The usual decluttering advice often focuses on what to toss, but one organizer offers a kinder way: start by sorting and storing, not discarding. Called 'reverse decluttering,' this method helps reduce decision fatigue and makes tidying up feel less overwhelming.
- Sort items by how often you use them before deciding to discard.
- Store seldom-used or impulse items in a ‘time will tell’ bin to revisit later.
- This approach reduces stress and clarifies spending habits on unnecessary items.
What happened
Dawn Madsen, known as the Minimalist Mom, introduced a decluttering strategy she calls 'reverse decluttering,' which involves organizing items first instead of immediately getting rid of things. She recommends categorizing daily, weekly, and infrequently used items into separate bins or storage areas, allowing for easy access and visibility without cluttering spaces.
This method includes a special ‘time will tell’ bin where impulse purchases or less-used items are stored out of sight but kept available for future use or reassessment. Over time, people can check this bin to determine if those items are truly needed, easing the emotional burden of quick disposal decisions and exposing unnecessary spending patterns.
Why it feels good
Many people struggle with decluttering because making real-time decisions about what to keep or toss can cause stress and anxiety. Madsen’s approach removes the pressure to make immediate judgments, allowing the natural use patterns of items to guide the decluttering process instead.
The process satisfies a psychological need for order by categorizing and containing belongings while reducing fear of letting go prematurely. It also empowers users to gain insight into their habits and possessions, fostering a sense of control and calm rather than feeling overwhelmed by clutter.
What to enjoy or watch next
Fans of this technique might enjoy exploring Minimalist Mom’s extensive library of over 800 videos that provide practical, simple strategies for decluttering and organizing spaces beyond just bathrooms — from kitchens to bedrooms and beyond. Her mentorship program offers deeper personalized guidance for those seeking one-on-one support.
For those curious about experimenting with their consumer habits, embracing a ‘time will tell’ bin can help curb impulse shopping by encouraging a mindful review period before new purchases find their permanent home or exit. Viewers online have praised the approach for reducing frustration and increasing success in maintaining tidy, manageable homes.