Decluttering By Accident
Sometimes Decluttering Starts By Accident (And That’s Okay)
I had a really interesting experience with my mom in her kitchen at her previous home, and it completely changed the way I think about decluttering.
My parents are moving, and we were packing up their kitchen and home.
We didn’t go into it planning to declutter.
Our goal was simple: just pack up the kitchen.
We even said at the beginning, “If we happen to find a few things to declutter along the way, that’s great… but we’re really just here to pack.”
But almost immediately, something shifted.
How The Decluttering Started
As we started opening drawers and cabinets, we naturally had to take everything out to pack it. And as each item came into our hands, my mom started pausing.
“I don’t think I want this in the new house.”
“I haven’t used this in years.”
“Why do I even have this?”
One by one, those small decisions started to add up.
Before we knew it, we had a growing pile of things she didn’t want to bring with her. And it wasn’t forced. It didn’t feel overwhelming. It just… happened.
What started as packing quickly turned into decluttering.
Why This Works So Well
It made me realize something really important:
You don’t always have to start with decluttering to end up decluttering.
Sometimes, the hardest part is just getting started. And if “decluttering” feels overwhelming, it can stop you before you even begin.
But when you approach it from a different angle, like cleaning, organizing, or packing, it feels lighter. There’s less pressure. You’re simply doing a task that needs to be done.
And then, naturally, as you touch each item, you start making decisions.
A Simple Question That Changes Everything
As we were going through the kitchen, one question kept coming up:
“Would I choose to keep this if I were starting fresh today?”
This question is so powerful because it helps you step out of the past.
So many of us hold onto things because:
- We’ve always had them
- We spent money on them
- They’ve been part of our home for years
But when you ask yourself this question, you’re looking at your home with fresh eyes.
Not through habit. NO guilt. Not through “just in case.”
Just… clarity.
And often, the answer becomes much more obvious.
A New Way to Approach Decluttering
If you’ve been feeling stuck or unmotivated to declutter, this might be the approach that works for you.
Instead of saying:
“I need to declutter my kitchen.”
Try saying:
“I’m just going to organize this drawer.”
“I’ll clean out this cabinet.”
“I’ll start packing this space.”
And as you go, let the decluttering happen naturally.
Hold each item in your hands and ask:
“Would I choose to keep this if I were starting fresh today?”
You might be surprised at how many things you’re ready to let go of without even trying.
It Doesn’t Have to Be Perfect
One of the biggest takeaways from this experience is that decluttering doesn’t have to be this big, intense, all-or-nothing project.
Sometimes it’s quiet.
Once in a while, it’s unexpected.
Sometimes it happens while you’re doing something else entirely.
And honestly… those might be the most successful decluttering sessions of all.
So if you don’t feel like decluttering today, that’s okay.
Start somewhere else.
Your future self and your home will thank you for it.
The Complete Guide to Helping My Parents Declutter
Why Decluttering Matters After 65
Decluttering isn’t just about organizing closets. At this stage of life, it’s about creating freedom, peace of mind, and a home that supports your well-being. Read more here →
Letting Go of Sentimental Items
One of the hardest parts of decluttering is dealing with memories. How do you simplify without losing the stories tied to your things?
This guide walks you through practical ways to keep the memories while letting go of the excess. Read more here →
A Room-by-Room Checklist
Not sure where to begin? A simple checklist makes it easier. Go room by room—kitchen, closet, paperwork, garage—and focus on what to keep and what to let go.
This approach keeps the process manageable and builds momentum. Read more here →
What Your Kids Really Want (And Don’t Want)
Many people hope their children will want everything they’ve saved—but the truth is, most don’t.
This post shares a kind but honest look at what adult children value, and how to pass down what matters most. Read more here →
Downsizing Made Simple
If you’re moving into a smaller home, decluttering is essential. Downsizing doesn’t mean losing—it means choosing what fits your new life best.
Learn how to let go of what you don’t need and take only what supports your next chapter. Read more here →
Keeping Memories Without Keeping Everything
From photo collections to family heirlooms, memory items can feel impossible to sort.
This guide shares practical ways to digitize, curate, and share keepsakes so the stories live on—without filling boxes in the attic. Read more here →
Decluttering for Safety and Accessibility
Cluttered walkways, crowded bathrooms, and overloaded storage aren’t just stressful—they can also be unsafe.
Decluttering for safety helps prevent accidents and makes your home easier to navigate and maintain. Read more here →
10 Things I learned from Decluttering With My Mom
Whether you’re decluttering your own home or helping someone declutter, these lessons should help with the process.
These tips were learned after slowly & thoughtfully decluttering every room in my parents’ house over 5 years.
The Emotional Benefits of Decluttering
Letting go of clutter doesn’t just improve your home—it improves your peace of mind.
Learn how decluttering reduces stress, builds confidence, and creates more joy in everyday living. Read more here →
Final Thoughts
Decluttering after 65 is about so much more than getting rid of things; it’s about creating space for peace, safety, and joy.
Whether you’re preparing for a move, simplifying for your family, or just ready to live lighter, each step you take brings you closer to a home that truly supports you.
Start small, go at your own pace, and remember: every drawer cleared and every decision made is a gift to both yourself and your loved ones.
If you need help decluttering, check out my ebook: Decluttering Made Simple: A Room-by-Room Plan to Clear Your Home & Your Mind
NOTE: I’m not over 65 myself, but I’ve been walking through the decluttering process alongside my parents—who are over 65—for the last five years. Together we’ve sorted through closets, garages, paperwork, and a lifetime of keepsakes. Everything I share here comes from real experience, not just theory—these are the tried-and-true tips and tricks that have truly worked for us and made life lighter, simpler, and more peaceful.
