Between work, family, and trying to enjoy everything Chicago has to offer, keeping your home clean can feel like a second full-time job. If you’re struggling to find the time or energy to maintain your space, you’re not alone—and a little strategy can go a long way.

We all know how it starts. A stack of mail here, a few items you’ve been meaning to donate there. What begins with good intentions can slowly spiral into a cycle that feels impossible to escape. The only way out? To gently push yourself into the sometimes uncomfortable but incredibly rewarding process of decluttering.

Where to Begin Your Home Reset

The thought of a major home overhaul can be paralyzing. The key is not to tackle everything at once, but to start with the simplest and most impactful step: removing the trash.

Step 1: Start with the Obvious

Grab a trash bag and walk through your space. Focus only on items that are unequivocally garbage—expired coupons, broken items, old packaging. This initial sweep creates immediate visual progress and makes the next steps feel less daunting. If this feels overwhelming, remember that a professional home cleaning service can provide the initial reset you need.

Step 2: Create a “Get Out” Zone

Designate a box or bag for items you no longer need that are still in good condition. As you clear the trash, you’ll naturally come across things that belong elsewhere. Having a dedicated spot for donations prevents them from just being moved to another pile. For a truly fresh start, consider pairing your decluttering efforts with a deep cleaning help to address the grime that accumulates in cluttered spaces.

When to Call in the Pros

Decluttering is a mental and physical challenge. Sometimes, you need a supportive push to get across the finish line. If you find yourself stuck, it might be time to schedule a cleaning with a team that understands the process.

  • You’ve hit a wall: The motivation has faded, but the job isn’t done.
  • Life gets in the way: Your busy schedule won’t allow for a multi-day project.
  • You want a truly clean slate: After decluttering, a professional clean makes everything feel brand new.

As a leading Chicago cleaning company, we see firsthand how transformative it can be to get your space cleaned from top to bottom. Whether you need fast cleaning services for a quick refresh or a more thorough service, the goal is to make your life easier. Looking for reliable cleaning services in Chicago? We’re here to help you reclaim your home.

If you’re searching for a cleaning service near me to provide that final, sparkling touch after you’ve decluttered, you’ve found it. It’s okay to need someone to clean my apartment and give you back your weekend. The most important step is the first one—whether that’s picking up a trash bag or deciding to book an appointment.

Ready for a Clean Home Without the Stress?

If you’re in Chicago and want your space spotless without lifting a finger, Jikas Cleaning is here to help.

Book Your Cleaning Appointment Now →

We never have a situation like the Kolier house. Hoarding always starts out from this place of kindness and this place of like good intention, but it becomes this vicious cycle that’s hard to get out of. And the only way to get out is to expose ourselves to decluttering because it’s uncomfortable and it’s scary. But start with trash. Get things out. So, you know,