A few years ago, my closet was overflowing, but somehow, I still felt like I had nothing to wear. Every morning was a battle—digging through piles of clothes I hadn’t worn in years, holding onto pieces just in case, and feeling overwhelmed by the clutter.
Then I found the 1% rule. Instead of tackling my entire wardrobe in one exhausting purge, I made tiny, daily decisions. Just one item at a time. No pressure, no stress. And before I knew it, my closet was lighter, my mornings were easier, and I actually loved everything I owned.
If decluttering feels overwhelming, this rule might just change everything. Let’s dive in.
What Is the 1% Rule for Decluttering?
The 1% rule is simple: Instead of trying to declutter your entire wardrobe in a day, you remove just one item at a time—daily or weekly. Over time, these small efforts add up, creating a clutter-free and intentional wardrobe without the stress of a massive cleanout.
Why the 1% Rule Works
Less Overwhelm – You don’t have to set aside an entire weekend to declutter. Small actions make the process easier.
No Decision Fatigue – You make tiny, manageable decisions instead of feeling paralyzed by too many choices at once.
Lasting Change – Slow and steady decluttering builds better habits, preventing future clutter from creeping back in.
How to Declutter Using the 1% Rule
1. Start With the Easiest Decisions
Begin with the clothes you know you don’t wear:
- The jeans that haven’t fit in years
- The uncomfortable shoes that give you blisters
- The “just in case” items that never get used
2. Make Decluttering Part of Your Routine
Attach decluttering to an existing habit:
- Remove one item while getting dressed in the morning.
- Pick one piece to donate every laundry day.
- Say goodbye to something every time you buy something new (one in, one out rule).
3. Ask Yourself the Right Questions
- Have I worn this in the last year?
- Does this fit me well and make me feel confident?
- If I were shopping today, would I buy this again?
If the answer is no—it’s time to let it go.
4. Create a “Maybe” Box
Not ready to part with something? Place it in a box and set a reminder for 30 days. If you don’t miss it, you don’t need it.
5. Organize What’s Left
Once you’ve decluttered, organize your remaining clothes in a way that makes getting dressed effortless:
- Use matching hangers for a streamlined look.
- Fold and stack by category to keep things visible.
- Store off-season clothes separately to free up space.
The Unexpected Benefits of Decluttering Your Wardrobe
Decluttering isn’t just about having a neat closet—it improves your daily life in surprising ways: ✔ Less Stress: A tidy closet means easier mornings and fewer decisions. ✔ More Confidence: When everything fits and makes you feel good, getting dressed becomes a joy. ✔ Better Shopping Habits: You become more intentional with new purchases, preventing clutter from returning. ✔ More Space & Energy: A clutter-free space leads to a clearer mind and a more peaceful home.
Ready to Try the 1% Rule?
If the idea of decluttering feels overwhelming, remember—small steps lead to big change. Start with just one item today, and before you know it, you’ll have a wardrobe that truly reflects you.
Want more simple decluttering and organization hacks? Read more on the blog!
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