All the Tools You Need to Motivate You to Declutter.
Despite all the decluttering methods out there, you have options on how to deal with all the clutter in your home. But they all have common basic principles and requirements. Whether you’re moving through a space in queues , storing items you might want to keep but aren’t sure about, or following rules for whether to throw away or keep things, you’ll need a few things: pick up before you start.
Do you need boxes to get organized?
No matter what type of equipment you use, you need boxes. You’ll need at least three, and maybe four: one for things you’ll keep, one for things you’ll throw away, one for things you’ll donate, and maybe one for things you’ll sell. You can get large ones or small ones, depending on the volume of items you need to go through or whether you are working on small areas one at a time. Try these:
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Four folding fabric boxes with lids , $39.99.
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Four stackable plastic boxes , $34.99.
Do you need decluttering labels?
Those boxes and spaces you organize could benefit from some labels. You should be able to easily recognize what to keep, what to donate, and where to store the items you decide to keep. Try these:
Reusable ones are best for the actual decluttering process, since you can write notes or make specific notations and then change them as new needs arise. You need something better for marking where things are stored. Try the chalkboard labels above that are reusable but look good on containers.
You can also try a label maker that produces labels that are not as retro as you imagine. Most label makers today offer you decorative label paper, and some even print them in color so you can customize your labels to look exactly the way you want them.
You need trash bags to get organized.
You’ll be throwing away and recycling a lot, so buy trash bags in bulk and make sure you have the right ones for your city’s trash disposal needs. In general, try to use opaque ones whenever possible so that you have a sense of finality when you decide to throw something away and can no longer see it when it goes into the void. You can purchase 56 black 30 gallon bags from Hefty for $15.41.
Other Potential Decluttering Needs
Before you begin, think about your space and plans. Are there tall cabinets? You may need a stool . Are some places not only unorganized and cluttered, but also really dirty? You may need rubber gloves . Do you plan to sell some of what you’re getting rid of online? You may need a simple background. ( I use faux fur rug for all my Poshmark sales .)
By taking notes on the needs of your specific project and ensuring you get it all in advance, you won’t encounter obstacles or delays that can sap motivation and stop your progress altogether. Plus, once you have everything you need, you’ll likely feel even more motivated to get started, so stocking up before you start is a win-win.