Decluttering in a Small Home

Whether this is your first time tuning in or you’ve been with me for a while, I’m thrilled to have you join the conversation. I’m a mom of five, and I teach moms like you how to declutter your homes in the simplest and most effective ways possible. You might even hear my kids in the background—that’s life around here!

Today, we’re diving into a topic that so many of us can relate to: decluttering in a small home. Living in a small space can feel overwhelming, especially when it feels like there’s never enough room for everything. But I’m here to tell you: it’s totally possible to make it work, and I’ll show you how.

Finding Peace in Your Small Home

First, let’s talk about the average home size. In the United States, the average home is about 1,650 square feet, and the average household has 1.9 kids—so roughly a family of four. Now, compare that to your situation. Maybe your home is smaller, or maybe you have more people under one roof. Either way, it’s not about comparing your home to someone else’s; it’s about learning to make the most of the space you have.

For my family, we’ve lived in homes ranging from 900 square feet to 2,000 square feet. At one point, we even lived in a 27-foot RV! Each of those spaces taught me something valuable about decluttering and managing small spaces. The key isn’t necessarily getting a bigger home; it’s about adjusting how you use the space you already have.

The Challenges of Decluttering a Small Home

Living in a small home has its unique set of challenges. Here are a few common ones I’ve experienced—and many of you have probably faced too:

Overcrowding: It’s easy for stuff to pile up in a small home, and it can quickly feel like there’s no breathing room.
Limited Storage: With fewer closets, cabinets, and storage spaces, every item has to earn its place.
Multipurpose Rooms: When your dining room doubles as your home office or your living room also serves as the playroom, clutter can take over fast.
Feeling Stuck: You might think, “If only we had more space, everything would be easier.” But often, the solution isn’t a bigger house; it’s less stuff.

The Truth About Small Homes

Here’s the tough love: You need to declutter down to what fits in your small home. That might not be what you want to hear, but trust me, it’s freeing. When we moved from Alaska to Florida in 2013, we went from a house bursting at the seams to only keeping what fit into our suitcases. It was hard, but it transformed our lives.

If you feel like your small home is bursting at the seams, ask yourself this: Is the amount of stuff you own designed for a bigger house? If so, it’s time to reevaluate what you truly need.

Wants, Needs, and Non-Negotiables

One of the most helpful frameworks I use is distinguishing between wants, needs, and non-negotiables. Here’s how to think about it:

Wants: These are the “nice-to-haves” that might not fit in your small home. For example, a fully decked-out craft room might be a want, but it’s not essential.
Needs: These are things you genuinely require, like a space for kids to do homework or for you to relax. However, needs can often be met creatively. For instance, you don’t need a dedicated gym in your home to stay fit—you can use a corner of a room or go for outdoor workouts.
Non-Negotiables: These are the absolute essentials for your family’s well-being. For us, that includes having space for our seven family members to retreat to when needed.

Once you’ve sorted your belongings into these categories, you’ll have a much clearer sense of what can stay and what needs to go.

Practical Tips for Decluttering a Small Home

If you’re ready to declutter your small home, here are some actionable steps to get started:

Start Small: Tackle one drawer, shelf, or corner at a time. Small wins build momentum.
Use Vertical Space: Shelving, hooks, and wall organizers can maximize storage in tight quarters.
Declutter Regularly: In a small home, it’s important to make decluttering a routine—not just a one-time project.
Create Zones: Assign specific purposes to different areas of your home. For example, designate one cabinet for board games and another for art supplies.
Let Go of “Just in Case” Items: If you haven’t used it in six months to a year, it’s probably safe to let it go.
Get Creative: Think outside the box for solutions, like collapsible furniture or multi-functional pieces.

The Long-Term Payoff

Decluttering your small home might feel overwhelming, but the rewards are worth it. You’ll gain more space, more time, and more peace of mind. Plus, your home will become a place you enjoy being in—even if it’s small.

Let’s Stay Connected

Tag me on Instagram @motherhood_simplified and share your progress—I’d love to cheer you on! And don’t forget to join the Motherhood Simplified Facebook group for more support and inspiration.