The viral ‘Poop Rule’ that sent the internet into a de-cluttering frenzy

That’s the bizarre question sweeping social media and inspiring thousands to finally tackle their clutter. Known as the “Poop Rule,” this decluttering hack was introduced by influencer Amanda Johnson and has quickly gone viral. While it may sound absurd at first, its logic is strikingly effective: if you wouldn’t want to clean or salvage an item covered in poop, then it likely doesn’t belong in your home at all.

What is the Poop Rule?

The Poop Rule simplifies the decision-making process when sorting through old belongings. It’s especially helpful when dealing with emotional attachment to items you no longer need. The concept isn’t about the literal presence of poop, it’s a thought experiment to force you to consider how much an item is truly worth to you.

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Johnson, who shared the idea on TikTok, explains that the rule is particularly helpful for people who struggle with letting go of things. It’s a mental shortcut that pushes you to be honest: Would you go through the trouble of cleaning that item if it were filthy? If not, why are you still keeping it?

What items should you use the rule on?

This rule doesn’t apply to everyday essentials like your phone, keys or favorite kitchenware but it’s a powerful tool for assessing items in long-term storage or neglected drawers. Think 15-year-old flip phones, tangled charging cords for devices you no longer own or jeans you wore in middle school. These are the types of things many people hold onto “just in case,” but which add nothing to their lives.

Psychological benefits of decluttering

Experts say that decluttering can reduce anxiety and improve focus. According to a study published in the Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, people who described their homes as cluttered reported feeling more depressed and fatigued. The Poop Rule provides a fast, humorous way to cut through hesitation and create a lighter, cleaner space.

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Why it works for everyone

Interestingly, the rule has been widely praised by neurodivergent individuals, including those with ADHD or autism. It turns a complex task into a binary choice: keep or toss. There's no room for overthinking. The gross-out factor adds humor and immediacy to an otherwise stressful process.

Ready to try the ‘Poop Rule’?

So, the next time you’re overwhelmed by clutter, ask yourself: “Would I keep this if it had poop on it?” If the answer is no, you’ve got your decision. It’s simple, strange and surprisingly freeing. The Poop Rule might just be the motivation you need to finally let go and lighten up.