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June 18, 2025 19 mins

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.


💡 What You’ll Walk Away With:

  • 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


🛍️ Mentioned in This Episode:

  • 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


✨ Let This Be Your Permission Slip:

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.

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