07/30/2026
My brain refuses to declutter the “normal” way, so I figured out a new one that works!
I’ve tried everything:
The One-Year Rule: If you haven’t worn it in a year, get rid of it.
Problem: ADHD = out of sight, out of mind. So in a cluttered closet, I forget to wear things I love because I can’t see them.
The Hanger Trick—Flip all your hangers, and after a year, donate what hasn’t been worn.
Problem: Oops, forgot to flip the hangers… also, see above.
The Marie Kondo Method: Take everything out and only put back what sparks joy.
Problem: Cue me, overwhelmed & decision fatigued, stepping over a pile of clothes for a week before shoving them all back.
Enter: THE DONATION BASKET.
Here’s how it works:
1. Keep a large decorative basket near your closet 24/7
2. Anytime you pull something from your closet but don’t like it enough to wear, it goes in the basket.
3. Once the basket is full, donate the contents.
Why this works:
1. No massive decluttering sessions → Everything happens gradually.
2. No decision fatigue → You’re making small, easy choices instead of overwhelming ones.
3. No regrets → If you miss something and want to wear it, you have some time to grab it before donating (but I rarely do).
It works everywhere → I keep donation baskets in my kids’ rooms and common areas too.
No more overstuffed closets.
No more piles of things waiting for a “decluttering day.”
Just a system that works with my brain instead of against it.
Does decluttering feel impossible for you too? Tell me why!
Or if you’ve found a system that actually works, drop it below. I need to know!
