If you’re looking to create a peaceful, joyful space, Marie Kondo’s decluttering method, also known as the KonMari Method, might be just what you need! Famous for asking us to keep only what “sparks joy,” Marie Kondo’s approach goes beyond simple tidying and dives into a mindful approach to organization that can transform any room in your home. In this post, we’ll break down the key principles of the KonMari Method, from organizing by category to mastering the art of folding. Let’s explore how you can use her tips to simplify and declutter your life!
Why Decluttering Matters for Your Home and Life
Before we dive into the details of Marie Kondo’s techniques, let’s talk about why decluttering matters. It’s more than just a way to make your home Pinterest-worthy (although that’s a nice bonus!). Our spaces have a surprising impact on our mental health and energy. Ever notice how a tidy room just feels better? That’s because visual clutter can lead to mental clutter, making it hard to focus, relax, or even start the day with the energy you want.
Decluttering can be a chance to let go of the past, clear up our physical and mental space, and create a home that feels light and intentional. Marie Kondo captures this beautifully, encouraging people to surround themselves only with items that "spark joy." A joyful home can enhance focus, reduce stress, and even boost productivity. Ready to see how the KonMari Method can help?
Lesson #1: Declutter by Category, Not Room
In the world of organizing, the traditional method involves going room by room. Marie Kondo, however, does things a little differently. Her approach is to tidy by category—starting with clothing, then books, papers, miscellaneous items, and, finally, sentimental items. The idea behind this is simple: organizing by category allows us to truly see how much of any one thing we own. Spoiler alert: most people find they own more of each category than they thought.
Why decluttering by category works: Let’s be honest—how many times have we thought we were organized only to open three separate drawers and find more paper clips, socks, or expired canned goods? Tackling everything in one category lets you see the full scope and make better decisions. For instance, when you see every pair of jeans you own laid out in front of you, you might realize that yes, those skinny jeans from 2012 can probably go.
Practical tip: If going category by category sounds daunting, try starting with a manageable one. Begin with clothing, focusing just on tops. Once you see progress, it’s easier to keep going!
Lesson #2: Embrace the “Spark Joy” Philosophy
Ah, the catchphrase that started it all: “Does it spark joy?” At first glance, it might sound a bit sentimental. But the truth is, this question is a game-changer. When you pick up an item and ask yourself if it sparks joy, you’re essentially asking if it adds value to your life. Marie’s approach isn’t about becoming a minimalist for the sake of it—it’s about honoring what truly matters to you.
Why the “Spark Joy” Mindset is Transformative: We often keep things out of guilt or obligation. “This sweater was a gift,” “I might wear this someday,” or “This is just too good to throw away!” Asking if something sparks joy brings us back to how we feel now about the item, not how we might feel in some hypothetical future. And let’s face it: if we haven’t used something in years, chances are it’s not bringing us much joy anymore.
Practical tip: Don’t limit this mindset to just objects. Ask if your routines, habits, or even certain apps are still sparking joy. The more mindful you are, the lighter and more intentional your space—and life—will feel.
Lesson #3: Master the KonMari Folding Method
One of Marie Kondo’s best-known organizing tips is her unique folding technique, where each item is folded vertically to create a “file” of clothes in your drawer. This approach doesn’t just save space—it transforms your drawers into artful displays where each piece is easy to access.
Why KonMari Folding Works: Stacked clothes tend to turn into a mess, making it easy to forget what’s on the bottom. By folding vertically, you can see every item at a glance. It’s also much easier to pull something out without disturbing the rest. Try it once, and you’ll see how much easier your morning routine becomes!
Pro Tip: Start with T-shirts or pants. Perfecting the fold may take a few tries, but once you get it, you won’t go back to stacking.
Lesson #4: The Power of Thanking Your Items
Marie Kondo’s method is known for its gentle and almost spiritual approach to decluttering. One of her key practices is to thank items before letting them go. This act of gratitude, as simple as it may seem, can transform the entire decluttering experience. Instead of feeling guilty or wasteful, you acknowledge the item’s role in your life and let it go with respect.
Why Saying “Thank You” Helps with Letting Go: Often, we hold onto things because we feel bad letting them go, even if they no longer serve a purpose. By thanking the item, you acknowledge its past use or the joy it once brought, which can help ease the guilt and make it easier to let go. This approach reminds us to be more mindful about the objects we bring into our homes.
Practical tip: As you go through your items, hold each one and say a simple “thank you” out loud or in your mind. It might feel silly at first, but try it out and notice how it changes your perspective.
Lesson #5: Decluttering Is a Journey, Not a One-Time Event
The KonMari Method is famous for its once-and-for-all promise, but even Marie Kondo acknowledges that decluttering isn’t a one-time event. Life changes, our needs shift, and sometimes the things that once sparked joy lose their luster. Don’t feel discouraged if you find yourself revisiting the process; think of it as a tune-up rather than a failure.
Why Regular Decluttering Tune-Ups Work: When you give yourself permission to revisit the decluttering process, you free yourself from the pressure of perfection. Your home, like your life, is an evolving space. Regularly checking in helps you stay aligned with what truly matters.
Practical tip: Schedule regular decluttering sessions throughout the year. These can be as simple as going through a small area like your medicine cabinet or your pantry. The goal is to stay mindful of what you’re accumulating and let go of what’s no longer serving you.
Discover Your Own Joyful, Organized Space
Marie Kondo’s decluttering method offers a powerful, intentional way to simplify your home and life. By organizing by category, focusing on joy, and folding with care, you can transform your space into a peaceful, joyful place. And remember, this process doesn’t have to be perfect. Every step is progress.
Feeling inspired to take control of your space? Schedule your free 15-minute phone consultation with The Detailed Life. We’re here to help you tackle the clutter, get organized, and create a home that truly sparks joy!
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