I love the winter months. I’m not a fan of skiing, skating, or sledding (When I was a child I broke my femur sledding.) Cold weather is the time I get all my indoor projects done before Spring and Summer arrive and I won’t want to be inside!
Winter is an especially good time to clean out those closets that overflow and then it becomes hard to find what we really need. Life is too short to be digging for what we want and pushing past things we don’t use to get what we need! Taking the time to identify what we no longer use and donating our C.R.A.P. (Clutter that Robs Anyone of Pleasure) to someone who could use it is well worth the effort. Let’s break it down:
What:
- Coat closet
- Craft closet
- Pantry
- Linen closet
- Bathroom toiletries closet
- Anything behind closed doors (or drawers).
When:
- Schedule the uncluttering on your calendar
- Devote at least two hours of uninterrupted time
- Work on a full stomach
- Turn on your favorite music or binge t.v. shows
- Turn off your phone.
How:
- Pull everything out of the space.
- Clean the entire space.
- Sort items into like piles.
- Eliminate anything that you haven’t used for at least two years (just a guideline).
- Make piles of items that belong to other family members. Ask them about their stuff all at once instead of one item at a time.
- Use your discretion and make decisions for the family if the items are inconsequential.
- Containerize like items; use clear bins or baskets you have on hand before you shop.
- Labels bins if contents aren’t immediately identifiable.
- Don’t use lids if you need to access items often.
The goal is to eliminate the unnecessary and maximize the space you have to simplify your life. After you’ve cleaned out your space(s), be stingy and selective about what you bring into the space and try the one in and one out rule. You will be so proud of yourself when you’re done! Happy uncluttering!
