It’s Not Decluttering If You Stash Things In A Closet
Clutter affects your health and your life. When your home is filled with stuff, your ability to relax and wind down from the day is inhibited.
Families who constantly struggle with clutter are more likely to be stressed, sick and irritable.
Stashing all your laundry in the closet or your kids’ homework in a drawer may clear space immediately, but it only delays the inevitable.
To truly enjoy a clutter-free home, you must first understand the difference between stashing and decluttering.
Stashing
In a pinch it’s easy to think, “out of sight, out of mind.” Boxes, drawers, closets, even the stove are common places to stash clutter. Unfortunately, if you stash items out of sight, it’s still there.
You may not be able to view all the items stashed away, but at some point you’ll still have to sort through the clutter. Often, stashing can make the clutter worse. When you finally declutter, there will be more to go through. You may even lose valued possessions because you won’t be able to remember where you put them.
If you or your family stash items away regularly, the typical root cause is indecision.
When clutter becomes overwhelming, it’s easy to put the task off until another day. This is especially true when a friend calls and says they’re going to stop by. You may suddenly find yourself stuffing and cramming everything laying on your living room floor into your entryway coat closet.
The alternative to stashing is decluttering.
Decluttering
To declutter a cabinet, closet or room, you have to go through each item and evaluate whether it should be kept, thrown away, or donated.
When you choose to get rid of things you no longer need or want, you clear space for the important things in your life.
If you feel like your belongings are taking over your life, make a plan to do something about it.
Decluttering takes time. It’s important to start small so you don’t become overwhelmed by the amount of clutter. Start with something simple and easy to clear like a countertop or dining room table. Set a timer and give yourself 15-30 minutes of dedicated time. Ideally you’ll complete the task in one session.
Make a conscious effort to keep your newly cleaned area clutter-free for a few days. Small victories will serve as encouragement and will motivate you to keep working toward your larger goals. You’d be amazed at what you can accomplish in just a few weekends.
To stay on track, schedule time to declutter specific areas throughout the week. Take 15 minutes every evening to pick up items around the house. Items like dirty clothes, old dishes, shoes, backpacks, umbrellas, and coats have a way of cluttering up your entryway, living room or bedroom.
Be forgiving of yourself and allow time to declutter the entire house. The mess took time to accumulate and it will take time to fully eliminate it.
In a pinch, such as an unexpected visitor, use a laundry basket to store items you need to get out of sight quickly. Then place the basket or bag in a closet. After your guest leaves, grab the basket and take a few minutes to put each item back where it belongs.
When you take time to declutter on a regular basis, you’ll create an organized sanctuary for you and your family. Eventually, stashing won’t be necessary. You’ll know that anyone could stop by unannounced and your home will be ready for guests.
Is decluttering part of your home organizing routine?
How do you declutter to keep your home organized? Share your favorite tips below.
