How spring cleaning links to wellbeing
Spring cleaning isn’t just about shedding dust; it’s a cultural ritual that many people associate with renewed energy and clearer living spaces. But the effect on wellbeing isn’t automatic. Researchers and clinicians suggest that the benefits depend on how we approach decluttering, our relationship with possessions, and the emotional meaning objects hold. For some, tidying can reduce stress and improve focus. For others, it can trigger guilt, shame, or perfectionist pressure. Understanding these dynamics helps turn a daunting task into a sustainable practice that supports mental health.
The psychology behind clutter
Clutter often forms at the intersection of memory, identity, and habit. When we sort through belongings, we’re not merely discarding items—we’re revisiting personal histories. A memory attached to a shirt or a gadget can be comforting, or it can amplify the sense that time is running out. Psychologists note that this ambivalence makes decluttering challenging, especially for people with ADHD, who may find visual stimuli overwhelming yet struggle with starting tasks and sustaining momentum.
Emotional anchors of possessions
Experts explain that why we keep things goes beyond utility. Objects can symbolize relationships, achievements, or aspirational selves. “I remember when I bought this,” or “this reminds me of a person,” are common reflections when people assess their belongings. The result is a trade-off: preserving memory while risking clutter that drains attention and energy. Cognitive-behavioral approaches to decluttering emphasize separating emotional value from functional value, choosing items that genuinely support daily living.
<h2 When clutter signals something deeper
Decluttering isn’t always a mood-boosting ritual. At times, it reveals underlying issues such as depression, anxiety, or hoarding tendencies. Clutter that blocks phone, sofa, or TV use can indicate a need for help. In clinical terms, hoarding disorder involves intense distress about letting go of items and accumulating them to the point where living spaces become unsafe or unusable. Professionals advise seeking support when clutter impairs basic activities or safety, not merely when the space looks untidy.
How perfectionism can backfire
Public narratives about minimalism—especially on social media—can set unattainable standards. Experts warn that striving for a flawless, clutter-free home can backfire, increasing stress and lowering self-esteem if the ideal remains out of reach. A healthier aim emphasizes progress, not perfection: creating usable spaces, aligning possessions with current values, and allowing room for mistakes as part of a long-term process.
<h2 Practical, compassionate decluttering tips
Experts offer actionable steps to improve odds of success without triggering overwhelm:
- Schedule specific, realistic decluttering sessions rather than waiting for “the right moment.”
- Invite a trusted friend to provide objective perspectives on what to keep and what to let go.
- Limit storage purchases—use what you own before adding more containers or shelves.
- Align decisions with values: reserve space for hobbies, and consider donating items you no longer need to reduce waste.
- For grief, display meaningful memories intentionally—frame photos or curate a small memory wall to honor loved ones while maintaining daily function.
<h2 A personal case: everyday routines make a difference
Real-world stories illustrate the habit shift. For example, placing a convenient organizing system at the entryway can cut the impulse to dump items on surfaces. Family participation can supply energy and accountability, while clear containers and labeling help maintain order. Most importantly, understanding one’s own brain and habits enables choosing targets worth the effort and accepting those that aren’t worth chasing.
Looking forward: a lifelong journey, not a one-off event
Decluttering can be a meaningful catalyst for improved mood and better use of home space, but it’s not a final destination. It’s about building a relationship with belongings that supports wellbeing. Accepting that some items—like Selina’s unicycle—hold personal meaning can coexist with a more streamlined living area. The result is a home that feels calmer, more navigable, and aligned with current values.
Takeaway
Spring cleaning offers a path to enhanced wellbeing when approached with compassion, realistic goals, and awareness of emotional attachments. Start small, lean on social support, and focus on sustainable changes that honor both memory and daily life.
