What Is the 100 Items Challenge?
Okay, let’s get straight to it—because I know you don’t want fluff. The 100 items minimalist list is a real-deal, boots-on-the-ground challenge in minimalism where you purposely strip your stuff down to just 100 personal belongings. That’s right, shoes, tops, laptops, toothbrush—if it’s yours, it counts (well, usually). It’s not a magic number, but it is a powerful experiment in living with less—one that can kickstart big changes in your life, wallet, and even your mindset.
Sound extreme? I thought so too, until I actually started counting. It’s as much about what you keep as what you let go—and, honestly, a lot about how you feel with less. Let me tell you, the results are surprising. But first, let’s clear up what this list is and isn’t.
Is This Really for Me?
Maybe you’re moving, burned out by clutter, or itching to try something bold. Or you’re just curious if a minimalist lifestyle could feel lighter or more intentional. Whatever your reason, the 100 items minimalist list is for anyone who wants more out of life (and less from their closet, kitchen, or junk drawer).
I’ve seen university students, digital nomads, and new parents dip their toes into this, even if just for a season. There’s something both scary and thrilling about drawing a line and saying, “This is enough.” But, don’t get me wrong—this isn’t some ultimate test of “Who’s the minimalist king or queen?” You set the rules. You decide if your house plants count or not. This whole thing is meant to help your life, not shrink it down until it’s miserable. That’s key, and we’ll dive into setting those rules next.
Your Rules, Your List
Here’s where most people get stuck: how do you count? Trust me, you’re not alone if you’ve stared into your sock drawer in despair, wondering if 10 pairs of socks equals 10 items or just one. There’s absolutely no one-size-fits-all here. I took my lead from others who’ve tried the challenge—like Dave Bruno, author of The 100 Thing Challenge, and even drew some ideas from everything i own minimalist woman, who got creative with their list boundaries.
- Pairs count as one: Shoes, socks, gloves—it’s just friendlier.
- Toiletries and tools: Count each main item (not every bandaid), or group them together.
- Shared items: Coffee maker? If everyone uses it, feel free to exclude it.
- Books and collections: Love to read? Count your library as one—hey, life’s too short not to enjoy what you love.
- Sentimental keepsakes: I gave myself a “memory box” for old photos and love letters, counting it as a single item.
Remember—if your list feels like a punishment, let up. Minimalism should help you feel free, not deprived. For me, it was a dance between practicality and just enough challenge to make me sweat a little. I updated my list along the way. Joy always comes before arbitrary rules—I promise you can do the same.
My Sample 100 Items Minimalist List
I know what you’re here for—the nitty-gritty. So, here’s what a real-world list could look like. Yours will be different, but maybe this gives you a head start:
| Category | Examples | Approx. Count |
|---|---|---|
| Clothing & Shoes | 7 shirts, 2 sweaters, 3 pants, 2 shorts, 7 underwear (as a group), 4 bras, 2 shoes (each pair one item), 2 jackets, 2 workout outfits, 3 socks (grouped) | 30 |
| Personal Care | Toothbrush, floss, brush, deodorant, razor, moisturizer, makeup (bagged as one), nail clippers | 8 |
| Electronics | Laptop, phone, charger, headphones, Kindle, camera | 6 |
| Kitchen & Eating | Mug, bowl, plate, fork/spoon/knife (count as one set), water bottle, reusable container, single small pan | 7 |
| Bedding & Home | Pillow, sheet set, blanket, laundry basket, lamp | 5 |
| Tools & Misc. Gear | First aid kit, scissors, tape, Swiss army knife, light backpack | 5 |
| Work & Hobbies | Notebook, pen, small art kit or knitting bag (as one), yoga mat | 4 |
| Sentimental & Other | Memory box, lucky coin, sunglasses, everyday ring | 4 |
| Total | 69 |
That leaves you room to adjust for your unique lifestyle—seasonal items, pet gear, or whatever absolutely makes your world go round. Want more inspiration? I suggest checking out minimalist lifestyle clothing for simple, stylish closet ideas you can adapt to a “less-stuff, more-life” approach.
How to Declutter to Just 100
Ready to try it? It can feel overwhelming at first. The mountain of stuff can look like a never-ending laundry pile (believe me), but you’ve totally got this. Here’s a friendly step-by-step to help you start:
- Inventory everything—Seriously. Light a candle, make some tea, and start a list. Seeing it all in one place changes your perspective.
- Mark your “must-keeps”—What couldn’t you go a week without? Mark them first, like a lifeboat in a storm.
- Slim the “maybe” pile—Try living without those things for 30 days. Box them up and see what you miss (spoiler, probably not much).
- Swap, don’t stress—If a gift or something new comes in, swap it for an old item to keep your count steady.
- Give yourself grace—You’re allowed to change your mind. If something feels off, adjust. It’s your list, your rules.
Some folks find it helpful to document their journey—make a spreadsheet, take photos, even start a notebook. Watching the numbers shrink is weirdly satisfying (and a little freeing).
Living With Less: What Really Changes?
I won’t sugarcoat it—letting go can feel like pulling off an old bandage. There were moments I sat on the floor wrestling with the question, “Do I toss this sweater I never wear, or keep it for ‘just in case’?” It got emotional at times, especially when I hit the sentimental stuff. Old letters from friends, birthday gifts, and oddball trinkets can tug at your heartstrings in ways you don’t expect.
But here’s where it turns: By the end of my first month of living with a 100 items minimalist list, something clicked. It was as if I had decluttered not just my space, but also my brain. I wasn’t chasing lost keys every morning or getting buried under laundry. I spent less, needed less, and found I had extra energy for things that made me happy—like calling my mom, reading, or even picking up new hobbies. I didn’t lose any essential part of myself. In fact, I got a clearer sense of who “me” really was, under all the stuff.
If you’re looking for more real-life inspiration, check out stories like Cary Fortin’s experiment, which shows how stripping down to essentials can lead to real joy and contentment according to one deeply reflective journey. There’s no right way—everyone’s experience, from “I own 51 things!” to “I’m aiming for 288,” is different and personal.[2]
Big Benefits, But Real Risks Too
Okay, let’s pause for a reality check. Decluttering down to 100 isn’t all rainbows. The obvious upside: Minimalism saves you money, time, and stress. Packing for a trip? Simple as tossing a duffel. Laundry day? Five minutes flat. You’ll notice really quickly what you use, what you love, and what’s just “meh.” Extra perk: your stuff, and your buying habits, matter less to the earth, too.
But there are tough moments: Maybe you miss an old hobby because you gave away your painting kit, or you wish you’d kept that winter coat. Maybe friends joke, or family wonders what you’re up to. It’s normal to feel a little weird, but these bumps don’t last. You can always adjust. Nothing about a minimalist possessions list is set in stone—honestly, that’s half the point.[4]
Tailor Your List to Fit
If you’re a remote worker, a creative, a hobbyist, or a “just want to get through laundry without crying” type, you can absolutely bend this exercise to fit. One thing I love about the 100 items minimalist list is how forgiving it can be. Maybe your job needs a few extra gadgets. Maybe your family shares stuff or you’ve got kids with their own stuff. That’s fine! Some folks even flex the list for seasons or special occasions.
Curious how I balanced my wardrobe? Leaning into a minimalist essentials list helped me focus on stylish, long-lasting pieces, not trend-hopping fads. If fashion is important to you, definitely check out advice from minimalist lifestyle clothing for advice on looking good with fewer pieces—without feeling limited or bored. I promise, you truly can have style without a closet explosion. If you need to see how others made it work, check out everything i own minimalist woman for more ideas and honest stories.
How Do You Know If It’s Working?
The wildest thing? After a while, you notice just how much energy, money, and time this list frees up. The real win isn’t only the neat closet or clear counters—it’s the clarity in your head and the sense of control in your life. Want to track your progress? Notice how rarely you buy “just because.” Jot down all the times you save yourself decision fatigue. Better still, keep a journal. Note your mood, what you miss, and what you definitely don’t. Adjust as you go.
There’s no minimalist police, no shame in making this challenge fit your real, messy, unpredictable life. The 100 items minimalist list is a lifelong tool, not a one-size trap. You can try it for a month, a year, or just when you want a reset.
Books, Blogs, Inspiration
If you want to dig deeper, I can’t recommend Dave Bruno’s The 100 Thing Challenge enough—his process and honesty are a goldmine for anyone feeling stuck. There are also amazing writers experimenting with the challenge: from Zen Habits’s “Haiku Productivity” take to Be More With Less’s flexible and joy-filled twist. Everyone’s list and journey are different, but the themes of intentionality and freedom ring true throughout.
And if you want more proof this isn’t about sacrificing all comfort, look no further than the many minimalist items for home guides and minimalist lifestyle clothing capsules. Turns out, quality beats quantity—every time.
Final Thoughts: Your Turn to Try
So, what’s the bottom line? The 100 items minimalist list isn’t about deprivation or stoic living. It’s about clearing the excess, focusing on what’s essential, and rediscovering what actually brings you joy and comfort. The biggest surprise for me was that I didn’t feel lacking—just lighter, a little more in control, and honestly, a lot happier.
If you’re even a little bit curious, take an honest look at your stuff. Write it down. Experiment with a trial month. You might be shocked at what you learn, not just about your things, but about yourself. Every list is different. Change your rules, count your items your way, and—above all—be gentle with yourself. And hey, if you want to share what you’d never give up (my memory box is non-negotiable!), or what your own 100 would look like, go for it! Minimalism, after all, is as unique as you are.
