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Decluttering for a Fresh Start
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A New Year, A Clean Slate
With the hustle of everyday life, it can be difficult to keep our homes organized and clutter-free. Yet, creating an orderly space is incredibly beneficial to our mental health. Decluttering can lead to
improved mood, reduced anxiety, and a greater sense of peace and well-being. With a little effort and planning, you can make a huge difference in the appearance and functionality of your home.
Where To Start?
Break the clutter into manageable chunks by starting with the area that's causing the most frustration in your daily life. Whether it's the whole kitchen, a chaotic wardrobe, or an overflowing medicine cabinet, once you feel the serenity of a freshly organized space, you'll be raring to tackle the rest of the house. If a large room is intimidating, begin with a small area to get your feet wet. You'll be amazed at what you can accomplish with small, achievable goals.
Take a page out of renowned organization guru Marie Kondo's book, where she shares her philosophy of tidying up: only keep items that ‘spark joy’ for you. Do you really need all those old magazines, knick knacks, and clothes that no longer fit? Why you are you holding onto expired products you can no longer use? When sorting through a space, take a moment with each item and ask yourself if it continues to be useful, necessary, or add joy. Create a pile for what you want to keep, and make separate piles for everything you plan to throw away or donate.
Keep What You Love
Get Creative & Inspired
Home organization can be both stylish and functional. Incorporate decorative solutions like bins, jars, catch-alls, baskets, and multi-functional furniture pieces into your decor to keep your home clutter-free while still looking great. Don't forget to make use of walls by adding floating shelves, peg boards, and magnetic strips to keep items off the floor and easily accessible. Opt for storage accessories that add beauty and texture to the space.
The key to conquering the chaos lies in having a designated spot for everything. Labeling and organizing storage containers helps keep shelves tidy and stops items from becoming misplaced. Baskets and catch-alls are especially useful for smaller items. Drawer dividers, stackable bins, and wall hangings help maximize the space throughout your home. Investing in a few key items can make the process more efficient and keep your home tidy for the long term.
Store Things Properly
Deep Clean As You Go
Achieving a truly organized home means more than just moving items around. A fresh, sparkling space still requires a deep clean. Wipe down shelves and vacuum furniture throughout the home as you go.
Doing so will help you feel a sense of refreshment in your newly decluttered space and also make it easier for you to maintain. Don’t sleep on a deep clean, it’s an essential part of the process!
Transform your wardrobe or drawer in a flash by learning how to fold properly. Be creative with stacking items to save space and store frequently-worn items in easy-to-reach spots. Utilize drawer dividers, shelving and compartments, and hang belts and scarves on the back of the closet door. Don't be afraid to get rid of anything you haven't worn in a year! Store seasonal items like coats and jackets in labeled plastic bins for long-term organization.
Learn How To Fold
Prioritize The Pantry
The kitchen is the heart of the home and the often it's first place to fall into disarray. To make over your pantry, start by saying good-bye to expired items. Invest in clear storage containers and bins that make it simple to identify and quickly grab what you need. Opt for containers that match in shape, size and style for a clean and cohesive look. Once you're organized, designate shelf and drawer space so your most frequently-used items are the most easily accessible. You'll end up with a kitchen that's both efficient and eye-catching.
If you're debating what to keep or give away, ask yourself if someone else might benefit more from each item. Often, thinking in terms of donation can inspire us to declutter more than if we were to imagine throwing something in the trash. You’ll be saving the item from the landfill, while blessing another person with something they need. Whatever your personal motivation is for decluttering your home, it comes with the satisfaction of knowing that you are making a positive impact on someone else's life when you donate your unneeded things.
Think Generously
Create Your Decluttering Practice
Decluttering isn't just about tidying your home. It's a powerful practice for freeing up your energy and focus. Much like yoga or meditation, a regular habit of decluttering can bring clarity and peace into your life.
With just a little effort, you can create a weekly habit around clearing your space to achieve a consistently serene home and mind. Experience how life-changing the art of decluttering can be.
Each office is independently owned and operated. Information deemed reliable, but not guaranteed. Not intended to solicit sellers or buyers under written contract with another REALTOR®.
Tracey Manton
Broker
RE/MAX Real Estate Centre Brokerage
Independently owned and operated.
Independently owned and operated.
238 Speedvale Ave W, Guelph, ON N1H 1C4