If you’ve ever tried to declutter your home while your kids are around, you know the struggle is real. You’re sorting through toys and clothes, trying to create a more organized space, while your little ones are simultaneously rediscovering every item you’re trying to let go of like a long-lost treasure.
The good news? Decluttering with kids is possible and can be a rewarding learning experience for the whole family. Here are some practical, mom-tested tips that work, promising a sense of accomplishment without turning your home into a war zone.
1. Start Small and Make It Fun
Begin with a tiny area at a time—like a toy bin, bookshelf, or dresser drawer. Trying to tackle the whole house at once can overwhelm you and your kids.
💡 Make it a game: Set a timer for 15 minutes and challenge them to find five things they no longer use. Turn on some music, give them a mini-mission, or create a sticker reward chart.
2. Use the “Keep, Donate, Toss” Method
Kids often struggle with the idea of giving things away. Use three clearly labeled bins or baskets:
🧺 Keep – things they love and use
🎁 Donate – things in good condition that someone else might enjoy
🗑️ Toss – broken, worn-out, or incomplete items
Let your child help decide which items go where. This teaches decision-making and empathy when you talk about giving toys to other children in need.
3. Lead by Example
Decluttering your items shows kids that letting go is okay. Talk about why you’re donating certain clothes or simplifying your own space. Kids mirror what they see, and you’ll feel relieved when they understand the value of decluttering.
✨Bonus: This gives you a chance to declutter your clutter without guilt!
4. Limit Toy Rotation
Too many toys at once can lead to overstimulation and messes. Consider implementing a toy rotation system. Keep only a few out and store the rest. Every few weeks, swap the toys. It feels like new stuff without buying anything!
🎉Kids stay engaged longer with fewer choices—and cleanup becomes way easier.
5. Create “Homes” for Everything
Once you’ve decluttered, keep things organized by assigning everything a home. Use labeled bins, baskets, or drawers so kids know exactly where things go.
🧸Tip: Picture labels work wonders for younger kids who can’t read yet!
6. Celebrate Their Progress
Celebrate small wins! Whether it’s a high-five, a sticker, or just a “Wow! You did awesome today!”—acknowledging their efforts helps build confidence and creates positive associations with tidying up.
🌟 You could even take before/after photos of a space to show them the difference they’ve made.
7. Stay Consistent with a Daily Reset
A 10-minute “reset” at the end of each day can prevent clutter from creeping back in. Make it a family ritual—put on music, and everyone helps tidy one area before bedtime.
🕒 This keeps clutter manageable and teaches consistency without overwhelm.
8. Don’t Aim for Perfection—Aim for Progress
Remember, the goal isn’t a Pinterest-perfect home. It’s about creating a more peaceful space that works for your family. Life with kids is naturally messy, but with the right systems, it can be manageable. So, don’t stress; aim for progress.
💖 Be patient, involve your kids, and celebrate every little step forward.
Final Thoughts
Decluttering with kids doesn’t have to be a battle. With the right mindset and some fun, practical strategies, you can turn cleanup time into bonding time—and teach your little ones valuable life skills.
Ready to declutter one toy bin at a time? Let’s do this, mama!
