A new year is a perfect time for a new start, and it’s very handy that it comes right after Christmas when your house becomes full of new toys, games, books, food, drink, toiletries, and gadgets making it a perfect time for a good clear out. Out with the old and in with the new, as they say. Clearing out clutter not only creates space in your home but it helps to clear your mind too, so you may as well start the new year with your new things, but also with a clear mind and a clear home. But how can you do that in the most stress-free way?
By Team Savant
Image: STIL
Make A List
Before you do anything, make a list. Write down which rooms you need to declutter most because it’s important not to overwhelm yourself by thinking there is too much to do. Take it one step at a time.
Look At Your Options
Having a good sort out and decluttering doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to throw your things away, self storage is a really good solution for freeing up space, as you’ll know that your things are safe, they’re not just getting in the way at home and gathering dust and this will help you to feel at ease. Then for the things you’re ready to part with completely, then hiring a skip is an option if you’re wanting to get rid of things such as old furniture and appliances.
Start With Your Wardrobe
A great place to start with decluttering is your wardrobe but it’s also something that people don’t like doing or put off. However, you can make it fun by putting on some music, making yourself a drink, and enjoying going through everything. You’ll need a ruthless attitude though or you’ll need a friend who can help you to be strict. Organize your clothes into three piles, one for the clothes you’re definitely keeping, ones which you can donate or sell, and one for things that need to go in the bin.
Keep Your Momentum
Once you’ve gone through your wardrobe and you’re enjoying yourself and feeling accomplished, you might as well carry on with other things in your house. Open drawers and sort them out, keep your ruthless attitude and perhaps create a one-in-one-out rule with your Christmas gifts.
Think Outside The Box
If you come across things that you really can’t get rid of because of sentimental reasons but also isn’t of any use, then think about what else you could do with them. For example, say you have an item of clothing that doesn’t fit but you want to keep it, could you frame it? Could you turn it into something else like a cushion cover? Do you have baby clothes that you could turn into a patchwork blanket? Could you frame it? If it deserves to be seen, then let it be seen.
Decluttering will help you feel ready for the new year, it’s a great way to see what you’ve got, what you’ve forgotten about and could be using or maybe you know someone who would make use of something that you don’t so everyone’s a winner.