As we age, the desire for a simpler, more organised life often grows. We want to spend less time searching through clutter and more time enjoying our golden years. That’s why we’re always on the lookout for practical solutions to streamline our living spaces. And when it comes to the kitchen, a place where gadgets and gizmos tend to multiply, finding the right strategy to declutter can be a game-changer.
Enter the 20/20 decluttering rule, a minimalist’s dream come true, and possibly your new best friend. This clever hack, devised by Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus of The Minimalists, is delightfully straightforward. If you can replace an item for less than $20 and within 20 minutes, you can feel free to part with it. This rule encourages you to let go of those ‘just in case’ items that clutter your drawers and cabinets.
Imagine opening your kitchen drawers and finding only what you need. No more sifting through three different can openers, a handful of bottle stoppers from that wine tasting event years ago, or that stack of takeout menus from restaurants that have long since closed. The 20/20 rule can help you achieve that level of organisation.
But, as with any method, it’s not without its caveats. Sentimental items, for instance, don’t fit neatly into the 20/20 framework. The old cookie cutter from your grandmother or the tea towels from your world travels carry memories that can’t be measured by convenience or cost. And what about those items that, while easily replaceable, you simply love too much to toss? That’s where the ‘probably’ comes in. It’s a reminder that rules can be bent and that personal value sometimes trumps practicality.
Moreover, the financial aspect of this rule may not suit everyone. While $20 might not seem like a significant amount, it can add up if you’re replacing multiple items. And let’s not forget the environmental impact of discarding items that are still in good condition. It’s essential to consider donation or repurposing options to keep usable items out of landfills.
So, how can you make the 20/20 rule work for you? Use it as a guideline rather than a strict law. Apply it to areas of your kitchen where redundancy is common, like utensil drawers or spice racks. It’s perfect for those extra measuring cups, duplicate spatulas, or any gadget you’ve used once and then forgotten about.
Remember, the goal of decluttering isn’t to strip your home bare but to create a space that serves you better. A well-organised kitchen can make cooking and entertaining more enjoyable, and it can even make your space feel larger and more inviting.
Before you start, take a moment to envision your ideal kitchen. What does it look like? What does it contain? Keep this image in mind as you apply the 20/20 rule. You might be surprised at how quickly you can transform your kitchen into a more functional and pleasing space.
And finally, decluttering is a personal journey. What works for one person may not work for another. The 20/20 rule is just one tool in your arsenal. If it doesn’t suit you, there are countless other strategies to explore. The key is to find what resonates with you and your lifestyle.
Have you given the 20/20 rule a try, or do you have another decluttering method that’s worked well for you? We’d love to hear your tips and experiences in the comments below. Let’s inspire each other to create more organised, clutter-free spaces!
Also read: Clever kitchen storage solutions to clear the clutter
