Nonsense Decluttering Advice We Need to Stop Following

When Kuku was four, he had a little box filled with what most people would call junk—broken crayons, a single puzzle piece, a car missing its wheels, and a shiny rock he once found at a park. One day, in an attempt to ‘declutter’ and ‘help him focus,’ I cleaned up his space while he was at preschool. Everything he hadn’t used in weeks? Gone.

That evening, we had a full-blown meltdown. Not over a toy, a missing game, but over his rock—the shiny rock he was keeping for a reason only he knew. That’s when I realized decluttering isn’t just about cleaning up; it’s about understanding what feels important to our kids.

So why do we keep hearing nonsense advice like…

“Just throw out what they don’t use!”

Why it’s flawed: Many kids, especially neurodivergent ones, form deep attachments to objects. A seemingly useless item might hold emotional significance, provide comfort, or be a transition tool for them.

A better approach: Instead of secretly tossing things, we can create a ‘Transition Box’ where we place items our child hasn’t used but might want later. We can let them choose when (or if) they’re ready to let go.

“A clutter-free space means a clutter-free mind!”

Why it’s flawed: For many of us, an empty space might feel peaceful, but for some kids, it feels unsettling. A completely ‘minimalist’ room can make them feel lost rather than calm.

A better approach: Let’s involve our kids in deciding how their space should look. We can ask, “What helps you feel comfortable here?” Maybe they need a cosy corner with their favourite items visible instead of tucked away.

“One in, one out!”

Why it’s flawed: This rule assumes that kids can part with things easily. But for many, letting go isn’t about logic but emotional readiness.

A better approach: Instead of “out,” we can say, “Let’s make space for something new by keeping only the most special things!” This shifts the focus to choosing favourites rather than feeling forced to give something up.

So, how can we declutter without distress?

Give choices: “Do you want to keep this in a special box or pass it on?”

Use stories: “This toy is going on a new adventure. Want to help?”

Create a ‘decision-free’ zone: A small shelf or box where they can keep their absolute non-negotiables.

Set a ‘Maybe Later’ bin: If they’re unsure about something, we can revisit it in a month instead of making a rushed decision.

Decluttering doesn’t have to mean distress—it can be a process of trust and collaboration. Let’s create spaces that feel safe rather than stripped down.

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Recommended Products to Make Decluttering Easier

Looking for child-friendly storage solutions? Here are some helpful products to help keep things organized without overwhelming your little one:

Toy Storage Organizers – Stackable bins and toy shelves to keep everything visible and easy to access.

Multi-Compartment Kids’ Wardrobes – Lightweight storage solutions for keeping clothes and accessories in order.

Hanging Organizers – Over-the-door or wall-mounted organizers for books, small toys, and stationery.

Labeling Stickers & Chalkboard Labels – Fun and easy ways to categorize bins and shelves to encourage independent organization.

Decluttering Books for Kids – Interactive guides to help children understand and participate in organizing their space.

What’s the strangest thing your child refuses to part with? Drop it in the comments!

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