10 Spring Clean Decluttering Tips

Springtime is back and what better way to celebrate than with that very traditional act of ‘spring cleaning’. It’s the perfect time to declutter and add new life to your home. Whether you start with the kitchen cupboards, the attic or something small like your bookshelf, spring cleaning your space renews the energy and gives you a chance to dust those hard-to-reach places.

There isn’t a definitive answer. The ritual of spring cleaning has roots in several religions and cultures, including:

• The Iranian celebration, Nowruz (the Persian New Year), takes place on spring’s first day. It’s marked by “shaking the house” (“khooneh tekouni”), when families dedicate time to thoroughly clean their homes.
• Before Jewish Passover, people clean their houses in preparation for the holiday, which begins in April. This custom began as a method for clearing their home of any leavened bread or chametz traces and crumbs.
• The day after Good Friday in Catholic custom, the Church altar is cleaned and refreshed.
• On the first day of Lent, the Greek Orthodox Church celebrates ‘Clean Monday’.
• During the 1800s, each room in the house would be cleaned to get rid of the dust and soot that built up over winter. People would open their windows and let the fresh air in, refreshing the home now that warmer weather was arriving.

According to NHS Wales, there's a number of benefits to Spring cleaning, from getting active to topping up vitamin D in the sun. Some other ways include:

Reduces Stress Levels

Cleaning not only makes you feel good, but when you declutter your space, you clear the clutter out of your mind. Cleaning brings you a sense of achievement, and a way to switch off from the outside world. Taking pride in your home reduces your anxiety levels, resulting in a mood boost.

Increases Productivity

Having a deep clean makes us feel good about our space. When our surroundings are less distracting, we are more productive. A cleaner space allows us to free up thoughts to concentrate on other tasks.

Supports your immune system

Indoor pollution, such as dust, mould, germs and pet dander, can be harmful to our immune system. A thorough spring clean can help reduce allergens and support your immune system. By deep cleaning, you are improving the air quality, leading to better respiratory health.

1. Start with the easiest area first

Spring cleaning can be a mammoth task. Before overwhelming yourself, break the tasks down and start with the easiest area first. you’ll get that mood boost that motivates you to continue.

2. Use the “one room, one goal” approach

As with the rule above, target one room and give yourself a goal. If you’re in the kitchen, that rule could be to sort through the spices or Tupperware. If you’re in the bathroom, it might be to remove any half-used bottles of shampoo.

This method avoids going from room to room unsure what to declutter.

3. Apply a 30-minute rule

To stop you from attacking your space until you’re exhausted, put on a 30-minute timer and get as much done as possible. If you need to continue, take a 5–10-minute break and then continue.

4. Follow a “keep, donate, bin” method

A very simple method to sort items into piles. If you’re cleaning out your wardrobe, this method is especially useful. Have two bin bags or boxes at the ready for things you want to donate and bin, and anything you’d like to keep can be dusted before being put back in its spot.

5. Clear flat surfaces first

If you have anything like shelving, a dining room table or counter space, clear and wipe down these spaces first. When cleaning, you should always start top to bottom. Cleaning these areas first removes any immediate mess or dust and gives a sturdy place to add piles.

6. Do a wardrobe sweep

An accepted rule of thumb is to donate clothes that haven’t been worn for around 6-12 months, excluding seasonal clothing like a winter coat. Have a sweep of your wardrobe and pull out any clothes that haven’t been worn over the past year… it’s time to donate them!

7. Digitalise paper clutter

One clever way to minimise the pile of letters is to digitalise anything that is important. Scan the documents and save them into a folder where everything is titled. Make sure the folder is backed up and password protected.

8. Create a “maybe” box

If you struggle to throw items away or have a lot of possessions you’re unsure about, create a “maybe” box. This method is super simple. Add anything you’re unsure about to a box and store it away for 3-6 months. After this time, if you’ve forgotten about the item, or even the box, then those items can be donated or binned.

9. Use containers you already own

Don’t feel the need to buy any more containers. Use containers and boxes you already own, this way you’re not adding to the clutter of your home. If you need places to store your belongings, plan what you need before heading to the store.

10. Finish every spring clean by taking things out of the house

If you have bin bags piling up by your front door, make sure you take them out. Put anything you’re donating in the boot of your car or somewhere you’ll remember them. And throw any rubbish away. Spring cleaning is all about the deep clean, so make sure there’s nothing left behind.

These are our top 10 spring cleaning tips. Once you’re done, take the time to relax in your rejuvenated space, accompanied by your favourite HSL chair or sofa.

If it’s time to tidy up your HSL furniture, check out our advice on how to freshen up your furniture. Or, if you want something a little more personal, find out how to stay healthy in 2026.

And for more advice, tips and delicious recipes, check out our Feel Good Hub.