TikTok’s ‘Underconsumption Core’ Trend Could Help You Declutter Your Life

If you’ve been on TikTok recently, then you might have seen the newest trend taking over the decluttering and organizing world: underconsumption core. Underconsumption is grounded in the idea that we don’t need to buy what we want, only what we need. For example, that old iPhone case you’ve had for three years but still works well doesn’t need to be replaced, but an old stock of produce does. Underconsumption can lead to a more organized and minimalist life with little clutter. But how do you achieve underconsumption, exactly? Are there any benefits to the practice? We asked an organizing expert to get the answers.

What Is Underconsumption Core, Exactly?

Simply put, underconsumption is the act of purchasing fewer items by buying what you need, not what you want, and hopefully increasing the longevity of the items you already own. “Social media has become this phenomenon where people post about their lavish purchases or their luxurious vacations, basically anything that makes the person seem like they are living their best life possible,” says publicist Jenna Guarneri. As a result, consumers are drawn to new and exciting products in hopes of achieving the same life.

With underconsumption core, the glittery curtains of social media are being pushed aside to reveal a more genuine, realistic, and minimalist lifestyle. “Underconsumption is a useful practice simply because it’s making people feel good about having less and lessening the guilt about not having more,” Guarneri explains. You don’t have to own the newest or most expensive possessions to have functioning, efficient items.

The Benefits of Underconsumption Core

Underconsumption core paves the way to a naturally organized life, according to professional organizer Allison Flinn. “People often call us saying that their spaces are too small, when in fact they are not too small, they have simply filled them with stuff,” Finn says. Once the decluttering process is over, clients realize how much of their disorganization was connected to an overload of personal possessions. Think about it—when you purchase a new pair of shoes, do you toss out the old ones? Or do you keep them around in case you need to wear them someday? That’s how easy it is to get lost in the cycle of overconsumption. As long as an item still works, consider sticking with what you have.

You’ll notice over time how much space (and money) you’ve saved through underconsumption, and the benefits don’t stop there. An organized home can improve your mental health, lead to increased productivity, and help you appreciate your space more, especially when you’re intentionally focused on decluttering by making fewer purchases.

How To Use Underconsumption Core To Organize Your Life

Declutter What You Already Own

The first step to achieving underconsumption is crucial: Declutter what you already own. Not only will this clear up your space, but it will also help you decide what to buy and what to avoid. “Declutter what you currently have, then you can add key pieces that will last longer and can be used over the long run,” Guarneri explains. Fast fashion (mass-produced, low-priced, stylish clothes) makes purchasing new clothes quick and easy, but if you focus more on durability and timelessness, you’ll be less inclined to overconsume.

Repurpose Old Items

Maximalists and frequent shoppers will benefit from repurposing items they already have. For example, you might cut into an old dress and turn it into a crop top, trim jeans into jean shorts, wear sweater sleeves as hand warmers, etc. The possibilities are endless, and all you need to satisfy that craving for overconsumption is wearing something “new.”

Plan Your Purchases Ahead of Time

Flinn recommends planning your purchases ahead of time to avoid impulsive shopping. At the beginning of each month, take inventory of what you own, what you need, and what durable alternative you’re going to invest in. We’re no longer going for what’s trendy and cheaply made.

Thrift Shop When Possible

Thrift stores offer secondhand items that are high-quality, low-priced, and more sustainable than buying new. When it’s time to make a new purchase, honor underconsumption core by heading to your local thrift store and purchasing clothes diverted from landfills to be reworn by other shoppers.