We're all guilty of putting recycling on the kitchen counter instead of sorting it straight away, or chucking our mail on a side table telling ourselves we'll get around to opening it later – but those little things soon build up and before you know it you've got a big mess to clean and declutter!

To solve the problem, follow the 'one touch' rule and process a task the first time you touch it. Take that tin can straight outside to the bin as soon as it's empty and open the mail and sort through it as soon as you pick it up – that way clutter and half-done tasks can't build up. Don't put it down, put it away!

This extends to unseen tasks too, like replying to a simple email or message as soon as you've received it, which helps keep your mind clear of clutter, as well as your home.

40 genius decluttering hacks that will transform your space