Stress…Clutter…Mess…
It gets overwhelming just managing stuff’s movement from one place to another. The four of us bought, built out then lived in an 8 x 2.2m bus for a year. Twice.
Two adults, and two boys. We needed some stuff to live small, but not as much. With what we took, every day I still moved things to be able to sit down or cook in the initial months when we first started refitting. Over time, cupboards were built and things found their places.
Still, due to space limitations, we had to minimise our possessions in preparation for that experience, taking only what was essential, in use daily, or absolutely loved.
Since then we’ve moved in and out of houses and helped friends downscale or move.
I’ve developed some strategies and attitudes to possessions that have helped me be efficient when reducing the amount of stuff there is to declutter, clean, or move.
Here’s my current approach to downscaling, decluttering, and dumping excess stuff…
How to Make Decluttering a Breeze
Decide on one room, cupboard or area to clean and sort.
Get 3 large empty boxes.
Put them at your front door.
Label them with a felt – GARAGE SALE/ GIVE/ THROW AWAY
Sort like items in your chosen area first. Throw away rubbish and take empty containers/ cutlery back to the kitchen.
Put any washing in one pile and as you pick up each item, ask yourself:
Do I love this?
Yes – Keep.
No – Put it into one of the boxes near the front door.
Do I use this a lot?
Yes – Keep.
No – Put it into one of the boxes near the front door. If it’s in good nick, try selling it or giving it away. If it’s worn, how about throwing it away or repurposing old clothing into useful rags?
Will I use this in the next 6 months?
Yes – Keep.
No – Put it into one of the boxes near the front door.
Can I get another one easily if I need it?
Yes – Keep.
No – Put it into one of the boxes near the front door.
Wipe down all surfaces to remove dust and other dirt.
Arrange what’s left in neat piles or different-sized storage options like plastic baskets or cut-down cardboard boxes which will help your stuff to stay organised in future. Finally, vacuum the space.
This system has helped me move on unused, unwanted, or too-small items on time and time again. I feel good tidying up my space and giving to others at the same time using this approach.
Hopefully, it’ll help you declutter too and improve the visual outlook of your space.
Meagan
