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Written By The Common Nest .
 

The Truth About Clutter: Breaking Free from 6 Clutter Myths That Are Keeping You Stuck

Have you ever found yourself holding onto things, convinced that you might need them later? Or maybe you’ve hesitated to let go of something expensive, feeling like getting rid of it would be wasteful?

You’re not alone. So many of us struggle with decluttering—not because we don’t want a clutter-free home, but because of the stories we tell ourselves about our stuff.

But what if those stories aren’t actually true?

In this post, we’re breaking down six decluttering myths that keep people stuck—and how to shift your mindset so you can let go with confidence.

Myth #1: "I Might Need It Someday"

This is one of the greatest decluttering myths and one that keeps many people holding onto things just in case.

The Truth:While it’s possible that you might need something in the future, the reality is that most of the time, you won’t. And if you do, you’ll likely be able to borrow, replace, or do without it.

Holding onto too many just in case items creates clutter that overwhelms your space and mind. Letting go of what you don’t use actually gives you more clarity and confidence—not less.

Key Takeaway: Freeing up space now makes life easier, not harder.

Myth #2: "It Was Expensive, So I Can’t Let It Go"

This myth keeps so many people stuck in clutter, feeling guilty about money spent.

The Truth: The money has already been spent—keeping the item won’t bring it back. Instead of focusing on the cost of the item, ask yourself: Is it still adding value to my life? If not, it’s only taking up space and reminding you of a purchase you regret.

Letting it go frees you from that guilt and makes room for what truly serves you.

Key Takeaway: Keeping something out of guilt doesn’t undo the cost—it just costs you even more in space and energy.

Myth #3: "Decluttering Is Wasteful"

Many people hesitate to declutter because they feel like it’s wasteful to get rid of things they could use.

The Truth:The real waste is in not using the item. If it’s sitting unused in a drawer, closet, or storage bin, it’s already wasted. Letting go—whether by donating, recycling, or responsibly discarding—allows it to actually be used and appreciated by someone else.

Decluttering isn’t about being wasteful—it’s about being intentional.

Key Takeaway: Keeping unused items isn’t the solution—finding them a better home is.

Myth #4: "I Just Need Better Storage Solutions"

Thanks to Instagram-worthy restocking videos and picture-perfect organization trends, many people believe they just need better bins, baskets, and containers.

The Truth: Storage solutions can help, but they don’t solve clutter—they just organize it. Without decluttering first, you’re just shuffling stuff around instead of actually making space.

True organization starts with less, not more containers. Focus on what truly belongs in your home before investing in storage solutions.

Key Takeaway: The best organization system is one that holds only what you truly need and love.

Myth #5: "I Have to Do It All at Once"

The idea that decluttering has to be a huge, all-or-nothing project is one of the most overwhelming myths.

The Truth: You don’t need a whole weekend (or an extreme minimalist makeover) to make progress. Decluttering works best when done little by little, at a pace that feels sustainable.

Even 10 minutes a day—one drawer, one shelf, one category at a time—can lead to lasting change without burnout.

Key Takeaway: Small, consistent steps create a clutter-free home.

Myth #6: "Sentimental Items Are Untouchable"

Many people believe that everything sentimental must be kept forever, no exceptions.

The Truth: While sentimental items hold deep meaning, keeping everything can create clutter that overwhelms instead of honors your memories.

It’s okay to be selective. Keep what truly represents the memories you cherish, and find creative ways to preserve them—like taking photos, creating memory boxes, or passing items on to family members who will appreciate them.

Key Takeaway: Honoring memories doesn’t mean keeping everything—choose what holds the deepest meaning.

What’s Holding You Back?

If you’ve been struggling to declutter, ask yourself: Which of these myths has been keeping me stuck?

Shifting your mindset is the first step toward creating a home that feels lighter, more peaceful, and more aligned with the life you want to live.

✨ What’s one thing you’re ready to let go of today? ✨

Want to go deeper? 

Listen to full episode here:  Apple Podcast   |   Spotify

Links & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

Work with Christy:

You can find more from The Common Nest here:


The Common Nest .
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