Sometimes you don’t know how much stuff you’ve got until it’s time to clean out your space and it becomes a never-ending task. It’s like each corner your turn in your house has a bunch of stuff that you don’t even know why you got them in the first place, well, thanks to impulse buying. Many people like to celebrate the festive period with a fresh clean space. It’s like ushering in the New Year on a clean slate. Ready to jump in? Here’s how to declutter for the new year and have fun doing it.
Start Small: One Room at a Time
Don’t stress about decluttering the entire house in one go. Start with a single room or even just one area of a room. You can tackle your wardrobe, kitchen countertops, or that notorious junk drawer that keeps piling up. Breaking it down into bite-sized chunks makes the task feel less overwhelming and gives you a sense of accomplishment each time you finish a spot.
The “One In, One Out” Rule
A great way to keep clutter in check is to implement the “one in, one out” rule. Every time you buy something new—whether it’s clothes, gadgets, or even books—commit to getting rid of one thing you no longer need or use. This keeps your space from overflowing and helps you be more intentional about what you bring into your life.
Donate, Don’t Dump
When you’re decluttering, remember that your discarded items can be treasures to others. Instead of simply throwing things away, consider donating them to charity. Not only will you declutter your space, but you’ll also be spreading some kindness.
Create a “Keep” Pile with Purpose
As you sort through your belongings, make sure to keep items that truly bring you joy or serve a purpose. If you haven’t used an item in the past year, it’s time to let it go. For sentimental items, it’s okay to hold onto a few, but ask yourself: “Does this still serve me?” If the answer is no, it’s time to part ways.
Maintain Your New Clutter-Free Zone
The key to long-term success is maintenance. Keep your space feeling fresh and organised by establishing daily or weekly routines. For example, make it a habit to tidy up before bed or spend 10 minutes each weekend putting things back where they belong. It’s much easier to keep clutter at bay than to do a massive cleanup every few months.
Happy decluttering, and here’s to a cleaner, brighter new year ahead!
