10 Ways to Declutter in the New Year

Are you up to your ears in clutter? Clutter in your home can leave you feeling unorganized, drained, and like you are carrying a weight on your shoulders. Instead of climbing through clutter, why not use the new year to get organized and down size. If you aren’t sure where to begin, or are simply overwhelmed by the thought, give these 10 ways to declutter in the New Year a try!

10 Ways to Declutter in the New Year

1. Use the 6 month rule.
You know the rule: If you haven’t used it in six months, chances are you won’t use it. So donate those unused items instead, as they are taking up precious space and testing your sanity. If you are really brave, try the 3 month rule!

2. Remember, less stuff means less cleaning.
The more stuff you have, the more time you spend cleaning. Do you have tons of clothes? That means lots of time spent doing laundry and folding. Do you have lots of knick knacks? That means lots of time dusting. Instead, pare down what you don’t need and see how much time you save on cleaning.

3. Use the three bin sort method.
This method helps you comb through your items so you can easily find a place for everything. When using this method you create 3 bins: Keep, Toss, Donate. Every item in your home should be able to fit into one of these bins. Start sorting and make quick decisions, and in no time you will scale down.

4. Turn clutter into cash.
If you have a hard time parting with items, just remember you can always turn them into cash, and who couldn’t use more money? Try selling items on Ebay, Etsy, Craigslist, or in a tag sale. It is a great way to eliminate clutter while filling your wallet.

5. Let go of projects.
Perhaps you have a chair you wanted to paint, or a picture frame you wanted to repurpose. If you have been holding onto these objects for a year, it is time to let them go. Let go of old and undone projects so you can make way for fresh opportunities in the new year.

6. Have the appropriate supplies on hand.
When attempting to declutter, you want to have everything you need on hand so you don’t get sidetracked. This means plastic totes, gloves to protect your hands, and plenty of trash bags. These items will be sure to come in handy and help you do the job!

7. Utilize labels.
Labels can help you best keep track of what you have and help everything find its place in the future. Invest in cute chalkboard labels or any type of simple peel and stick label to label drawers and totes as you begin to fill them.

8. Find some support.
Pair up with a friend who needs to get organized like you. This way you can support each other, help each other, trade tips and tricks, and encourage each other as the year goes on. Strength is always in numbers, even when getting organized.

9. Remember that stuff doesn’t equal wealth or happiness.
Don’t let stuff define you. Remember that it is just “stuff” and in the end, doesn’t matter. Experiences with the people you love and your peace of mind matters, so part with the stuff and don’t let it hold you down any longer.

10. Make decluttering fun.
Enjoy fun music, colorful totes and labels, and even a fun beverage when you are decluttering. Treat yourself to a manicure when you have completed the task, or to a dinner out with the family. Vow to not bring more stuff into the house and to keep sorting and eliminating as the new year goes on.

Getting a grip of your clutter can be easy when you give these tips a try!