10 spaces, 10 minutes, 100 items — I just discovered this decluttering method that brings clarity to my cleaning routine

Organized items in bedroom — (Image credit: Shutterstock)

Does decluttering leave you in a frenzy? Do you start with good intentions but become so overwhelmed that you give up before you’ve really gotten going? If that sums up your attempts at decluttering your home, I could have just the decluttering method that helps you break it down into stages.

What’s more, apart from giving you a clear system to sort out your stuff, this decluttering hack fits in with a busy schedule, as it’s split into stages without encroaching on your time. And although I swear by the ‘One in, One out’ method to keep on top of the clutter in my home, I recently discovered the 10-10 decluttering method that will have you embracing decluttering like never before.

What is the 10-10 decluttering method?

Decluttering clothes in a bedroom — (Image credit: Shutterstock)

The 10-10 decluttering method is designed for those who prefer to break things down into small steps. And it’s the ideal strategy if the thought of decluttering one room — don’t even think about a whole house — can take you over the edge. When you're overwhelmed, it's all too easy to achieve nothing at all.

So, if you like to be rewarded by small gains, rather than big wins, this could be the method for you. But, there’s no need to worry that you’ll never get to that big win; you’ll just have to wait a few more days to get there.

If you like to be rewarded by small gains, rather than big wins, this could be the method for you.

And while I’m mentioning small increments, I’ve just got to throw another number at you, as the 10-10 method is also known as the 10-10-100 decluttering hack.

So, how does this decluttering method work?

The benefit of picking this decluttering method is that it’s broken down into bite-sized chunks. This means that you can quickly start to see the benefit of decluttering, without being faced with clearing through a houseful of hoarding.

How to get started with the 10-10-100 method

Woman sitting on a sofa decluttering clothing — (Image credit: Shutterstock)

Rather than starting with a large task, think small. Choose 10 areas across multiple spaces in your home and then remove 10 items from each space. For instance, I would start with these 10 areas:

1. Wrapping paper drawer

Sort through those scraps of gift wrap that are crumpled or too small to wrap up a gift, and discard any old holiday cards.

2. Sort out your spices

Discard 10 herbs and spices that have expired, or you’ve only ever used once.

3. Check through your medicine cabinet

In a similar vein to your herbs and spices, sort through your medicine cabinet and remove items that have expired.

4. Newspapers and magazines

Clear your living room of magazines and books, and recycle or regift whatever you can.

5. Clear out your kitchen utensil drawer

Carefully consider what you really use, and ditch whatever is doubled-up.

Cluttered shoes on the floor — (Image credit: Tom's Guide)

6. Shoe haul

This will be a tough one for some, but how many pairs of sneakers do you need, and when did you last wear that uncomfortable pair of lace-ups that rub your heels?

7. Throw in the towel

Sort through your towels and keep only those that you use every week. Other towels that take up unnecessary space need to be allocated as DIY rags or recycled.

8. Blitz your desk

Get organized and tidy up your workspace by ditching the stack of pens in your pen pot and removing the random notes that have been actioned.

9. Don’t be a mug

Sort through your mug shelf and discard any that are chipped or stained beyond redemption.

10. Clear your bathroom cleaning cupboard

Remove any cleaning products you no longer use, and discard any cleaning sponges and clothes that are unhygienic.

How to make the 10-10-100 method easier

Woman picking up clothes on the bed with a green shirt in hand — (Image credit: Getty Images)

If you’re a real stickler and like to play it by the book, or you find time quickly runs away, set a timer for 10 minutes while you’re decluttering.

Knowing you’re against the clock will help you speed up while you declutter, as it will give you less chance to pontificate over what you chuck.

More from Tom's Guide

Camilla is the Homes Staff Writer and covers everything to do with homes and gardens. She has a wealth of editorial experience, mounting over 30 years, and covers news and features, tests products for reviews and compiles buying guides.

Her work has appeared in business and consumer titles, including Ideal Home, Real Homes, House Beautiful, Homebuilding & Renovation, and Kitchen & Bathroom Business. She’s even appeared on the cover of Your Home, writing about her own house renovation.

Although she’s obsessed with decorating her home, she also enjoys baking and trying out the latest kitchen appliances. But when she’s not inside, you’ll find her pottering about in her yard, tending to her vegetable patch or taking in her prized hydrangeas.

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