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Decluttering Tips for 2023
When the clock strikes midnight on New Year's Eve, we automatically become obsessed with fresh starts and clean slates. It's officially a New Year and everything must feel like a new beginning and so, the need to declutter and organise our homes becomes all-consuming.
Whilst our intentions are noble, we end up getting so overwhelmed with the idea of having to sort through everything immediately, that we give up halfway through and never fully finish the job. So, if 2023 is the year you have a clutter-free home once and for all, here are some top tips to get organised and, most importantly, stay organised.Start small
The one thing you need to know is - you can not declutter your entire home in one go - no matter how big or small it is. When you attempt this, the task becomes so insurmountable that you procrastinate and never complete it Instead, divide your home into small areas you want to declutter and take them one at a time, spending no more than 30 minutes on each space. Set a timer and stick to it, so you don't get derailed or distracted.
Don't splurge on storage containers
When the thought of decluttering arises, so too does the urge to go out shopping and buy a whole host of storage containers, boxes and baskets to better organise your items. Instead of doing this, declutter first, then purchase what you actually need.Document it
Before you start decluttering, take a photo of the space. By doing this, you’ll be able to see the progress you’ve made. This is important because it’s easy to feel like you’re getting nowhere with reorganising, which makes you want to give up. This method will keep you motivated.
The four box challenge
When you’re sorting through your items, get four boxes; bin it, donate it, keep it, store it.
Bin it. For items you don't need or want to see again, throw them out. Worn out, broken or damaged items you still haven't managed to get repaired should be binned.
Donate it. This box is for the items that you think someone else could use - perhaps a friend or the charity shop.
Keep it. Keep any items that you regularly wear, use or need. Find space in your wardrobe for these things exactly where you see fit. Use this opportunity to coordinate your clothes. Show off your great style, making getting ready so much more fun!
Store it. For items you just can't part with, but don't need every day, place it in storage. This box could be housed in the attic or if there is enough space on a shelf in your wardrobe. Be sure it is a space that is less intrusive.
Make your storage work for you
Decluttering doesn’t just mean getting rid of items, it’s about reorganising your belongings in a way that works better for you. The best way to do this is by having bespoke storage solutions that are built specifically for your space and your needs.
For example, if you’re a bookworm with a huge collection, investing in built-in shelves that act as your own personal library will make you want to organise your books in a beautiful way that stores them properly but shows them off at the same time. If you’re a shoe hoarder with an enviable collection - a wardrobe with angled shoe storage will help you fit more pairs in neatly. Think about your needs and create fitted storage that works around these. You can book a free, no-obligation chat with one of our designers who can discuss your storage needs and dream up a tailor-made solution.
Make your storage beautiful
A great way to ensure you stick to tidying up and putting things away, is to have beautiful storage that’s pleasing to use. If you have a wardrobe or shelving that looks good, you’ll be more likely to want to put things away at the end of the day and keep things clutter-free. If your home is overrun with clutter, sliding door wardrobes are a great solution for concealing things and leaving the impression of a calm and stylish space. Download a free Sliderobes brochure to see just how gorgeous storage can look.
Daily declutter
They say it takes 30 days to form a new habit, so for the entire month of January, dedicate 10-15 minutes at the end of every day to doing a quick sweep of your home and putting things away. Soon, it will become an unconcious routine and doing a little bit every day will reduce the need for big seasonal declutters.
The hanger trick
Clothes can often be the hardest category to declutter so a great tip is turn all the hangers in your wardrobe in the opposite direction and after a couple of months, take a look at which hangers are still facing that direction to get an idea of which items you're actually wearing and which are just gathering dust.
