Tame Chaos With the “Boundary Method” of Decluttering

If there’s one word that sums up a common approach to decluttering, it’s “tomorrow.” The task of decluttering is often put off until tomorrow… and the next day… and the day after that. Procrastination tends to underscore how messy a home can get, which only heightens stress while keeping everything in disarray. 

But eventually, plans put off until tomorrow have to be done today, and the best way to start a decluttering plan is to come up with a method you’ll enjoy putting into practice. The “boundary method” could work for you if you need defined spaces for where things are supposed to go—a specific drawer, a single cabinet, a particular basket—and permission to toss or donate the things that no longer fit. 

To learn more about the boundary method, read on to see how it may be the spark you need to prioritize more organized surroundings. 

What Is the Boundary Method? 

Erica Lucas was once overwhelmed with stuff before she embarked on a long-term project to declutter and streamline her family home, and she is often credited with coming up with the “boundary method” as a way to banish clutter in small increments over time. 

The so-called boundary is anything that is being used to contain the things within it. So, it could be a utensil drawer that’s overflowing with forks and take-out menus. It may be a clothing rack that’s been overstuffed with a barely-used wardrobe. There’s also a chance that it’s a toy chest that’s buried under one too many puzzles. In fact, all of these scenarios may be happening (no judgment!). By using furnishings as the boundary through which items are organized though, you can either discard or donate the superfluous pieces that are past their prime. 

“A ‘boundary’ decluttering method is helpful because it puts limits on the amount of items you can have in a category,” Schmidt says. “By setting boundaries on what you own, you can save space, time, and money.”

Do I Need Supplies?

The best part about the boundary method is that you aren’t required to purchase new tools to make it happen: It’s very likely you already have the boundaries, you simply need to follow their leads. 

“My team and I always suggest that our clients start small, so focus on just a drawer in the beginning,” Schmidt says. “Make a cup of coffee, send your family away, and silence any distractions. Allow yourself to focus on the task at hand.”

Take all of the items out of the drawer to get a better look at your newfound “boundary.” Now, create categories for the things inside: Keep, donate, trash, and move elsewhere. If this is a drawer for t-shirts, as one example, separate a rogue sock or pair of leggings that may have been pushed inside at one point. When that’s over, it’s on to the main challenge: minimizing. 

How Do I Follow the Boundary Method? 

If this is the part that usually overwhelms you, don’t be discouraged. Come up with answers for each piece to determine if it should stay or go. 

“We often suggest the following parameters for our clients when trying to decide if they should keep or discard an item: Does it fit? Is it damaged? Do you own multiples? Is it necessary? Do you love it? Has it served its purpose? All of these qualifiers can help you decide what you need to get rid of,” Schmidt says. “And you don’t have to trash it all! Sell items that can make you money, or donate anything in good condition.”

After you’ve made these calls, neatly return the “keep” pile into your boundary, ensuring that it fits. Fold items neatly to make this exercise entirely free, or consider purchasing flexible drawer organizers to make these designations even clearer. “Once you start with a small space the momentum builds, and you can tackle larger boundaries over time,” Schmidt adds. 

And if you feel like you can probably sneak one or two more items into a boundary, even if it won’t be as organized if you do so, take a deep breath and ask yourself if you really need to. “Setting boundaries on your home and possessions can be difficult at first,” Schmidt says. “But focus on the benefits of how your space will feel, not the negatives of getting rid of things!” In no time, the boundary method will help you live a more easygoing tomorrow, so there’s really no time like the present to try it.