Ever feel overwhelmed by piles of stuff you never use? The 90/90 rule is a no‑brain‑damage way to cut the clutter fast. You spend just 90 minutes tackling 90 items – that’s all it takes to see a noticeable change without burnout.
The rule boils down to two numbers: 90 minutes and 90 items. Pick a room, set a timer for an hour and a half, and pick up 90 things you own in that space. For each piece, ask yourself three quick questions: Do I use it? Do I love it? Does it match my style or needs? If the answer is “no” to any, set it aside to donate, sell, or toss.
Why 90? It’s enough to make a dent in most closets, kitchens, or home offices, but not so many that you feel paralysed. The timer keeps you focused, and the item cap prevents endless sorting.
Start with the area that bothers you most – maybe that overflowing entryway or the junk drawer. Grab a basket for items to keep, another for donate/sell, and a third for trash. As you pull each object, decide fast and drop it in the right bin.
Tip: keep a pen and a small notebook handy. Jot down a quick note if you’re unsure, like “needs repair” or “buy later.” That way you won’t waste time debating.
When the timer dings, step back and admire the cleared space. You’ve just reclaimed 90 items and probably saved a few square feet of floor. The biggest win is the momentum – you’ll likely want to do another 90‑minute session in a different room.
If a room feels too big for 90 items, break it into zones. Spend 30 minutes on the top shelf, 30 on the bottom, and the last 30 on the floor. The rule is flexible, but the 90‑minute limit stays the same.
One more practical move: take a photo of the area before you start. After the session, compare the before‑and‑after shot. Seeing the visual difference will keep you motivated for the next round.
Remember, the goal isn’t perfection. It’s about creating a habit that makes clutter feel manageable. A tidy space reduces stress, helps you find things faster, and frees up mental room for creative projects.
Ready to try? Set your timer, gather three bins, and pick a spot. In just 90 minutes you’ll have a cleaner, calmer environment – and a fresh sense of achievement.
