Transform Your Home in 2026: Experts Share a Monthly Decluttering Guide

As many individuals look towards the New Year, the urge to declutter has taken hold, prompting a surge in interest around organizing personal spaces. In response, decluttering experts Lesley Spellman and Ingrid Jansen of The Declutter Hub have devised a comprehensive 12-month plan aimed at simplifying this process for people in 2026. Their strategy, which is designed to fit seamlessly into everyday life, emphasizes manageable, incremental steps rather than overwhelming overhauls.

The onset of January typically brings a wave of resolutions, particularly those focused on tidying up. The holiday season often leaves homes filled with excess items, leading many to seek a clearer, more organized living space. As Spellman and Jansen explain, decluttering is not about achieving a minimalist aesthetic or hastily discarding possessions. Instead, it’s about creating an environment that fosters peace and efficiency.

Monthly Decluttering Strategy

The following is a month-by-month breakdown of their decluttering roadmap for 2026:

January: Kitchen
Starting with the kitchen, the experts recommend evaluating expiry dates on food items and streamlining gadgets to ensure that essentials are readily accessible. Acknowledging duplicates and donating usable items can create a more functional space, contributing to a calmer atmosphere in the home.

February: Bedroom
With winter still in full swing, February is an ideal time to focus on the bedroom. The experts advise clearing bedside tables, donating unread books, and reassessing clothing to maintain only what is necessary. This ensures a tranquil environment conducive to good sleep and emotional well-being.

March: Hallway
The hallway often sets the tone for the home. By minimizing the number of shoes and coats in this space and organizing everyday essentials, individuals can enhance their daily routines. Simple habits, such as putting items away immediately upon entering, can significantly reduce clutter.

April: Living Room
As daylight hours increase, April is perfect for refreshing the living room. Spellman and Jansen suggest decluttering magazines, tech accessories, and decorative items that no longer serve a purpose. A curated space encourages relaxation and makes seasonal cleaning less daunting.

May: Wardrobes
May presents an opportunity for a wardrobe overhaul. The experts recommend removing all clothing, categorizing items, and assessing what fits current lifestyles. This process allows for the removal of unwanted items, creating a more organized collection that simplifies morning routines.

June: Bathroom
As summer approaches, keeping bathrooms functional is key. Individuals should check toiletries for expiry dates, consolidate half-used products, and declutter towels. A streamlined bathroom enhances the daily routine and contributes to a more serene atmosphere.

July: Garden and Shed
With warmer weather, July is ideal for tidying outdoor spaces. Organizing tools and gardening supplies promotes efficiency, while decluttering outdoor toys and equipment allows for a more enjoyable summer experience.

August: Children’s Rooms
As the summer holidays wind down, August is a perfect time to engage children in decluttering their spaces. Sorting clothes and toys helps develop their organizational skills and creates a more manageable environment for the upcoming school year.

September: Home Office and Paperwork
With the arrival of autumn, September offers a fresh start for tackling paperwork. Shredding unnecessary documents and organizing office supplies boosts productivity, ensuring that life administration remains under control.

October: Utility and Laundry Spaces
The utility areas in homes often require attention before the holiday season. Reviewing cleaning products and streamlining laundry routines can make home maintenance smoother and less overwhelming.

November: Dining Area
As the festive season approaches, November is the time to refresh dining spaces. Assessing table linens and serving dishes while decluttering surfaces prepares homes for entertaining, making gatherings more enjoyable.

December: Quick Wins
December focuses on achieving small victories rather than embarking on major projects. Quick decluttering tasks can create space before the New Year and help manage incoming items, making the transition into January smoother.

Monetizing Unwanted Items

In addition to organizing spaces, Spellman and Jansen suggest that individuals consider selling unwanted items. This not only clears clutter but can also generate income. They recommend platforms such as Vinted for clothing and accessories, eBay for niche items, and Facebook Marketplace for larger goods.

To determine if an item is worth selling, individuals should assess its condition, demand, and their willingness to part with it if it doesn’t sell. By utilizing these resources, one can turn clutter into cash while contributing positively to the environment.

As the year progresses, the emphasis remains on creating systems that maintain order. By the end of 2026, individuals will not only enjoy tidier homes but will also have strategies in place to sustain that organization for the long term. The guide, “Reset Your Home, Unpack Your Emotions And Your Clutter, Step By Step,” authored by Spellman and Jansen, is available for those seeking a structured approach to decluttering and is priced at £16.99.