Downtime doesn’t have to mean doing nothing. Here’s one idea for making the most of your weekend.

There may be no better way to kick off a new year than with a clean slate...literally. While TikTok videos and shows like “Tidying up with Marie Kondo” and “Get Organized with the Home Edit” may be entertaining, there can also be real mental health benefits to tidying up and decluttering your space. Think: relieving anxiety, boosting your mood. Here are some tips to consider if you want to keep your home so fresh and so clean, clean.

• Choose the method that works best for you. Do you want to declutter one room at a time? Or, maybe you want to take Marie Kondo’s advice and begin with a certain category, like clothes or books? Whatever you decide, avoid starting with the most overwhelming option, as it could slow down the process.

• Set realistic goals. Not to be a Debbie Downer, but trying to take on your whole house in one day — even one weekend — is nearly impossible. Instead, consider starting small with something like a coat closet or that overflowing junk drawer. Remember: Little tasks can eventually add up to big progress.

• Create three piles for keeping, donating, or discarding. If you don’t know where something goes, ask yourself: When was the last time I used a particular item? Is it sentimental or special? Then go with your first instinct, so you don’t make excuses. When you’re done, take time to review what you’re getting rid of — it’ll help you make better choices in the future. 

• You don’t need fancy storage bins. Sure, buying snazzy containers and labels may make you excited to get to work. But chances are, you can probably use what you already own (think: empty boxes, old Tupperware). That said, if it’s in your budget, we’ve rounded up some products to help you organize your closets.

• Ask for help. Recruit a friend or family member to be your assistant…or even just your cheerleader. Bonus: If you experience decision fatigue, they can also help with items you may be going back and forth on.