The word clutter as defined by Google search means “a collection of things lying about in an untidy mess”. They show the word originated around 1800 and then they show a graph with use of the word over time. Can you guess when use of the word skyrocketed? If you are thinking in the last 20-30 years, you would be correct!
I think most of us can easily relate to that definition and most everyone has clutter in their homes. So why is it some people’s homes look so much more cluttered than others? How is it that some people can manage their clutter and others feel so overwhelmed by it? There is no magic cure for clutter, unless you just throw everything out. Instead, try these 3 Easy Steps That Will Control Your Clutter
Consolidate
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The first step to getting a handle on your clutter is to consolidate it. You probably have piles of like items laying around your home. So gather them all together. It doesn’t matter what it is, grab it and put it in one spot. You need to see everything that you have of that item so you can keep it together and find a space for it. If you want more in depth guidance on consolidating clutter, read the book The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo.
Curate
If this word make you think of a museum and you are wondering what the heck it has to do with organizing, stay with me. The word curate means to “select, organize, and look after items (in an exhibition or a collection)”. So that is what you need to do with the piles of clutter you consolidated. Go through them and keep only the the best or most needed of that collection. Here are some questions to help you curate your clutter:
- Does this item work?
- Is this item in good condition?
- Do I love this item? (think a favorite shirt or stuff animal)
- Is this item used?
- Do I need more than one of this item?
If the item in your collection does not meet more than one or two of these guidelines, then get rid of it. There will be exceptions to all of these guidelines, but use common sense. Clearly your child’s favorite stuffed animal may be a little worn so it does not fit the good condition guideline, but it is loved so it stays. That annoying musical elf that your son got for Christmas that he never plays with goes.
Contain
Once you have consolidated and curated your clutter, its time to contain it. Even though you have purged your clutter, unless you find a place to put it, it is still clutter. There are many ways to store your belongings, but I recommend choosing storage solutions that work for you. If you need inspiration or ideas I suggest checking out Pinterest.com. You could also take a walk through Target’s home section, IKEA or the Container Store or browse their websites.
I have found the following products are really versatile and work really well for home organization.
What are you waiting for? It’s time to get started!
Great ideas! I love the questions too! Those will be very helpful during my upcoming move+ declutter project!
I’m so glad this will help you.