How to Stop Junk Mail: A Simple Guide to Decluttering Your Mailbox
If you're tired of sorting through catalogs you never asked for and credit card offers you'll never use, you're not alone. Junk mail piles up quickly — and unlike email, there’s no handy “unsubscribe” button in your physical mailbox… unless you know where to look.
The good news? You can unsubscribe from junk mail, and it only takes a few minutes. Here’s how to stop junk mail in its tracks and create a cleaner, clutter-free mailbox.
Why Stop Junk Mail?
Junk mail doesn’t just waste time. It also:
Creates paper clutter in your home.
Fills up your recycling bin (or worse, your trash).
Wastes resources like paper, ink, and fuel.
By cutting down on unwanted mail, you’re saving yourself mental energy and being kinder to the environment.
Your Junk Mail Breakup Plan
Here are the best ways to reduce junk mail and keep it from piling up again:
1. Opt Out of Credit Card Offers
Those “pre-approved” envelopes? You don’t have to keep receiving them.
👉 Opt out here
2. Stop Marketing Mail from Companies You Don’t Know
Sign up for DMAChoice.org — it’s endorsed by the FTC and costs just $6 for a 10-year registration. This removes your name from marketing lists of companies you haven’t done business with.
👉 Pro tip: If you’ve already shared your information with a company, DMAChoice won’t affect that mail — but the next tool will.
3. Unsubscribe From Catalogs and Coupon Packs
Use CatalogChoice.org — it’s free, simple, and effective. Just search for the catalog or coupon mailer you received, fill out their form, and poof, they’ll submit the unsubscribe request for you.
Important tip: Enter your name and address exactly as it appears on the mail — even if it’s spelled wrong or formatted oddly. Their system matches based on the exact information on the envelope.
4. Bonus Links for Common Culprits
Want to speed things up? Here are direct links to unsubscribe from some of the biggest repeat offenders:
Make It a Habit
The first round of unsubscribes will make a big difference, but the key is consistency. Each time new junk mail shows up, log it in Catalog Choice. Over time, the flood will slow to a trickle — and eventually, you’ll open your mailbox to find only the things you actually want.
A Small Step With a Big Impact
This simple step doesn’t just clear physical clutter. It frees up mental space and makes your home feel more peaceful. You deserve a mailbox that sparks joy, not stress.
If you’re ready to take it further, decluttering your mailbox is just the beginning — small systems like this add up to lasting change in your home and your daily routines.
About Refine Organizing
I’m Kari Lonczak, a professional organizer and certified KonMari Consultant based in Seattle, WA. At Refine Organizing, I help people clear clutter and create systems that support the lifestyle they want — whether it’s in their home, office, or digital life. If you’re ready to declutter with support, learn more about my services here.
