How to Declutter a Small Apartment in 2025

Living in a cramped apartment? Clutter can make a small space feel even smaller, leaving you stressed and overwhelmed. From overflowing closets to countertops buried under junk, disorganization steals precious square footage. The right decluttering strategy can transform your home into a serene, functional oasis. In this guide, we’ll cover space-saving hacks, multipurpose storage solutions, and expert tips to maximize every inch. For cleaning after decluttering, check our guide on the best mopping solution for small apartments.

Key Takeaways

• Use vertical space with wall-mounted shelves and over-door organizers
• Donate or sell unused items to free up floor space
• Invest in dual-purpose furniture like storage ottomans or foldable desks
• Label storage bins to maintain organization long-term

1. Start with a Decluttering Plan

Before tossing anything, categorize clutter into “keep,” “donate,” and “trash” piles. Tackle one room at a time—beginning with high-traffic areas like the kitchen or living room. Use the 90/90 rule: if you haven’t used an item in the last 90 days and won’t use it in the next 90, discard it. For sentimental items, limit yourself to a single memory box.

2. Maximize Vertical Storage

Small apartments benefit from upward expansion. Install floating shelves, pegboards, or wall-mounted racks to store books, kitchen tools, or accessories. Over-the-door organizers work wonders for shoes, toiletries, or cleaning supplies. Consider a broom and mop storage solution to keep floors clear.

3. Choose Multipurpose Furniture

Replace bulky items with space-saving alternatives:

• Storage beds with built-in drawers
• Nesting tables that tuck away when unused
• Fold-down desks for home offices

A sofa bed or ottoman with hidden storage adds functionality without sacrificing style.

4. Organize with Clear Bins and Labels

Transparent containers help identify contents quickly, while labels prevent future clutter buildup. Use stackable bins under beds or inside closets. For small items like cables or cosmetics, try drawer dividers or modular organizers.

5. Digitize Paper Clutter

Reduce physical documents by scanning receipts, bills, and photos. Store files in cloud services like Google Drive or Dropbox. For essential papers, use a slim filing box categorized by urgency (e.g., “To Do,” “To File,” “To Shred”).

6. Optimize Kitchen Space

Install magnetic knife strips, hanging pot racks, or tiered shelf risers. Use drawer organizers for utensils and stackable containers for pantry items. Keep countertops clear by storing small appliances in cabinets when not in use.

7. Maintain a Clutter-Free Routine

Spend 10 minutes daily tidying up—return misplaced items, wipe surfaces, and discard junk mail. Schedule seasonal decluttering sessions to reassess belongings. For deep cleaning, try our recommended non-toxic mopping solution.

Decluttering Solutions Comparison

Decluttering a small apartment requires strategy and consistency, but the payoff—more space, less stress—is worth it. Start small, stay organized, and enjoy your refreshed home. For more cleaning tips, explore Apartment Therapy’s guide or The Spruce’s storage hacks.