How To Tackle Clutter

START SMALL

Clutter can be overwhelming, and knowing where to start when tackling it can be challenging. Start small by choosing a small area, such as a single drawer or shelf, and work to larger spaces. Next, focus on that area and remove anything that you no longer need. These small wins will add up, and you will start to see progress in decluttering your space. Remember to be patient with yourself and not expect to tackle everything simultaneously. 

SET GOALS

First, identify your overall goal for decluttering, like creating a more organized living space, reducing stress and anxiety, or making it easier to find things when needed. Then, once you have your overall goal, break it down into smaller, more specific goals that are achievable in the short term. Finally, write down your goals and keep them visible to stay accountable. Setting goals can help you stay focused and motivated. 

CATEGORIZE YOUR BELONGINGS

Choose a category of items, such as clothing, books, or kitchen gadgets. Next, gather all the items in that category from around your home and put them in one place. Use storage containers, shelves, or other organizational tools to keep the items in their designated categories and make them easy to find. Over time, you will better understand what you own and where everything is located, simplifying maintaining an organized and clutter-free home.

USE THE "FOUR-BOX" METHOD

The "Four Box" method is a popular approach that involves using four boxes or containers to help streamline the decluttering process and make it easier to determine what to keep and get rid of.

Label four boxes or containers as "Keep," "Donate," "Sell", and "Throw Away". Then, choose a category of items, such as clothing or books, and start sorting them individually.

As you come across an item, decide which of the four boxes it belongs in. For example, if you use something regularly or have sentimental value, put it in the "Keep" box. If it's something that is still in good condition but no longer serves a purpose for you, put it in the "Donate" box. If you could sell something like electronics, put it in the "Sell" box. And if something is broken or no longer valuable, put it in the "Throw Away" box and dispose of them accordingly. 

BE HONEST WITH YOURSELF

It's essential to be patient with yourself and to recognize that decluttering is a process that takes time and effort. It's important to realize that you control your possessions and how you organize them. Be honest with yourself about what you need and what you can let go of. 

ORGANIZE YOUR SPACE

Organizing your space is not a one-time task but an ongoing process. So make it a habit to keep things tidy and organized to create a functional environment. Finding a place for everything is essential, as establishing systems to maintain order. Invest in storage solutions that work for you, such as shelves, bins, and baskets. 

TAKE IT ONE ROOM AT A TIME

Taking it one room at a time is a helpful strategy. As you work through each room, be consistent with your approach and maintain the same level of organization throughout your home. This will help you establish habits and routines to keep clutter at bay in the long term. Moreover, manageable tasks can make the process more achievable.

USE A TIMER

Set a timer for a specific time, such as 15 or 30 minutes. During this time, work on decluttering and organizing a particular area; when the timer goes off, take a break or move on to another task. Using a timer can help you to work more effectively and prevent you from becoming overwhelmed by decision-making. 

DON'T PROCRASTINATE

Clutter tends to build up over time, so the longer you put off dealing with it, the more overwhelming the task can become.

Dedicate time to work on decluttering and organizing your space. This might involve scheduling specific blocks in your calendar, such as an hour on the weekend or 15 minutes each day. Try to stay focused and avoid getting distracted by other tasks or activities. If you procrastinate, break the task into smaller, more manageable steps. Even with just a few minutes to devote to the task each day, regularly taking action will help you progress over time.

BE KIND TO YOURSELF

Be kind to yourself and approach the task with patience and self-compassion. If you're feeling overwhelmed or discouraged, take a break and do something that helps you to recharge and feel refreshed. Celebrate your progress by walking outside or engaging in a hobby that brings you joy. Avoid setting unrealistic expectations for yourself, and don't compare your progress to others. Everyone's journey is different; what works for one person may not work for another.

Contacting our team at PG Home Cleaners can be a great option if you need help tackling clutter in your home. Our professional cleaners can provide expert cleaning services to help you create a more organized and functional living space.