Decluttering is Trending
But what does science say about clutter's impact on your health? Plus, a quiz to see if it’s affecting you.
A few months ago, my brothers and I cleaned out the home our parents had lived in for 45 years.
They were from the generation that saved everything.
Two deep freezers. Rewashed ziplock bags. Stacks of yellowed manuals for appliances that no longer exist. And yes—my Cher Barbie, still rocking her disco jumpsuit… and the very bad haircut I gave her.
Their mindset was simple: What if we—or our neighbors—need it someday?
That kind of thinking can be generous. Even practical. But it can also tip into overwhelm.
What Science Says.
Decluttering is everywhere right now. Your feed is probably full of promises: more calm, more control, more clarity—just follow this method, buy these bins, download that checklist.
But here’s what most of them don’t tell you: there isn’t a ton of science behind it. Not yet.
What we do have is emerging research—and it’s promising.
Cluttered environments have been linked to:
Higher cortisol (stress) levels.
Reduced focus and productivity.
Poorer sleep.
Increased anxiety and unhealthy eating habits.
On the flip side, small acts of tidying—clearing a desk, making your bed, organizing a drawer—have been shown to boost mood and reduce anxiety.
Want to Know How Clutter Affects You?
Try this quick, 2-minute quiz to see how clutter might be influencing your stress, focus, and energy:
Want to Go Deeper?
Here’s a book (Amazon) to help you find your decluttering style.
In good health, driven by science - Heather
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As an award-winning researcher, my goal at Wellness Discovery is to bring you science-backed insights to help you age well in midlife and beyond. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
I'm ready to do a tidy up and declutter before my kids come home for Easter.
A tidy house makes my feel better. And I always want to feel better.
Wow, I wish I had some of that.