The 90/90 Rule: A Simple Guide to Decluttering Your Life

In an era of increasing consumerism, a simple yet profound method for decluttering, known as the "90/90 Rule," is gaining traction. Popularized by "The Minimalists," Emmy-nominated Netflix stars and New York Times best-selling authors, this rule offers a straightforward framework for deciding what to keep and what to let go of in your home. The concept is elegantly simple: for any item you own, ask yourself two questions. First, "Have I used this in the last 90 days?" Second, "Am I going to use this in the next 90 days?" If the answer to both questions is a definitive "no," then it's likely time to part ways with the item. One of "The Minimalists" explains, "This rule will change how you look at your closet. For example, a polo shirt I wore last week, I'll hold on to. Shorts I haven't worn in winter, but summer is around the corner, I'll keep for my next trip to the beach." However, a green coat that hasn't been worn in 90 days and isn't expected to be worn in the next 90 days, especially if it's not even a preferred color, becomes a candidate for removal. "I'm going to let it go," he states. The rule's versatility extends beyond clothing. In the video, the minimalist applies it to kitchen gadgets, dental floss, and even decorative items. A cheese grater used recently is kept, and dental floss, a daily necessity, is obviously retained. However, a decorative rubber ducky, which serves no functional purpose and won't be "used" in the traditional sense, is deemed ready to be decluttered. While the "90/90 Rule" provides a clear guideline, some viewers have raised practical considerations. Comments on the video highlight challenges in regions with distinct seasons, where items like winter coats might not be used for more than 90 days but are essential for other parts of the year. "Living in the UK you need to keep all seasons of clothes all year," one commenter noted, while another suggested a "year" rule might be more suitable for seasonal items. Despite these nuances, the core principle encourages intentionality and a mindful approach to possessions, fostering a less cluttered and potentially more fulfilling living environment.

Tom's Guide

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Two very important questions to totally transform your home