'It's a fast reset button' – using the 1, 2 ,3 ,4, 5 decluttering method cleared my persistent mess in seconds

I tried the 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 decluttering method to solve a lifelong problem with keeping clutter at bay and was amazed at how easy, simple and effective it is. Not to mention, quick!

Clutter has always been an issue, be it stacks of clothes in my bedroom, piles of books in the living room, or papers and pens strewn over my desk, so I am happy to report that this method works.

This decluttering method is quick, convenient and has been a lifesaver for me. Experts explain why it works, and how you can use it too.

What is the 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 decluttering method?

Like the majority of decluttering tips, the name of this one sounds a little ambiguous, so I asked Ben Soreff, professional organizer at House to Home Organizing to explain it clearly and succinctly.

He says, 'The 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 decluttering organizing method is very straightforward. You simply begin by finding five items that don't belong in a given area, such as a pair of slippers in the dining room table, for instance. Put them where they do belong, counting down from five to one until everything you had selected is back in its home.'

It couldn't be simpler and that's why I think this method made a real and impactful difference in my home. The best part is it takes no time at all. These five items can be anything.

I moved clean laundry, popped my work laptop in my bag ready to head to the office in the morning, and lots more like it. I enjoyed the flexibility and the way it helped me to tidy when I'm feeling overwhelmed after a busy day.

One thing to know about using this method is that it 'only works with basic items, not institutional clutter or a large volume of clutter,' adds Ben. 'In other words, this method is great if the cluttered items already have a clear home to be put back in the first place.'

Ben notes it works well for traditional mess, especially 'kid-created'. He adds, 'For example, backpacks, jackets, shoes, and socks. These items typically do have homes and are easy to return to where they belong. Counting down is a great way to stay on task and keep you focused.'

Di Ter Avest, professional organizer and founder of Diisorganized, agrees with both Ben and I, adding, 'The 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 decluttering method is a straightforward and fast reset button for your space.

'It's not about perfection; it's about progress. I love that it takes the pressure off and makes tidying feel doable, even at the end of a long day.' That's exactly why it's a tidying technique I actually use at home.

Why the 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 decluttering method keeps clutter at bay

As Di says, 'It's quick, it's consistent, and it builds momentum. A quick five-item sweep every evening prevents mess from accumulating, and over time, it transforms how you perceive and utilize your space.'

I've definitely found that this easy habit to keep my home clutter free has, particularly as I now tend to leave less bits and bobs lying around, to make picking up and putting away those items, decluttering as I go, just that little bit easier.

'Plus, it supports the 'closing shift ' energy I love to teach – wrapping up the day and setting your tomorrow up for success,' continues Di.

For Tracy McCubbin, CEO and founder of dClutterfly, the beauty in decluttering is finding a way that works for you, just like how the 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 decluttering method worked for me.

'Everybody’s brain functions differently, so if you can find a method that works for you, that’s the best one,' she says, and I completely agree. 'Overall, I am a fan of this one because it gives you a clear path forward. You only have to worry about five items, not a bigger project. It’s a set time and a set project that can keep you from feeling overwhelmed.

'It's a fantastic mess maintenance method. Instead of having to do a big overhaul, you can focus on tidying up and easily incorporate this into your day.'

What to shop

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

FAQs

Who might struggle with the 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 decluttering method?

If your home is lacking in storage and therefore many things are living permanently on surfaces, you will struggle more than others who have clear allocated spaces each of their belongings. To resolved this, dive into our storage ideas for small homes to pick up great solutions, or see how to organize a house with no storage. Once you have some of those solutions in place, you'll be able to use the 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 decluttering method with ease for speedy wins at home.

Meet our experts

Ben Soreff

House to Home Organizing has been featured in LivingEtc, Apartment Therapy, Elite Daily and more. Ben works with level five hoarders, making him an expert at understanding the 'why' of clutter build up, and how to make the process of decluttering easy, accessible and achievable for all.

Di Ter Avest

Di is a busy wife and mother, who frequently relies on time-saving decluttering techniques, such as the 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 method, to keep her space tidy and clutter-free. She has since passed this expertise on to hundreds of clients.

Tracy McCubbin

Tracy has been professionally decluttering and organizing since 2006, helping clients with unique and effective tips and advice, like using the 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 method.

Another truly effective way to clear clutter quickly is by using the 5 second decluttering rule, which is definitely harsh, but, importantly, really works. Prefer something less ruthless? Why not try the 'ODT' decluttering method.