When we think of decluttering, we tend to think of sorting through our clothes, makeup bags or our bookshelves. But there’s also all the digital clutter to think of, especially when it comes to our dating lives. New research from Tinder reveals 43% of UK singles feel mentally weighed down by the digital debris of old matches, adverse advice and texts from exes they should’ve deleted months ago. That, combined with a deluge of online dating advice is negatively impacting how people view dating and relationships.

Tinder’s research shows that UK singles have a ‘museum of exes’ in the palm of their hand, with 41% of those surveyed admitting they’re holding onto old phone numbers from past connections, with an average of eight exes numbers stored at any given time. Yes, eight…

And Gen Z singles emerge as digital hoarders, who are less likely to let go once a relationship ends. Their top habits include regularly checking their ex’s social media profiles (44%), reading through old text messages (39%), and revisiting photos of their ex-partner (36%).

Meanwhile, their millennial counterparts find digital detachment easier with 32% deleting their exes’ chat after a breakup, embracing the ‘out of sight, out of mind’ approach. They are also less likely to keep unsent message drafts (51%) or save voice notes from past relationships (47%) compared to the more tech-reliant Gen Z. However, the research suggests both generations love a trip down memory lane, with the average person checking old relationship photos at least once per week.

Cleaning expert Ann Russell – known for her no-nonsense advice – is teaming up with Tinder to help young singles declutter their digital dating habits. With 52% of singles wanting to clear out their digital clutter, her practical tips will help singles digitally reset and refresh ahead of making new connections this spring.

C – Clear out old flings: If they ghosted, let them stay ghosts.

L – Let go of your ex: Unfollow across social and delete their number.

E – Erase messages starting with “hey u up.” We’ve all been there.

A – Archive old Tinder bios: Yes, you’re adventurous, but give us something new.

N – New season, new you: Match with intent. It’s time for quality over quantity.

Russell adds: “No matter how old you are, it seems like digital relationship baggage is weighing people down and holding them back from exploring new possibilities. Clearing out your phone is exactly like a wardrobe clear out – it’s making space for something that will suit you better right now, whatever that looks like.”

Sinead Purcell, senior communications director at Tinder, says: “It’s clear people are carrying around digital dating baggage in their phones. When you add to that the perfect couples and bad dates you hear about online, it’s no wonder dating can feel overwhelming. Modern relationships aren’t just about matching, but about making room for the type of connection you want – whether you’re looking for fun, love or just a new spark. Clearing out the digital dust will create space for more intentional likes.”

Tinder and cleaning expert Ann Russell team up to share the five tips to declutter your dating life