Starting a new year is often a time for looking back, thinking forward, and deciding what to take with you, literally and metaphorically, into the next 12 months. Declutter your home for a fresh start to the new year with these eight tips.
1. Photograph Each Space
Photographing each room and the inside of your cupboards can keep you motivated when your energy starts to wane. Looking back at these photos will remind you of how much progress you’ve made since you began decluttering your home.
2. Sort Your Clothes
Gather all your clothes into one large pile to get a clear view of everything you own. This makes it easier to envision outfits and try on anything you think may no longer fit. Unless items are for specific occasions, anything you haven’t worn in the past year is likely ready to go. There’s no reason to hold on to clothes that don’t fit or ones you don’t like. Be honest with yourself to reduce the clutter in your wardrobe. Repeat this process with your shoes, bags, and accessories. You can donate unwanted items to charity for an added sense of satisfaction.
3. Empty Your Pantry
It’s amazing how easily unused food can accumulate at the back of a cupboard. Take a moment to go through your pantry, checking each item, and discard anything past its use-by date or that you know you won’t use. Be sure to do the same for your refrigerator and freezer!
4. Declutter by Throwing Away Papers
Many people have a file, drawer, or cupboard filled with outdated papers that serve little purpose today. With most documents now accessible online, items like old bank statements, expired warranties, and receipts often no longer need to be kept.
5. Get Rid of Broken Items to Declutter
Lots of people are guilty of hanging onto things that no longer work or are damaged. Whether you just didn’t get around to throwing something away yet, or whether you’re saving it in the hope you’ll one day get around to repairing it, get rid of it. If an item has been useless for some period of time, you probably don’t need it in your life.
6. Keep Family Away While You Declutter
It’s easy to become distracted by people when trying to declutter. Plus, your family may be shocked at how much you are getting rid of and put doubts in your mind. Do your new year decluttering on your own.
7. Save Sentimental Items Until Last
Looking through sentimental items can quickly turn into an afternoon of nostalgia. Before you know it, you’ve run out of precious decluttering time. Leave sentimental items, such as old letters, photographs, gifts, and childhood toys, until last to sort through.
8. Hire an Expert
If your new year declutter isn’t going as smoothly as you hoped, or you’re finding it hard to actually part with anything, you could consider seeking the help of a professional. While they definitely won’t make you get rid of anything that you really don’t want to, they will help you gain a fresh perspective, highlight areas that can be improved, and keep you focused on the end goal.