For years and years, I have been struggling with clutter, holding on to things that I think I might need someday, not to mention the impromptu trips to thrift stores, which only added to the mess. One day I made a decision that I had enough and it was time to reclaim my space and my life, not only for myself but also for my family.
I thought of the best way to declutter and came up with this super simple system, to help me get rid of clutter quickly and effectively!
If you are in a place where you feel you need to declutter and get rid of excess stuff, then following these 5 simple steps will help kick start your journey to a more organized space, where you can relax and focus on the things that matter the most. Let’s dive in…
// STEP 1 – GET A BASKET //
Get a basket (preferably one that you already have), it doesn’t have to be oversized or fancy, but it needs to be big enough to fit some bigger items, depending on how much stuff you have. Alternatively, you can use a cardboard box, which will be even easier to donate.
// STEP 2 – PLACE THE BASKET SOMEWHERE CENTRAL IN YOUR SPACE //
Where you put your basket or box is very important, because it must serve as a daily reminder to add those unwanted items regularly. If it is hidden away in a closet, it is easy to forget about it and will just add to the clutter. Access and visibility are the keys to your decluttering success.
If you have a bigger home or space, you can place multiple baskets throughout the house, to make them more accessible for everyone.
// STEP 3 – ADD STUFF TO THE BASKET, DAILY //
Now that you have set up your baskets, your decluttering journey can begin. The purpose of this process is to add unwanted items to your basket on a daily basis. If you are struggling with what to let go of, here are some prompts to guide you:
- If have something in my hand that I know I will never use again, I will add it to the basket.
- If I put something on and it doesn’t fit anymore or I have outgrown that style, I will add it to the basket.
- If I have finished reading a book or building a puzzle, I will add it to the basket.
The beauty of this process is that you can make your own statements, that will help guide you through this process, for instance, “If {this} or {this} happens, I will add that item to the basket.”
I am sure you get the point, everything that you don’t need, want, or know you will never use again – ADD IT TO THE BASKET!
// STEP 4 – GET RID OF THE STUFF //
This is the time to get creative, at the end of each week, take 5-10 minutes, and sort through all the baskets/boxes. Create a plan of action of how you will get rid of the stuff, here are a few examples:
- Sell valuable items online.
- Find a charity shop near your home and donate the items to them.
- Give any old books, puzzles, games, etc. to friends and family that might enjoy them.
- Hold a yard sale {this might only be possible if you really have a lot of stuff you want to get rid of}.
- Any old toys, baby products, or maternity clothes can be sponsored by a woman in your community that really needs them.
- Recycle old electronics or donate them to someone that can actually use them.
One way I get rid of puzzles, that I have recently completed, is to pass them on to someone who shares my love for puzzle building. Not only do I get it out of the house, but I also help others to enjoy it.
// STEP 5 – ENJOY A CLUTTER-FREE HOME //
There you have it, it really is that simple. An easy-to-follow guide on how to tame the clutter that is filling up your life and space. Now you can enjoy a clutter-free home all year round.
// EXTRA TIP – GET YOUR WHOLE FAMILY INVOLVED //
This is such a simple concept that can be a fun activity for the whole family. If you have kids, you can place a basket in their rooms and encourage them to add all those unwanted items like clothes that are too small, toys they don’t play with anymore, books they don’t read, etc. This is a valuable life lesson to teach your kids. You can also make them a part of the donation process and teach them how to be charitable.
A little effort can go a long way…
Do you have any tips or tricks to help you keep clutter at bay? I would love to hear from you.
Just want to add that a clutter free home is quicker and easier to clean too!
I totally agree, Sybil! There are so many benefits when you live a clutter free life :)