How to Reduce Existing Household Clutter
Many American households are drowning in a sea of clutter. A lot of this is paper-based. If regular de-cluttering does not take place closets and attics simply become areas to store rubbish, year after year. It can be stressful trying to live and/or work in a cluttered environment, but with energy, time and a plan, you can de-clutter and reclaim your home. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Sort your household belongings. Place in bundles for throwing, selling and giving away to charity. Be ruthless about this and abide by the maxim that if you have not worn or used the item within a year then you do not need it. Get everyone in the household involved. Sort out one busy room, such as the kitchen, before tackling the rest of the house.
-
2
Make some money by selling unwanted items on eBay or at a yard or garage sale. Make sure that electrical items work. Use garbage bags and take unwanted clothes to a local charity shop. Give away items, such as working electrical items, or bulky furniture by posting an advertisement online, such as Craigslist. Look into any local recycling programs..
-
-
3
Invest any money you have made by selling your unwanted items by investing in proper storage (or spend some additional money). Depending on your household space, you might need storage boxes, shelving units, or closets in the children's bedroom. Do not fill this extra storage space with bags of clutter and items that you do not use.
-
4
Sort out your papers and magazines as piles of these can make a room feel very cluttered. Buy magazine files and label each one. For example, keep one file for mortgage information, another for utilities, and so on. That way you will be able to keep track of your bills and will be able to find important information, such as the car insurance, quickly.
-
5
Research short-term self-storage solutions if you are desperate for more space. This option is ideal if you are renting for a short time but know you will move into a more spacious home at a later date. Storage can be expensive, though, so weigh the cost against getting rid of some of your possessions and starting afresh.
-
6
Set up a regular schedule for clearing out clutter. Review every few months to identify whether your storage is sufficient. Throw away or recycle your clothes and/or children's toys regularly. Do not be tempted to put excess items in the attic or the basement.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Find a clutter buddy and have fun while you are sorting your household items. Try on clothes and get advice on whether to keep them or discard.
Dealing with "clutter" that belongs to a loved one who has died is always difficult emotionally. Take your time and remove belongings when you feel ready.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit kitchen drawer image by Christopher Hall from Fotolia.com
