Decluttering has research-backed benefits as a stress-relief strategy that requires minimal time investment. Professional organizer Tracy McCubbin emphasizes that “we think we have to be perfect, but done is better than perfect,” and even small amounts of streamlining can make a difference.
Living with clutter forces the brain to remain in a constant state of decision-making. “If you’re living in a cluttered space, you are basically kicking yourself into decision fatigue,” McCubbin explains. “Everything that’s out and about is something you’re looking at like, ‘Do I have a home for it? Am I ever going to use it?’” This becomes exhausting quickly as the brain can process only so much before becoming overwhelmed.
According to a 2016 study published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology, a cluttered home makes people feel stressed out and less in control. A 2021 study in the same journal found that people who believe their homes are cluttered feel less happy and productive than those who don’t—even if both homes have the same amount of clutter.
Multiple Benefits
Clearing out a space keeps the central nervous system from remaining stuck in fight-flight-or-freeze mode, allowing the system to relax and recover. Feng shui expert Marie Diamond notes that “it’s much easier to feel safe and calm in a clean and organized environment.” Decluttering reduces visual clutter and gives the brain a needed break. A cluttered bedroom is especially problematic for sleep; random items become a mental to-do list that interferes with rest.
A cluttered office can multiply work stress, according to a study in Environment and Behavior. Researchers found this is particularly significant when workers are overwhelmed. A 2023 report in Environment, Development and Sustainability found that living with less stuff allows focus on priorities rather than constantly tending to items that don’t matter.
Quick Decluttering Strategies
McCubbin’s grandmother’s advice remains relevant: “Don’t put it down, put it away”—taking two extra seconds to properly store items prevents clutter buildup. With just three minutes, set a timer for a kitchen clean-out break. Over 10 minutes, streamline just one shelf. If more time is available, try “space clearing”—spraying lavender oil and mindfully removing visual clutter to refresh energy flow in the home.
This article is an AI-assisted summary. All facts and figures are drawn from the original report: https://www.rd.com/article/mood-focus-decluttering/