The spring cleaning season is upon us, and everywhere people are filled with good intentions: this is the year you’re really going to de-clutter your home.
But this isn’t something you can go into haphazardly: you need to have a plan, or you’ll end up moving piles around and getting nowhere.
These seven spring cleaning tips should help you make the most of your good intentions.
1. Set Realistic Goals
Don’t try to do everything in one day. Whether it’s a particular room, a bedroom closet, or even one corner of a larger area that has turned into a catch-all for clutter, pick something manageable and start with that.
2. Open a Window
That breath of fresh spring air will provide just the inspiration you need to clear out and freshen up your space.
3. Play Music
Put on something that gets you moving. If you start to flag, the beat will keep you going.
4. Be Prepared
Have boxes ready to go labeled “Keep,” “Throw” and “Donate,” and follow through as quickly as you can. The longer that “Throw” box sits around, the more likely you are to start changing your mind and pulling things back out of it.
5. DON’T Have a “Decide Later” Box
It may seem like a good idea, but it’s just an excuse to avoid throwing out things that you know you really should get rid of. Make up your mind to decide today.
6. Be Ruthless
When you’re done cleaning, you want it to be obvious that your home has changed for the better. That can’t happen unless you’re prepared to part with things. As a wise man once said, “When in doubt, throw it out.”
7. Have the Storage You Need
Obviously, you’re not going to get rid of everything. Before you start, make sure you have the room to store everything you want to keep neatly and conveniently.
Your storage needs will change depending on the part of the house you’re cleaning. At Organized Interiors, we can help with all kinds of ideas, from something as simple as felt storage boxes with lids, to built-in laundry hampers, to custom cabinets that can fit any closet.
If you need some help making sure you have the storage space you need, get in touch with us. One of our design consultants can come by for a free consultation to help you get started on the right foot.