eco friendly approach to home organizing

The Eco-Friendly Approach to Home Organizing

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In recent years, there has been a growing interest in eco-friendly living, with more and more people adopting sustainable practices in their daily routines. Across countries and cultures, individuals are taking steps towards a greener lifestyle, from reducing plastic waste to using energy-efficient appliances.

One area where sustainable living can make a significant impact is home organizing. By adopting eco-friendly practices when decluttering and organizing our homes, we not only create a more organized and functional space, but we also reduce our carbon footprint. In this article, we will explore some sustainable tips and practices for home organizing, including repurposing items, reducing waste, and making eco-friendly choices when purchasing organizing products. Whether you’re just starting to explore sustainable living or you’re looking for ways to incorporate more eco-friendly practices into your home organization routine, these six tips will help you create a more environmentally conscious home:

1. Reuse and repurpose

Instead of immediately purchasing new storage containers, it’s worth taking a moment to consider repurposing items you already own, like baskets, jars, or even old shoe boxes. Doing so will not only save you money but also help minimize waste, making it a more eco-friendly option.

eco friendly approach to home organizing

2. Donate or sell unwanted items

When decluttering, instead of disposing of items in good condition, consider donating or selling them. This can prolong the lifespan of the items and minimize waste, while also giving them a second chance at usefulness.

3. Choose sustainable materials

Consider choosing storage containers made from eco-friendly and sustainable materials like bamboo, recycled plastic, or organic cotton when you need to purchase new ones. These materials are not only better for the environment but can also be recycled or composted after they have served their purpose.

4. Invest in natural cleaning products

Avoid using harsh chemicals when cleaning your home. Instead, opt for natural cleaning products made from ingredients such as vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils. These are not only better for the environment, but also safer for you and your family.

5. Reduce your paper clutter

Go digital as much as possible to reduce paper clutter. Use apps to organize your schedule, bills, and other essential documents. If printing is inevitable, be sure to print double-sided and recycle the paper once it has served its purpose.

6. Practice responsible disposal

When decluttering, dispose of items responsibly. Recycle what you can, and properly dispose of hazardous items such as batteries and electronics. This ensures that these items are not sent to landfills, where they can harm the environment.

Living sustainably is not only important for the planet but also for our personal well-being. By making small changes in the way we organize our homes, we can contribute to a cleaner, healthier environment and enjoy a more organized and stress-free space. It’s essential to recognize that our choices have an impact on the world around us and that even small changes can make a significant difference.

If you’re looking for expert guidance to help you make better choices for a more sustainable home, ClutterBGone is here to help. Our professional organizers specialize in eco-friendly organizing and can provide you with personalized tips and solutions tailored to your needs. Together, we can create a more sustainable future – one organized home at a time!

Outdoor Living Space

Cleaning and Decluttering Your Outdoor Living Space

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7 Strategies for Getting Your Patio Ready for Summer

As the temperatures start to rise and the days become longer, many people begin to shift their attention toward their outdoor living spaces. Whether you have a backyard, a front porch, or a patio, these areas can provide a much-needed escape from the confines of indoor living during the summer months.

However, following a prolonged winter, it is common for these areas to require some attention and sprucing up. From cluttered surfaces to overgrown plants, it can be overwhelming to think about where to start when it comes to preparing your outdoor areas for the summer.

Fortunately, with a little bit of effort and some strategic planning, you can easily transform your patio into a welcoming oasis. Here are a few strategies to help you:

1. Start with a deep clean

Begin by giving your patio a thorough cleaning. Sweep away any debris and scrub down any surfaces that need it, such as the furniture and flooring of your patio. A clean patio provides a fresh canvas for decorating and arranging your outdoor space.

2. Declutter the area

Take inventory of your outdoor furniture, plants, and decor. Get rid of any items that are worn out, broken, or no longer serve a purpose. Donate or recycle these items instead of throwing them away.

Decluttering Your Outdoor Space

3. Check your deck

When decluttering your patio, it’s important not to overlook the decking. Over time, decking can become damaged by exposure to the elements. Check for chipped paint, cracked wood, and signs of weather damage, and make repairs as necessary. It’s also worth keeping an eye out for any signs of pests or infestations, such as holes or tunnels in the wood.

4.Organize your outdoor storage

If you have outdoor storage, such as a shed or a cabinet, now is the time to clean and organize it. Sort through any items that have accumulated and make sure everything has a designated place. This will make it easier to find what you need when you’re using your patio.

5. Set up your BBQ and gathering space

Once the deck is in good shape and your storage is finally behaving itself, it’s time to turn your patio into a proper gathering spot. A well-planned BBQ area invites people to linger, talk, and eat just one more plate than they intended. Think about where a firepit grill or rocket stove would fit best, keeping safety and airflow in mind while still making it easy to gather around. These pieces add a timeless, almost campfire-style charm that never goes out of fashion. Many homeowners now find it convenient to source sturdy, reliable cooking gear online, where options range from simple grills to more versatile setups. Choosing trusted suppliers like Chiasson Smoke ensures you’re investing in equipment built for real use, not just good looks. With the right setup, your patio becomes less of an outdoor space and more of a tradition waiting to happen.

5. Add some greenery

Plants and flowers can bring life to any outdoor space. Consider adding potted plants or hanging baskets to your patio. Choose plants that thrive in your region’s climate and that require low maintenance. Some popular options for patios include succulents, herbs, and colorful flowers like petunias or geraniums.

6. Create some shade

While the warm sunshine is one of the best things about summer, too much direct sunlight can be uncomfortable and even harmful. Consider adding some shade to your patio to make it a more comfortable place to relax. This could be in the form of a patio umbrella, a retractable awning, or even some strategically placed trees or shrubs.

7. Add some ambiance

Lastly, don’t forget to add some ambiance to your patio. This could be in the form of outdoor lighting, such as string lights or lanterns, or it could be through decorative elements such as outdoor rugs, throw pillows, and candles. These small touches can make a big difference in creating an inviting outdoor space.

Once you start layering these thoughtful details, your patio shifts from a simple outdoor area into a place that feels intentional and lived-in, and it becomes clear just how much atmosphere can be shaped by the right lighting choices. Soft glows can turn quiet evenings into something soothing, and brighter accents can make gatherings feel warm and lively, which is why exploring elements like marble lamps in your overall design can add that subtle touch of elegance without overpowering the relaxed vibe you’re trying to create.

When combined with cozy textiles, gentle flickers from candles, and a layout that invites you to unwind, the space becomes more than just an extension of your home; it becomes a retreat you look forward to spending time in, shaped by small decisions that add up to a big sense of comfort.

A well-lit outdoor area not only creates a warm and relaxing ambiance but also extends the usability of your space well into the evening hours. Thoughtfully placed lighting can highlight pathways, accentuate garden features, and provide soft illumination for dining or lounging areas. This is where the expertise of Gillen Electrical becomes invaluable, as professional electricians can help ensure that every fixture is safely installed and optimized for efficiency. From energy-saving LED setups to motion-sensor lighting that blends convenience with security, skilled electrical work can transform a backyard into a stunning, safe retreat.

A clean, organized, and inviting patio can be the perfect place to spend time with family and friends during the summer months. With the right touches, you can create a space that is both functional and beautiful. Whether you’re grilling up some food for a backyard BBQ or relaxing with a good book, a well-maintained patio can be a true retreat. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the prospect of cleaning and decluttering your outdoor space, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Professional organizing teams, such as ClutterBGone, can assist you in transforming your patio into the outdoor living area of your dreams!

Decluttering challenges for the BIPOC Community

The Unique Challenges of Decluttering for Immigrants and the BIPOC Community

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Navigating the complex process of organization and decluttering can be challenging for anyone, but it can be especially difficult for immigrants and members of the Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) community, as they often face unique obstacles related to cultural values, economic status, language barriers, and discrimination.

For many immigrants and members of the BIPOC community, organizing and decluttering can be particularly challenging due to frequent moves, displacement, or limited resources. In some cases, they may have had to leave behind possessions and start over in a new environment, leading to a tendency to hold onto items as a way to feel secure and grounded. Additionally, cultural values that place a high emphasis on collecting and saving items can make it difficult to let go of items that have sentimental value. Economic status and discrimination can also play a role in accumulation and clutter, as immigrants and people of BIPOC communities are more likely to experience financial hardship and may have limited resources to purchase new items. As a result, they may hold onto items that are broken or no longer needed in the hopes of repairing or repurposing them.

Empowering Immigrants and the BIPOC Community

Strategies for organizing and decluttering

Overcoming the challenges of organizing, decluttering, and letting go of items can be a daunting task for immigrants and the BIPOC community. However, there are effective strategies that can help to make this process easier and more manageable.

One such strategy is to focus on items that truly matter and bring joy, which involves asking questions such as “when was the last time I used this item?” or “does this item bring me happiness at this point in my life and moving forward?” By answering these questions, individuals can make informed decisions about which items to keep and which to let go of, ultimately simplifying their lives and reducing clutter.

Another key strategy is to connect with resources and support networks, such as local donation centers or community organizations. Seeking help from a professional organizer who understands cultural differences and can provide guidance and support is also an effective approach. These resources can offer valuable insights and practical advice on how to declutter and organize your space, making the process less overwhelming and more achievable.

Ultimately, organizing and decluttering can be an empowering process that creates space for new opportunities and experiences while also honoring cultural heritage and identity.

Empowering yourself through the decluttering process

By letting go of unnecessary items and creating a more organized environment, you can gain a sense of empowerment and control over your surroundings. This can lead to a greater sense of clarity, as well as increased productivity and creativity. For immigrants and BIPOC individuals, organizing and decluttering can be an especially empowering process, as it can help them assert their presence and create a sense of belonging in a new environment. By letting go of unnecessary items and holding onto those that are truly important, individuals can create a space that reflects their cultural heritage and identity, while also allowing for new opportunities and experiences to come into their lives. Ultimately, the process of organizing and decluttering can be a powerful tool for growth and empowerment.

Get the right support for this journey

At ClutterBGone, we understand that organizing and decluttering can be a challenging and emotional journey, especially for immigrants and the BIPOC community. That’s why we are dedicated to providing the right support and guidance to make this process smoother and more empowering. Our team, led by BIPOC women, is committed to creating a healthier and happier way of living for you. Experience the transformation today and take the first step towards a clutter-free and fulfilling life. Contact us to see how we can help make a real difference in your living experience!

Declutter Effectively

8 Questions You Should Ask Yourself To Declutter More Effectively

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The 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.

Decluttering Effectively

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.

Downsizing Tips When Moving

Downsizing Tips When Moving

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Bigger isn’t always better when it comes to our homes. Downsizing can be the right move at any stage of life, especially if you’re pursuing a simpler and more minimalistic lifestyle. But is it something easy to accomplish? Not exactly. Decluttering and downsizing can feel like a daunting task, mainly when it comes to sentimental items accumulated over the years. It also requires a lot of energy, which is why we recommend you start preparing with these downsizing tips we’ve collected for you:

Plan Ahead

Moving can be an extremely stress-filled transitional period in one’s life. To make things as manageable as possible, you should start the downsizing process promptly to give yourself time to organize everything calmly and thoughtfully. Our recommendation? Start at least three months before you plan to move. If you don’t give yourself enough time, you will likely take too many things with you and not get the result you were hoping for.

Plan Ahead Downsizing

Take Inventory Of All Your Belongings

After years of living in a home, it’s hard to have a mental note of everything you own. That’s why you should start the process by taking an inventory of your belongings – clothes, kitchenware, furniture, etc. – and include the measurements of the larger items. Once you’ve cataloged everything of significance, you can start deciding what will be a good fit for your new place.

One Space At A Time

The thought of decluttering your whole home might be daunting, so remember to take it one step at a time. Instead of rolling up your sleeves to go through your entire home at once, break it down room-by-room.

Sell, Donate or Toss

When the time comes to start making decisions on what will stay and what will go, set clear decluttering ground rules. Only keep the things you really need and that make sense in your new lifestyle. As for the rest, you can do three things: sell, donate, or toss. Some items are so worn or broken that you have no choice but to throw them away. Others can make you a few extra dollars, or be a great match to someone in need.

Digitalize Your Documents

Most people don’t realize it, but paper clutter can really add up, especially when you live in the same house for a long time. To declutter as much as possible, go through old bills, receipts, and other documents, and recycle anything you don’t need. As for the rest, whenever it’s suited, just scan the files and save them on your computer. Remember that home movies, music, and photo albums can also be converted into digital files.

Make a Pan For Your Future Purchases

While your focus is on getting rid of stuff, don’t forget to plan for anything new entering your home. Start making a list of things you want to buy and examine each item carefully. Will it make sense in your new, downsized lifestyle? When you invest so much time and effort into getting rid of things, you should offer the same effort to things coming into your home.

To declutter and downsize is an emotional, time-consuming process that’s a little different for everyone. If you realize that you need help decluttering and organizing your new home, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. We offer you a free telephone consultation so that you can tell us all about your goals for a clean, clutter-free environment.

homeschooling during covid-19

How to Organize For Homeschooling

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With the coronavirus still being a serious threat to people of all ages, many parents now find themselves homeschooling their kids for the foreseeable future. This transition can seem overwhelming, especially if you are working from home right now too. To keep the kids on track with their education and help make homeschooling less daunting for you, try using these organizational tips.

Create a Routine

Organization refers to not only physical items but also intangible constructs, such as time. By planning a set routine for your children, you can provide a day full of both learning and fun.

The key is to balance educational time with ones that allow them to blow off a bit of steam, like going for a walk. They may feel anxious about home isolation, just like adults, so having a schedule can provide comfort for them.

Also include some rules in this routine, such as requiring the kids to get out of their pajamas every morning. Start and end the school day around the same time, Monday through Friday, just like they normally would do.

homeschooling during covid-19

Set Up a Designated Workspace

Even in a small home, there is room for a small area devoted to homeschooling if you get a little creative with how you organize the room. It could be as simple as a kitchen table that becomes a desk during school hours.

Ensure that there is enough space for them to spread out their books and papers if needed. Also, give them comfortable seating so that they’ll want to be there rather than wiggling around and wanting to be anywhere except at their desk!

If you want help transforming a certain room, or part of it, into a homeschool area, reach out to our friendly team of professional organizers. We are happy to meet with you virtually using Zoom software to provide suggestions for creating a great space for them.

Put Supplies Nearby

Shelving and organizational units are great places to hold school supplies, such as paper, pens, markers, pencils, and a pencil sharpener. Keep them within easy reach of the homeschool zone so that your children stay on task rather than get distracted by looking around the house for what they need.

If there aren’t any shelves close by to hold books, then consider turning a rolling cart from another room into a temporary storage area. Even piling up apple boxes for their papers and crafts can be a useful way to separate them

Find What Works for You

Whenever possible, keep the daily structure as much like school was before the coronavirus outbreak to help your kids feel at ease with it. As for exactly what type of organization works for your household, you will find with time what makes sense and what you need to tweak.

While your kids are at home, try to engage them in learning, and break up the school time with fun activities. Organizing the homeschooling day in this way will help them stay on track with their curriculum during this unique time. If you need a little extra support getting you and your kids organized, feel free to reach out – we’re happy to help you out!

organizing your home office

Your Guide to Organizing the Home Office

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If working from home is your new normal during the coronavirus outbreak, you might be one of many who are struggling to make the area a productive one. If you’ve never worked independently before, organized your own workplace, or you are looking for ways to improve the office area, then this guide can help you in organizing the home office.

Get the Proper Technology

You’ll be increasingly dependent on technology for your job now that you’re at home. To help make things easier for yourself, upgrade your Wi-Fi if you haven’t already done so. A slow connection speed can hamper your productivity and increase stress about upcoming deadlines.

Separate the Home Office

It’s also important to divide the work zone from the personal one when working at home. By physically creating a separate area for the desk, papers, and other work stuff from the rest of the house, you are likely to be in business mode when at the desk.

Also, creating a place specifically for work means that the family is less likely to interrupt you when you’re there. If there is a door to the office, shut it when you don’t want the kids calling for you; let them know that a closed door means “do not disturb.”

organizing the home office

Natural Light

If you’re still trying to figure out which room to convert into an office, look for a place with natural light. For example, you might put the desk in front of a window.

The advantage here is being able to enjoy sunlight, which has the potential to help you feel more alert and be more productive. Plus, you’ll use less artificial light when making the most of daylight, which means a lower electricity bill, not to mention being good for the environment.

Be Comfortable

Something you might not have given much thought to is the temperature of the room you’re working in at home. If it’s too hot, you might have concentration problems, and the same holds true if it’s super cold.

Given that the body must expend extra energy to warm up or cool down, that makes sense. Thus, find a comfortable temperature for you that feels “just right” and stick with it.

Ergonomic Gear

Also, make sure the workspace has an ergonomic setup that encourages you to perform at your best. For example, change the height of the chair so that the knees are at about the same level as the hips.

As for the height of the desk, wrists should be straight, with hands at arm level or slightly below. Keep the monitor about 20 inches away or, as a quick reference, roughly the length of your arm.

Final Words on Organizing the Home Office

Lastly, be patient with yourself as you adjust to working from home. It can take weeks to adjust to working in a new environment, especially one that you may share with others. Be forgiving too of others who are also learning to adapt to their new office space amidst feelings of anxiety about the coronavirus.

Staying in work mode can be difficult when the office is in the home, but the tips mentioned above can help you. Reach out to us if you want more suggestions on how to best organize a home office. Wishing you good health and a productive workday.

downsizing with dignity

Downsizing With Dignity Tips For Caregivers

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For most seniors, downsizing into either a retirement home or a smaller more manageable space like a condo or apartment is a big adjustment. Downsizing is not only challenging for the senior, but the caregivers or family members as well – especially when the move is forced and needed for safety or health concerns.

When you are a caregiver, your input and support are priceless during this process. First and foremost, try to keep in mind that they are leaving the home they have perhaps lived in for decades and being faced with downsizing their countless belongings is going to prove challenging. Let’s talk about some tips to ensure our seniors are downsizing with dignity.

Downsizing with dignity tip 1: Always Think Before You Speak

The senior in the process of downsizing will most likely have many possessions that will no longer serve them in their new, smaller space. This is going to be an emotional step for them. Parting with possessions that they’ve had and cherished for many years is not going to be easy. Maintain your patience, and think before you speak. Give them the space they need to process their emotions and allow them to part with their belongings with grace.

Downsizing with dignity tip 2: Avoid Getting Overly Sentimental

If you are the one helping your senior through the downsizing process, you might find yourself getting overly sentimental over home items that meant something to you – or even belonged to you at one point. Ask for permission to take these items either to your home or to dispose of them by goodwill or the garbage. But you should ensure that you don’t demonstrate too much emotion here. This will only make the process harder for the senior involved.

 

downsizing with dignity

Downsizing with dignity tip 3: Decisions Are Not Always Black and White

When you are helping the elderly downsize, try not to make hasty decisions on their behalf. They may be unsure of what to do with a home item – give them the space to make this decision. Not all items will be black and white. Toss or keep. Perhaps set up a third bin labeled ‘thinking about’… which will give them some flexibility and may avoid added overwhelm and stress.

Downsizing with dignity tip 4: Emphasize The Positive

It’s normal for the elderly to feel a bit nostalgic during a downsize. They may even show some negativity around the idea. Remind them of the ‘pros’ of moving into a smaller space. Maintaining a positive outlook around your senior is paramount in the downsizing process. If they are moving into a retirement home, remind them of all the new people they will meet, activities to participate in etc. If moving to a smaller home or condo, remind them that their will be less up-keep of the home and smaller bills. If they are moving close to parks or even closer to family members, remind them of these things. The more peace you can present to them – the better they will feel about the move.

Downsizing with dignity tip 5: Safeguard Special Keepsakes

Their will inevitably be items that are precious and invaluable to your senior. Come up with a plan with your senior as to how they will be kept and treasured if they can not be moved along with them. Whether it’s keeping them in your home, or passed on to another friend or family member, ensure the senior feels good about the decision. They will feel better knowing their treasures are in good hands – and being remembered.

 

While downsizing isn’t easy for anyone, it can be a tough process for the elderly. Love and patience are crucial during the entire process. If you find you need a little extra support and guidance with this process from a professional, we’re always here to support you. Simply reach out here and let’s have a chat.

organizing your home office

Organizing Your Home Office for Maximum Efficiency

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Does this sound like your home office? There are papers all over the place and it’s difficult to walk around without watching your step the entire time. When you are having an issue with a cluttered home office, you are going to need to take action quick. It’s been proven that more clutter makes it harder to think clearly, which can affect your business. Before things get any worse, you need to get to organizing home office supplies and make it a place where you can have a clear head to make that money!

Here are some tips to get you started:

Get Rid of Unnecessary Paper

Papers can easily stack up and become overwhelming in your home office. To keep the paper problem from getting too out of control, use the three-step method whenever you come across a rogue piece of paper: shred or toss it, file it, or take action from it. When you make one of these three choices the moment you have a paper, or several, lying around, you will get rid of the biggest culprit of a cluttered home office.

organizing your home office

Photo by Arnel Hasanovic on Unsplash

Use Storage Containers

Instead of having things out in the open loosely, get a few storage containers to keep things out of sight. This will also make it easy to locate things when you categorize your containers. Stow away all of your office supplies, except the ones that you will be using at any given moment.

Have a Designated Printing Space

Have a special place for all of your printing products and equipment to live in. This will free up space by your desk, as well as make it easy to find things you need when you want something printed.

Have a Designated Mail Center

You will undoubtedly be getting mail for your business. You should create a mail center, where mail coming in gets put until it is opened. Place the mail in a special folder. You can go through it every day or once a week, depending on how busy you are.

If you take these steps, you will be well on your way to organizing those home office supplies and papers that have come to clutter it. You will think more clearly and your office will feel more inviting! And, as always – let us know if we can help!

decluttering your home

Out With the Old – Declutter Your Home

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The start of a New Year is often a time of reflection and resolution. One of the best things you can do to start a new year on a positive note is to take some time to declutter your home to give you a sense of accomplishment and to make way for the new things that will be coming to you. A peaceful and calm environment helps in so many ways. If there is order in your home, you will feel more relaxed and at ease.

Thinking about decluttering your home can be overwhelming, where do you start, what do you part with and what do you keep? Breaking down the task room by room helps to avoid the overwhelm. Select one room and gather three boxes.

Label the boxes:

  • Keep
  • Donate
  • Garbage

donate keep or throw away

Do a visual sweep of the room and start removing items that are broken or very worn and get rid of them! The harder part comes next, deciding what to keep and what to donate. Many of us tend to want to keep items even when they do not bring us joy our have fulfilled their purposed and no longer serve us in any way. Of course, you’ll want to keep sentimental items, but this does not mean they need to be on display so for now add them to the “Keep” box.

Ask yourself:

  • Does this item bring me joy?
  • How does this item serve me?
  • Will someone else have more use of this item?

Donate things that you have not used recently. If you haven’t used the item in a year there’s a pretty good chance that you won’t use it again but someone else may have a need of it. When thinking of donating, it can be helpful to remember that your donation is going to someone less fortunate who can make good use of the item. This makes donating our stuff much easier.

donate clothes to declutter

Items to Donate:

  • Clothes that are gently used
  • Décor pieces
  • Books
  • Small appliances
  • Toys

Lastly, revisit the “Keep” box and go through it again. You may discover you’ll want to revisit the items you thought you wanted to keep. Your mindset may have changed and more items will find their way into the donate box.

Set reasonable goals for yourself, be it one room a day or one room a week. You’ll find whatever works best for you then reward yourself after each room is complete. Rewards can be as little as a small bouquet of flowers to add a pop of colour and freshness to the newly decluttered room. Or go bigger and opt to put a fresh coat of paint on the walls and a new rug. A word of caution about the rewards you choose, don’t add more clutter!

If you’d like some extra guidance and support to declutter your home  to start your New Year off fresh, give us a call. We’re happy to help.