Ever find yourself feeling overwhelmed by the clutter in your home and a seemingly never-ending task list?
My well-being has significantly improved since I decluttered my home and adopted a minimalist mindset. I’ve found that having fewer distractions in the home makes me feel more organized and peaceful. Not to mention, doing chores around the house is a breeze. And that’s saying nothing of the cost savings.
The minimalist lifestyle encourages me to focus on the essentials, appreciate what I already have, and free myself from the social pressure to own more. It is more rewarding to focus on human relationships and experiences.
If you are looking to simplify your life, try this decluttering guide. You might be surprised at the benefits it can bring in such a short time! :)
Your guide to decluttering
Here's a list of ideas for items that may be damaged, under-appreciated, or unnecessary to keep. Start with the easiest room to gain confidence in, and don't be afraid to ask for help from your loved ones.
Bathroom:
- Makeup, skincare, and expired medication
- Samples of unused products
- Dried-up nail polish
- Hair accessories you don’t wear
- Unused bath products
- Products that aren’t suited for your hair type
Kitchen:
- Duplicate dish sets
- Unused or duplicate kitchen items
- Expired food and spices that have been sitting in the cupboard for ages
- Recipe books you don’t use
- Excessive water bottles
- Mason jars
- Plastic dishes that clutter up your drawers
Living Room:
- Books, magazines, and newspapers
- Restaurant menus
- CDs, DVDs, and video games
- Décor items that aren’t to your taste anymore
- Furniture that’s in poor condition or feels too bulky for the home
- Empty candle jars
Office:
- Books and manuals
- Electronic equipment (cameras, phones, charging cords...)
- Old mail and documents
- Pencils and pens (having a few on hand is plenty)
Bedroom:
- Unnecessary knickknacks and decorations
- Excessive decorative pillows
- Cluttered furniture
- Worn or stained bedding
Closet:
- Clothes you haven't worn in over a year, even if they cost a lot of money (unfortunately, keeping these clothes won't get your money back—instead, you’ll feel guilty seeing them lying about).
- Damaged, stained, too small, too big, or uncomfortable clothing
- Accessories you don't wear (hats, bags, belts...)
- Clothes you keep "just in case” (in case of what?)
- Jewellery
- Socks and underwear
- Shoes you no longer wear or that no longer fit your lifestyle (e.g., high heels)
Storage and other :
- Tools
- Outdoor clothing
- Toys, sports, or camping equipment
- Crafts or DIY items
- Extra reusable bags
- Gifts received that you don't use
- Promotional items (mugs, pencils, key chains...)
Tip: I suggest you use 4 cardboard boxes (or bags!) when decluttering: Donate, sell, throw away/recycle and then relocate around the house.
All in all, decluttering your home over a weekend may seem challenging, but anything’s possible with the right amount of motivation and organization. Use this time to blast music, catch up on podcasts, or spend time with loved ones. You’ll be glad you did.
