Easy Ways To Declutter: How To Get Your Home Into Shape by Jackie Waters from Hyper-Tidy
Decluttering your home has many benefits; aside from making it more aesthetically pleasing, getting organized can also help improve your mood and prevent stress, anxiety, and even depression from setting in. Many homeowners aren’t sure where to start, however, and are overwhelmed at the thought of tackling bigger jobs in the basement or garage. There are many easy ways to clear out your home without the help of a professional, and it pays to have the right tools and knowledge before you begin.
First, you’ll want to think about whether you’re going to try to sell any items you no longer want, as these will need to be pulled out and set aside. Many homeowners plan for a garage or yard sale, but you can also place gently-used items up for sale with apps like Poshmark and Vinted. Have cleaning supplies ready before you begin, and make a plan for large items of furniture (in case you need help moving them).
Read on to find out more about the best ways to whip your home into shape by
decluttering.
Learn more about the second-hand economy
The second-hand economy is often talked about these days as a way to make money, but many people aren’t sure exactly what it is or how to get involved. In short, the second-hand economy is simply a way for anyone to sell or buy gently-used items in order to make or save money, and it’s highly beneficial for the environment, because it prevents buildup at landfills–one of the biggest contributors to climate change. Think about the items you own that you no longer need or want; would they make a good fit for selling through an app or other marketplace?
Get organized
One of the best things about decluttering is the ability to get organized, because it will help you maintain a clean and tidy home even when you’re busy. Having bins and shelving to place everything you own will allow you to keep things neat and clean up quickly throughout the week, saving you from having to complete a big cleaning job all at once. Introduce storage solutions to each room as you declutter; you might look for furniture that has hidden storage, especially if you’re short on space.
Remember the rules
There’s a general consensus among professional organizers that if you have items in your home that haven’t been used or worn in a year or more, they can probably go. Unless it’s a seasonal item, think about whether you’ll be able to get any use out of it or if it would better serve someone else. There are many places you can donate to; look online to find out what your local options are as far as thrift stores and shelters. Many of us hold emotional attachments to belongings, so keeping the 1-year rule in mind will be helpful when you’re cleaning out your closets.
Start in the bedroom
Many people don’t realize how much clutter their living space contains until they start the process of tidying up, and this includes the bedroom. You may have a nightstand full of books to be read, or a dresser surface full of jewelry and perfume bottles. Look around, and make a list of all the spots in your room that could be pared down or organized a bit better, and do this first, as it can benefit your ability to sleep well and reduce anxiety.
Decluttering your home can be a big job if it’s never been done before, so keep in mind that you don’t have to do it all in one day. Break down the process over several weekends to keep from getting overwhelmed, and make plans to get help if you need heavy furniture to be moved.