Yesterday, I decluttered seven apps from my phone that I haven't been using. I'll often
download apps to try them out. Sometimes they work out. Sometimes they don't.
If we don't keep on top of digital files, like apps, email, photos, documents, spreadsheets, etc., our devices can quickly become as cluttered as any overstuffed closet.
If you've ever found yourself scrolling endlessly for a single photo or have hundreds of unread emails, it's probably time to declutter your digital life. The process might sound overwhelming, but taking it one step at a time can make it simple—and even enjoyable.
I find it very freeing to get rid of clutter, whether it's physical or digital!
Here’s a guide to help you clear up space, feel more organized, and set up a system that works for you.
1. Tackle Your Inbox
Start with the area most of us dread—email. Sorting through email may feel endless, but once you get started, the satisfaction of an organized inbox can be motivating. Here’s how:
Unsubscribe Ruthlessly: Get rid of
unwanted newsletters, sales emails, and updates that clutter your inbox by unsubscribing from them. Doing so will reduce your incoming email load and keep the spam out.
Create Folders for Essentials: If there are messages you need to keep, like receipts or personal messages, create labeled folders to file them as you
go. Set up a few basic folders, like "Receipts," "Family," "Bills," and "Work," to make future organization easy.
Delete or Archive: Be honest about which email messages you truly need. If it's been sitting unopened for months, it's likely not necessary. Archive or delete these to reclaim digital
space.
2. Organize Your Photos and Media Files
Photos and videos can take up enormous amounts of storage, making it difficult to find what you need
when you need it. Let’s streamline that collection:
Delete Duplicates and Blurry Photos: Start by getting rid of blurry or duplicate photos. Apps like Google Photos have built-in tools to help identify and delete similar images.
Set Up Folders by Year, Event, or Location: Create a folder system that works for you. For example, “2024 Family Trip” or “Graduation Day.” Organizing by year or event makes browsing easier and keeps memories accessible.
Back Up
Important Files: Photos and videos are some of our most precious digital items. Consider backing up your images on a cloud service (such as Google Drive, iCloud, or Dropbox) or an external hard drive for extra security. I use a service called Smugmug, that I really like, for this purpose.
3. Clear Out Unused
Apps
Unused apps clutter your phone, tablet, and desktop, slowing down your devices and filling up storage. Here’s how to regain space:
Audit Your Apps:
Go through each screen on your phone or tablet, noting any app you haven’t opened in months. If you don’t use it, delete it.
Group Similar Apps: For those you keep, group similar apps into folders. For example, you could have “Social Media,” “Health & Fitness,” or “Finance.” This helps visually organize your screen
and makes it easier to find what you need.
Limit New Downloads: To keep clutter at bay, only download apps that serve a specific purpose. Regularly review your apps and repeat this process every few months keep your devices clutter-free.
4. Sort and Organize Your Files and Documents
From work documents to personal files, it's easy for things to pile up. Setting up an efficient system will save time in the long run:
Create Specific Folders: Just like with photos, create folders that help you locate files quickly. For example, “Work,” “Taxes,” “Kids’ School,” and “Bills” are easy starting points.
Rename Files for Easy Search: Use descriptive names so you can search for them easily. Avoid generic names like “Document1” and opt for more descriptive names, like “2024 Tax Form” or “John’s School Permission Slip.”
Store Important Documents on the Cloud: For files you want
to access from multiple devices, consider using cloud storage options. It’ll keep your files secure and accessible, even if something happens to your primary device. My husband and I use Carbonite for this purpose.
5. Schedule Regular Backups
After all your hard work organizing and decluttering, don’t let an unexpected tech glitch set you back. Regular backups keep your files safe and secure:
Automate Backups Where Possible: Most cloud services allow automatic
backups. This way, you won’t have to remember to do it yourself.
Invest in an External Drive: For extra peace of mind, back up critical files on an external hard drive as well. Schedule a reminder to back up files every month to keep things current.
A digital declutter doesn’t have to be an all-day project. Tackle one section at a time, and before you know it, you’ll have a streamlined and well-organized digital space.
Plus, once you’ve set up these simple systems, maintaining a clutter-free digital life will be a breeze.
