How to declutter my home
How many times have you said to yourself, “I wonder how on earth I can declutter my home?”
It’s not always easy to start, as quite often clutter has built up to the point where it feels overwhelming. I get it. But if your wish to declutter your home has now reached a crescendo, then it’s time to get stuck in. The question is – how do you start?
Set a time and prepare
First off, it’s important to set a time and day to begin and commit to it by putting it in the diary. I suggest having the family out of the way (unless they’re helping positively) and keep pets clear too – they can be a distraction!
Next, get yourself equipped. I always have:
- Bin liners
- Bags for charity
- Strong tape
- A black marker pen and labels
- A large shopping bag (for items that belong in other rooms)
As I always say, a place for everything and everything in its place.
Start room by room
I suggest working room by room, or category by category – whichever feels easiest. For example, if you have lots of books, it may feel overwhelming to gather them all at once. Instead, tackle one room’s worth before moving on.
The golden rule of decluttering: put everything of the same type together so you can work through it in one go.
Making decisions
If you struggle to let go, this will be the hardest part. Focus on what is needed. Pick up each item, think for a moment, and make a quick decision. There’s no point keeping things that are surplus to requirements – toys no longer played with, books, knick-knacks, or outdated paperwork.
As I work through a room, I choose a corner to start from and stick to it. Every item is removed from cupboards and drawers and placed into piles. Then, I work through each pile, keeping what I love and letting go of the rest.
Reposition and reset
At the end of a session, look around. What you have left is what you are keeping. Now it’s time to decide where those items belong. If something doesn’t fit in that room, put it in the shopping bag and move it elsewhere. You may also want to invest in baskets or organisers to make the room look and feel better.
Setting boundaries
I often see homes where children’s toys are spread across every room. This creates chaos. It’s always best to keep toys in children’s bedrooms or a playroom. Adults need calm spaces too, and this helps teach children boundaries.
Books and clothes
Books: Fiction books can be shared once you’ve read them – pass them on to friends, donate, or even leave one on a bench with a note for someone else to enjoy. I keep non-fiction books, as I often refer back to them.
Clothing: Clothes are another sticking point. I used to be a shopaholic, but now I have far fewer clothes. The truth is, we don’t wear most of what we own. Once you accept that, letting go becomes easier. Every item I keep makes me feel great and fits my style. If I wouldn’t buy it again, I don’t keep it. Unwanted clothes can be donated or sold online.
The bigger picture
Decluttering your home is essential for good mental health. You owe it to yourself. As I said to a friend recently, I’ll never look back and wish I’d bought more stuff. Instead, I’ll wish I had more experiences and fewer worries.
With love,
Beth
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Elizabeth McPherson
beth@thelifestyleconcept.co.uk
07932 945738
www.thelifestyleconcept.co.uk