Decluttering isn’t a new concept. Humans have been collecting material possessions since the Industrial Revolution, yet most of us feel overwhelmed by the thought of them.
The minimalist movement of the last decade, popularized by home improvement shows and the KonMari method, had us parting with anything that didn’t light us up.
But if you’re anything like Carrie Bradshaw and find joy in your version of 100 pairs of strappy heels, then you may need something stronger, like Swedish death cleaning.
Is the method conceived by author Margareta Magnusson in her bestselling book, The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning, decluttering like our lives depend on it? Well, yes—and no.
Originally designed to help people pare down and organize their belongings later in life before they pass on, the intentional practice also appeals to those seeking clarity about their lives.
Instead of discarding or donating based on one emotion, Swedish death cleaning asks us to identify what is most valuable to us. It turns out that owning 10 pairs of the same pants may be taking up space in our dressers and minds.
Originally designed to help people pare down and organize their belongings later in life before they pass on, the intentional practice of Swedish death cleaning also appeals to those seeking clarity about their lives.
“What might change for you if you were mindful in creating space by giving things away, allowing new energy into your home, and decluttering in a way that made you feel lively and purposeful?” asks Dina Brady, a mental health coach based in Orlando, Fla.
Keep reading to learn about the benefits of Swedish death cleaning and how to utilize this decluttering method in the bedroom.
The benefits of Swedish death cleaning
If you’re organizing to get your affairs in order, then Swedish death cleaning eliminates the long and painful task of other people sorting through your possessions.
In this scenario, it’s an act of kindness to your loved ones who are grieving. Some also experience a greater acceptance and peace around their mortality.
Knowing what you own can influence future purchases, prevent mindless shopping and buying things you don’t need, and inspire you to appreciate what you already own.
“It gives you the chance to find meaning and memory in your things,” says Holly Schiff, MD, a licensed clinical psychologist at South County Psychiatry. “Decluttering can improve your emotional well-being and instill a sense of peace and fulfillment. It is another way to ensure that your affairs are in order, which can be valuable to an individual at any age and stage of life,” she adds.
How to practice Swedish death cleaning in the bedroom
Despite its name, Swedish death cleaning isn’t about scrubbing your baseboards until you’re blue in the face. The process is about minimizing your belongings and creating an easy-to-maintain system.
Without it, furniture goes MIA under piles of clothing, stacks of mail hog precious space in the nightstand, and who knows what lurks under the bed.
Since we’re invested in helping you create a serene bedroom environment to improve your sleep health, here are some helpful tips to refresh your space utilizing the Swedish death cleaning method.
While organizing, stay organized
Once you decide what to do with an item, place it in one of four labeled bins marked for donating, keeping, discarding, or keepsake.
Start big
Step away from your sock drawer (for now) and begin with larger items that will clear space in your room. Then, sort the smaller spaces and deposit items into your labeled bins.
Have a heart-to-heart with your wardrobe
Those sweatpants with the holes? Pants you haven’t worn for two seasons? It’s time to bid them farewell and make room for what you look and feel good in. Think those bellbottoms will be back in style? Keep a pair in your momentos bin.
Delete digital clutter
Take a day to organize each digital device to eliminate all the downloads, photos, screenshots, and apps you no longer need. When devising a system, you don’t need to reinvent the wheel. There are countless YouTube and TikTok videos or books to help you create a system that works for you.
Despite its name, Swedish death cleaning isn’t about scrubbing your baseboards until you’re blue in the face. The process is about minimizing your belongings and creating an easy-to-maintain system.
FAQs
When should you start Swedish death cleaning?
Swedish death cleaning may be the right choice if you’re struggling with indecision, going through a life change, or haven’t found an organization method that works for you.
Its original intention is also worth considering, regardless of your age. Consider this: If you asked a friend to pick up your favorite sweater, could you direct them to it on any given day?
By simplifying our “stuff,” this approach can reduce stress caused by clutter and disorganization and the reality that only you can locate your belongings.
It also helps you get ahold of clutter before it consumes you. “Starting early allows for gradual progress and prevents the accumulation of unnecessary belongings over time,” says Solveig Eitungjerde, holistic health coach and owner of Live, Well and Explore.
Why are people finding joy in the Swedish death cleaning method?
The Swedish death cleaning method isn’t just about happy reunions with items you forgot you owned buried in your closet. It’s about your relationships with people too.
“By consciously curating one’s possessions and surroundings, people can cultivate a deeper appreciation for the present moment and the things that truly matter,” says Eitungjerde. “It can also facilitate more meaningful connections with loved ones and enhance the overall quality of life.”
Don’t let the name fool—or scare—you. Discovering what you cherish the most and letting go of less important items frees up space in your home and in your head, creating a greater sense of clarity, purpose, and calm.
“Swedish death cleaning offers a practical approach to decluttering and a mindset shift toward intentional living and the pursuit of true happiness and fulfillment,” says Brady. “Many people find joy in simplifying their lives and creating spaces that reflect their values and priorities.”
And if a good night’s sleep is what you’re seeking, then think of decluttering as a natural remedy with zero negative side effects that may cause welcome drowsiness in your freshly simplified space.
Next, learn how to embrace a zero-waste lifestyle in the bedroom.
