The start of a new year is the perfect time to say goodbye to things we no longer use or need. Clean up is a great way to keep your home tidy and free up valuable space. Plus, it should feel productive and create a peaceful environment.
However, the thought of tackling endless clutter can often be overwhelming, especially if you’ve collected so much over the years. It’s no wonder most of us don’t know where to start and just put it off!
Luckily, we asked the pros for their helpful tips on how to get your home organized with minimal fuss. These are practical yet creative ways to execute a plan that doesn’t have to be intimidating.
So if you want a tidy start to the new year, check out these top organization tips from the experts.
1. Schedule time for organizing
(Image credit: Shutterstock)
Like most things in our daily lives, we have to make appointments or schedule time to make sure they get done. The same principle should also apply to the task of cleaning up.
“Make an appointment with yourself,” advises Jill Yesko Diana, owner of Discover Organizing. “Schedule an hour every Wednesday morning to clean out your basement or office. Treat it like a real appointment: invite a friend for accountability or stick to it alone.
Professionals schedule weekly sessions because dedication produces results, but you can achieve the same by staying disciplined.” Plus, doing everything at once will feel less overwhelming and rushed and will be more efficient with your time.
2. Keep a donation bag in the wardrobe
Stack of clothes (Image credit: Shutterstock)
If you find that difficult clean out your closetor simply can’t find what you’re looking for to wear, experts recommend keeping a donation bag in it.
“Identify pain points – starting with the area that causes the most frustration,” says Libby Wood, Certified Senior Move Manager and Owner at Senior settlers. “Keep a donation bag in the wardrobe for items that don’t work. If the pants are too tight or the shoes are pinching, put them in the bag.
When the bag is full, take the bag to a donation center. Also consider gifting books, photos, jewelry, art and souvenirs to friends and family members.”
Another simple way is to sort your items into three categories/piles: dump, donate, and sell. These three piles will make the culling process more manageable. And find out what these are 9 things you should get rid of in your closet.
3. Use the 3-year rule
A person putting away clothes in a cardboard box (Image credit: Shutterstock)
Another great organizing tip is to use the “3-year rule” to determine whether you should throw something away or donate it. “When decluttering your space, ask yourself if you’ve used the item (whether it’s clothing, shoes or other objects) in the last three years,” says Catherine Jacob, head of design at Hovia.
“If the answer is no, it’s time to say goodbye, unless you want to hold on to something for sentimental reasons! Consider donating your unwanted goods to charity to give your once beloved possessions a new lease of life.” This will help keep your space organized and uncluttered.
4. Clear out past hobbies
Golf clubs (Image credit: Shutterstock)
If you’ve tried countless hobbies over the years (and haven’t stuck with them), you probably have some items collecting dust. This is a good time to get rid of or donate equipment that is no longer in use and taking up valuable space.
‘You don’t have to keep it golf equipment if you no longer play golf,” Diana agrees. “Have you ever been a quilter, but no longer have time to dedicate to the craft? Donate the bags with fabric, patterns and cutting tools to someone who can benefit from them. We don’t need to keep things from hobbies from our past.”
After decluttering your belongings, you may need the best tips how to clean every room of your house to create an immaculate, minimalist space.
5. Be smart about storage
Storage room in living room (Image credit: Shutterstock)
Now that you’ve cleared out your excess clutter, you can invest in suitable storage. Modular storage or space saving units are a great way to organize things and put them in their rightful place.
Alternative: make creative use of your existing storage space. “Discover smart storage solutions that not only reduce clutter, but can also make a space feel larger,” says Jacob. “Check your entire space for hidden storage options, such as underutilized spaces under your stairs or transform spare cupboards into an organized pantry.”
If you have a small room, vertical bookshelves or cabinets can be effective at maximizing your space. Besides, being here 7 Ways to Organize Clothes When You Don’t Have Closet Space