Bigger isn’t always better, and that’s something homeowners are starting to realize. And although there are a lot of reasons why families decide to downsize (retirement, grown children, an urge for a simpler lifestyle…), one thing’s for sure: it can make life way easier.
Choosing a smaller dwelling can reduce housing costs and eliminate many maintenance tasks, such as cleaning or painting. Fewer rooms and furniture also make housekeeping an easier task. In short, a smaller home offers many hidden advantages.
As this mindset grows, many people begin exploring practical avenues for transitioning smoothly out of a larger property and into a more manageable space. For some, the turning point arrives when they decide to sell your house in Scranton, using a straightforward, no-stress solution that helps them move forward without the delays of traditional listings. This option can be especially appealing to those seeking a fresh start, freeing up equity to support new goals and simplifying what can otherwise be an overwhelming life change.
By choosing a path that aligns with their desire for ease and efficiency, homeowners can fully embrace the next chapter with confidence and clarity. Get to know some of the benefits of downsizing:
A chance to get organized
When you move into a smaller home, it forces you to eliminate clutter, which is a big plus for those seeking a more minimalist lifestyle. Moreover, smaller homes lessen the temptation to accumulate. If you don’t have any room in your house for that cute bookcase, you won’t feel as tempted to buy it in the first place.
Lower energy bills
When you live in a large home, the energy costs just keep soaring. From heating and cooling costs to water savings in your bathrooms and kitchens, it costs a lot to run a large home. A smaller place will give you the added benefit of reducing your family’s carbon footprint – and, of course, a lower energy bill! Downsizing also gives you the chance to rethink how your home breathes and regulates temperature. A well-planned HVAC setup becomes a quiet workhorse, keeping every room comfortable without guzzling energy. And when systems are properly tuned by seasoned professionals at Lee’s Heating, you get the kind of steady, efficient warmth that makes a house feel inviting without sending your utility bills into orbit. It’s a simple reminder that sometimes the smartest upgrades aren’t flashy—they’re the ones that make daily living smoother, greener, and far more affordable.
Easier to maintain
If you’ve owned a large house, you know the amount of time, energy, and effort it takes to keep it clean and organized. All things being equal, a smaller home requires less of your time and energy for tasks such as cleaning, painting, or gardening. When systems are simpler and cared for consistently, problems are easier to manage and less likely to spiral into costly, time-consuming repairs. Plumbing is a perfect example, as regular attention to pipes, drains, and fixtures helps prevent disruptions that can quickly overwhelm even a well-maintained home. Partnering with reliable professionals such as Owens Plumbing and Rooter allows homeowners to approach maintenance with the same efficiency mindset that draws many people to smaller living spaces, focusing on prevention rather than reaction. By addressing minor issues early and keeping essential systems running smoothly, homeowners can preserve their time and energy, ensuring their living space remains comfortable, functional, and stress-free without unnecessary complications.
More money for yourself
Let’s face it: the more space you have, the more you feel tempted to fill every square corner with furniture, electronics, appliances, and all sorts of home items. One of the beauties of downsizing your home is the ability to stop wasting money on those things. And, of course, if you have paid off your home or have been paying down your mortgage for years, downsizing can also add a significant cushion to your budget.
… and free time!
Many of the benefits we mentioned above (such as less cleaning, less maintenance, gardening, etc.) result in freeing up your schedule to pursue the things in life that truly matter to you. Remember: time is the greatest asset of your life!
A new lifestyle
Downsizing can represent a way to start a new life in a new home. It is a unique opportunity to declutter your life, not just of material possessions but also of obligations, relationships, and anything else that isn’t serving you. It’s about creating more space in your life, both physical and emotional, to focus on what matters.
Downsizing as a conscious reset often brings clarity about what you want your next chapter to look like, but translating that emotional readiness into practical decisions around property can feel overwhelming without the right support. Letting go of a home tied to years of memories involves more than paperwork and pricing; it requires thoughtful guidance that respects both the financial and personal weight of the move.
As priorities shift toward simplicity, stability, and long-term planning, having professionals who understand market dynamics, timing, and negotiation becomes essential, and this is where Southland Brokers naturally fits into the process by helping homeowners navigate sales, transitions, and strategic choices with confidence. With steady real estate support in place, downsizing becomes less about loss and more about alignment, allowing individuals to move forward knowing their property decisions are grounded in clarity, care, and a clear vision for what comes next.
Whether the decision is voluntary or you are forced to move for job relocation or other life events, rest assured: there are many benefits to decreasing your home size! If you love saving money, energy, and resources, downsizing may be the best thing that can happen to you. And if you need assistance in this journey, don’t hesitate to get in touch with ClutterBGone. We know that moving is one of life’s most stressful events, and that’s why we have a team of professional home organizers to help you when you don’t have the time, energy, or ability to handle the project on your own.
905-642-5669
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How To Organize A Small Kitchen – 10 Useful Ideas
in Kitchen OrganizingSmall rooms can be challenging to organize and fit everything you own, and this is especially true when it comes to the kitchen area. The kitchen is often a busy room where food is prepared and consumed, leading to the accumulation of items such as dishes, utensils, and appliances. To help you maximize the space in your kitchen, here are 10 practical and effective ideas that you can implement:
1. Go vertical
Wall-mounted shelves and hanging pot racks are practical ways to add storage space to a kitchen. Wall-mounted shelves provide a spot to store items that might otherwise take up counter or cabinet space while hanging pot racks free up cabinet space and make pots and pans easily accessible.
2. Clear the counters
Try to keep only the essentials (toaster, coffee maker, knife block, etc.) on the countertops. By limiting the number of items on the counters, you can maintain a clean and organized look while freeing up space for food preparation and other activities.
3. Group items together
Store similar items in the same area to make it easy to find what you need. For example, you can store all your baking items, such as flour, sugar, or baking powder, in the same cabinet.
4. Use drawer dividers
Keep utensils and other small items organized by using drawer dividers. There are many options available, including adjustable dividers that can be customized to fit your specific needs.
5. Consider investing in multi-functional furniture
Consider purchasing furniture that has built-in storage, like a kitchen island with drawers. This type of furniture is a smart investment for those who want to maximize the storage potential of their rooms.
6. Use of the back of the cabinet and pantry doors
Install organizers on the back of the cabinet and pantry doors to maximize storage space. Shelving units, hanging baskets, and hooks are some options you can explore.
7. Use clear containers
Store dry goods in clear containers so that you can easily identify what you have and when you need to restock.
8. Keep frequently used items within easy reach
Frequently used items, such as your favorite cooking tools and spices, should be placed in an easily accessible location. Doing so will streamline your cooking process and make the room look more organized.
9. Use the space under the sink
Maximize the use of this space by creating separate compartments for different items. Some popular options include stackable bins, pull-out drawers, and tiered shelving. This will help you keep the area neat and tidy.
10. Don’t forget to purge regularly!
Regularly purging your kitchen items by disposing of what you no longer need and use can help optimize your space and reduce clutter.
Organizing and keeping a small room tidy can be quite challenging. Getting professional help to organize and keep a small room uncluttered is an excellent option for those struggling with maintaining order. Professional organizers are trained to help individuals and businesses create efficient and practical storage solutions and can provide expert advice to make the most of the available space. Whether you’re looking to declutter or simply streamline your belongings, ClutterBGone is here to help. Get in touch with us for a free consultation – let’s get started and bring order to your kitchen today!
You Can Keep A Clutter-Free Home With Kids – Even If Marie Kondo Can’t!
in DeclutteringWe’ve all seen the big news: Marie Kondo, known for her cleaning prowess, has confessed that she has “kind of given up” on her tidying methods due to the arrival of her third child. The famous Japanese organization guru stated that with three kids to care for, her household is now cluttered and tidying is no longer a priority.
For us at ClutterBGone, the first thing to remember is that keeping a house in order is not easy at all. Most people lack time, motivation, and even a clear goal. And If we add children to the equation, applying a method as complex as Marie Kondo’s can feel impossible. Even for Marie Kondo herself.
However, keeping a place clean and decluttered with kids is possible. It simply requires a combination of structure, consistency, and teamwork. Parents can set clear rules and expectations for cleanliness, establish routines for chores, and involve children in the process. Encouraging children to take ownership of their own spaces and giving them age-appropriate tasks can also help. Additionally, with a little creativity, decluttering can be made into a fun family activity, which can make the process more enjoyable for everyone involved.
Here are a few thoughts to keep in mind for tackling a cleaning and decluttering project with kids:
Cleaning is not a special event – it’s a daily habit
Marie Kondo’s method of tidying focuses on completing the process all at once as if it were a “special event”. This approach can be challenging for busy parents of young children who may struggle to find the time and mental energy to tackle the task. A more flexible and realistic approach is to break the process down into smaller, manageable steps and work through them at your own pace. By taking a gradual approach, parents can maintain a clean and organized home while accommodating their busy schedules and the demands of raising children.
The importance of setting an example
Lead by example for your children and foster a sense of responsibility in them by establishing clear expectations for cleaning and decluttering as a family. When parents show their commitment to regularly maintaining a tidy home, children are more likely to take this task seriously and take pride in their own spaces.
Cleaning as a fun, bonding activity
Cleaning and decluttering can be transformed from a chore into a fun family bonding activity by incorporating elements of play and teamwork. You can, for instance, turn cleaning into a game by setting timers, seeing who can pick up the most items, or simply show appreciation for everyone’s efforts by giving rewards and recognition, such as a family outing or special treats.
More time for you and your family
Although it may not feel like it, cleaning and decluttering can actually free up time for you and your family. Furthermore, by creating a more functional living space, you can use your time more efficiently for activities that bring joy and connection to your family rather than constantly struggling with clutter and disorganization. In short, cleaning and decluttering not only improve the appearance and functionality of your home but also give you and your loved ones more time to focus on the things that matter most.
The KonMarie art of decluttering has become wildly popular due to its success in helping people organize their homes. However, it’s important to remember that every household is unique and has different needs, preferences, and lifestyles. Marie Kondo’s method may work wonders for some people but it may not be the best fit for others.
At ClutterBGone, we believe it’s essential to approach decluttering and organization with a personalized strategy, taking into account each family’s lifestyle, habits, and priorities. That’s why we offer customizable services based on the needs and challenges of every household. If you wish to learn more about our services, contact us now for a free telephone consultation. We’ll transform your life with a lasting change so you can enjoy a clean, comfortable, and clutter-free environment!
How To Organize A Room With Too Much Stuff
in DeclutteringWhen you realize that your place is messy and cluttered, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. However, taking small steps and breaking the task down into manageable chunks can make it less daunting. A great way to do so is by limiting yourself to a single room at the time. It could be a room where you spend a lot of time, such as the living room or bedroom, or a room where clutter tends to accumulate, such as the kitchen or home office.
Here are a few unmissable tips to start organizing a room with too much stuff:
Start by decluttering
First of all, throw away any empty snack packages, junk mail, and unnecessary shopping bags to make the room look better with little effort. Then, make a clear plan to eliminate items you no longer need or use. To make things easier, you can use the “6-month rule” (if you haven’t used an item in the past six months, consider getting rid of it), for instance.
Be mindful of what you are keeping
When deciding what to keep or toss, ask yourself if the item still serves a purpose or has an important sentimental value. If not, it may be time to let it go.
Donate or sell items you no longer need
You likely have some belongings that someone else can get more use from. Donate your goods to a charity, non-profit, place of worship, school, or shelter, or, as an alternative, make some extra money by selling those items in second-hand markets, apps, or websites.
Divide items into categories
Once you’ve done the initial purge, you should start organizing all items into categories, such as books, clothes, papers, and so on, and assign a specific place for each of them.
Use storage solutions
Bins, shelves, drawers, and boxes are key to keeping items organized. You can also use vertical space, and utilize wall shelves, hanging organizers, and hooks to store items off the ground.
Make use of underutilized spaces
Remember that you can find an extra storage place under the bed or inside the closet door. These places can be used to store items such as extra linens, clothing, or shoes that are not used frequently.
Take it easy
If you end up feeling overwhelmed, divide the decluttering process into smaller tasks and address one category at a time. Setting a timer for a set amount of time, such as 20 or 30 minutes, can also help you stay focused and motivated.
Maintain the organization
To keep your room organized and clutter-free, it’s essential to regularly return the items to their designated place. One helpful strategy is to schedule a specific time each week, such as Sunday morning, to go through your belongings and return them to their proper location.
Ignoring clutter and mess doesn’t make it disappear, but implementing these strategies for organizing a room with too much stuff can aid you in handling everyday mess or even an overwhelming chaotic space.
Nonetheless, if you find that you’re struggling to declutter your space on your own, or if you’re feeling overwhelmed, you may want to consider hiring a professional organizer. Our team at ClutterBGone can help you create a plan, stay on track, and give you tips and tricks for keeping your space organized. Contact us for a free consultation today!
25 Things To Throw Away Today!
in DeclutteringDecluttering can be difficult and time-consuming, especially if you have a lot of possessions and sentimental attachments to them. One approach to decluttering is to start by removing certain types of items from your space, such as expired and broken items, duplicates, or even sentimental items that no longer hold any significant value or memories. By removing these types of things, you can make a significant dent in the clutter in your space. Here’s a list of 25 items you can start decluttering right now:
Consider donating unwanted or duplicated items
If you declutter items that are still in good condition, such as clothes, appliances, or furniture, you can consider donating them to a local charity or organization. Donating gently used items can help those in need and can also be a way to give back to your community.
Places such as shelters and schools are often in need of items such as clothes, books, and household items. Consider contacting them directly to inquire about their needs.
And if you need help decluttering…
Decluttering can be a complex process, but it can be very rewarding in the end. Removing clutter from your space can help you feel more organized and in control of your life, which will also improve your physical and mental well-being. Additionally, decluttering can free up space and make it easier to find the things you need, and it can also help you create a more pleasant and visually appealing environment.
However, if you feel overwhelmed and with no idea how to start, consider getting professional help. With a combined 25+ years of professional home organizing expertise, our ClutterBGone team will provide a courteous, sensitive, client-focused experience. Get in touch with us today for a free consultation. We’ll transform your life with a lasting change and transformation so you can enjoy a clean, organized, and clutter-free environment.
The Unexpected Benefits Of Downsizing Your Home
in DownsizingBigger isn’t always better, and that’s something homeowners are starting to realize. And although there are a lot of reasons why families decide to downsize (retirement, grown children, an urge for a simpler lifestyle…), one thing’s for sure: it can make life way easier.
Choosing a smaller dwelling can reduce housing costs and eliminate many maintenance tasks, such as cleaning or painting. Fewer rooms and furniture also make housekeeping an easier task. In short, a smaller home offers many hidden advantages.
As this mindset grows, many people begin exploring practical avenues for transitioning smoothly out of a larger property and into a more manageable space. For some, the turning point arrives when they decide to sell your house in Scranton, using a straightforward, no-stress solution that helps them move forward without the delays of traditional listings. This option can be especially appealing to those seeking a fresh start, freeing up equity to support new goals and simplifying what can otherwise be an overwhelming life change.
By choosing a path that aligns with their desire for ease and efficiency, homeowners can fully embrace the next chapter with confidence and clarity. Get to know some of the benefits of downsizing:
A chance to get organized
When you move into a smaller home, it forces you to eliminate clutter, which is a big plus for those seeking a more minimalist lifestyle. Moreover, smaller homes lessen the temptation to accumulate. If you don’t have any room in your house for that cute bookcase, you won’t feel as tempted to buy it in the first place.
Lower energy bills
When you live in a large home, the energy costs just keep soaring. From heating and cooling costs to water savings in your bathrooms and kitchens, it costs a lot to run a large home. A smaller place will give you the added benefit of reducing your family’s carbon footprint – and, of course, a lower energy bill! Downsizing also gives you the chance to rethink how your home breathes and regulates temperature. A well-planned HVAC setup becomes a quiet workhorse, keeping every room comfortable without guzzling energy. And when systems are properly tuned by seasoned professionals at Lee’s Heating, you get the kind of steady, efficient warmth that makes a house feel inviting without sending your utility bills into orbit. It’s a simple reminder that sometimes the smartest upgrades aren’t flashy—they’re the ones that make daily living smoother, greener, and far more affordable.
Easier to maintain
If you’ve owned a large house, you know the amount of time, energy, and effort it takes to keep it clean and organized. All things being equal, a smaller home requires less of your time and energy for tasks such as cleaning, painting, or gardening. When systems are simpler and cared for consistently, problems are easier to manage and less likely to spiral into costly, time-consuming repairs. Plumbing is a perfect example, as regular attention to pipes, drains, and fixtures helps prevent disruptions that can quickly overwhelm even a well-maintained home. Partnering with reliable professionals such as Owens Plumbing and Rooter allows homeowners to approach maintenance with the same efficiency mindset that draws many people to smaller living spaces, focusing on prevention rather than reaction. By addressing minor issues early and keeping essential systems running smoothly, homeowners can preserve their time and energy, ensuring their living space remains comfortable, functional, and stress-free without unnecessary complications.
More money for yourself
Let’s face it: the more space you have, the more you feel tempted to fill every square corner with furniture, electronics, appliances, and all sorts of home items. One of the beauties of downsizing your home is the ability to stop wasting money on those things. And, of course, if you have paid off your home or have been paying down your mortgage for years, downsizing can also add a significant cushion to your budget.
… and free time!
Many of the benefits we mentioned above (such as less cleaning, less maintenance, gardening, etc.) result in freeing up your schedule to pursue the things in life that truly matter to you. Remember: time is the greatest asset of your life!
A new lifestyle
Downsizing can represent a way to start a new life in a new home. It is a unique opportunity to declutter your life, not just of material possessions but also of obligations, relationships, and anything else that isn’t serving you. It’s about creating more space in your life, both physical and emotional, to focus on what matters.
Downsizing as a conscious reset often brings clarity about what you want your next chapter to look like, but translating that emotional readiness into practical decisions around property can feel overwhelming without the right support. Letting go of a home tied to years of memories involves more than paperwork and pricing; it requires thoughtful guidance that respects both the financial and personal weight of the move.
As priorities shift toward simplicity, stability, and long-term planning, having professionals who understand market dynamics, timing, and negotiation becomes essential, and this is where Southland Brokers naturally fits into the process by helping homeowners navigate sales, transitions, and strategic choices with confidence. With steady real estate support in place, downsizing becomes less about loss and more about alignment, allowing individuals to move forward knowing their property decisions are grounded in clarity, care, and a clear vision for what comes next.
Whether the decision is voluntary or you are forced to move for job relocation or other life events, rest assured: there are many benefits to decreasing your home size! If you love saving money, energy, and resources, downsizing may be the best thing that can happen to you. And if you need assistance in this journey, don’t hesitate to get in touch with ClutterBGone. We know that moving is one of life’s most stressful events, and that’s why we have a team of professional home organizers to help you when you don’t have the time, energy, or ability to handle the project on your own.
7 Ways to Help Your Senior Reduce Clutter
in DeclutteringWhen a senior’s home is overflowing with stuff, it can become a safety hazard. For example, while some falls are caused by physical decline, clutter in one’s surroundings can raise the odds of an accident, regardless of the senior’s condition. In this article, we’ll pinpoint a few strategies you can use to help a loved one reduce clutter in a comfortable and manageable way:
1. Have an open conversation
Bringing up the topic of clutter can be a challenging task. However, if it has become a safety hazard for your elder, it is something that you must discuss. Acknowledge the issue as tactfully as possible and offer help. If your loved one accepts the offer, it’s time to start working on an organizational plan.
2. Make a plan
Before you begin the decluttering project, check the house and make a list of what needs to be done. Investigate every room and take note of all potential safety hazards. The clutter may obstruct exits, cause structural damage, or hide issues like mildew. Once you have a clear picture of what you need to organize and declutter, make a simple strategy. You can, for instance, go room by room, and create three separate boxes for things your loved one wants to keep, donate, or throw out. You can find a few extra tips in this article.
3. Focus on the furniture
When starting the decluttering process, make sure the house is designed in such a way as to ensure your loved one’s comfort and safety in all areas of it. As such, always try to look at furniture from a safety perspective. For example, you might want to remove furniture that is too low or has sharp edges.
4. And hazardous items
Likewise, there are many hazardous items that should be removed or replaced in a senior’s home. Here are a few examples:
5. Make a place for everything
Every item in the home should have its place. That means books should be on a shelf, kitchenware should be in the kitchen, and toiletries should be in the bathroom. Misplacing items can cause the house to become cluttered and, consequently, make your loved one forget where things should go. Helping your loved one establish a place for everything will make the whole house more organized.
6. Understand their wishes
Although this might feel like a sensitive conversation, you can take this opportunity to talk to your senior and document their specific wishes for heirlooms and valuable items. Do they want to donate it to charity? Leave it to a relative? Be sure that these wishes are then added to your senior’s will so that there are no discrepancies down the road.
7. Get professional help
Many companies, like ClutterBGone, can assist you in culling through your loved one’s belongings, deciding what to keep, discard, give away or donate. A professional organizer can ensure everything is safe and comfortable for your senior, boosting their overall health and well-being.
At the end of the day, decluttering is about quality of life. If you want your loved one to have a safe and clean environment, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team of experts. We are always ready to help seniors and their families by providing professional advice and the best decluttering services.
Ready To Declutter For The New Year? 8 Ideas To Get You Started
in Home OrganizingThe new year is always a terrific chance for a fresh start. It presents an exceptional opportunity to set new resolutions and plans for ourselves – and, of course, to tackle a decluttering project!
Truth is, if you enter 2023 with a clean and organized home, you’ll find it easier to focus and make progress toward your life goals. A tidier space can really make for a more relaxed mind! If you’re ready to start decluttering, follow our tips to clear out some space in your home and start your year off with a clean slate:
1. Start by assessing your gift situation
Don’t worry, we’re not suggesting you get rid of your new Christmas gifts! But go ahead and ask yourself this question: are these new items replacing any older items you don’t need or use anymore? If the answer is yes, gather the duplicates and set them aside for donation or to give them away to someone.
2. Check your wardrobe
Dedicate a full day to go through your closet and dresser drawers and get rid of anything you know you aren’t going to wear again. Chances are, you’ll find more stuff than you thought! And if you ever feel doubtful about a piece of clothing, use the 6-month rule. You know how it goes: if you haven’t used it in six months, chances are you won’t use it ever again. Sell it, donate it, or swap it with a friend.
3. And kitchen
The kitchen is often the place that gets more disorganized throughout the year. Things get shuffled around, shoved to the back, and pushed out of sight and out of mind. So before entering the new year, dedicate a day to your kitchen counters and pantry. Don’t forget to clean crumbs and spills off shelves and check the expiration dates of everything. It might take a while, but spices and canned goods do eventually expire.
4. And… laundry room, linen closet, and cleaning supplies
Isn’t it true that some routines are much easier and more pleasant when the supplies you need are neat and organized? Sheets, towels, and other household linens do not last forever. Before the new year kicks in, go through them and make some space.
5. No more junk drawers
Most homes have at least one junk drawer loaded with the most random (and often useless) assortment of items. Spend a few minutes getting rid of the stuff you don’t need, and find a proper home for the stuff worth keeping.
6. Beware of your beauty products and medicines
Like spices, prescriptions and beauty products don’t last forever. Although you should declutter your medicine cabinet, make-up, skin care products, and so on, and check the expiration dates a few times a year, it’s always a good category to declutter for the new year.
7. Your subscriptions
Nowadays, you can subscribe to virtually anything. From video streaming services to meal delivery programs, you can get pretty much anything with a recurring payment. If you are subscribed to many services and platforms, take advantage of the new year as a time to review your plans and declutter. There are surely many things you no longer use or need.
8. Your apps
Our phones get used (probably) too much. With all the apps, tabs, videos, and photos, phones can become a digital cluttered mess. Take a few minutes to work on deleting apps you don’t use. Eliminate those duplicate and blurry pictures. Enter 2023 with a clutter-free phone!
From digital clutter to the most chaotic junk drawer, there are many things you should organize as the new year kicks in, But of course, if you would rather let someone else take care of all the heavy lifting, you can also hire a professional team to help you. Remember that the ClutterBGone experts are here for you! Schedule a free telephone consultation and tell us all about your goals for a clean and comfortable environment.
6 Ideas For Getting Your Family On Board With Decluttering
in DeclutteringDo you feel like you’re the only one who’s focused on organizing and decluttering the house? Your family might not be as enthusiastic as you are about decluttering. And who can blame them? Decluttering can be time-consuming, challenging, and quite tedious. However, employing the correct strategies can turn the situation around and motivate your family to tackle this journey with you. Take note of our tips to help convince your family members to join the decluttering process:
1. Communicate with your family
Before you engage your family in your decluttering project, sit them down and have an open conversation. Help them understand why you want to declutter and what you hope to achieve from this process. The best way to get them onboard is by letting them know your feelings and goals.
2. Lead by example
If you want to get your family fully on board, rather than telling them what they have to do, lead by example! Start working on your own cluttered spaces. Declutter your wardrobe, your own toiletries, books, magazines, and so on. When your children and partner see your progress, they will be a lot more willing to start decluttering their own spaces.
3. Turn it into a challenge
If you find it hard to motivate your family, challenges can be a fun way to get everyone on board! Especially if you have kids, this can make a huge difference in how they commit to your project. You can, for example, make a 30-Day Challenge in which each family member has to get rid of something every day. The one who manages to complete the challenge gets a prize, like a trip to the movies or a pizza date.
4. Respect everyone’s space
Never forget: you must be sensitive to the spaces and possessions of your loved ones. You won’t be able to get your family on board with decluttering by attacking them and insisting they get rid of their stuff. Let them have their own designated space for what they find valuable. It may not be valuable to you, but that doesn’t mean it is not to them.
5. Offer your help and guidance
Sometimes your family may be on board with decluttering but don’t know where or how to start. A great way to get them on board with decluttering is to offer them help and guidance. For example, if you see your child frustrated with their toys being everywhere, that might be the time to offer to help them declutter their room. After all, you’re all on the same team working towards the goal of riding your home of clutter – support is always welcome!
6. Keep it up!
Decluttering isn’t a once off event. So make sure to set a good example for your kids, partner, and whoever it is that you feel could use a couple of lessons in organization and tidiness. Wash the dishes as soon as they go in the sink, hang your laundry as it comes out of the dryer, or show how you love keeping your thighs organized and tidy.
Decluttering can be overwhelming, and getting your family on board with this journey can be an uphill task. If you find it too difficult, you can, as an alternative, hire a professional service to help you get the environment you want. At ClutterBGone, we offer you a free telephone consultation so that you can tell us all about your goals for a clean and comfortable atmosphere. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today!
Have Yourself a Minimalistic Christmas – 10 Gift Ideas That Don’t Cause Clutter
in DeclutteringChristmas is one of those times of the year when even the most organized and minimal of homes can get out of control very easily. So if you want to keep your place clutter-free during the most wonderful time of the year, it’s important to seek simplicity and usefulness in all things.
When it comes to gifts, try to focus on value and what makes people happy instead of obsessing over material items. Choosing meaningful gifts that do not cause clutter is great for people who have everything, for minimalists who want nothing, and for kids who already have too much.
Whether the gift is for you, for a family member, a friend, or for someone you know, get inspired with our list of suggestions:
1. A subscription box with consumable gifts
Over the past years, one option has become quite popular for Christmas: subscription boxes. As such, there are plenty of options to choose from nowadays. Coffee and tea, hot sauces, infused bottles of vinegar, chocolates, spices, bath bombs… You can really find personalized options for every taste!
2. Food baskets
Another way to give your friends a consumable, clutter-free Christmas gift is to build them a personalized food basket. Just think about the things they enjoy the most. Is it wine? Chocolate? Spicy food? Candy? You can mix and match however you like.
3. A Spa package
Spas are great no clutter gifts that can help people relax over the holidays. And let’s be honest: who wouldn’t like a relaxing body massage or time spent in a sauna? And the best part is usually you can select the package and precisely what it entails.
4. A workshop
What about giving someone the gift of discovering a new hobby or craft? From peaceful pottery sessions to cooking classes or perfume-making workshops, there are endless options for you to contemplate. And the best part? You can also sign up and share the experience with your friend!
5. Membership and subscriptions
Yulu, Netflix, Birchbox, Disney Plus, Headspace, or even a specific magazine… Memberships and subscriptions are always convenient and special options. Moreover, it is also a great idea to surprise someone you can’t see in person.
6. Tickets for an event
If you know your friend’s taste remarkably well, you can gift tickets to a concert, show, performance, band, or artist. Investigate which events will take place in the coming months, and plan the perfect surprise!
7. Dinner gift card
Is your friend a true foodie? Then you don’t have to waste any more time: a dinner gift card is a great option! Look for restaurants in the area that offer lunch/dinner vouchers for two. If you don’t find any, you can also contact a restaurant you like and ask them to prepare a personalized gift card.
8. A professional photoshoot
Contact your favorite local photographer and ask if they offer gift certificates. Most of them will, and they will help you prepare the perfect experience for a loved one. It could be an outdoor couple photoshoot, a family one, or simply a fun experience in a studio!
9. Paying for a part of a mutual trip
Have you ever dreamed about going abroad or taking a road trip through Canada together? Then start planning this Christmas by paying for your friend’s portion of the trip! Not only is this a good holiday gift, but it is also a great way for you to bond!
10. A charitable gift
There are so many people in need. And we can all become better and more giving people by taking the money we would give to someone who already has everything, and instead giving to someone in need on their behalf.
The gift-giving season can be difficult for those living minimally, but with these ten clutter-free gift ideas, you can give loved ones something personal without taking up space in their home! Besides, remember that giving a gift like an experience or a donation can change someone’s life.
8 Questions You Should Ask Yourself To Declutter More Effectively
in UncategorizedThe process of simplifying your life and living clutter-free takes time, patience, and dedication. At the end of the day, it’s not just about throwing things away and organizing what you have – it’s also about prioritizing, letting go, and establishing a routine. It isn’t a walk in the park, and for most people, just finding the motivation to declutter in the first place is an obstacle. That is why we want to share with you a list of questions you should ask yourself to simplify the process.
These powerful questions will help you determine what to declutter faster and easier so that you feel less overwhelmed about your decisions. As a result, you will feel more motivated and able to keep up the momentum you need to get your home organized once and for all. Are you ready to start?
1. Do I really love this?
We all buy things we once loved or even things we thought we liked but then never worn or used. When decluttering, assess each item and determine whether you still love it or not. Be honest with yourself. If the answer is no, why keep it around?
2. Is this item worth the space it’s taking up in my home?
Sure, it might seem fun to use your popcorn machine at your kid’s birthday party, but if you’re short on storage space, is that item actually worth the real estate it takes up in your home? If you only need a certain item once a year, or maybe even less often than that, you probably should find it another home.
3. Is it meaningful to me?
When you’re decluttering, it’s important to differentiate between what is meaningful and what is merely sentimental. An easy way to find out is to think about whether the item in question brings back fond memories or not. If it does, then it’s probably worth keeping. If not, it’s time to let it go.
4. Am I honoring this item or just keeping it out of guilt?
Here’s a tough – but very necessary – question. If you can’t differentiate between a meaningful and sentimental item, it’s time to understand why you’re keeping it. Even if it’s a hand-embroidered towel inherited from your mother, are you genuinely honoring the item and the memories attached to it? Or has it been in a box in your basement for decades?
5. Can I live without it?
The answer is probably yes. Remember that the things we own are just that: things. So if you’re struggling with whether or not to keep something, ask yourself this question. And if you still can’t make up your mind, try going without it for a month. If you don’t even notice it’s gone, then it’s probably something you can live without.
6. Do I own duplicates or similar items?
A very helpful question! How many times have you purchased something, only to realize you already own the exact same thing? Do you really need 20 pairs of black socks? Or three practically identical frying pans? Hardly!
7. Am I afraid I will need this item in the future?
“Maybe I shouldn’t get rid of this, just in case.” If this thought is on your mind, you’re only afraid of regret. But the thing is, you’re probably never going to need most of the things you’re holding onto “just in case”, especially if you haven’t used them yet. And if you do, you can probably rent, buy, or borrow it.
8. Could this item be useful/helpful to another person?
This question is particularly helpful for considering items that were expensive or gifted to you but that you don’t use or need. If you know the item in question will just gather dust for the upcoming years, give it to someone who could really use it. It’s a win-win.
Keeping these questions in mind as you declutter your home will help keep you focused on creating a space that fits your lifestyle. However, if you still feel like this task is too overwhelming for you, don’t hesitate to ask for help. You can get in touch with our team of experts at ClutterBGone and ask for a free consultation.