Mastering Minimalism with the 90/90 Decluttering Rule
Let go of unused possessions and transform your space through intentional choices.
In the search for simplicity and peace at home, many have turned to minimalist philosophies. The 90/90 decluttering rule stands out as a practical framework for making decisions about the possessions that fill our living spaces. Originating from renowned minimalists Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus, this rule is widely praised and adopted by those aiming to streamline their homes and their lifestyles.
What Is the 90/90 Decluttering Rule?
The 90/90 decluttering rule is a decision-making tool designed to help you objectively assess items in your home. Ask yourself two straightforward questions for each possession:
- Have I used this item in the last 90 days?
- Will I use it in the next 90 days?
If your answer to both questions is “no,” it’s a clear signal to let the item go. This eliminates overthinking and simplifies the process of choosing what stays or goes, particularly for those struggling with sentimental or “just in case” items.
Origins of the Rule
The concept was developed by Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus, collectively known as The Minimalists. These American authors and advocates for minimalist living created the 90/90 rule as a response to the common challenges people face when trying to reduce clutter. Their works, such as Everything That Remains and Love People Use Things, have become bestsellers, inspiring many to adopt a simpler, more intentional lifestyle.
Why Does the 90/90 Rule Work?
- Removes emotions from decision-making: Focusing on usage rather than sentimentality helps people detach and objectively assess their belongings.
- Time-based clarity: The 90-day window is long enough to account for most practical uses, while still short enough to encourage action.
- Create habits: Applying the rule consistently builds a habit of critical evaluation and reduces the tendency to accumulate unnecessary items.
How to Apply the 90/90 Rule: Step-by-Step
- Choose an area to declutter. Start with manageable spaces such as your closet, pantry, or bathroom.
- Sort items individually. Pick up each item and ask the two core questions.
- Decide: If you haven’t used the item in the last 90 days and don’t plan to use it in the next 90 days, place it in your discard or donate pile.
- Follow through: Remove the items from your home. Donate, sell, recycle, or discard them responsibly.
- Repeat regularly. Consider applying the rule seasonally or during major life transitions for ongoing maintenance.
Expert Insights: When Should You Declutter?
Professional organizers recommend using the 90/90 rule at transitional times such as the change of seasons, moving homes, or when you notice clutter building up. According to Jamie Hord of Horderly Professional Organizing, “The end of a season and the beginning of a new one is a great time to implement this rule as many items are used seasonally and can help you better consider if items were used that season or not.”
Real-World Examples: Transforming Spaces with the 90/90 Rule
Many people report surprising benefits after applying this rule to various categories of possessions:
- Wardrobes: Clothes unworn for months quickly reveal themselves as unnecessary. The process encourages shoppers to choose quality over quantity and buy only what they’ll wear regularly.
- Kitchenware: Gadgets, duplicate utensils, and specialty items not used within the timeframe are freed up, resulting in more accessible and pleasant cooking spaces.
- Decor: Seasonal or sentimental décor with little practical value is more easily identified—helping streamline storage and display areas.
- Books and Media: Items collecting dust can be donated for greater communal benefit, making shelves look tidier and more curated.
Lessons Learned: Minimalism and Mindset Shifts
Those who have tried the 90/90 decluttering rule report several key takeaways:
- Quality Over Quantity: The process quickly reveals a preference for durable, meaningful items over disposable or trendy ones.
- Less is More: Owning fewer belongings leads to greater appreciation of each item and a more peaceful home environment.
- Sustainable Choices: Decluttering encourages a move away from fast fashion and disposable goods, favoring sustainable fabrics and long-lasting materials.
What others are reading
Is the 90/90 Rule Right for Everyone?
While many find the rule helpful and liberating, it’s not always universally applicable. For items of sentimental value, heirlooms, or possessions used seasonally (winter gear, holiday decorations), the 90/90 framework may feel overly restrictive. Experts advise customizing the timeframe to suit your lifestyle, with examples like:
- 30/30 rule for frequent declutterers.
- 6-month or 12-month rule for seasonal items.
- Adapt for your needs – the underlying principle is thoughtful evaluation, not rigid application.
Alternatives & Complements to the 90/90 Rule
| Rule | Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 90/90 Rule | Discard if unused for last 90 days and won’t use within next 90 days | General decluttering, simplifying overall possessions |
| 20/20 Rule | Let go if the item can be replaced within 20 minutes for under $20 | Overcoming “just in case” anxieties, quick decision making |
| One In, One Out | For every item bought, one old item leaves | Maintaining minimalism after initial decluttering |
| Joy Spark Test | Keep only items that spark joy (Marie Kondo) | Emotional attachment decluttering, sentimental items |
| Container Rule | Limit stored items by container size; discard when full | Managing collections (toys, books, memorabilia) |
Decluttering Strategies Minimalists Swear By
- Biophilic Decluttering: Incorporate natural elements and reduce clutter that interrupts the sense of peace and connection to nature.
- The Mins Game: Get rid of one item on day one, two on day two, and so on, for a month—an ongoing challenge for sustained minimalism.
- Maintenance Habits: Schedule regular review periods—a new season, before holidays, after shopping—to maintain the minimalist standard.
Tips to Make the 90/90 Rule Work for You
- Customize your time frame: Choose duration (e.g. 30/30, 180/180) that fits your habits and types of items.
- Be flexible: Allow exceptions for sentimental, seasonal, or utilitarian goods—but be honest about true value.
- Set clear boundaries: Use visual or container cues to reinforce limits; when you buy new, remove old.
- Involve your household: Encourage family members to adopt the rule for communal harmony and shared maintenance.
- Seek support: Follow social media groups or minimalist authors for motivation, insight, and fresh hacks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who invented the 90/90 decluttering rule?
The rule was created by Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus, known as The Minimalists.
Is the 90/90 rule suitable for all possessions?
Not always—modify the timeframe for items like season-specific clothing, heirlooms, or infrequently used but necessary tools.
Can I make my own version of the rule?
Absolutely: adjust the 90/90 rule to create a 30/30, 180/180, or annual assessment, depending on your needs.
How often should I use this decluttering framework?
Many minimalists suggest applying it seasonally or whenever clutter becomes noticeable.
What if I regret letting something go?
The vast majority of declutterers report little regret; if an item was really essential, it’s often easy to replace using the 20/20 rule: if it takes less than 20 minutes and $20 to replace, decluttering was worthwhile.
Final Thoughts: Why Minimalists Love the 90/90 Rule
The 90/90 decluttering rule offers a simple, effective way to make tough decisions about what truly belongs in your life. By centering decisions around use and intention, it fosters a lifestyle of greater freedom, less stress, and more meaningful possessions. Whether followed exactly or adapted to personal needs, the rule remains a cornerstone of modern minimalist practice, empowering individuals to let go of what they don’t need and appreciate what they do.
References
Similar Articles
Read full bio of Sneha Tete
