This Slow-but-Steady Decluttering Trick Is the Secret to a Home That Will Actually Stay Tidy

Also known as the dissolving decluttering method, this technique will help you break the mental clutter pattern and build a better routine

A white living room with a glass door to the garden and outdoor dining space. White tiles hung on the wall, a large couch on a large rug, a coffee table and a side table with a vase
Identifying your mental triggers in a clutter-filled home is the key to this new technique.
(Image credit: Sharyn Cairns. Design: Mckimm)

If there's one thing I've learnt from testing numerous decluttering methods, it's that there is no such thing as a quick long-term fix. Every method requires consistent attention and effort.

And the caterpillar decluttering method is built on a gradual, intentional approach rather than a band-aid trick fix to learning how to declutter a home. Instead of just a momentary culling of chaos, it dives deeper into clutter-filled habits and breaks the pattern for a healthier home routine.

Curious to know more? Let's discuss this dissolving decluttering technique with an expert.

What Is the Caterpillar Method for Decluttering?

A living room with white walls, a log corner, a fireplace, a soft area rug, a curved beige couch with square cushions, a glass chandelier and a low coffee table with a martini glass

Taking it slow and introspecting on the reasons behind your home's clutter zones is essential.

(Image credit: Sharyn Cairns. Design: Mckimm)

With most decluttering challenges, the practice is often functional and involves the strategic act of physically culling clutter. However, the caterpillar dissolving method also focuses on the mental roadblocks that allow stagnant clutter or repetitive actions, leading to the same significant decluttering efforts every so often.

Instead of decluttering tricks that don't work, such as mass purging everything at once, the caterpillar method (also known as the 'dissolving caterpillar' decluttering method) encourages a mindful approach to reducing clutter. In a nutshell, this method is about taking on small, manageable tasks, making slow, steady, and incremental progress (much like how a caterpillar moves), while avoiding overwhelm and clearing the mental clutter, too.

Alicia Barker, president of Organizers Direct Industries and expert organizer, tells me that the caterpillar method encourages you to declutter not just your physical space, but the mental clutter that often hides behind it. "Mental clutter is that constant stream of thoughts, worries, and 'what ifs' that keep you from feeling calm and focused — and our homes can start to reflect that sense of being overwhelmed," she explains.

"Your home should feel like a refuge, not a trigger. When we’re surrounded by unfinished projects, stacks of unopened mail, mementos of hard times, or clothes that no longer fit because of life transitions like pregnancy or menopause, those things silently feed our anxiety. The caterpillar method asks you to pause and reflect before decluttering. Why is this item here? How does it make you feel?"

She clarifies that decluttering and minimalism aren’t about erasing personality or adopting a completely bland lifestyle. "It’s not about living in a sterile house with perfectly styled shelves," she assures. "A home should feel lived in and full of personality. It’s the emotional weight, not the creative expression, that needs to go."

A headshot of a woman with wavy brown hair loosely hanging over her shoulders, in a black v-neck top, smiling
Alicia Barker

Alicia Barker is President of Organizers Direct Industries (ODI), one of the largest home organization companies in the U.S., known for its custom cabinetry and organizational systems. Since stepping into the role over a decade ago, Barker has helped expand ODI’s dealer network and shaped a business model that gives independent entrepreneurs the tools to thrive — without the constraints of a franchise. Under her direction, ODI continues to invest in new technology, systems, and marketing while staying active in the community. Barker is especially committed to autism advocacy and serves on the board of Detour Company Theatre, where she also volunteers as a coach.

How to Use it at Home

A white living room with sheer curtains, a fireplace, a sofa, a blue gray sofa seat, a low wooden coffee table with books and vases, and a vase on a stone plinth

Begin by tackling a space that you've put off forever.

(Image credit: Nicholas Caldwell. Design: Matters & Made)

First, Alicia recommends starting with the space that stresses you out the most. "For me, it’s the entryway through our kitchen, where everything gets dropped: mail, tools, backpacks, shoes," she says.

"I want to walk in and feel like I can exhale, not immediately see a to-do list in physical form. Find your space that makes you want to shut the door and walk away — start there. Notice your emotional triggers."

She goes on to explain that clutter isn’t always junk. "It can be old concert tickets, kids’ artwork, or mementos from a loved one who passed. These items hold meaning, which is why they’re hard to part with. The key is to reflect on what they represent and whether you still need the object to hold on to the memory."

Properly assessing your belongings will help you properly declutter sentimental items and make room for fresh memories.

A hallway with open display shelves holding books and candles leading to a curved wood bench

Find ways to cull the clutter while transforming them into useful accessories or digital memories.

(Image credit: Damien Furey. Design: Fabric Architecture Studio)

She explains that there are numerous ways to utilize the caterpillar dissolving method to transform your space from chaotic to controlled. "Use technology to preserve memories. Take photos of sentimental items and create a printed photo book using an online album maker," she suggests.

"You can also turn beloved t-shirts into a blanket or a pillow. Let the memory live on in a way that doesn’t take up physical space or emotional bandwidth."

Next, ask yourself what’s keeping you from moving forward. "Some things we keep because we haven’t forgiven ourselves. They could be reminders of past failures or even regret," she notes.

"The caterpillar method invites you to sit with those feelings, make peace with them, and then let go. You’re not just decluttering your closet. You’re shedding a layer and making space for something new."

Benefits of the Caterpillar Method

An entryway built-in bench with off-white fluted wood and a dusty pink seating pillow with a patterned cushion

A clearer home and mind, for one.

(Image credit: Space Factory)

According to Alicia, there are two primary benefits to the caterpillar decluttering method. For one, it gives you clarity.

"You may not even realize what’s been making you feel anxious until you pause and really look around your home. Understanding the connection between your environment and your emotions gives you the power to change both," she shares.

Secondly, it teaches mindfulness, especially for families. "Physical clutter doesn’t just affect you. It affects everyone in the home. Kids and spouses should learn that their mess can impact other people’s mental well-being," she says.

"Giving your children their own space and teaching them how to keep their playroom organized builds empathy, responsibility, and respect for the shared home."

Books to Keep Clutter at Bay


If you find it tough to keep your home clutter-free long-term and can't help but feel overwhelmed at the thought of paring back your home all at once, slow decluttering is the technique you should pair with the caterpillar method.

Amiya Baratan
Home Wellness Writer

Amiya is a Home Wellness Writer at Livingetc. She recently graduated with a Masters Degree in Magazine Journalism from City, University of London, and has lent her words to beauty, fashion, and health sections of lifestyle publications including Harper’s Bazaar and Women’s Health. Her experience as a research analyst has equipped her with an eye for emerging trends. When she’s off the clock, she can be found reading, listening to music, or overanalyzing her latest Co-Star update.