There’s no better time to stay indoors and make improvements around the home. While a top-to-bottom reno can get pricey, there are many ways to rejuvenate your interior without spending too much money.
Decluttering is not only a chance to get rid of waste, but also an opportunity to refresh your existing space. Your home is likely in need of a major decluttering if you:
- Feel overwhelmed each time you step into your home
- Dread visitors dropping in unexpectedly because of the mess
- Feel like keeping the place tidy is a never-ending battle
- Would love to clear away all the junk, so you can realize your home’s full potential
If your home is feeling like more of a burden than a joy, here are 10 simple ways to declutter. Not only will this help lighten the emotional burden, but it will allow you to create more space for the things you love.
1) Work room-by-room
Some tidying experts like Mari Kondo believe the best way to declutter is by tackling your belongings based on category. So this would mean sorting through all your unwanted books, then moving on to clothing, kitchen utensils, and so forth. Although there is sound logic behind decluttering in this way, tidying up based on room (instead of category) can give you a greater sense of accomplishment early on.
2) Prioritize hot spots first
Tackle each area one-by-one, beginning with spaces that are hotspots for clutter. This likely means you’ll start with the closets, basement and then move on to the attic. The laundry room, kitchen and home office can be next. As you declutter each space, you’ll have the motivation to keep going because the results will be immediate upon completion.
3) Establish a sorting system early on
You’ll need to categorize where your belongings will go. The simple ‘three-box method’ can be very helpful: Keep, Toss, Store. Place items into separate bins as you declutter bit by bit. Belongings you’ll keep should be tucked away neatly in drawers or containers. Move seasonal items into the basement or a storage locker. Everything that will be thrown out should be immediately placed in the trash or dumpster.
4) Keep in mind the 80/20 rule
When it comes to things like clothing, we usually wear 20% of what we own 80% of the time. This rule is generally true for other belongings, such as video games, toys and even household gadgets. Keep this concept in mind as you declutter. Get rid of belongings you don’t use 80% of the time.
5) Declutter closets from the ground up
Cleaning out your closet from bottom to top will not only free up space quickly, but it’ll make you feel like you’re halfway done that much faster. And remember: Most clothing and shoes can be donated, so sort these items separately. If you’re using your closet to store useless belongings like old vacuums and broken dustpans, don’t be tempted to just stack them up neatly and call it a day. Instead, throw these items out.
6) Rent a dumpster if necessary
A container rental is particularly useful for larger items that must go in the trash. Many municipal waste programs will not accept broken appliances, old computers or other oversized belongings. Dumpsters can be conveniently parked in your driveway, so you can accumulate waste for the duration of your project. Simply toss everything in the bin, then call your rental company to haul it away when full.
7) Sort through paper items
Decluttering goes beyond getting rid of old books and DVDs. Paper documents (and even old photos) can also add to the mess. Apply the ‘three-box’ sorting system to paper clutter as well: File, Needs Attention and Trash. Old papers, such as income tax statements, can be put away in plastic bins. Important documents and business receipts can be scanned and stored onto a hard drive. If you’re going to trash important files, always be sure to shred them first.
8) Get things off the floor
If possible, the only thing touching your floors should be the furniture. Get storage bins, dirty clothes and old knick-knacks off the ground. Continue sorting these items into your
‘Keep, Toss, Store’ categories. Re-visit whether a dumpster rental is necessary to get rid of items that are destined for the trash.
9) Tackle the garage
This is also a good time to declutter the garage while you’re at it. As we head into summer, it’s a good idea to bring seasonal gear to the forefront, and also organize any gardening tools. If you have items taking up space on your garage floors, consider investing in a rack system to get these things off the ground. You’ll find hanging systems for ladders, bicycles and even tires. Not only will this help organize your belongings, but it’ll also clear up space for your car.
10) Consult a professional organizer
There are experts who help individuals and businesses improve their organizing systems. These skilled specialists are trained in helping millions of Americans improve their quality of life and achieve productivity. Getting a professional opinion may be useful if you just don’t know where to begin.
Declutter with VaVia
VaVia is America’s most trusted source for dumpster rentals. Whether you’re decluttering after a stressful move or trying to clean up from a major reno, we’re here to help you streamline that process. Count on our team of friendly professionals to get rid of your unwanted belongings safely and easily.
See for yourself why we’re the most trusted provider of dumpsters in Tennessee and Alabama -- with more locations in neighboring states opening soon!
For more information on renting a dumpster, call VaVia at 1-833-GO-VAVIA or contact us here. Easy go!