Decluttering isn’t just about tidying up—it’s about creating a space that works for you, reduces stress, and enhances your lifestyle. Living full-time in an RV with toddlers has taught me that a clutter-free space is essential for peace of mind and keeping everything functional. Whether you’re in a tiny home, apartment, or RV, these decluttering tips for small spaces will help you tackle clutter with confidence.
To kick things off, I’m sharing 5 Fundamentals of Decluttering inspired by Kassidy Elaine, a decluttering enthusiast who simplifies the process for her Instagram audience. Plus, I’ve added my own favorite tips, tricks, and hacks for decluttering while RV living!
1. Start Small & Focused
Feeling overwhelmed by clutter? Start small. Kassidy suggests beginning with a manageable space like a drawer, a shelf, or even a single category like shoes. For me, in our RV, the best place to start is always the cabinet I’m most afraid to open (usually the junk drawer we swear we don’t have).
RV Hack: Instead of trying to tackle everything at once, I dedicate just 10 minutes a day to decluttering one small area. I even involve my toddlers by turning it into a fun “treasure hunt” game to keep them entertained while we sort!
2. Use the “Keep, Donate, Toss” Method
This classic method makes decisions easier. Kassidy breaks it down into:
- Keep – Only what you use and love.
- Donate/Sell – Items in great condition but no longer needed.
- Toss – Broken, expired, or unusable items.
RV Hack: I love donating our outgrown books and toys to local Little Free Libraries and donation bins. My toddlers enjoy the excitement of giving away a toy and then picking a “new-to-us” book in exchange. It’s recycling and decluttering in one!
Need ideas for storage solutions? Check out these game-changers on Amazon:
- Collapsible Storage Bins (perfect for small spaces)
- Over-the-Door Organizers
3. Be Honest & Practical
Kassidy’s advice: Be honest with yourself about what you really use. Ask: “Would I buy this again?” or “Does this serve a real purpose?” If not, it’s time to say goodbye.
RV Hack: I have a strict “one in, one out” rule—if we buy something new, we must part with something we already own. This keeps our limited storage from overflowing and helps us stay intentional about purchases.
4. Create Organized Systems
Once you’ve decluttered, it’s all about organization. Kassidy recommends bins, labels, and designated spots for your items.
RV Hack: In the RV, every item has to pull double-duty. For example, our toddler’s toy bins double as extra seating. We also use clear containers so we can see exactly what’s inside—no more digging through boxes!
Amazon has great options for organizing small spaces:
5. Follow Through & Avoid Re-Cluttering
Kassidy’s final tip is crucial: make sure to actually get rid of the items you’ve decided to part with. “One thing I did at the beginning of my decluttering journey was put my things in a pile without taking them to the donation center,” she says.
RV Hack: I make it a priority to drop donations at a local charity or thrift store the same day we declutter. Plus, we’ve started recycling toys by passing them on to friends or swapping them with other RV families. It keeps our space fresh and helps out others.
And here’s a bonus: Avoid bringing home meaningless items that don’t serve your needs. Instead, focus on items that genuinely enhance your space and bring joy.
Fun Decluttering Moments in RV Life
- Decluttering as a Family Activity: We turn decluttering into a fun challenge—who can find the most items to donate in 5 minutes?
- Minimalist Toy Rotation: Instead of keeping all the toys out, I rotate them weekly to keep things exciting for the kids and reduce clutter.
- Digital Decluttering: Don’t forget about apps, photos, and files! I recently organized our digital photos and saved them onto a portable hard drive.
Why Decluttering Matters
Decluttering isn’t just about having a tidy space—it’s about creating room for what truly matters. For us, living in an RV with toddlers means making space for family time, travel adventures, and the simple joy of being together. As Kassidy Elaine says, small steps lead to big transformations.
FAQs About Decluttering
1. Where do I start with decluttering? Start small! Focus on a manageable area like a drawer, a single shelf, or a specific category (e.g., shoes or books).
2. How do I stay motivated while decluttering? Set a timer for 10-15 minutes and focus on one small task. Celebrate your progress, no matter how small!
3. What is the “Keep, Donate, Toss” method? This method involves sorting items into three categories: Keep (things you use and love), Donate/Sell (items in good condition but not needed), and Toss (broken or expired items).
4. How often should I declutter? It depends on your lifestyle, but a good rule of thumb is to declutter seasonally or whenever your space starts to feel overwhelming.
5. What are some common decluttering mistakes to avoid?
- Starting with sentimental items
- Keeping items “just in case”
- Not having a plan for donations
6. Can decluttering really reduce stress? Yes! A clutter-free space can help improve focus, reduce anxiety, and create a more peaceful environment.
7. What are the best storage solutions for small spaces?
- Collapsible storage bins
- Over-the-door organizers
- Clear plastic containers with lids
Let’s Get Decluttering!
Start small. Stay focused. And most importantly, have fun with it! Be sure to follow Kassidy Elaine on Instagram for more practical tips and inspiration.
ALSO DO Check out my guide on [Minimalist Living Tips].
Author
