Ultimate Digital Declutter Guide

🗂️ Desktop, Files, and Cloud Storage

Build a simple folder system, clear stale files, and keep everything in one trusted home.

Empty the desktop and Downloads first

Move everything into a single "To Sort" folder so you can process items in batches. This restores calm without forcing instant decisions.

  1. Create a "To Sort" folder.
  2. Move all desktop and Downloads items into it.
  3. Process 15 to 20 items per session.

Use broad categories that make sense fast

Too many folders creates clutter. Aim for a handful of top-level buckets.

  • Work
  • Personal
  • Finance
  • Creative
  • Admin

Adopt a simple naming convention

Pick one pattern and stick to it. A reliable format saves hours later.

  • Date first: 2026-02-18_Project_Notes
  • Client first: ClientName_Invoice_2026-02
  • Topic first: Budget_2026_Q1
Delete ruthlessly with a time rule

If you have not used a file in 90 days and it is not legally or financially essential, delete it. Trust future-you to recreate what matters.

Make cloud storage the single source of truth

  • Pick one cloud drive as the home base.
  • Move current projects there and link shortcuts on desktop.
  • Turn on sync so files stay consistent across devices.

Browser cleanup in 10 minutes

  • Delete unused extensions.
  • Save long-term reads to a read-later list.
  • Group or delete old bookmarks you never open.
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