5 expert tips to declutter your home
Victoria Dryden is part of the team at Classic Moves, a full relocation management service, assisting seniors in downsizing or relocating into retirement or aged care. They take the stress out of moving.
Decluttering is never a favourite task but one which is essential every now and then to maintain a healthy house and mind. The prospect of decluttering brings up many emotions and can be quite traumatic for some. Here are some of our helpful tips to assist with the process.
1. Commitment
Commitment to the task is sometimes the most difficult. Make some time and invest yourself to the job. Decluttering is often time-consuming and more often than not if you start and stop, it’s the starting again which may overwhelm you completely. A job half finished is more frustrating than the clutter itself. Try to set time aside for declutter sessions daily, weekly, monthly.
2. Try to be ruthless
Everything has a story. Try not to let the story overpower you. Start with the bathroom or laundry as often these rooms are the easiest to tackle first. Rid yourself of half-used oils, soaps and bathroom dishes, towels and other items collected over the years. Usually these items are of little emotional value and can help you warm up when considering the rest of the house. For jars, crockery long stem glasses, cooking utensils, think about it – how much of each do you need? Bread machines, rice cookers steamers are always a good idea at the time.
3. Don’t get emotional
Often it is the possessions gifted to us by family and friends which end up being clutter. Many feel the need to hold on to items because they believe it may bring us closer to love ones or moments. The love and memory of your family and friends will still remain long after the possessions have gone. If you struggle to let go, take a photo and carry that with you rather than the physical object. This way you can refer back at any time.
4. Have a plan (and keep it simple)
Tackle it strategically. Set up four stations or baskets – put away, give away, sell or storage (which should be your last resort). Ensure every object or item has a destination.
5. Stick to your decisions
Once your decision has been made for an item, try to maintain your position and refrain from changing your mind.
Find more information at Classic Moves.
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