HOME + GARDEN
HOW TO... DECLUTTER
AS A HOME ORGANISATION SPECIALIST, HOME EDITED CERTAINLY KNOWS A THING OR TWO ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF LETTING GO OF EXCESS ITEMS AND RESTORING BALANCE IN OUR HOMES. HELPING CLIENTS ALL OVER KENT TO CREATE EFFICIENT SYSTEMS THAT LAST, KATE IS PASSIONATE ABOUT CALMER SPACES THAT IN TURN PROMOTE CALMER MINDS. THIS SPRING, SHE IS SHARING HER TOP TIPS TO HELP YOU START THE NEW SEASON WITH REFRESHED AND REVITALISED SPACES TO BE PROUD OF.
WITH KATE EDMONDSON, FOUNDER OF HOME EDITED, TUNBRIDGE WELLS IMAGERY BY: HOME EDITED AND LOTTIE TOPPING
1. QUICK WINS
Start with a quick win to build momentum. Focus on areas with minimal emotional or financial attachment, like a junk drawer, kitchen cupboards or beauty products. Remove outdated or unwanted items and use black bin liners for clutter or rubbish. This provides instant gratification, boosts motivation and reduces decision fatigue.
2. DETOX BY CATEGORY
If a space feels overwhelming, focus on detoxing by category- clothes, books, kitchenware, paperwork- rather than by room. By collating similar items together, you’ ll see everything in one place, making it easier to assess what you truly need, prevent duplicates and simplify decisionmaking. This method gives you a clearer picture of your belongings and helps create a more intentional, organised space.
3. USE THE‘ KEEP, DONATE, DISCARD’ METHOD AND STAY FOCUSED
Sort everything into three categories: keep( things you use and love), donate( items in good condition but no longer needed) and discard( broken or expired items). Be honest about what truly serves a purpose and let go of what doesn’ t. You can also create a sell pile for valuable items you no longer need and a relocate pile for items that belong elsewhere in the home. Using a drop zone, like a bag or box, helps you stay focused and prevents distractions. It’ s easy to get sidetracked, but this method keeps you grounded. Before you know it, you’ ll have clear, organised piles ready for action.
4. CREATE‘ HOMES’ FOR EVERYTHING
Every item should have a designated place in the home. Store frequently used items where they are easily accessible and keep similar items together( e. g. all stationery in one drawer). Supporting all the spaces with labels can help reinforce this system.
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