Clear the Clutter

Get into the de-cluttering habit

Constantly negotiating the clutter in your home wastes an enormous amount of time, so make time to de-clutter and enjoy the many benefits.

•    De-cluttering allows you to make space for the things that you do need to keep; it makes it easier to tidy up, because there’s less mess and everything has a place; it’s quicker, easier and more effective to clean in a tidy house; and it’s much quicker to find what you’re looking for.

•    Identify your clutter problem areas and deal with them one by one.

•    Don’t get overwhelmed: go into one room and identify a problem area, then work on that, or even just a section of that. If the whole wardrobe needs sorting, start with the sock drawer. If the kitchen looks like carnival night at the tip, clear one drawer or cupboard at a time. Set a stopwatch or timer and time yourself – devote an hour or so per session to the task, until it’s done.

•    When in doubt, ask yourself: Do I really want or need it? Is it in good order? Could I replace it easily if I needed to? Have I used it recently? Will I really miss it?

•    Be ruthless – haven’t worn that skirt for 12 months? Give it away! Have you used any of the gift wrap you’ve been carefully saving? Put it in the recycling bin! Do you hate the Eiffel Tower doorstop your aunt gave you for Christmas? Take it to the op-shop or charity shop today!