What is the 12-12-12 Rule for Decluttering? A Simple Way To Bring Order Back Home

Picture this: you walk into your living room and spot a half-finished puzzle, three coffee mugs, a pile of unread mail and that sweater you swore you’d hang up last week. Before you know it, the clutter blends into the background, but it still leaves you feeling distracted, behind, or just a little “off.” Sound familiar?

We’ve all been there. The truth is, clutter doesn’t just take up space on our shelves or countertops, it takes up mental space, too. It whispers little reminders that there’s something else we should be doing and over time, that low hum of stress can really add up.

The good news? Decluttering doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Enter: the 12-12-12 rule.

What Is the 12-12-12 Rule for Decluttering?

The 12-12-12 rule is a simple, structured approach that makes clearing clutter feel manageable and even a little fun. Here’s how it works:

• Find 12 items to throw away. (Yes, those expired snacks count!)
• Find 12 items to donate. (Think clothes you haven’t worn, duplicate kitchen gadgets or books you’ve finished.)
• Find 12 items to put back where they belong. (That puzzle piece under the couch, the mug in your office, the phone charger in the wrong drawer.)

That’s it, just 36 small decisions, framed in a way that feels achievable instead of exhausting.

Why It Works: Tackling the Real Challenge

The hardest part of decluttering isn’t usually the stuff itself, it’s the decision fatigue. Questions like, “Should I keep this? What if I need it later? Where does this even go?” can stop progress in its tracks.

The 12-12-12 rule takes the pressure off by giving you clear, defined categories. Instead of staring at an overflowing closet wondering where to start, you have a quick game plan. And bonus: there’s a natural sense of accomplishment built in. By the time you’ve hit 36 items, you can see and feel the difference.

How to Make the 12-12-12 Rule Work for You

Here are some ways to put this method into practice and make it last:

1. Set a Timer (and Make It a Challenge)

Give yourself 15–20 minutes and see how quickly you can find your 36 items. Treat it like a race rather than a chore. A little urgency keeps you moving and makes it surprisingly fun.

2. Start in “Easy Win” Zones

Don’t begin with sentimental keepsakes or your overstuffed garage. Instead, try a bathroom drawer, your entryway table, or the kitchen counter. The momentum you build in these low-stakes spaces will give you confidence for tackling bigger areas.

3. Involve the Whole Family

Turn decluttering into a group effort. Challenge your kids (or partner) to find their own set of 12-12-12 items. You’ll not only speed up the process, but also teach everyone in the household that tidying is a shared responsibility, not just yours.

An Unconventional Twist: Flip It Into a Gratitude Exercise

Here’s a fun way to change your perspective: after each round, take a moment to notice what you’re keeping. Sometimes, we get so focused on what we’re letting go that we forget to appreciate what we already have. Saying a quick “thank you” to the home you’re creating and the items that truly serve you, can turn decluttering into a surprisingly positive, grounding ritual.

Ready to Try It?

The 12-12-12 rule is a bite-sized way to reclaim your space (and a little peace of mind) without spending an entire weekend buried in boxes. Next time you’re feeling stuck, challenge yourself (or your family) to a round. You might be surprised how much lighter your space feels after just 36 small decisions.

Your turn: Have you ever tried the 12-12-12 rule? What area of your home do you think would benefit most from it right now?

And if you’re ready for more than just quick wins…if you want real, lasting order in your home, I’d love to help. As a professional organizer, I work with clients to create personalized systems that actually work. Because decluttering shouldn’t feel like punishment, it should feel like freedom.

“The first step in crafting the life you want is to get rid of everything you don’t.” — Joshua Becker