With the shorter, darker afternoons and the chill in the air, we often find ourselves spending more time indoors during this season.
Naturally, this indoor time leads to a keener awareness of the spaces within our homes.
As we gear up for the upcoming Christmas season, it’s the ideal moment to embark on a mission to declutter your home.
Here are five excellent decluttering strategies to get you started!
Start Small
Decluttering may seem like a daunting task. However, remember that there’s no wrong place to start. Every little bit of cleanup contributes to the overall goal of a clutterfree home.
Begin with a manageable project, like a single drawer or cupboard, and you’ll be motivated to continue once you see the results.
Clutter-free Countertops
Kitchen tables, countertops, and sideboards are magnets for clutter. They serve as catch-alls for various items after school or work.
To tackle this, clear everything off and create a pile. Go through each item, either find it a proper home, dispose of it, or recycle it.
Especially watch out for paperwork clutter – shred anything you no longer need and switch to paperless accounts to prevent future buildup.
Keep only the most frequently used appliances on the counter and stash the rest away. If you don’t use it, consider donating it.
Track What You Use
When unsure about the necessity of certain items like books, DVDs, or clothes, try a clever trick. Return these items the wrong way round (flip the book or twist the hanger) after you’ve used them.
After a few months, you’ll have a clear vieuw of what you really need. Set a time frame, say six months to a year, and if something remains unused, be ruthless and donate it to someone who might appreciate it.
Ditch the Cables
Do you hoard every cable “just in case”? It might be time to reconsider.
Old cables from obsolete devices tend to clutter up drawers and cupboards. Dedicate some time to identify and group together the cables you no longer use.
Remember, cables are electrical waste, so avoid tossing them in the bin. Instead, take them to a local recycling center or check with charity shops and retail stores that might accept old cables.
One In, One Out
Implement a simple rule: when you buy something new, consider what you’re willing to replace.
This balanced equation should deter excessive accumulation. Have a designated box for items you no longer like, need, or use.
If you don’t like something, donate it to a charity shop. If you like it but don’t currently use it, such as out-of-season items, consider moving them to storage to free up space without parting with them permanently.
Running out of space at home, consider looking into external storage options. Our storage locations in London offer clean, dry, and secure units, providing a safe and convenient place to store your belongings without having to part with them entirely.
Do you have any tried-and-true tips for decluttering your home?
Share your wisdom in the comments!
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