10 Questions to Help Moms Declutter and Simplify Their Homes
Hey Mama
Between the endless snack cups, piles of outgrown clothes, and school papers that seem to multiply overnight, keeping a family home organized can feel impossible. You want a cozy, welcoming space — but life with kids is busy, and clutter sneaks in fast.
As a professional organizer, I’ve learned that decluttering isn’t just about getting rid of stuff. It’s about asking the right questions so you can make confident, guilt-free decisions.
If you’re ready to create more space, peace, and breathing room in your home, start with these 10 simple questions. Also, keep in mind you don’t need to ask yourself all 10 questions for every item. Depending on the item, a ‘no’ to one question may be all you need to let it go. Grab a cup of coffee (or a glass of wine), take it one drawer or one corner at a time, and see what happens.
1. Do I actually use this — or do I just wish I did?
We all have those “someday” items — the yoga mat, the craft supplies, the bread maker. If it’s been collecting dust for months (or years), it’s okay to let it go. Focus on what truly supports your current lifestyle. Just remember you could be saying more of a “see you later” instead of “goodbye forever” if it’s hard to part with those things you wish you had time for.
2. Does this item make my life easier or harder?
Everything in your home should serve a purpose — whether that’s function, joy, or comfort. If it creates more frustration than value, it’s clutter in disguise.
3. Would I buy this again today?
Imagine you’re seeing this item for the first time. Would you spend money on it again? If not, it’s a sign that it’s no longer worth the space it takes up.
4. Is this the best use of our space?
Your home should work for your family — not against you. If something is crowding a closet, blocking flow, or making cleanup harder, it might be time to rehome it.
5. Does this fit the season of life we’re in right now?
Our homes should grow and evolve as our families do. If your kids have outgrown the toys, gear, or clothes, consider passing them along to another family who can use them.
6. Am I keeping this out of love or guilt?
This one’s big. Sentimental items can hold emotional weight, but you don’t need to keep everything to honor a memory. Keep what truly matters — and release the rest with gratitude. Trust me, the memories will stay even if you let the item go.
7. How many of these do we really need?
Families collect duplicates fast — water bottles, blankets, scissors, you name it. Keep your favorites and let go of the extras to make space for simplicity. Think about how many are in use at one time and if you even need to have any extras.
8. Does this support the calm, simplified home I want?
When you imagine your ideal home — peaceful, organized, and easy to maintain — does this item fit that vision? If not, it’s taking energy you could be spending elsewhere.
9. When’s the last time I used or noticed this?
If it’s been sitting untouched for a year or more, it’s likely safe to let go. If you come across an item that you didn’t even remember you own - that’s a pretty good sign you don’t need it anymore.
10. How will it feel when this space is lighter?
Focus on the feeling you’re working toward — less stress, easier mornings, more room to play and rest, etc. Every item you release brings you closer to that vision.
A Gentle Reminder for You, Mama
Decluttering isn’t about perfection — it’s about peace. It’s about creating a home that supports your family’s daily rhythms and helps you breathe a little easier.
Start small. Stay consistent. Celebrate progress over perfection.
Your home doesn’t have to be pinterest perfect — it just needs to feel good for the people who live in it.
Not sure where or how to start in your home?
I’m here for you. I’d love to help you simplify your home so you can stop looking around at all of the piles and clutter and start relaxing more in your space. Click here to schedule a complimentary consultation so we can get started!
Hey there! I’m Diana, a professional organizer in Central Maryland. I love helping families declutter and organize their homes so they can spend more time doing the things that they love. I can support you wherever you are in your journey so that you can feel more peace in your home.
Click here to schedule a complimentary consultation so we can talk more about what an organized home can do for you!