Wait… buying things in a minimalist lifestyle?
Yep. We’re going there.
If you’ve ever felt guilty for buying something new—even something that actually made your life easier—this episode is for you.
Because decluttering isn’t about never buying again.
It’s about buying smarter. More intentionally. In ways that support your current season (not clutter your home or conscience).
In this honest and practical episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on 8 simple purchases I’ve made over the years that have truly helped me streamline routines, reduce friction, and support my peace.
From laundry hacks that keep my boys’ floors clear 🙌 to the one kitchen item that makes every morning feel just a little more joyful—these aren’t “influencer” recommendations. They’re real-life, tried-and-true tools that help a home work.
The reframe you need if you feel guilty about buying (even useful!) things
My go-to habit-supporting tools for smoother mornings, less nagging, and fewer meltdowns
Why spending money can align with minimalist values (and how to tell if it actually will)
The underrated power of functional upgrades—and how to spot them in your own routines
Hanging laundry hampers for kids’ rooms
A countertop espresso machine that sparks joy ☕
Matching garage bins that finally ended bin Jenga
Reusable plastic sleeves + dry erase markers for family routines
Visual timers for time-blind kiddos (and mamas)
Our beloved digital photo frame
My favorite way to “read” more books without the guilt stack → Audible
Buying less is a powerful tool.
But buying better? That’s how you build a home that serves your life.
So if you’ve been eyeing something that would actually make your days flow easier—this is your nudge.
Don’t overthink it. Just press play.
🧡 Loved this episode? Join me inside the Clutter Cure Club (https://www.katyjoywells.com/cluttercureclub-page837548) — where we take conversations like this even deeper, and I help you simplify everything.
📩 Or subscribe to my free weekly newsletter, Ready, Set, Simplify (https://www.katyjoywells.com/simplify), for one decluttering mindset shift every Wednesday morning.
Tag me @katyjoywells with your favorite simplifying purchase—I’d love to cheer you on.
See you next week.
Ready, Set, Simplify.
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
My Favorite Murder with Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark
My Favorite Murder is a true crime comedy podcast hosted by Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark. Each week, Karen and Georgia share compelling true crimes and hometown stories from friends and listeners. Since MFM launched in January of 2016, Karen and Georgia have shared their lifelong interest in true crime and have covered stories of infamous serial killers like the Night Stalker, mysterious cold cases, captivating cults, incredible survivor stories and important events from history like the Tulsa race massacre of 1921. My Favorite Murder is part of the Exactly Right podcast network that provides a platform for bold, creative voices to bring to life provocative, entertaining and relatable stories for audiences everywhere. The Exactly Right roster of podcasts covers a variety of topics including historic true crime, comedic interviews and news, science, pop culture and more. Podcasts on the network include Buried Bones with Kate Winkler Dawson and Paul Holes, That's Messed Up: An SVU Podcast, This Podcast Will Kill You, Bananas and more.
The Joe Rogan Experience
The official podcast of comedian Joe Rogan.