Susie’s Top 10 Questions to Ask Before Keeping an Item

Here’s my simple, powerful checklist to help you make confident decluttering decisions!

1. Do I use it?

If it hasn’t been used in the last 6–12 months, chances are you don’t need it. Items you rarely or

never use take up valuable space that could be freed for things that truly support your daily life.

Think purpose and place.

2. Do I love it?

Your home should hold items that make you happy, comforted, or inspired. If it doesn’t spark

joy, bring positive emotions or have personal meaning, it’s worth reconsidering why you’re

holding onto it. Don’t let guilt dictate what you keep!

3. Does it support my current lifestyle?

Sometimes we keep things for past versions of ourselves—old hobbies, past careers, or “maybe

someday” plans. If an item doesn’t serve who you are now, it’s probably time to let it go.

4. Do I have duplicates?

Multiples create clutter and extra cost without adding value. Keep the best or most used version

and let the extras go—especially in categories like kitchen gadgets, linens, office supplies, self

care items, cleaning supplies or tools.

5. Would I buy it again today?

This question cuts through guilt and nostalgia. If you wouldn’t spend money on it now, it might

not be worth keeping.

Try the 20/20 rule. If you can get the item for under $20 in under 20 minutes, let it go and

acquire it when you actually need it.

6. Is it worth the space it takes?

Every inch of your home has value. Every item including large or bulky items should earn their

space by being used, loved, or truly needed.

7. Does it need repair—and will I actually fix it?

We often keep broken items with the hope of “getting to it someday.” If it’s been sitting for months (or years!), ask yourself honestly: Will I repair it within the next 2 weeks?

If not, it’s holding space and your mental energy which you don’t need.

8. Does it fit?

This applies to clothes, furniture, lifestyle items, and even décor. If it doesn’t fit your body, your home, or your current needs, it’s not serving you. Release it so your space reflects who you are today—not who you were years ago.

9. Do I have a place for it?

If an item doesn’t have a natural “home” in your home, it will quickly become clutter. Ask yourself where it would live. If you can’t easily name a place, it may not belong in your space at all.

10. Important One! Does it align with my values and goals?

Whether you want a calmer home, more simplicity, functional spaces, better organization, or more space to breathe—every item should support that vision and goal. If keeping it moves you away from the life you want, it’s time to move it on.

Happy Decluttering and Organizing!