Decluttering can feel overwhelming and intimidating, but following a system that works can make the process manageable. As someone who lives in a one-bedroom apartment, I am constantly re-evaluating my space to avoid clutter. On any given day, I might be taking stock of my food storage containers, book collection or beauty products to make sure they’re not getting out of control. I’ve put many decluttering methods to the test over the years, too. So when I heard about the four-box decluttering method from a pro organizer, I just had to try it.
What is the four-box decluttering method?
The four-box decluttering method is a simple approach that involves labeling four boxes and making quick decisions about the fate of your belongings. Each item should be evaluated individually and placed into one of these four boxes:
“Keep” Box: Hold onto items that are functional, frequently used or hold deep sentimental value.
“Trash” Box: Compile items that are broken beyond repair or have no value to other people, such as expired items, outdated technology and old paperwork.
“Donate” Box: Some items — think books, mugs or clothing — that you don’t need or rarely use might be valuable to someone else. Items that are in good condition, or have never been used, can be donated to a local thrift shop or charity.
“Storage” Box: Whether you’re not ready to get rid of it or the item’s in the wrong place (for example, a kitchen tool on your desk), this box consists of items that need to be re-homed. It could be a simple relocation, or it could mean putting seasonal or infrequently used items into storage.
How to follow the four-box decluttering method:
It’s a practical technique to put into practice, especially if you live in a small apartment. “The beauty of the four-box method is that it provides structure and quick decision-making, which can reduce emotional overwhelm,” says Chas Greener, organization expert and creator of Chas’ Crazy Creations. “By limiting options, it helps people move through spaces efficiently without getting stuck in perfectionism or sentimentality.”
✔️ Start with one space. Choose one drawer, shelf or section of a room. I went with my bedroom dresser first, then moved onto under my bed. “Small wins build momentum and make the process feel less overwhelming,” says Greener.
✔️ Set a timer. I was able to accomplish a lot — decluttering the top of my credenza dresser and its two cabinets — in a short amount of time. “Giving yourself 15 to 30 minutes keeps you focused and prevents burnout,” Greener says.
✔️ Be honest with yourself. If you haven’t used or loved an item in the past year, it may be time to donate or toss it.
✔️ Label the boxes clearly. I used a mix of cardboard and reusable baskets, so I labeled them with sticky notes. The labels kept falling off, so I’d recommend investing in basket labels or writing in permanent marker directly onto cardboard.
✔️ Don’t leave the filled boxes laying around. Once you’ve placed everything into boxes, the work isn’t done. Make sure to take the donate and trash boxes out of the house — don’t let them linger.
My thoughts on the method:
Overall, the four-box decluttering method made the process of decluttering my bedroom simple and stress-free. The process is easy to implement, helped me stay on track and make quick decisions about my belongings. I was able to declutter my bedroom dresser within 15 minutes, and found a lot more items to toss or donate than expected.
I had products I rarely use, but didn’t want to get rid of — like brand new candles and an essential oil diffuser — taking up valuable surface space. I even had a bin full of random paperwork and random items I’d never given a permanent home.
Following a method like this almost turns decluttering into a game or challenge — can I fill each basket? I found the process to feel more engaging when I had a clear goal and labeled bins in front of me. There’s no room for “maybes,” because every item has to fit into one of the four categories.
The most challenging part was finding four boxes of equal size. Do most people have a slew of cardboard boxes lying around? I definitely didn’t. If this process is something you want to follow over and over again, you can clear out and then reuse the boxes — but where are they stored in the interim? I think foldable bins might be the most practical solution, so you can fold and tuck them away in between declutter sessions.
Alyssa Gautieri (she/her) is the associate lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers all things home and interior design. Prior to joining GH in 2022, she wrote for publications including ELLE Decor, Chairish, BobVila.com, Unique Homes Magazine and LODGING Magazine, in addition to crafting product copy for home brands like BrylaneHome and VIGO Industries.
