As autumn and winter approach, we often find ourselves surrounded by clutter in our homes. Things can easily get out of order as we transition from summer to fall and back to school. Not to mention Halloween costumes or fall decorations, finding a spot to hide those early-bird Christmas presents, or planning ahead for your Thanksgiving meal. It's easy for things to pile up and create chaos. But with some planning and effort, it's possible to declutter your home before the holidays arrive.
To start, it's essential to establish your goals and create a plan of action. Identify the areas in your home that are causing the most stress and clutter, such as closets, pantries, or garages. Establish a plan that allows you to tackle one area at a time, beginning with the most pressing.
Here are our favorite tips to start decluttering your home
1. Start small: Once you have a plan and know which rooms are the priority, begin by decluttering one room at a time. This way, you won't feel overwhelmed and can focus on decluttering without getting distracted with other projects. Remember, you eat an elephant one bite at a time.
2. Focus on the most crowded areas of the room functional: When decluttering closets or smaller storage areas, sometimes it's easier to take everything out and assess how frequently you want or need it. Store items that you regularly use in an intentional way (can you see it/easily find it/etc.) and get rid of things you haven't used or worn in the last 6 months to a year. This will free up space and make it easier to find things you actually need. Bins and hanging shelves are a great way to eliminate piles in areas like closets.
3. Get rid of duplicates: How many times have you purchased something because you couldn't find the original and then later find it tucked away somewhere it wasn't supposed to be? One of the best benefits of decluttering your home is knowing where everything is which saves you time and money in the long run. Check for duplicates of items such as kitchen gadgets, books, or DVDs. Keep only what you need and get rid of the rest.
4. Clear out expired items: This doesn't just apply to food. Don't forget to check expiration dates on medicine and beauty products too. Toss anything that's expired or no longer usable. For areas like these, look for clear storage solutions like under sink drawers or organizers so you can see what you have and prevent waste in the future.
5. Donate or sell unused items: If you have items that are still in good condition but you no longer use, donate or sell them. This will not only declutter your home but also benefit others. No matter what room you start in, it's important to keep in mind that less is often more. Be honest with yourself about what you genuinely need and use regularly, and be willing to let go of items that are merely taking up space.
If decluttering feels overwhelming and you know you need some extra hands, our team of professional organizers can help you create a customized plan that suits your lifestyle and needs. We'll come in and help you declutter, donate items, and create functional storage solutions that you can easily implement for years to come.
Whether you tackle your decluttering project on your own, or you enlist our help, putting in a bit of effort and having the right organization solutions can create a home that is clutter-free and ready for the holiday season. By decluttering before the chaos sets in, you'll be able to enjoy the festivities without the stress and overwhelm that comes with a cluttered home. So why not get started today and enjoy a happier, more organized home this holiday season?