It’s time for spring cleaning but before you can get to the cleaning, you have to tackle the scariest part: decluttering.
Where to begin? Author and organizing expert Donna Smallin suggests asking yourself: “If I had twenty minutes to evacuate my home, what would I take?” This exercise makes you realize that most of the “stuff” you are surrounded with is not as important as it originally seemed.
Throw away as much as you can. Include old makeup, food that has been in the pantry for too long, your grocery bag collection, pens that don’t write … you get the picture. How do you decide what to keep and what is clutter? If you haven’t used it in over a year you could probably live without it.
Smallin suggests if you’re not sure of something, put it in a box and date it. If you haven’t used it after six months, consider getting rid of it. Categorize items into things to keep, give away, garage sale potential, charitable donations, and of course, the all important throw-away pile. Ready, set, clean!
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EIGHT CLUTTER-CLEARING TIPS
1. Start in a room that you use a lot because the noticeable results will create positive reinforcement and keep you going.
2. Set a time limit so the project doesn’t seem overwhelming. Stick to time limit and then go back to the same room next time until it is finished.
3. Use the in-out rule. For every item that comes into your home (new books, videos, clothes), another comparable item should go out.
4. Stay ahead of clutter. Sort and file mail daily. Keep newspapers until the next edition arrives. Clip and file articles you want and discard the rest.
5. Organize items in clear plastic storage boxes with lids. This reduces dust and lets you easily identify what is inside.
6. Look for furniture with built-in storage such as covered benches, beds with drawers underneath, coffee tables with drawers
7. Donate clothes and other items to your favorite charity. You will feel better knowing others are benefiting from them.
8. Photograph or videotape cherished items you have decided to part with. That way you save the memory and let go of the object.
