Spring Cleaning: Tips to Clear that Clutter

Photo credit: Ella Jardim via Unsplash

There’s no denying that spring has sprung. Evidence is all around us with the warmer weather and the oh-so-beautiful dusting of pollen on everything!

This season is traditionally a time of year when folks feel inspired to do a little spring cleaning, but struggle with how to approach their editing process.

Decluttering is an on-going necessity in our lives; however, it requires a little bit of forethought and strategy if you want your home to be more organized, feel calmer, and produce less anxiety.

Here are guidelines and suggestions to inspire you to carpe diem this spring and take back spaces in your home that have become a little too unruly:

1. Vision casting: Start with a clear vision of how you want and need a space to function for you. Identify what is working and what isn’t so you can capitalize on the positive and correct the negative over the course of your project.

2. Create a plan: Make a list of all the areas you want to declutter, prioritizing each space according to their importance to you.

3. Put it in the calendar: Decluttering is a far more time-consuming process than people expect, so set aside a specific time each day or week to work on it. Even just 15-30 minutes a day can make a big difference.

4. Call in the cavalry: Don’t be afraid to ask for help from family or friends - but be wary of allowing an enabler to join you - you need tough love when decluttering!

5. Divide and conquer: If you are tackling a space that is severely cluttered, take small bites. For example, if you are working in your closet, tackle one category at a time: pants, shoes, tops, accessories, etc.

6. Get rid of duplicates: If you have multiple items that serve the same purpose, keep only the one you use the most and donate the others.

7. Donate or sell items in good condition: Consider donating or selling items that are still in good condition that you no longer need or want. Many non-profits will do a free pick up from your home. When you are scheduling your decluttering project(s) on your calendar, also schedule up your pickups.

8. Use storage solutions: Consider using storage solutions (such as bins, baskets, and shelving) to keep items organized and easily-accessible. Make sure you plan what you need before shopping - don’t go crazy buying supplies if you don't need it.

9. Keep sentimental items to a minimum: It's okay to keep sentimental items, but try to keep them to a minimum. Only keep the items that truly bring you joy or have significant sentimental value. If you haven’t looked at them in the past 1-2 years, consider letting them go.

10. Use the "one-year rule”: A good rule of thumb when decluttering is to get rid of anything you haven't used or worn in the past year. This applies to clothing, shoes, accessories, household items, decor, tools, and other belongings.

Decluttering is incredibly rewarding, but it can be overwhelming in the moment. Take breaks as needed, play music to keep you focused, and don't try to tackle everything at once. Focus on one area at a time and celebrate your progress along the way! If you need a “clutter buddy”, Step by Steppe Solutions is just a click away from supporting you through this process! Inquire here.