I’ve never claimed to be the cleanest or neatest person, but I’m definitely trying to get and stay clutter free in 2021.
Until about a year ago we always lived in 1000 sq ft or less, and with two dogs at one point. But now we are more comfortable with a little more space, with two dogs and now baby girl. More space can sometimes lead to more things though. Tyler and I both agree, we don’t like to have a lot of things, specifically things we don’t use, or don’t like. This year when we decluttered our coats & clothes we hardly got rid of anything. And that tells me 1. We didn’t purchase unnecessary items this year and 2. We like the items we have.
First, realize that although I speak a lot about simple living and minimalism you don’t just because a minimalist once you declutter your home. But it is a step in the right direction if that’s the lifestyle you’re working towards.
Im going to pass on some knowledge that I’ve learned along the way towards a clutter free home. Here are some mistakes your probably making when you’re decluttering and how you can fix them.
1. Organizing and Decluttering at the same time
Most of us probably clean this way. And that’s how it’s always been. But think about it. If you’re doing both at the same time you’ll end up just re organizing the mess.
Instead try to declutter small spaces at a time. Get rid of everything you don’t want and take a break. Come back and organize whatever you just decluttered once all the items you are getting rid of are gone.
2. Holding on to items you’re donating or selling:
I’m super guilty of this. In fact, I have a bag right now sitting in the closet of items that I need to sell. And another bag of items that need to go to goodwill. And some have been in there for a while.
Here’s the issue with holding on too long. 1. It just creates clutter in a new space and 2. You are more inclined to reach back into that bag and keep some items, also guilty of this.
Once you’ve removed the items, remove them from the house. I usually take donate bags and put them in my trunk right away. And try to drop them off within the next day or so. And that “sell” bag if you’ve tried to sell the items and they aren’t selling.. and them to the donation bag.
3. Saving things for “what if”:
It’s so perfect for me to write this blog because I’m guilty of all of these things. There are many times I receive lotions, body wash, ect. that I don’t particular care for and hold on to it for sometime years. I give myself a bit of grace and say if I haven’t used it or worn it in a year it probably isn’t something I really need (this doesn’t include sentimental items).
What happens is I use the items a few times or never at all and then they just pile up in the linen closet for years. A better solution is to not use then, especially if you know you’re not going to like them, and donate them to a locate shelter. Shelters are always in need of hygiene items. This same rule applies to clothing and can goods. If it’s hard for you to get ride of things use it at motivation that you can help someone else with your items.
4. Starting to big:
I’m sure we’ve all seen hoarders. When they start throwing things away the home owner typically gets overwhelmed and wants to stop. Okay, not saying you’re a hoarder but same concept. If your overwhelmed by your current project, start smaller. I’d suggest pantry, under the bathroom sink or the linen closet.
Typically there aren’t sent sentimental items in these areas so you can usually breeze through it pretty easy.
If you aren’t already make sure you follow my blog. I’ll be posting a lot of tips to help you get organized this year!
Until next time.. xo
