutter, begin with the easiest items first—things that are obviously no longer useful or necessary, like old mail or expired items. This can create momentum and help build confidence. Save sentimental items for later, as these are usually the hardest to part with. By tackling easier areas first, you allow the person to build their decluttering muscles before confronting more difficult decisions.

Final Thoughts

Helping someone else declutter takes patience, understanding, and a bit of strategy. While you can’t force someone to let go of their things, you can support them through the process and offer guidance when they’re ready. Whether it’s sharing your own story, setting a good example, or offering to help, small steps can make a big difference. Remember, decluttering is a personal journey, and with time, your support can help them embrace the minimalist lifestyle.