1. Take stock of what you already own

My number one absolute rule is actually a reverse decluttering tip, it is simply, always store like with like. It means you’ll always know exactly how many batteries, bulbs and bin bags to stamps and sweaters, post-it notes to pots you have, therefore you'll never buy more than you need in the first place! It also means that you can easily find anything and everything when you’re in a hurry as there’s nothing more annoying than shelling out for something only to discover you had plenty already. Plus it'll stop you succumbing to ‘special offers’ that aren’t remotely advantageous if you don’t need said item. This is a particularly good sale rule for clothes, as it’s remarkable how many bobble hats, pairs of black tights, navy jumpers you’ll find you already own if you diligently group them together.

2. Focus your attention on one thing

When the mood to declutter strikes, contain yourself to one thing to purge, such as newspapers and magazines or your wardrobe, rather than randomly attacking the house, or even a room, as a whole. If you do the latter you’ll soon be either overwhelmed or bored. If you focus your efforts, it’s more achievable and there’ll be a rewarding sense of completion when it’s done, which might even inspire another round of clearing!