Ever feel like you’re drowning in stuff? Closets bursting, drawers crammed, and yet, somehow, you still feel like you have “nothing to wear” or can’t find what you need. Decluttering sounds great in theory, but the actual process can be overwhelming.
Where do you even start? What if you regret getting rid of something?
That’s where the 90/90 rule comes in—an easy, no-stress way to make decisions about what stays and what goes.
What Is the 90/90 Rule?
The 90/90 rule is a minimalist-inspired method to help you decide what’s truly worth keeping. The idea is simple:
- Ask yourself two questions: Have I used this in the last 90 days? Will I use it in the next 90 days?
- If the answer is no to both, it’s time to let it go.
This approach, popularised by minimalists and organisation experts, takes the guesswork out of decluttering. Instead of agonising over every little thing, you follow a straightforward system that forces you to be honest about what you actually use.
Combine this with hiring a dumpster for everything you’re getting rid of, and that’s waste removal made easy for you.
Why the 90/90 Rule Works
There’s a reason this method is so effective—it cuts through the emotional clutter. Many of us hold on to things because of guilt, nostalgia, or the fear of “what if I need this someday?” The 90/90 rule eliminates that hesitation by focusing on real, practical use. Here’s why it works so well:
- No more “just in case” thinking: If you haven’t needed it in 90 days and won’t in the next 90, chances are, you never will.
- Prevents decision fatigue: Instead of debating over every item, you have a clear, simple guideline to follow.
- Encourages mindful consumption: Once you start applying this rule, you become more intentional about what you bring into your space.
- Works for almost everything: Clothes, kitchen gadgets, electronics, books—this rule applies across the board.
Where to Use the 90/90 Rule
Decluttering doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing event. You can apply the 90/90 rule in different areas of your home (or even digital life) and make steady progress without feeling overwhelmed.
Your Wardrobe
Clothing is one of the biggest culprits of clutter. We tend to hold onto items because they were expensive, they have sentimental value, or we think we might wear them again. Instead of getting stuck in that mindset, go piece by piece and ask:
- Have I worn this in the past 90 days?
- Will I wear it in the next 90 days?
If not, it’s time to donate, sell, or give it to someone who will actually wear it. The exception? Seasonal clothing—if it’s winter and you’re assessing summer clothes, just shift the timeframe to fit the seasons.
Kitchen Clutter
That fancy juicer you swore you’d use every morning but hasn’t seen the light of day in months? The random kitchen gadgets taking up space in your drawers? The 90/90 rule is a perfect way to clear out kitchen clutter and create more functional space.
Ask yourself:
- Have I used this tool, appliance, or dish in the past 90 days?
- Will I actually use it in the next 90?
If the answer is no, it’s just taking up space.
Home Office & Paperwork
Old bills, expired coupons, broken pens, random cables from who-knows-what device—these things pile up fast. Instead of keeping everything “just in case,” apply the rule. If you haven’t needed it in three months, and you can’t see yourself needing it soon, it’s clutter.
Digital Decluttering
Yes, the 90/90 rule even works for your phone and computer. Take a look at your apps, files, emails, and subscriptions:
- Have you used this app or file in the last 90 days?
- Will you need it in the next 90?
If not, delete it. The same goes for emails—if it’s not relevant anymore, unsubscribe and delete.
The 90/90 Rule vs. Other Decluttering Methods
There are tons of decluttering strategies out there—so why choose this one? Here’s how it stacks up against a few popular methods:
Marie Kondo’s “Spark Joy” Method
While sentimental and emotional, this approach can be tough for practical items. The 90/90 rule is more straightforward and works better for everyday things.
The One-Year Rule
Some suggest only keeping items you’ve used in the past year, but that’s a long time to hold onto unnecessary clutter. The 90/90 rule speeds up the process and helps you stay intentional.
The “One In, One Out” Rule
This method is great for maintaining clutter-free spaces, but it doesn’t help with the initial decluttering process. The 90/90 rule helps you start fresh.
What About Things You Might Need?
The hardest part of decluttering is the fear of getting rid of something you might need later. Here’s how to handle that:
- Put it in a “maybe” box: If you’re unsure, put the item in a box, date it, and store it out of sight. If you don’t reach for it in the next 90 days, you don’t need it.
- Consider alternatives: If you ever need that item again, could you borrow it? Rent it? Get a digital version?
- Remind yourself why you’re doing this: More space, less stress, and a home filled only with things you use and love.
A Simpler, Less Cluttered Life
The 90/90 rule isn’t just about getting rid of things—it’s about creating a home and life that works for you. When you remove the unnecessary, you gain more space, clarity, and time for what truly matters. Give it a try, and see how much lighter and more organised you feel.