Decluttering involves taking a good look at your home and getting rid of objects you don’t use or don’t need.
There are many benefits for doing this. For one thing, decluttering can make it easier for you to manage your home.
Another reason decluttering is good is because a more organized home may help reduce stress. When you’re renovating or making your home weatherproof, don’t be afraid to organize your home too.
Finally, you can give your items to people who will want them more. In some cases, you can even sell them and make some money. You may have hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars worth of stuff that you never use.
Of course, decluttering can be overwhelming. Here are some ways to get started.
Start Small
If you believe you will declutter your entire home in a few days, you’re just going to feel overwhelmed. Start small and do one room at a time, and have a time limit. Work 5 minutes each day, and then work your way up.
Sort into Piles
Have different piles for your stuff. You can have a “donate” pile, a “sell” pile, a “throw away” pile, and a “keep” pile.
You can also have an “on the fence” pile if you are unsure. With that said, you have to decide. Take a critical look at the item. Does it have value to you? Do you use it a lot? If not, then maybe toss it.
Once you have the piles ready, put each into a box and label them.
Handling Clothes
Sometimes, we get a lot of shirts and other pairs of clothes, and it can be difficult to figure out what you should donate.
For clothes you use hangers for, turn all hangers in the opposite direction, then turn the hanger around if you use them.
If there are hangers that aren’t turned around after a month, time to donate.
12-12-12
Sometimes, the best way to get stuff done is to turn it into a game. One way is through the 12-12-12 challenge. This is when you find 12 items to donate, 12 to toss, and 12 to keep.
Sell
Using Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, eBay, or a yard sale, why not try selling some items that have value?
Some items, such as your ratty clothes, probably don’t have much value. However, there are some items you may have that could be valuable. Especially if you own something that’s no longer in production.
Have a Second Pair of Eyes
Ask your friend or family member to help out. They may notice some items you can get rid of, and they can be critical when you find it challenging to get rid of a certain item.
Preventing Your Home from Being Cluttered Again
When you declutter your home, you aren’t finished yet. You are going to buy new stuff for it eventually, and you may have to declutter again.
Make it a yearly thing. Do it as a part of your spring cleaning. Items you may use now may not be used a year later. It happens. People change. Your household should reflect that.
Diagnosis is Key
If you find it challenging to keep your home organized, you may have underlying mental health issues. Depression can make it difficult for you to clean your home. In addition, other mental health problems such as hoarding can make it a challenge too.
Mind Diagnostics can help you by diagnosing your issues and helping you find treatment. If you are unsure, you can seek help from them and get the assistance you need.
Marie Miguel Biography
Marie Miguel has been a writing and research expert for nearly a decade, covering a variety of health- related topics. Currently, she is contributing to the expansion and growth of a free online mental health resource with Mind-Diagnostics.org. With an interest and dedication to addressing stigmas associated with mental health, she continues to specifically target subjects related to anxiety and depression.
