Rethinking Family Home Decluttering: The Third Choice Beyond Keep or Toss

In a recent survey conducted by AreaLink, the operator of Japan's largest rental trunk room service, HelloStorage, it was discovered that 62% of respondents had experienced indecision regarding whether to discard or keep items when decluttering their family homes. This study, which surveyed 500 individuals aged 20 to 70 who have family homes, sheds light on the psychological and practical challenges faced during this process.

The Survey Findings

The survey explored various aspects of decluttering, particularly during the holiday seasons when many individuals return home. Among the respondents, approximately 59.2% reported having considered the task of sorting through belongings at their parents' homes. Specifically, 21.8% said they think about it often, while 37.4% do so occasionally. This highlights a prevalent concern during family visits.

When survey participants were asked about their indecision regarding whether to discard or retain items, 62.3% indicated it was because they felt items might still be usable. Additionally, 59.7% expressed emotional attachments to mementos that made it difficult to part with them. A notable 24.2% mentioned lacking the time to make decisions on the spot, illustrating how both emotional and practical factors contribute to this common dilemma.

Outcomes of the Indecision

The study also explored what actions individuals ultimately took concerning items they were unsure about. Over half of these participants, 56.8%, reported leaving the items in their family homes, indicating a tendency to postpone such decisions. Additionally, 23.9% stated they had yet to take any action, while only 2.9% utilized external storage spaces, such as trunk rooms, to alleviate their indecision.

This data reveals a worrying trend: many individuals recognize the need to declutter but struggle to take actionable steps. The prevalent belief that items ‘might still be useful someday’ or the emotional weight of cherished belongings often results in them being retained rather than disposed of.

Broader Implications

This indecision isn't merely a personal issue; it reflects broader societal challenges regarding inherited properties and their maintenance. Reports show that over 9 million properties in Japan are currently vacant, and ongoing discussions about inheritance and property rights underscore the urgency of addressing these concerns.

Moreover, experts have pointed out that those who struggle with decluttering tend to buy more storage solutions, complicating the situation further. This phenomenon often leads to a cycle where individuals accumulate more items without effectively managing the space they have.

AreaLink's Perspective

Given these insights, AreaLink emphasizes the importance of allowing individuals the necessary time to contemplate their decisions about possessions. HelloStorage aims to provide a ‘waiting room’ concept whereby belongings can be removed from homes and stored externally, allowing families to consider their options without feeling rushed. This approach acknowledges the complexities involved in parting with items and focuses on facilitating a mindful process.

Looking Ahead

Since its establishment in 1995, AreaLink has aspired to promote a culture of valuing possessions while advocating for sustainable resource management. As Japan's population ages, family home decluttering and estate planning will increasingly become critical themes for many households. By remaining a supportive presence in this journey, AreaLink seeks to share insights on how best to navigate these emotional and logistical challenges.

Survey Overview

- Title: Awareness of Family Home Decluttering During Holiday Returns
- Participants: 500 adults aged 20-70 from across Japan having family homes
- Methodology: Online survey conducted by AreaLink
- Survey Dates: Conducted on August 4, 2026

About HelloStorage

HelloStorage operates over 3,091 properties and 134,612 rooms as of June 2026. It has grown to be an industry leader in rental storage solutions, offering a variety of options designed to meet diverse needs, from outdoor container storage to tailored indoor trunk rooms.

For more information, visit the HelloStorage website.