January is a time for new beginnings and resolutions, so it’s also a great time to clear out the clutter! The hardest part of the decluttering process is getting started, so we’re here to help with some useful tips, tricks and motivation.
- Set the mood/tone with music and scents: If you’re going to declutter, you may as well try to make it as enjoyable as possible. A lot of people find music motivates them to work harder and more efficiently.
- The 3 or 4-box method: Divide things up into different boxes as you go through them. For instance, you could do the 3-box method and have boxes for 1) keep, 2) give away, and 3) sell.
- Do it in phases: Don’t try to declutter the whole house in one go. Set small realistic goals to help stay motivated.
- Struggling to part with some items? Take pictures. It makes it easier to get rid of sentimental items if you have a photo memory to hold on to.
- “One In, One Out” Rule: Don’t buy anything new until you finish decluttering. If you must get something, use the “one in, one out” rule. Or, better yet, try one in, two out.
- Wardrobe Hanger Method (or Reverse Hanger Trick): An idea that gained popularity after Oprah mentioned it. The concept is that you turn all the clothes in your closet around so the hanger is facing the wrong way. After wearing something, you turn the hanger the correct way when you put it back. After a set period of time (6 months, 12 months), you get rid of anything that is still facing the wrong direction because you haven’t worn it.
If all else fails, you can hire a professional declutterer or professional organizer to do all the work for you…but we know with these tips you’ll be able to start a new tradition!
