I said at the top of the year that I am taking on the challenge to update, renovate and redecorate my home. Phase 1 in my thrifted home project is the dreaded declutter. We have a stuff problem! And after my second child was born, I felt like everything exploded. We had twice as much stuff. Now it’s time to let go, but also set some rules and guidelines so this doesn’t happen again.
Here are 10 things I’m decluttering now that will not only give me more space but also reduce my stress.
- Duplicates. I mean, how many air fryers does one household need? But this also goes for any small appliances, utensils and literally any multiple or duplicate can go!
- Old or Chipped mugs & plates. It’s a no-brainer.
- Dated spices and expired pantry items. Honesty, when I decluttered and cleaned out my spice drawer, I was shocked to see spices that were 2 to 3 years old!
- Worn out sheets, towels and bathmats. My old dingy white Zara home bathmat has seen better days. So it’s time to say bye-bye.
- Kids outgrown clothes. I know this will give my kids so much extra space in their drawers and closets. I also need to declutter my closet, as well, but I do that regularly already.
- Broken toys or toys your kids no longer play with. While I’m at it, let’s get rid of those puzzles and games with missing pieces, too.
- Old school projects. I’m going to snap a pic for the memory box and relieve myself of all of the kids’ paper clutter.
- Old books, especially the never-used cookbooks
- Old makeup. Makeup does expire. I don’t want to keep holding on to makeup that could be hurting your skin or that I never use.
- Old craft supplies. This is last because this is probably the most daunting category for me to declutter, besides my closet. I am a huge crafter and artist, so I have acquired and held onto a lot of supplies. But if I want a spacious and cozy home, it’s time to learn to live with less.
My rules to combat the clutter going forward.
- Only buy what we need, make a list and stick to it.
- When I shop for every 1 thing, I bring in 2 things that I need to leave.
- Anything that comes into our home has to have a place and be organized.
- Do mini declutters at the end of each month and reorganize space when needed.
Decluttering isn’t easy, but it’s the first step to having the home of my dreams. I hope this inspires you to declutter something from your home today. Anything in good condition can be donated to your local Goodwill Akron Donation Center.