Tips of De-cluttering

In today’s times the phrase “less is more” has become an outdated cliché, while “shopping till you drop” has become a weekend norm. In so many cases, the end results of years of birthday presents, charming keepsakes, markdown clearance must haves, and favorite sweaters has now become that dreaded word “clutter”. Having too much clutter can make what was once a spacious home, digress into an embarrassing mass of cramped space. Living in a home of disarray can become time consuming and stressful. Items that were once enjoyed have seemingly disappeared and useless possessions are everywhere. The art of de-cluttering , a subject that is becoming increasingly popular on many home channels, is a feat more attainable than what many people think. There effective solutions for home de-cluttering and conquering clutter.
To begin the process of de-cluttering, the safest bet is to start with one room. Choosing one room makes the process of monitoring results easier. The ability to enjoy the results of one completed room, far out weighs the task of struggling to finish numerous rooms simultaneously.
After a room is chosen, start off with doing what can be called a “trial run”. Armed with several large plastic bags and a open mind, canvas the entire and throw away any items that can be trashed. This can include expired medications, expired canned goods, junk and outdated mail (always shred) , old magazines, newspapers or catalogs.
Now that the trash is removed, the second step is to determine what to donated or sell. Having a friend, relative or a Professional Organizer handy for this task can be helpful. Considering a second opinion when determining what not to keep is invaluable. Start off by sorting and categorizing all like items into groups. Determine which items are duplicates and/or rarely used. A common rule of thumb is the “Twelve Month Rule”. An item that hasn’t been used or worn in a twelve months or more should be removed. Secondly, decide what items are functional, decorative, or neither. Functional items are things that are in frequent use. Decorative items are enjoyable pieces that are used for decoration. Things that are neither decorative or functional should be properly stored, donated or sold. Allowing what were once prized possessions to be used and enjoyed by others through donating to local charities and organizations can be rewarding and meaningful. Also selling items via yard sells, internet transactions, and/or auction dealers can be lucrative and worthwhile in many cases.
Now that the room is free of all unwanted items, the organizing begins. The final step to assigned a “home” for everything . This step deals with proper storage and functional space management. Label and create workable storage systems that are tailored to personal preference and accessible. Choose storage items that are clear, light weight and easy to handle. Once every item has a “home”, effective space assignment is key. The goal is to create a room that is both visually appealing and functional. Rising to the challenge de-cluttering and organizing a chaotic room will transform it into a calm and welcoming haven .

ClutterFree specializes in full service home and office de-cluttering and organizing. ClutterFree Professional Organizers assist our clients in sorting and consolidating closets, clothing, basements, garages, bedrooms, paperwork…etc. We also handle all donation, trash and perishable removals.