Helpful tips to declutter any space in time for the Holiday

As the holidays quickly approach, I find that there are lots of areas in my home that would benefit from straightening up, organizing, and decluttering. With four kids and two dogs, I personally know the challenges of “stuff” and the benefits of decluttering.

If you’re having friends & family over for the holidays, now is the perfect time to clean, organize, declutter and REFRESH with these simple tips.

1. Set Clear Goals:

· Determine the purpose of your space. Are you aiming for a more functional workspace, a cozy reading nook, or simply a tidier living room or family room?

· Define what you want to achieve with the decluttering process. This could be creating more space, improving organization, or reducing visual clutter.

2. Gather Supplies:

· Get boxes or bins for sorting items (label them with categories like "keep", "donate", "discard").

· Have garbage bags or containers for items that need to be thrown away.

· Have cleaning supplies on hand (dusters, cleaning cloths, vacuum cleaner, etc.).

3. Take Everything Out:

· Start with one section/area at a time. For example, if you're decluttering a closet, take out all the clothes and accessories.

· This step helps you see the space in its entirety and allows you to clean it thoroughly.

4. Sort Items:

· Categorize items into:

· Keep: Things you love, use regularly, or have a practical purpose.

· Donate/Sell: Items in good condition that you no longer need or use.

· Discard: Items that are broken, expired, or no longer serve a purpose.

As you go through this process, keep in mind that our sentimental items are often the most difficult to declutter…kid’s art projects, pictures and favorite toys, always present a challenge for me to let go. I try to keep only those things that truly bring me joy or have a significant meaning.

5. Organize and Store:

· Prioritize accessibility and convenience when organizing items you're keeping.

· Use storage solutions like bins, baskets, shelves, and drawer dividers to maintain order.

6. Eliminate Duplicates:

· Look for duplicates of items like kitchen tools, clothing, or electronics. Keep the best version and let go of the rest.

7. Maintain a "One In, One Out" Rule:

· For every new item you bring into a space, consider removing an old one. This helps prevent future clutter buildup.

8. Regular Maintenance:

· Schedule regular times to reassess and declutter the space to prevent accumulation of unnecessary items.

9. Dispose Responsibly:

* Recycle, donate, or properly dispose of items you no longer need. This contributes to a more sustainable decluttering process.

10. Evaluate and Reflect:

* Take a moment to appreciate your newly organized space. Reflect on how it makes you feel and how it enhances your daily life.

Remember, decluttering is a personal process. Take your time and go at your own pace. It's about creating a space that supports your lifestyle and brings you a sense of calm and satisfaction.