How to Declutter Your House in One Day

Feeling like your house is so cluttered you don’t even know where to start? You’re not alone. Whether you’re preparing to sell, moving into a smaller home or just finally ready for a fresh start, decluttering can feel like a mountain to climb. The good news? You can absolutely do it in just one day…with the right game plan.

We work with downsizers and home sellers across Ottawa every day, and decluttering is one of the most impactful steps you can take before listing your home. Not only does it help your space feel larger and more inviting but it also allows potential buyers to focus on the home itself and not your stuff.

A big part of selling a home is allowing potential buyers to envision themselves living there, which is better achieved when the home isn’t cluttered.

Let’s break it down.

Decluttering in a day – is it possible? Find out here!

Step 1: Set Up the Three Bin System

Before you touch a single item, set up three bins (or boxes or garbage bags, whatever works for you). Label them: Keep, Donate, and Toss.

As you go through each room, make quick decisions. If an item doesn’t serve a purpose, spark joy or contribute to the overall look of your space, it goes in the Donate or Toss bin. Don’t overthink it, just trust your first instinct. The faster you move, the more momentum you’ll build.

Tip: If you haven’t used it in a year or longer, it most likely belongs in the Donate or Toss bin.

Step 2: Prioritize the Five Most Important Areas

If you’re short on time (and let’s be honest, most of us are), don’t waste hours on that overstuffed linen closet or basement storage room. Focus on the areas that make the biggest impression:

Entryway
Kitchen
Living Room
Bathrooms
Primary Bedroom

These are the high-impact zones buyers care about and pay attention to the most. They set the tone and help form emotional connections to your home.

Downsizing your home? Check out these related blogs for more helpful advice!

Step 3: Clear the Surfaces

Less is more. Especially when you’re staging your home or just trying to reset your space. Take five minutes per room to remove anything that doesn’t absolutely need to be there. That means:

Kitchen counters should be mostly bare (except a coffee maker or a bowl of fresh fruit)
Bathroom counters should be clear of personal products
Tables, desks and dressers should have no more than one or two decorative items

This step alone can completely transform the look and feel of a space very quickly.

Step 4: Do a Buyer Walk-Through

Once you’ve tackled the major areas, take a step back. Literally.

Walk through your house like a potential buyer would. Look at each room with fresh eyes. Ask yourself:

Are cords and chargers visible?
Are personal photos or memorabilia distracting from the space?
Is there enough natural light?
Does it feel calm, clean and open?

This is the final polish before a showing or just a great way to fall in love with your home all over again.

Don’t Forget to Set the Mood

Decluttering doesn’t have to feel like a chore. Set a timer, crank up your favourite playlist and take it one space at a time. Give yourself breaks, drink water and keep the energy light. You’ll be surprised at how much you can get done in just a few hours.

Preparing your home for the market? Read these blogs next!

One Day. One Big Impact.

Decluttering your house in one day isn’t just possible, it’s powerful. It brings clarity, opens up space and creates a fresh canvas whether you’re staying or selling.

And if you are thinking about selling, decluttering is one of the best first steps you can take. We’re happy to share more tips, recommend stagers or even help coordinate donation pick-ups.