I used to dread opening my bathroom drawers. Half-used lotions, expired makeup, hair ties that had mysteriously multiplied like rabbits—it was chaos. Every morning, I’d rummage through the mess, promising myself I’d declutter it all when I had time.
Spoiler: I never had time.
Then I heard about the 1% Rule—instead of overhauling everything at once, you just improve one small thing at a time. So I started tiny. One morning, I tossed out old lipsticks while brushing my teeth. The next day, I organized my hair products while waiting for the shower to heat up.
It took less than two minutes a day, but after a week? My bathroom actually felt functional. No more digging for the one mascara I actually use. No more expired face masks staring me down in judgment.
Turns out, keeping things organized isn’t about one big effort—it’s about tiny moments of progress that add up. And if this trick worked on my disaster-zone bathroom? Trust me, it can work anywhere.
What Is the 1% Rule?
The 1% Rule is simple: instead of trying to fix everything at once, you focus on tiny, incremental changes. Just 1% improvement each day. It doesn’t feel overwhelming, but over time, those little actions create massive results.
Think of it like compound interest for your home organization. You might not notice a big difference after a day or two, but give it a week or a month, and suddenly, your space feels lighter and easier to manage.
How to Use the 1% Rule to Declutter
1. Start With the Easiest Win
Pick something small and painless. Toss old razors, ditch that shampoo bottle with just a drop left, or wipe down your mirror. The goal is to build momentum without stress.
2. Declutter During Routine Activities
Use those in-between moments. Toss expired skincare while waiting for your face mask to dry. Organize your hair tools while your curling iron heats up. Stack your towels neatly while brushing your teeth. Small actions add up!
3. Create “Zones” for Essentials
A clutter-free bathroom isn’t just about throwing things away—it’s about keeping what you actually use accessible.
- Keep daily-use items in one drawer or organizer.
- Store backups separately (you don’t need three tubes of toothpaste in the drawer).
- Use clear containers or dividers to avoid the dreaded “junk pile.”
4. One-In, One-Out Rule
Every time you buy a new product, commit to tossing or donating something old. It keeps your storage space manageable and prevents clutter from creeping back in.
5. Invest in Smart Storage Solutions
If your bathroom always feels cluttered, you might just need better storage! Here are a few game-changers:
- Acrylic organizers for drawers
- Over-the-door storage for hair tools
- Lazy Susans for easy access to skincare
- Stackable bins for under-sink storage
The Real Magic? It Works Everywhere
The 1% Rule isn’t just for bathrooms. You can use it to organize your closet, clean up your kitchen, or even tackle digital clutter on your phone. Small, daily progress beats an overwhelming overhaul every single time.
So if your bathroom is currently a disaster zone (no judgment, I’ve been there), try this. Just one tiny improvement today. Then another tomorrow. And before you know it? Your space will feel so much better—without a single day of overwhelm.
Ready to Declutter?
What’s the first thing you’re going to tackle using the 1% Rule? Let me know in the comments!
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