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The Secret to Effortless Decluttering? Try the 90/90 Rule

The Secret to Effortless Decluttering? Try the 90/90 Rule

The 90/90 rule is a minimalist approach to decluttering that asks if you have used an item in the last 90 days or plan to use it in the next 90.

If not, it might be time to let it go. This method simplifies decision-making and helps maintain an organized living space.

Embracing this rule can transform your home into a more functional and serene environment. Here are several compelling reasons to give the 90/90 rule a try.

1. Boosts Decision-Making

Boosts Decision-Making
© Nourishing Minimalism

Making decisions can be daunting, especially when it comes to letting go of possessions. The 90/90 rule simplifies this process by providing clear criteria.

Have you used it in the last 90 days or will you in the next 90? If not, it’s easier to decide its fate.

This method reduces decision fatigue by eliminating ambiguity. You’ll find yourself making quicker, more confident choices.

Imagine the ease of opening a closet and knowing each item serves a purpose or brings joy.

2. Reduces Clutter

Reduces Clutter
© Ideal Home

Clutter can be overwhelming and stressful, making spaces feel cramped and chaotic. The 90/90 rule helps reduce clutter by establishing a cycle of regular evaluation.

As items are assessed, only those truly needed remain, creating a more spacious environment.

Less clutter means more room for activities and relaxation. Picture a living room where you can easily find what you need, with space to breathe and unwind.

This approach not only clears physical space but also mental space, fostering a sense of calm.

3. Encourages Mindfulness

Encourages Mindfulness
© Apartment Therapy

Mindfulness is about being present and aware, and the 90/90 rule encourages this mindset. By regularly evaluating possessions, you become more conscious of your consumption habits.

This awareness extends beyond decluttering, impacting overall lifestyle choices.

Imagine the satisfaction of living in a space that reflects intentional decisions and values. Each object in your home has meaning and purpose, enhancing your connection to your environment.

This practice fosters mindfulness in everyday life, promoting a balanceddeliberate way of living.

4. Saves Money

Saves Money
© Better Homes & Gardens

The 90/90 rule not only declutters but also saves money. By assessing items regularly, you become more discerning in your purchases, avoiding unnecessary expenses.

This habit can lead to significant savings over time.

Think of it as a financial detox. With fewer impulse buys, your wallet stays fuller. The money saved can be redirected towards experiences or investments that truly matter.

Financial freedom often begins with mindful spending, and the 90/90 rule supports this journey by cutting down wasteful consumption.

5. Promotes Sustainability

Promotes Sustainability
© Homes and Gardens

Sustainability is a growing concern, and the 90/90 rule supports eco-friendly practices. By keeping only what is necessary, you reduce waste and promote the reuse and recycling of items.

Imagine contributing to a healthier planet by simply reevaluating your possessions. This approach encourages a circular economy, where items are repurposed rather than discarded.

Each decluttering session becomes an opportunity to support sustainability, aligning with environmental values and creating a positive impact on the earth.

6. Enhances Focus

Enhances Focus
© The Spruce

A cluttered environment can lead to a cluttered mind, making it difficult to concentrate. The 90/90 rule clears your space and enhances focus by removing unnecessary distractions.

With fewer items to manage, your attention is directed towards what truly matters.

Visualize working at a desk where everything has its place, and your mind is free to focus on tasks at hand. This clarity boosts productivity and efficiency, allowing you to accomplish goals more effectively.

The 90/90 rule transforms your space into a catalyst for concentration.

7. Simplifies Cleaning

Simplifies Cleaning
© JunkStart Junk Removal

Cleaning can be a tedious chore, especially when there’s too much to manage. The 90/90 rule simplifies this process by drastically reducing the number of items that need attention.

With less clutter, surfaces are easier to maintain and clean.

Imagine the simplicity of wiping down a counter free of knick-knacks or dusting a shelf with only a few cherished items.

This efficiency extends your free time and lessens the burden of household chores, making cleaning a quicker, more satisfying task.

8. Increases Space

Increases Space
© The Kitchn

The 90/90 rule can transform cramped spaces into open, inviting areas. By regularly purging unneeded items, your home gains more usable space for living and storage, creating a sense of openness.

Picture a bedroom where every corner is accessible, and shelves aren’t crammed full. This newfound space allows for better organization and comfort.

The perception of spaciousness is not only visually appealing but also mentally liberating, offering you the freedom to breathe and move freely in your own home.