If you want to streamline your space but find yourself struggling for time or motivation, rapid-fire decluttering bursts could be the simple answer you've been looking for.
The concept is simple: Remove 100 items in one hour. And, if that seems overwhelming, our experts assure it's not just doable – it's achievable for you, too.
Here, they share their tips on using this decluttering method to clear the mess at speed.
What is the decluttering bursts challenge?
The concept is simple: 'You set side one focused hour and challenge yourself to let go of 100 items,' says Di Ter Avest, professional organizer at Diisorganized. 'It's like a quick energy reset for your home.'
Therefore, this rapid-fire way to reduce clutter room by room focuses on identifying the items that feel excessive, and helps to overcome decision fatigue – a common roadblock that people often face.
'Instead of agonizing over every decision, you listen to your instincts,' continues Di. 'That speed actually helps because you don't get stuck in "what if I need this someday?" mode. And by the end, you see visible progress, which boosts your motivation and makes it easier to keep going.
'It's not about perfection – it's about creating momentum. I have used this as a tool to show members how a short, intentional burst of effort can make them feel lighter, both in their space and emotionally.'
If you'd like to give it a go for yourself, we recommend using a physical timer, such as the Colortrak 60‑Minute Wind‑Up Mechanical Timer available at Amazon, as keeping an eye on the time can help to boost motivation, keep you moving at pace, and avoid decluttering regret. Failing that, the timer on your phone will work, too.
You can also declutter with health challenges by adapting a method like this to suit you. If 100 seems too much, start with 50, or break up the hour into the number of minutes you can manage without triggering an injury, fatigue, or pain flare.
Who and where is this technique best for?
Decluttering bursts are ideal for over-thinkers as it banishes decision fatigue
In general, says Tracy McCubbin, CEO and founder of dClutterfly, this method is ideal for overthinkers who 'just need to act quickly and break through their decision fatigue. Once you get in the groove, making quick decisions comes much easier,' she assures.
Di agrees, adding that this technique works really well for busy moms and families who don't have hours to dedicate to decluttering, but still want to see real progress. In fact, it's a surefire way to turn decluttering into a family bonding activity.
'I actually use it myself on hectic weeks,' she says. 'For example, if you only have an hour before school pickup, you can challenge yourself to clear out 100 things from the pantry or the kids' playroom.
'It always amazes me how much lighter the space – and I – feel afterward. That quick win is powerful because it reminds you that small, consistent actions can support both your home and your well-being,' all while preventing decluttering burnout.
Drawbacks to consider
Don't risk decluttering regret, urge our pros
As we've already touched on, this method won't be suitable for everyone. But that's not the only drawback to keep in mind.
The main one, advises Di, is to be mindful of what you're decluttering in these bursts.
'Go after the easy categories first,' she says, 'like duplicates, getting rid of old paperwork, expired products, or things you truly don't use. Sentimental or high-value items are better saved for a slower, more intentional session. Otherwise, you risk decluttering regret.'
In the same vein, Ben Soreff, professional organizer at House to Home Organizing, highlights the importance of not becoming fixated on the goal of 100 items, and instead focusing on making 'reasonable decisions.'
'Often, at the end of a session with a client, they will ask, "Did I get rid of enough stuff?" and we tell them that is the wrong question,' he explains. 'We don't want anxiety or regret, and while purging is a natural stage in the process, it is not the end goal of organizing. We want to focus on what you are keeping and why.'
But, says Di, if you use these bursts strategically, they'll become a 'powerful tool' in your home, helping you to build momentum while keeping your space grounded and tidy.
What to shop
All prices were correct at the time of publication.
Make streamlining stylish with this gorgeous, vintage-look timer that's effortlessly easy to use.
Collect items you're getting rid of in a storage basket like this one, then you can decide whether to donate or sell decluttered items once the hour is up.
If there's a duo that knows about streamlining, it's The Minimalists. Here they share their expertise with a collection of their most relevant essays.
For any documents you have to hold onto, this organizer prevents piles of paper from taking over your home.
It's not just adults who can benefit from decluttering bursts – getting your kids involved is a brilliant way to lighten the load. Keep track of their achievements on a chore chart like this one to encourage action.
As Di describes decluttering bursts as a 'quick energy reset,' take inspiration from this self-help guide, which champions a realistic approach to getting your space in order.
Meet our experts
Ben has significant experience with level five hoarders, so he knows the positive effect of methods like decluttering bursts, but also that it's important to be realistic and understand that there's no one-size-fits-all approach to having a beautiful home.
After becoming a wife and a mother, Di quickly learned the importance of organization and regular decluttering. Since, she has helped hundreds of clients rethink their relationship with clutter, using clever tips, tricks and techniques to lighten the mental load and speed up the process.
Tracy has been professionally decluttering and organizing since 2006, providing hands-on experience to her clients and helping them achieve the home of their dreams.
Have you heard of the 'Start with Enough' method? Experts say it easily banishes stubborn mess without stress.
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