8 Key Principles of the KonMari Method for Decluttering Your Home
As the world becomes more and more cluttered, it’s no wonder why many people are turning to minimalism. But what is the best way to start decluttering your home? The KonMari method, developed by Japanese organizing consultant Marie Kondo, has become a popular solution for those looking to live a simpler life. Here are eight key principles of the KonMari method that can help you declutter your space.
1. Tackle one category at a time
The first step in the KonMari method is to focus on one category of items at a time. This means starting with clothing, then moving onto books, papers, miscellaneous items (such as kitchenware and decorations), and finally sentimental items. By going through each category separately rather than room by room, you can see how much you have of each item type and make better decisions about what to keep or discard.
2. Keep only what sparks joy
One of the most famous aspects of the KonMari method is its emphasis on keeping only those items that “spark joy.” When going through your belongings, hold each item in your hands and ask yourself if it brings you happiness or serves a practical purpose in your life. If not, thank it for its service and let it go.
3. Discard before organizing
Kondo stresses that decluttering should come before organizing – there’s little point in buying storage solutions if you haven’t gotten rid of excess stuff first. Once you’ve decided which items to keep and discard from each category, then consider how best to store them.
4. Fold clothes vertically
Rather than stacking clothes horizontally in drawers or on shelves where they can get buried under other items, Kondo suggests folding clothes vertically so you can easily see everything at once. This also helps prevent wrinkles and damage from folding lines.
5. Store like with like
When storing belongings after decluttering them according to their categories, group similar things together. For example, keep all your cleaning supplies in one place or store all your jewelry in a single location.
6. Designate a home for everything
Each item should have its own designated spot where it belongs. This not only helps you find things more easily, but also ensures that everything gets put back in its proper place after use.
7. Thank items before discarding them
One unique aspect of the KonMari method is thanking each item you discard for serving you well. This may seem silly at first, but it can help shift your mindset away from guilt and regret over getting rid of things and towards gratitude for their usefulness while they were in your life.
8. Focus on the present
Another important principle of the KonMari method is focusing on the present rather than past or future needs when deciding what to keep or discard. Don’t keep items just because they might come in handy someday – instead, focus on what you need and use right now.
By following these principles of the KonMari method, anyone can create a clutter-free space that brings joy and simplicity into their lives. Remember that decluttering is an ongoing process that requires regular maintenance, so don’t be afraid to revisit your belongings periodically to ensure they still spark joy and serve a purpose in your life.