Top Tips For Decluttering This Spring Clean

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On the JJ Barnes Blog, as the weather starts to change, I’m getting the urge for a thorough spring clean, so I’m sharing top tips for decluttering effectively!

The sun’s peeking through the clouds a little more each day, the birds are chirping a touch more insistently, and a strange, but undeniable, urge is washing over me… the urge to purge!

This year, spring cleaning takes on a whole new meaning – it’s time to declutter my life! But where do I even begin? To avoid that overwhelming feeling of staring down a mountain of stuff, I’ve been diving headfirst into the world of decluttering tips, and with over 1 in 10 folks in the UK confessing they’re not entirely sure if they are disposing of their waste correctly, it might be time to rethink our approach.

So, are you feeling the itch to declutter too? Join me as we explore some top tips for transforming your home (and maybe even your mind) this spring! To help us out, Clear It Waste, London-based rubbish removal company, sent over their top tips for decluttering dos and don’ts that we can explore.

Top Tips For Decluttering This Spring Clean

Dos:

1. Assess the value of your possessions before tossing

Remember that carriage clock you inherited from Great Aunt Jemima? It may be worth a pretty penny! Consider listing valuable items you find tucked away in the corners of your home on resale sites like Facebook Marketplace, Ebay and Gumtree to earn some extra cash as you declutter. Don’t forget your wardrobe and strut those pre-loved gems on platforms like Depop and Vinted. Who knows? That retro jacket you haven’t worn since high school might just start a bidding war!

Start by identifying your item. Search for similar items for sale on auction sites like eBay or dedicated selling platforms like Etsy. Look at sold listings, not just current asking prices, to get a realistic idea of what people are actually paying.

Look for distinguishing marks, brand logos, maker’s stamps, or serial numbers. These details can significantly affect value. Note any damage, wear and tear, or missing parts, as these will decrease the price. For furniture, check for sturdy construction and quality materials. For truly unique or valuable items, consider consulting a professional appraiser. Antique stores or auction houses often offer appraisal services. Be aware that appraisals can come with a fee, so weigh the cost against the potential value of the item.

By understanding the value of your belongings, you can make informed decisions about selling, donating, or keeping them.

2. Check your local recycling policies

Before tossing everything in the bin, take a look through your piles of decluttering and see if there’s anything that can be given a second life through recycling. Different areas have varying guidelines on what can be recycled and how, so be sure to check with your local recycling facility.

Take advantage of recycling programs for items like electronics, batteries, and plastics to minimise waste and maximise your environmental impact!

• Paper and Cardboard: Newspapers, magazines, junk mail, cardboard boxes – these paper products are prime candidates for recycling. Bonus tip: Flatten cardboard boxes to save space in your bin!
• Paper Shreds: Did you shred some old documents? Don’t worry, many recycling programs accept shredded paper. Check with your local provider for specific guidelines.
• Plastic Bottles and Containers: Look for the recycling symbol with a number (usually 1 or 2) on plastic bottles and containers. Rinse them out to avoid contamination. Note: Not all plastics are created equal, so check your local guidelines for accepted types.
• Rigid Plastic Packaging: Clear food trays, clamshells used for fruit or vegetables, and even some blister packs from medication can often be recycled (check for the recycling symbol).
• Aluminum Cans: These lightweight giants of the recycling world are easily recycled and can be transformed into new cans or other products. Give them a quick rinse and toss them in the bin!
• Food Tins and Metal Containers: Empty tins from cookies or coffee, and even some aluminum foil (clean and wrinkle-free) can be recycled in most programs.
• Glass Bottles and Jars: Rinse out those empty salsa jars or wine bottles and pop them in the recycling bin. Remember: Not all glass is accepted (like drinking glasses or Pyrex), so check with your local program for specifics.
• Cardboard Egg Cartons: These often get overlooked, but many recycling programs accept them!
• Old Newspapers for Packing Material: Instead of buying bubble wrap, use scrunched-up newspaper for packing fragile items when donating or selling unwanted goods.

By making a conscious effort to recycle during your spring cleaning, you’ll be contributing to a greener planet and reducing the amount of waste going to landfills. Remember, when in doubt, check it out! Consult your local recycling guidelines for a comprehensive list of accepted materials.

3. Use the four box method – Keep, Donate, Toss, Recycle

Let’s face it, the less you own, the easier it is to clean, so wave a hard goodbye to those unused possessions gathering dust in the attic.

Embrace the four-box method to separate your items: designate boxes for stuff you want to ‘Keep’, ‘Donate’, ‘Toss’, ‘Recycle’ and commit to your decisions. Those mismatched mugs at the back of your cabinets could find a new home at shelters and your bric-a-brac might just be someone else’s treasure at the charity shops.

This method can be great for kids too, labelled boxes are easy to understand and you can add an element of gameplay. Make the ‘donate’ box the largest and challenge them to fill this first – just make sure to check through before donating!

4. Know your limits and seek professional assistance 

If a task seems too physically demanding, why not leave the heavy lifting to the pros? Consider hiring waste removal professionals who can assist with moving bulky furniture like old couches or broken fridges and dispose of them properly. And if you are gearing up for a massive garage or attic clear-out – think about renting a skip to save yourself endless trips to the local tip!

Don’ts:

1. Don’t throw hazardous waste materials in your dumpster

Always consult the professionals or research online before tackling hazardous waste materials like light bulbs, old batteries, and unwanted electronics, that could release harmful chemicals into the environment and pose a threat to wildlife, if not handled properly! And don’t forget about those cleaning supplies as some of them contain harsh ingredients that need special care – always check the back of the bottle for instructions to stay safe and eco-friendly!

The first step is to identify the potential hazards lurking in your cleaning arsenal. Look for products with labels containing warnings like “flammable,” “corrosive,” “toxic,” or “danger.” Don’t forget to check under the sink, in the garage, and even the shed for forgotten chemicals.

• Cleaning Supplies: Drain cleaners, oven cleaners, toilet bowl cleaners, and some disinfectants often contain harsh chemicals.
• Paints and Stains: Oil-based paints, paint thinners, and varnishes are hazardous and require special disposal.
• Yard and Garden Products: Weed killers, pesticides, and fertilizers can be toxic and contaminate waterways if not disposed of properly.
• Automotive Fluids: Used motor oil, antifreeze, and brake fluid should never be dumped down the drain.
• Other Hazards: Old batteries, fluorescent light bulbs, and mercury-containing thermometers require special handling.
• Always wear gloves and eye protection when handling hazardous materials.
• Store them in their original containers in a cool, dry place, out of reach of children and pets. Never mix different chemicals.

Spring cleaning shouldn’t come at the expense of your health or the environment. By following these tips, you can ensure a safe and responsible disposal of hazardous materials, making your spring cleaning a truly refreshing experience.

2. Don’t let nostalgia make decisions for you

Struggling to let go even if you know you can’t keep it all? If sentimental attachment makes it tough to part with belongings, get a friend or family member to declutter with you to provide reality checks about what’s worth keeping and what’s just taking up space.

First things first, recognize that nostalgia is a powerful emotion. It connects us to the past, evoking warm memories and a sense of identity. Respect these feelings, but don’t let them cloud your judgment.

Instead of dwelling on the past, ask yourself purposeful questions about each item. Does it spark joy (a la KonMari method)? Have you used it in the past year? Does it serve a purpose in your current life? Be honest with your answers.

Letting go doesn’t erase the memory. It simply frees up physical space and mental clutter. Think of it as creating room for new experiences and memories to be made.

3. Don’t overwhelm yourself 

We get it, decluttering can feel like tackling Mount Everest sometimes. Don’t feel the need to get everything done at once, pace yourself and take breaks when needed. Take it one step at a time, starting with small victories like tackling an overflowing junk drawer or tidying up a single shelf. Rome wasn’t built in a day, and your clutter won’t disappear overnight either!

What Helps With Decluttering?

Decluttering doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Here are some products that can help you simplify and organize your home:

Storage bins and baskets

These are great for storing anything from toys and games to clothes and linens. Opt for clear bins if you want to see what’s inside, or opaque bins if you prefer a more streamlined look.

Dedicate boxes for specific categories – clothes, books, decorations. This initial sorting process helps you visualize the scale of your decluttering mission.

Feeling sentimental about that old concert t-shirt? Don’t fret! Designate a box for “maybe” items. At the end of your decluttering marathon, revisit these and make a final decision.

Pack away winter woolies and bulky blankets, making room for lighter clothes and spring decor. Labelled storage boxes tucked neatly away keep seasonal items organized and dust-free.

Stackable storage boxes take advantage of unused corners and high shelves, maximizing your storage capacity.

Not everything needs to be on display. Use storage boxes for out-of-season hobbies, old photo albums, or rarely used equipment. They’ll be there when you need them, but won’t clutter your everyday space.

Drawer dividers

Drawer dividers help you keep your drawers organized and prevent items from getting lost in the clutter. They come in a variety of sizes and materials to fit your needs.

The first step is to empty your drawers completely. This might seem daunting, but it’s a necessary first act. Now, sort your items into categories. Socks with socks, t-shirts with t-shirts, you get the idea.

Here’s where the drawer dividers come in! Use them to create dedicated sections for each category. This not only prevents items from getting jumbled together, but also helps you visualize what you actually own.

For larger drawers, consider using multiple drawer dividers to create even smaller compartments. This is perfect for separating delicates, undergarments, or workout gear.

Think beyond clothes! Drawer dividers can be used in any drawer prone to clutter – the kitchen junk drawer, the office desk drawer overflowing with pens, or even the bathroom vanity overflowing with toiletries.

Shelf risers

Shelf risers create more vertical storage space in your cabinets and shelves. This is a great way to maximize your storage space without having to buy new furniture.

Shelf risers let you spread out your belongings, preventing that cramped, cluttered look. Imagine displaying your favorite books without needing to stack them precariously.

Those forgotten items lurking in the back of the shelf? Shelf risers bring them front and center. You might rediscover hidden gems you thought were lost, or realize it’s time to finally part ways with unused items.

Dedicate a higher shelf for cookbooks, a lower one for decorative items, and so on. This visual organization makes it easier to find what you need and keeps clutter at bay.

Shelf risers come in a variety of heights, allowing you to customize your storage solution. Use taller risers for bulky items like photo albums, and shorter ones for smaller decorative pieces.

Over-the-door organizers

Over-the-door organizers are a great way to utilize unused space on the back of your doors. They can be used to store a variety of items, such as shoes, scarves, or cleaning supplies.

Choose organizers with compartments or shelves designed for specific items. Dedicate an organizer for cleaning supplies in the bathroom, store shoes neatly behind your bedroom door, or organize craft supplies in your workspace. This targeted approach keeps clutter contained and categorized.

Free up counter space in your kitchen or bathroom by utilizing over-the-door organizers for spices, cleaning products, or toiletries. These items will be readily accessible, eliminating countertop clutter and creating a more streamlined look.

Under-bed storage containers

Under-bed storage containers are a great way to store out-of-season clothes, bedding, or other items that you don’t need on a regular basis.

Rotate your wardrobe with the seasons! Use under-bed containers to store out-of-season clothes, like bulky winter sweaters or lightweight summer linens. This keeps your closet organized and prevents clutter build-up.

Don’t just shove everything under the bed! Choose containers with clear labels or dividers to categorize your belongings. Store extra bedding in one container, shoes in another, and off-season accessories in a third. This organized approach makes it easy to find what you need, when you need it.

Containers come in a range of sizes, materials, and styles. Choose from low-profile options that fit snugly under a standard bed to taller containers for platform beds. Fabric options provide breathability, while plastic containers offer sturdiness and protection from dust.

Vacuum storage bags

Vacuum bags are a simple and affordable way to streamline your spring cleaning and decluttering process. They help you maximize storage space, protect your belongings, and keep your home organized throughout the year.

The magic of vacuum bags lies in their ability to compress bulky items. Blankets, comforters, pillows, even winter coats – these space-hogs can be shrunk to a fraction of their original size, freeing up precious storage space in closets, drawers, or under-bed containers.

Vacuum bags do more than just save space. They also protect your belongings from dust, dirt, and moisture. This is especially beneficial for storing delicate items like wool sweaters or sentimental keepsakes.

Don’t limit yourself to just clothes and bedding! Use vacuum bags to store out-of-season throw rugs, plush toys that rarely get used, or even holiday decorations to keep them protected and dust-free throughout the year.

Label maker

A label maker can help you keep your storage containers organized and labeled. This will make it easier for you to find what you’re looking for later.

Ever opened a box only to be met with a confusing jumble of forgotten items? Labeling is key! A label maker lets you clearly identify the contents of every box, bin, and container. No more rummaging through the unknown – a quick glance at the label reveals exactly what’s inside.

Use the label maker to create color-coded categories for different types of items. For example, blue labels for clothes, green for books, red for holiday decorations. This adds a visual element to your organization system, making it even easier to find what you need.

Don’t just label the contents – label the location as well! For example, “Winter clothes – attic storage.” This is especially helpful for labeling boxes stored in out-of-the-way places like the basement or garage.