Marie Kondo just made us rethink how we declutter
This switch in mindset is exactly what's needed when you're finding it hard to let go
Marie Kondo has just changed how we think about decluttering – by reframing the whole thing mentally. We spoke to the famous tidying expert for the release of her new book, Kurashi at Home.
When we asked her what she'd say to someone who finds it hard to let go of things, she shared a pearl of wisdom that will power us through our next clearout. Whether we're decluttering a wardrobe or kitchen, Marie Kondo's advice is to honour what you're keeping, rather than focusing on what you're putting in charity-or-chuck piles.
Marie Kondo made us rethink how we declutter
'When things are hard to let go of, I always think, don’t think about letting go of things – think about what it is that you’re going to keep,' says Marie Kondo. 'Think about selecting the things that spark joy.
'You’re doing the same thing at the end of the day, but you’re going about it in a more positive way,' she explains. 'And of course, expressing your gratitude to those objects that you’re letting go of as well.'
So next time we're sorting out our wardrobes or tidying our Monica Geller cupboard, we'll use it as a chance to sift out those belongings that are no longer earning their place. Making room for a few new pieces that we truly love...
Kurashi at Home: How to Organize Your Space and Achieve Your Ideal Life | £19.45 at Amazon
If you need some more practical tips for storage and organisation, the author of The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up also highlights that the KonMari method has a recommended order in which to go about tidying. So you start with clothes (which we can all streamline a little).
Then you clear out books, papers, 'komono' which means your miscellaneous items. And then, finally, you tackle sentimental items.
Get the Ideal Home Newsletter
Sign up to our newsletter for style and decor inspiration, house makeovers, project advice and more.
'If you tidy in this order, you’ll find it easier,' Marie assures. 'Even with clothes, if you start with the things where it’s easier for you to decide if it’s something that sparks joy or something you want to let go of, you’ll gradually hone your sensitivity to joy and find it easier.' Happy tidying!
Millie Hurst was Senior Content Editor at Ideal Home from 2020-2022, and is now Section Editor at Homes & Gardens. Before stepping into the world of interiors, she worked as a Senior SEO Editor for News UK in both London and New York. You can usually find her looking up trending terms and finding real-life budget makeovers our readers love. Millie came up with the website's daily dupes article which gives readers ways to curate a stylish home for less.
-
Do your bedside lamps need to match? Design experts agree on this approach for a calming scheme
Looking to switch up your bedside lamps but not sure whether to go matchy-matchy or mix things up a bit?
By Holly Walsh
-
This 59p product drastically reduced the condensation on my windows - and you probably have it in your cupboards already
You probably already have this everyday essential in your cupboards, but I bet you didn’t know that it’s a natural dehumidifier
By Lauren Bradbury
-
Can heated airers cause damp? Experts explain this common problem and how to combat it
Find out how to quickly dry your clothes this winter while keeping your home mould-free
By Eilidh Williams