The Easiest Spot to Declutter First (That Feels Amazing)

Here we go...

Do you ever feel like your home is slowly taking over your life? Like the clutter is winning, and you’re just… existing amongst the piles? We’ve all been there. The sheer thought of tackling theentirehouse can be paralyzing. Where do you even begin? Throwing yourself headfirst into a massive decluttering project often leads to burnout and abandoned half-finished zones.

But what if I told you there’s a ridiculously simple starting point? A spot that, when decluttered, provides an instant feeling of accomplishment and actuallymotivatesyou to keep going?

Ready to find out?

Knockout Clutter: Where To Start For Maximum Impact

Why the Bathroom Counter is Your Decluttering Secret Weapon

The bathroom counter. I know, it might not sound like the most glamorous or exciting place to start. But hear me out. It's small, contained, and a space we interact with multiple times a day. A clean, organized bathroom counter can dramatically impact your morning and evening routines, setting a positive tone for your whole day.

Think about it: How do you feel when you walk into your bathroom and are greeted by a chaotic landscape of half-empty bottles, stray hairs, and forgotten makeup brushes? Probably not calm or energized.

Decluttering your bathroom counter isn't just about aesthetics; it's about reclaiming a little piece of sanity in your everyday life. It's about creating a space that supports your well-being, not stresses you out. And because it's a relatively small area, you can seeimmediateresults, providing that much-needed boost of motivation to tackle larger areas later. It's the perfect "quick win" in the decluttering game.

Easy Steps to a Sparkling Sanctuary (Your Bathroom Counter)

Okay, so you’re convinced (or at least intrigued). Let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to decluttering your bathroom counter that even the most reluctant declutterer can handle:

1.Clear the Decks: The first step is to removeeverythingfrom the counter. I mean everything – bottles, jars, makeup, toothbrushes, even that stray rubber ducky your kid left behind (again!). Place it all on a nearby surface like the toilet seat or the floor. This gives you a clear visual of the space you're working with and forces you to confront the sheer volume of stuff you've accumulated.

2.The Great Purge: Now comes the fun part (okay, maybe notfun, but necessary!). Go through each item individually. Ask yourself these questions: Do I use this regularly? If the answer is no, it’s time to consider letting it go. Be honest with yourself. That eyeshadow palette you bought on a whim three years ago and haven't touched? Donate it.

Is it expired? Makeup, skincare products, and even toothpaste have expiration dates. Using expired products can be harmful to your skin and health. Toss anything that's past its prime.

Is it damaged or broken? A chipped lipstick, a cracked compact, a leaky shampoo bottle – these are all candidates for the trash.

Do I have multiple of the same thing?Do you really need five different tubes of lip balm? Choose your favorite and donate or discard the rest.

Does it spark joy? Yes, Marie Kondo applies here too! If looking at or using an item makes you feel even slightly negative, thank it for its service and let it go.

Create three piles: "Keep," "Donate/Sell," and Trash.Be ruthless!

3.Clean and Sanitize: Now that your counter is clear, give it a good cleaning. Wipe down the surface with a disinfectant cleaner to remove any grime, spills, or bacteria. This is a great opportunity to give your sink and mirror a quick polish as well. Starting with a clean slate makes the whole process feel even more satisfying.

4.Organize and Arrange: This is where you get to create your ideal bathroom counter setup. Only keep the items you use daily or very frequently on the counter. Consider using small trays, organizers, or jars to corral similar items.

Makeup brushes: Place them in a cute jar or a designated brush holder.

Cotton swabs and cotton balls: Store them in clear containers for easy access.

Toothbrushes and toothpaste: Use a toothbrush holder to keep them organized and off the counter surface.

Daily skincare: Arrange your serums, moisturizers, and sunscreen in a logical order.

Less is more. Aim for a minimalist aesthetic. A few well-chosen items, neatly arranged, will create a feeling of calm and control.

5.Put Everything Back (Intentionally): As you put things back, think about their placement. Is there a more convenient location for certain items? Could you store some things in drawers or cabinets to free up counter space?

Example: Instead of keeping all your hair styling products on the counter, consider storing them in a cabinet or drawer and only pulling them out when you need them.

Frequently Asked Questions: Bathroom Counter Decluttering Edition

Let’s address some common questions people have when embarking on a bathroom counter decluttering adventure: What if I have very limited storage space in my bathroom?

This is a common challenge! Get creative with vertical storage. Install shelves above the toilet or use a small rolling cart to store extra items. Under-sink organizers can also maximize space. Consider decanting products into smaller, more manageable containers. And, most importantly, be even more ruthless with your decluttering.

I’m afraid I’ll need something later if I throw it away.

This is a classic decluttering fear! Ask yourself, "When was the last time I used this?" If it's been longer than six months, chances are you won't miss it. If you're truly hesitant, put the item in a box and label it with a date three months in the future. If you haven't needed it by that date, donate it without guilt.

How often should I declutter my bathroom counter?

Ideally, you should do a quick tidy-up every day, putting items back in their place and wiping down the surface. A more thorough decluttering, like the one described above, should be done every few months, or whenever you start to feel overwhelmed by clutter.

Beyond the Counter:Expanding Your Decluttering Efforts

Once you've conquered the bathroom counter, you'll be amazed at the ripple effect it has on the rest of your bathroom – and your home! The feeling of accomplishment and the visible results will inspire you to tackle other small areas. Maybe next you'll organize your bathroom drawers, declutter your shower caddy, or finally get rid of those old bath towels.

The key is to keep the momentum going. Don't try to do everything at once. Focus on one small area at a time, and celebrate your progress along the way. Remember, decluttering is a journey, not a destination.

For me, clearing my bathroom counter feels like hitting the reset button. It’s a small act of self-care that sets a positive tone for the day ahead. And honestly, who doesn't want to start their day with a little more calm and a little less chaos? So, take a deep breath, gather your supplies, and get ready to transform your bathroom counter into a clutter-free zone. You might just be surprised at how good it feels.