The One-Year Rule: A Simple Test That Transforms Clutter Into Clarity
Every home has them — drawers crammed with old cords, wardrobes full of clothes never worn, garages stacked with boxes “for later.” For many, the hardest part of decluttering isn’t the physical work, it’s the decision-making.
That’s where the One-Year Rule comes in: a simple test that makes letting go easier.
Clutter builds up because of hesitation — the worry you might need something in the future. The One-Year Rule cuts through that uncertainty. The principle is straightforward: if you haven’t used, worn, or needed an item in the past 12 months, it’s time to let it go.
By applying this rule, households can create calmer spaces, reduce stress, and make their homes more functional without second-guessing every decision.
Why the One-Year Rule Works
Psychologists describe clutter as “delayed decisions.” Each item left lying around represents a choice postponed. The One-Year Rule gives you a clear benchmark that takes the emotion out of decluttering.
Time-saving: You no longer waste minutes searching through unused items.
Cost-effective: Prevents buying duplicates of things you already own but couldn’t find.
Stress-reducing: Clean, organised spaces promote calm and focus.
Community benefit: Items in good condition can be donated to people who will actually use them.
How to Use the One-Year Rule at Home
Choose your starting point. Begin small — a wardrobe, kitchen drawer, or bathroom cupboard.
Apply the question: “Have I used this in the past 12 months?”
Yes → Keep it.
No → Donate, recycle, or tip.
Sort into zones. Use four boxes or bags labelled Keep, Donate, Recycle, Tip.
Be honest with yourself. If you haven’t needed it in a year, you likely won’t tomorrow.
Set a system for the future. Keep a donation box in your home for ongoing clutter control.
A Practical Tip for Sentimental Items
Letting go can be hardest when emotions are involved. For sentimental belongings, take a photo before parting with the item. The memory remains, but the clutter doesn’t.
Decluttering doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the One-Year Rule, decisions become simple, homes become lighter, and daily life gets easier.
Sometimes the easiest rule of all is also the most powerful: if you haven’t used it in a year, it’s time to let it go.
Ready to put the One-Year Rule into practice? Start small today — and when it’s time for a bigger clear-out, Illawarra Tip Run is here to help.
Looking for more decluttering tips? Explore other tried and tested rules and methods:
The 20/20 Rule
The KonMari Method
The 5-Minute Rule
The Four-Box Method
The One-In, One-Out Rule