Over the last two years, our work and home routines have drastically changed. It is now normal to work from home and stay put more often. Even if you live in an area where restrictions are loosening and businesses are operating at full capacity, many of the changes are here to stay.
If your family is still spending most of your time at home, it’s essential to make your living environment as healthy and enjoyable as possible. And one of the best ways to do that is to regularly declutter your space. SwellWomen has provided some practical guidance on how to create a clutter-free home that promotes wellness for your entire household!
Why Should You Declutter?
There are many benefits to decluttering your home. For example, a cluttered environment can make it difficult to focus on tasks at hand, which can be a significant problem when you are working or your kids are studying from home.
Also, as UPMC Western Behavioral Health points out, clutter brings stress, and you probably don’t need any more of that in your life! Decluttering your living environment will help you feel accomplished, make it easier to find things you need, and create an overall sense of organization and structure for your routine.
Establish Your Goals and Timeline
As you start to kick the clutter, you will notice more space in your home opening up. You can use the extra space to expand your home office or upgrade your children’s homework area.
Or, perhaps you will create a reading nook or other types of relaxation spots. Decluttering your home can also promote healthy sleep, and it will save you time and stress when it comes to cleaning each room and space. Just be sure to keep the stress levels down during the process; one way to do so is dressing comfortably. Wear stretchable, breathable clothes that fit well.
If you have plans to move in the near future, it’s critical to declutter your home to prepare for sale. Along with helping you show your property to potential buyers in the best light, a clutter-free space will make it easier for movers to get your belongings out of the house.
Develop a Sorting System
If you have as much clutter as most homeowners, you will need a sorting system to adhere to as you purge your belongings. The simplest method is to use three boxes for each space labeled “Keep,” “Get Rid Of,” and “Storage.”
With each item, ask yourself if you have used it recently. If not, do you picture yourself using it in the next year?
For anything that you use frequently, put it in the box for things to keep. If you no longer have use for something, put it in the box for items you will donate, sell, or throw away. And if there is anything you are not ready to part with but you want out of your house, put it in the box for storage. Many people get a self-storage unit to keep seasonal and sentimental items.
Start the Purge
So, you have your “Get Rid Of” boxes. What do you do with them now? You have a few options here. Your first step will be to determine which items are unusable or unsalvageable. Depending on the materials and local guidelines, these are things that you will need to recycle or throw in the dumpster.
For your gently-used items, you can donate or sell them. Look for local charities that can take your clothes, shoes, furniture, and other household items. Some organizations will even pick them up from your home. If you want to make a few extra bucks, consider selling some things through an online marketplace, at a local consignment shop, or by organizing a garage sale.
Conclusion
Everyone needs a healthy and comfortable home. And the best way to make that happen is to keep the clutter at bay and prioritize an organized living environment.
Remember to set attainable goals and completion dates, create a sorting system, and take time to thoroughly purge any household items you do not need or want. In no time, you will feel less stress, be able to focus on the tasks at hand, and enjoy a healthier overall home.
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