Written by Jackie Waters
Website: Hyper-tidy.com
Email: j_waters@hyper-tidy.com
Whether you’re moving or just tired of living under piles of stuff, decluttering can do wonders to make your life easier. But let’s face it — decluttering sounds like a real headache. After collecting things for years, going through it all can be completely overwhelming. Especially if you don’t have an expert to guide you through the process. But believe it or not, tidying up your home can be enjoyable! And you can do it without testing your sanity. Check out these tips to keep your decluttering sessions fun and easy.
Break Your Home into Sections
Where you start decluttering doesn’t matter, as long as you approach it methodically. Avoid dragging out everything you own and creating a giant pile on your floor — this is too overwhelming. Choose a small section, like a desk, cupboard, or dresser, and start there. When you get to your closet, break it into sections as well. Tackling small areas will let you finish each task completely without getting burnt out. The Simple Balance recommends starting with your bathroom because it’s a relatively small space and you won’t come across any sentimental items there. To keep things fun, take before and after pictures of each area you declutter.
Don’t Overthink It
It’s easy to ask yourself too many questions when deciding whether to get rid of an item. But if you go through lengthy inner debates for everything you own, the decluttering process will quickly become exhausting. Decluttering experts recommend going with your gut. When you hold one of your possessions, you’ll know whether you should keep it. Trust this feeling and avoid questioning yourself.
Try not to hold onto things out of a false sense of sentimentality. Gifts, for example, may be difficult to toss because you admire the people who gave them to you. But if you don’t like the item, don’t feel guilty about getting rid of it. This goes the same for things you’ve spent a lot of money on. Don’t hold onto things you’re never going to use, no matter how expensive they were.
Sell Your Things
The easiest and fastest way to declutter is to throw everything into garbage bags or into donation boxes. However, selling your items can make the process more rewarding and fun. For items you no longer want, search them up on eBay to see how much similar items are selling for. You can list your items there, or sell them locally on Craigslist. Use the proceeds from your decluttered items to treat yourself. If this means buying something new for your home, go for it — just make sure it won’t become clutter in the future!
Couple Decluttering with Deep Cleaning
As you declutter, you’ll discover areas that could use a good cleaning. Try to clean as you declutter, wiping down surfaces after removing knick knacks or vacuuming the carpet under furniture. To really get your home spotless, considering an indulgence (maybe using the cash you just earned from selling your stuff!) and hire a cleaning service to do a really deep clean throughout your home. Having your home professionally cleaned is especially important if your key reason for decluttering is to put your home on the market. And according to Home Advisor, Loganville residents only pay around $125 to $238 for a one-time interior cleaning.
Develop Daily Cleaning Habits
Keep in mind that without daily cleaning habits, you risk clutter taking over your space again. Start by implementing some of these organizational techniques recommended by Woman’s Day. Designate a spot for each item you own. Buy storage containers and avoid using ones with lids — the less work you have to do to put something away, the better. If you notice that a storage system isn’t working, regroup and try something new. Then, get in the habit of hanging up your clothes, putting your shoes in the closet, and placing dishes in the dishwasher immediately. For help developing these habits, follow the two-minute rule — if you can do something in two minutes or less, do it right away.
There’s a reason why decluttering and minimizing is so trendy — the payoff is extremely rewarding! Who doesn’t want to live in a spacious, airy home? Tackle your clutter with your end goal in mind and remember to take your time. Your decluttering projects are more likely to end successfully if you enjoy the process.
Thanks for sharing Jackie. If you have questions about decluttering and organizing, be sure to contact Jackie!
If you’re looking for a home to declutter :-), I’m your girl! Let’s schedule a 10 minute phone consultation to see how I can help you achieve your real estate goals. (404) 857-2508