50 Moments When People Conquered Their Clutter, And The Results Were Worth It

Cleaning often gets put off until it becomes a big task. It’s easy to ignore the mess, thinking you can always clean up later. But once you finally get around to it, you wonder why you didn’t do it sooner. The satisfaction of seeing a clean space can make you feel lighter and more proud of your home.

For many people, cleaning tasks that have been postponed for a while can lead to amazing transformations. A dirty sink or faucet might seem impossible to clean, but it can shine like new with some scrubbing.

Many people have shared before-and-after photos showing how their cleaning efforts paid off, and those images can inspire others to tackle their messy areas. Cleaning also positively impacts your mind.

A tidy room can make you feel calmer and more organized. Simple tasks like wiping down counters, cleaning cabinets, or organizing your pantry can make a huge difference.

These small steps can help you feel in control and create a more peaceful environment. It’s about feeling accomplished.

Seeing a messy area turn into a neat one can give you a sense of pride. And sometimes, all it takes is seeing someone else’s cleaning success to motivate you to get started on your own.

A clean space can make you feel calmer and more organized.

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"My Newest Cleaning. Took 2 Days. (Mental Health Problems)"

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"The 44 Bus Stop Got Trashed Overnight. I Went Out To Clean It And Met A ‘New’ Neighbor, Debbie (She’s Lived Here For 30 Yrs), Who Lent A Hand. People Talk Trash About SF, We Pick It Up"

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The Emotional Impact of Clutter

Dr. Laurie Santos, a psychology professor at Yale University, emphasizes how clutter impacts our mental well-being. In her studies, she found that disorganization heightens stress and anxiety, making it hard to focus on important tasks.

Psychological research shows that a clean environment can significantly enhance mood and productivity. Dr. Santos notes that even small cleaning tasks can give an immediate sense of accomplishment, which can create a positive feedback loop, encouraging further cleaning efforts.

"I Finally Cleaned My Kitchen After Months Of Depression. I’m So Proud Of Myself"

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"Update On The Copper Pots I Found For 6$cad Each. They Cleaned Up Well"

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"My Little Weekend Project Before And After"

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Cleaning expert Marie Kondo, known for her KonMari Method, advocates for a mindful approach to decluttering. She encourages people to ask themselves if each item 'sparks joy.' This process not only helps in removing excess items but also fosters a more intentional relationship with belongings.

Her approach has been linked to improved mental clarity and emotional peace, illustrating that the act of decluttering can lead to greater satisfaction in one's living space.

"I Cleaned My 23-Year-Old Favourite Plushie"

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"Depression Den: Progress, Not Perfection"

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"Just Cleaned The Pool At My New House For The First Time… Surprise Dolphin"

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Practical Cleaning Techniques

Professional organizer Julie Morgenstern emphasizes the importance of a systematic approach to decluttering. She recommends starting with one area, such as a drawer or closet, and sorting items into three categories: keep, donate, and discard.

This method not only simplifies the process but also helps individuals feel less overwhelmed. Morgenstern suggests setting a timer for 15-30 minutes to create urgency and maintain focus, allowing for a more productive and less daunting cleaning session.

"Not Perfect But I Feel Very Accomplished"

rad1oheadfreak

"Before/After Of A Backyard I Cleaned Up Today"

rpgmgta

"I Clean Up Illegal Dumping For Fun In The San Francisco Bay Area. Enjoy Some More Before And Afters"

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Dr. Rachel K. H. Chan, a clinical psychologist, notes that clutter can be a manifestation of deeper psychological issues, such as anxiety or depression. Her research indicates that individuals struggling with mental health may find it particularly challenging to maintain an organized space.

Addressing these underlying issues through therapy can lead to better outcomes in decluttering efforts. Dr. Chan emphasizes that understanding one's emotional triggers related to clutter can be the first step in creating a more organized and peaceful environment.

"Between Work And Struggling With Depression, I Finally Found The Motivation To Finish Cleaning My Room From NYE To NYD"

paarkrosis

"Who Doesn’t Enjoy Clean Kitchen Lights (Before And After)"

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"Cleaning My Depression Flat After Months Of Being In A Bad Place"

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The Science of Cleaning

According to Dr. Martin Seligman, a pioneer in positive psychology, environments significantly influence our mood and motivation. His research indicates that a clean and organized space can boost happiness and productivity levels.

By actively engaging in cleaning, individuals can cultivate a sense of control over their environment, which is crucial for psychological well-being. Creating a routine around cleaning tasks can also establish habits that contribute to long-term emotional benefits.

"Several Weeks Ago, I Asked Y’all About Cleaning This Thing On The Side Of My House"

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"I Scrubbed The Floor At Work Today And It Traveled Two Years Into The Past"

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"CLR Is Actually Magic. (With Some Elbow Grease)"

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Dr. Barbara Markway, a psychologist specializing in anxiety, highlights that decluttering is not just a physical task but a mental one as well. She explains that many people hold onto items due to fear of loss or attachment.

Markway suggests practicing mindfulness during the decluttering process. Taking a moment to breathe and reflect on the significance of items can help individuals make more intentional choices about what to keep and what to let go.

"I've Been Cleaning Up The Cauldron I Found Buried In My Forest"

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"3 Days Cleaning Help For Free. This Was The Hardest Job Ever"

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"It Was So Hard To Find The Motivation"

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Decluttering and Relationships

Relationship expert Dr. John Gray points out that clutter can create friction in personal relationships, often leading to misunderstandings and conflicts. His research suggests that differing clutter tolerance levels between partners can strain communication.

To mitigate this, he recommends having open discussions about cleaning preferences and setting shared goals for maintaining an organized space. Joint decluttering sessions can not only improve the environment but also strengthen the relationship through teamwork.

"A Mid-Century Silver Cocktail Shaker For $7. Look At What Some Polish Can Do"

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"Before And After From The Back Of The Oven In My New Apartment"

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"Bedroom Before And After"

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Dr. Cal Newport, a productivity expert, emphasizes the importance of creating an environment conducive to focus. His research stresses that a clutter-free space can significantly enhance concentration and creativity.

Newport suggests adopting a “deep work” mindset where individuals isolate distractions, including physical clutter, to achieve maximum productivity. Implementing a regular cleaning schedule can help maintain this focused environment, allowing creativity to flourish.

"Before And After Photos Of This Pool I Cleaned Today. How’d I Do?"

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"Before-And-After Cleaning Of A 300-Year-Old Silver-Inlaid Sword Pommel"

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"1995 Zippo, Before And After. One Day, It Will Look Like It Did Before The Sanding And Polish"

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Mindfulness in Decluttering

Eckhart Tolle, a renowned spiritual teacher, discusses the psychological benefits of being present while decluttering. His teachings suggest that the act of cleaning can become a meditative practice, promoting awareness and mindfulness.

Tolle recommends focusing on the sensations and feelings that arise during decluttering. This mindful approach can transform a mundane chore into a meaningful experience, fostering self-awareness and emotional clarity in the process.

"We Cleaned And Organised The Whole House For My Mum’s Birthday. This Was The Pantry"

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"Client Called Me Thursday, Went To The Pool Friday, Started The Clean-Up Process. Before Is From Friday And After Is Tuesday, Quick Turnaround In 100+ Degree Louisiana Heat"

Flyersfreak

"Bathtub"

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Dr. Sugata Mitra, an education researcher, emphasizes the connection between learning environments and cognitive development. His findings suggest that a clean and organized space can enhance learning and creativity in both children and adults.

Mitra encourages creating designated areas for specific activities, allowing individuals to engage in tasks without distractions. This structured approach can lead to more effective learning experiences and improved emotional states.

"Years Of Grime Removed From Tile Floor With Vinegar, Baking Soda, Dish Soap And Water"

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"Currently I Reorganize All Of Our 80 Workplaces In The Office"

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"30 Minute Soak In Vinegar"

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Health Benefits of a Clean Space

Dr. Andrew Weil, an integrative medicine expert, stresses that a clean environment can lead to better physical health. He explains that clutter can harbor dust, allergens, and bacteria, which can adversely affect respiratory health and overall well-being.

Regular cleaning and decluttering not only enhance aesthetics but also contribute to a healthier living space. Incorporating natural products can further promote a clean environment while being environmentally conscious.

"My Work On This Oven From Today's Job... Before/After"

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"One Of The Dirtiest Cars I’ve Detailed. The Lady (86) Was Super Sweet And Tipped Me $100"

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"Hurricane Helene Destroyed Our House But Not Our Cast Iron"

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Financial expert Liz Weston notes that clutter can also have financial implications. Excess belongings often lead to wasted resources, such as duplicate purchases or storage costs.

She advises individuals to assess the financial impact of their clutter, suggesting that decluttering can lead to smarter spending habits. Selling or donating unused items can also provide financial relief and contribute to a more organized living space.

"30 Yrs Of Grease And Grime On A Le Creuset - Before And After"

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"I Cleaned My Grandmother-In-Law's Old Watch For Her"

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"Grout Clean In My “New” House"

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Creating Sustainable Habits

Dr. Carol Dweck, a motivation researcher, emphasizes the importance of a growth mindset in maintaining a clean environment. Her research shows that individuals who view cleaning as a skill that can be developed are more likely to stick with it.

Dweck suggests setting incremental goals for cleaning tasks, which fosters a sense of achievement and encourages continued effort. Incorporating regular feedback and reflection can also support sustainable cleaning habits.

"I Scrubbed One Side Of A Pan I've Had For Many Years"

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"Before And After Some Cleaning Of A Friend's Friend's PC"

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"Ancestral Grime Update"

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Dr. Harvey Karp, a pediatrician, highlights the importance of instilling cleaning habits in children. He suggests that involving kids in decluttering fosters responsibility and respect for their belongings.

By making cleaning a fun and engaging activity, parents can teach children valuable life skills that extend beyond decluttering. Karp's approach emphasizes the long-term benefits of fostering a clean environment as part of family life.

"Found This Solid Copper Mug At An Antique Store For $4 And Spent An Hour Cleaning It With Vinegar And Baking Soda"

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"Cleaned My Keyboard For The First Time In 13 Years"

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"This Bathroom Cabinet I Just Cleaned"

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The Role of Community in Decluttering

Community psychologist Dr. Pepper Schwartz emphasizes the social aspect of decluttering. She suggests that engaging with others in cleaning activities can provide motivation and accountability.

Participating in community events or group decluttering sessions can foster a sense of camaraderie, making the process enjoyable and less isolating. Schwartz notes that sharing experiences can lead to stronger community ties and enhanced emotional support.

"Cleaned My USB Cable With An Alcohol Wipe"

brcnz

"Before/After Of A Backyard Cleanup I Did Today"

rpgmgta

"I Polished My Silver Spoons Today"

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Dr. T. Berry Brazelton, a pediatrician, suggests that creating a clean environment is vital for nurturing children's development. His research indicates that a tidy space encourages exploration and learning.

Parents are encouraged to foster a clean home as a safe haven for children, promoting healthy habits from an early age. Brazelton emphasizes that maintaining an organized space can significantly impact a child's emotional and cognitive growth.

"Before And After Photos Of My Oven That The Previous Tenant And Landlord Left For Me. Not Perfect, But So Much Better!"

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"Last Year We Had A Bag Break And It Dropped A 1.75L Bottle Of Vodka And The Pavement's Been Clean There Ever Since."

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"Professional oven cleaner here - would anyone be interested in my top tips and products?"

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Cleaning goes beyond just a task—it's a way to reduce stress and create a comfortable environment. We often put it off but feel proud and at ease once it's done. The changes from simple cleaning efforts can be surprisingly rewarding and inspire us to continue.

Tasks like washing the sink or organizing drawers help create a calm and orderly space. After finishing a cleaning task, the sense of accomplishment can be the push needed to finally take on the clutter and enjoy a cleaner, more peaceful home.

Understanding the Deeper Patterns

In conclusion, the journey of decluttering is more than just an organizational task; it’s a profound opportunity for personal growth and emotional healing. The insights from various experts highlight that a clean environment can significantly enhance mental clarity, emotional well-being, and even relationships.

By implementing expert-recommended strategies, such as setting achievable goals and practicing mindfulness, individuals can transform their spaces—and lives. Ultimately, decluttering becomes a pathway to greater happiness, fostering a sense of accomplishment and control over one’s environment.