Frequent moves, ever-changing housing, and unpredictable schedules—military life brings with it a unique set of challenges. For military families, staying organized isn’t just about tidiness; it’s a matter of survival. Whether you’re preparing for a PCS (Permanent Change of Station) or just trying to reclaim your living space, decluttering is key. Here are practical, tested decluttering hacks tailored specifically for military families.
My husband was in the Air Force, so I was military wife for some time. I believe we lived in 11 different houses in our first 15 years of marriage. Each move meant I was decluttering again. Decluttering a dingy basement can be the worst! If you find yourself moving and cleaning out you military housing, check out my 6 Cleaning Tips for Military Members here.
Struggling with the daily housekeeping chores? Check out my ebook on this topic, entitled Make Over Your Homemaking. Use this link to get it at a discounted price. Also, you can get the complete digital printable copy of the Year Long Thorough Declutter Series Calendar and Checklists here. The printable digital download is delivered to your email. It includes 25 pages of printable calendar pages and checklists to help you declutter every room in your home.
Also, you may enjoy this post on 7 Decluttering Tips for Military Wives.
10 Decluttering Hacks for Military Families
1. Start with a PCS Mindset
Even if you’re not moving soon, approach decluttering like you’re prepping for a PCS. Ask yourself:
Would I pack this and pay to move it across the country or world?
If the answer is no, it’s time to let it go.
2. Use the “One Year Rule”
Military families often rotate duty stations every 2–3 years. If you haven’t used something in over a year (especially non-seasonal items), it’s likely you won’t use it at the next location either. Donate or toss it.
3. Sort by Room, Not by Category
Marie Kondo might say to declutter by category, but military families benefit more from tackling one room at a time—especially if you’re on a tight timeline or juggling kids and deployments. Focus on visible impact in high-use areas like the kitchen or kids’ rooms first.
4. Create a “Maybe” Bin (With a Deadline)
Indecision is the enemy of progress. For items you’re unsure about, place them in a labeled bin with a clear deadline (e.g., 30 days). If you don’t touch it by then, you probably don’t need it.
5. Go Digital When Possible
Paperwork, kids’ artwork, and old letters add up fast. Scan and save important documents or sentimental items digitally. Use cloud storage to keep your files accessible no matter where you’re stationed.
6. Be Ruthless with Kids’ Stuff
Children grow fast—and so does their stuff. Involve them in the decluttering process by making it a game. Have them choose a few toys to donate to other military families or local shelters before each move.
7. Adopt a One-In, One-Out Rule
To prevent clutter from creeping back in, especially in small base housing or on-post quarters, implement a one-in, one-out policy. Buy a new pair of shoes? Donate an old pair. It keeps things balanced.
8. Build a “Go Box” for Each Family Member
During moves or emergency situations, each person should have a small box or bin with their essentials—medications, important documents, a few comforts. This doubles as a decluttering tool by reminding you what’s truly necessary.
9. Host a Base Swap or Giveaway
Many military bases have active Facebook groups or community events where families swap or give away items. Use these to clear out gently used gear, uniforms, or kids’ toys—plus it helps fellow families too.
10. Declutter Regularly, Not Just During Moves
Make decluttering part of your routine—monthly or quarterly mini-purges will keep things manageable and reduce stress when PCS orders arrive.
Decluttering isn’t just about having a tidy home—it’s about creating calm in the middle of chaos. For military families, that calm is invaluable. By incorporating these practical hacks into your routine, you can stay ready for whatever the next chapter holds—without the baggage.
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