Despite its morbid name, this cleaning trend is actually quite thoughtful.

In an age of countless cleaning and organizing concepts—from junk blindness to Marie Kondo’s iconic “sparking joy” decluttering method—Swedish death cleaning brings a remarkably selfless perspective. 

Its simple goal? Pare back your clutter so that once you pass on, your family isn’t left to root through a lifetime of things. 

Like many of our other favourite Nordic trends, this cleaning method originates in Sweden. It derives from the cultural tradition of döstädning—"dö” meaning death and “städning” meaning cleaning. The concept was popularized in North America by Margareta Magnusson’s 2023 book (and subsequent Peacock series) The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning.

How to use the Swedish death cleaning method

Regardless of your stage in life, this practice is an effective cleaning strategy. Less clutter not only fosters a more peaceful home environment, but it also makes moving and organizing easier. Plus, when you eventually no longer need your once-beloved objects, your loved ones don't have to spend weeks combing through clutter.

This method is applied to your entire home, from your closets and filing cabinets (hello, decades-old paperwork) to your kitchen. You don’t need to go full minimalist, but if you aren’t using things anymore, give them a toss or donation.

3 tips for Swedish death cleaning

1. Get rid of duplicates 

Is your China cabinet loaded with four full tea sets? What about a linen cupboard stuffed with old quilts? If your house is full of duplicates, or you're holding onto to items that have been collecting dust for ages, it's time to do some decluttering.

2. Digitize 

In this age of computers, there's no need to have piles upon piles of paperwork and cupboards full of random photo albums. Get rid of the out-of-date documents you no longer need, and consider replacing your print photos with digital copies.

3. Get your loved ones to help out

Just because you no longer need a stack of serving platters doesn't mean your kids, other relatives, or friends don't want to snatch up a family heirloom. Put out a "last call" note to pick up the items they could use. You never know what random household object could mean to someone you love.

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