The Swedish call it döstädning—“death cleaning.”
But despite the name, it isn’t really about dying. It’s about lightening your life and lifting the burden from those who will one day handle what you leave behind.
Unlike Marie Kondo’s joyful minimalism, Swedish death cleaning is rooted in legacy. It asks not just “Does this spark joy?” but “Will this matter to anyone when I’m gone?”
It’s equal parts practical and tender—a way to reflect on what’s worth keeping, what’s worth passing on, and what can be released with gratitude.
Here’s how to begin, gently, this weekend.
1. Start Small — Begin with What’s Easy to Release
Don’t start with your sentimental items. Choose something neutral—like your bathroom drawers, your pantry, or your old paperwork.
The goal isn’t perfection; it’s momentum.
Set a timer for an hour, put on music, and give yourself permission to stop when you’ve made visible progress.
Pro tip: End your first session on a “win.” Seeing one tidy shelf or one organized box creates the energy to keep going.
2. Sort by Category, Not by Room
Swedish death cleaning is most effective when you focus on types of belongings rather than physical spaces. It helps you see the full picture and avoid duplication.
Try starting with these categories:
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Clothing: Keep what fits your present life, not your past or “maybe someday” self.
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Books: Keep the ones that still inspire or comfort you; donate the rest.
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Paper: Shred what’s outdated, file what’s essential, digitize what’s sentimental.
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Keepsakes: Save what tells your story or captures your essence—your children’s letters, a few photos, a favorite recipe in your handwriting.
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Digital clutter: Organize passwords, unsubscribe from old accounts, delete duplicates.
3. Ask the Right Questions
Marie Kondo asks, “Does this spark joy?”
The Swedish ask, “Will this be a burden or a blessing to someone else?”
When you pick something up, pause and ask:
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Does anyone know why I kept this?
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Would someone understand its meaning or value?
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Would I want someone to have to make this decision for me later?
If the answer is no, let it go—with gratitude for the role it played.
4. Give Things Away While You’re Here to See Them Enjoyed
There’s joy in passing things on now instead of later. A piece of jewelry, a book you loved, a set of dishes that always held family dinners—when you gift them intentionally, they become part of someone else’s living story.
You don’t need a reason or a holiday. Write a short note or story about the item and give it as a gesture of connection. It’s not loss—it’s legacy shared early.
5. Organize What Remains
Once you’ve lightened your load, take time to organize what truly matters. Label bins or boxes clearly. Create a folder for important documents—wills, insurance, financial accounts, medical directives, passwords, and personal notes.
If you want to go a step further, this is where SageVault can help.
Our planning tools and guides make it simple to organize the “what,” “where,” and “who” of your life—so your loved ones can find clarity when they need it most.
Give your family the gift of an Executor Playbook.
A Final Thought
Swedish death cleaning isn’t about sadness. It’s about love made visible. It’s about easing tomorrow’s weight by making intentional choices today.
You don’t need to finish in a weekend—just start. Open one drawer. Fill one donation bag. Write one label.
Because every small act of order you create now is a gift your loved ones will feel someday—not in their hands, but in their hearts.
