So with National De-Clutter Week now upon us I think we should all get in the spirit and try to do something every day (nothing too dramatic) and I really think you will find it makes a big difference!
So 7 days, 7 tasks. I would love to hear how you get on!
Wednesday - Day 1 - Junk Drawers
Now, this is something we always put off but actually takes much less time than you think. Try pulling out one at a time, have you rubbish bag next to you and go for it!
Give yourself a task - I will complete each drawer in 15 minutes!
Thursday - Day 2 - Kitchen Cupboards/Pantry
Do you know how many cupboards I have de-cluttered only to find item after item that cannot even be used because they are out of date!! Give your cupboards a going over and you may discover a few unwelcome suprizes! You may also discover what you buy as routine, however don't actually use! (I found 10 tins of custard organising my parents cupboards last week!!!)
Friday - Day 3 - Underwear Drawers
When I work on a wardrobe no stone is left unturned and this means underwear drawers and socks too! Get rid of all things shoddy!
Socks with holes, underwear with broken elastic, bra's that don't fit or offer support anymore! Things you put on and then immediately take off...
Feel good under the clothes and increase your confidence. Others don't know what your wearing but you do!
Saturday - Day 4 - The jobs we hate!
Now, there are many jobs we all avoid, dislike and put off. So make a small list of three or four and complete those today! I'm talking about - vacuuming the mattress, moving the sofa and beds right out and cleaning behind them and under them.....this will encourage you to de-clutter anything you come across! A big tip is not to use under your bed as a dumping ground! It is for vacuum bags for seasonal wardrobe storage, easily accessible photo storage in boxes and not for anything you don't have a place for! Don't get into this bad habit!
Sunday - Day 5 - Closets
This for me is one of the most enjoyable jobs I do for people. It is like therapy. You feel like you have a whole new wardrobe by the time you finish. The most satisfying words I hear throughout the wardrobe sort-out are "I forgot I had that" and I haven't completed a wardrobe/closet yet without hearing them!
Have a look at what you have and create your piles - keep, throw and charity! Maybe a little friends and family section wouldn't hurt too but get those items out of your home asap and get that space back!
Monday - Day 6 - Kids rooms
Now, kids grow fast. That means they grow out of clothes, toys and books fast too. Have a scan of the areas of their bedrooms and playrooms and get your two boxes at the ready. One for charity and one for saving if you are going to have another baby perhaps. Only keep things that are worth saving/re-using.
Encourage the children to help with this process and talk to them about the importance of giving to charity, less advantaged children.
Tuesday - Day 7 - Nearly done!
Scan all rooms! Now there may be areas that you haven't got to. It takes a long time to do a total house de-clutter and I don't expect your home to be looking immaculate by any means. Remember a home that is organised doesn't necessarily mean a home that is minimal. It's our lovely possessions that make our homes individual and unique.
So, your task for today - Have a bag in hand and scan your eyes around each room. is there anything you may have missed that you just don't want in your space anymore? Slowly walk around each room - this is your final check! (For this time!)
In addition make a note of any little jobs you need doing and book that handy man! Perhaps even have those extra storage solutions built? It's amazing the difference a few shelf in a wardrobe can make especially for those lovers of shoes and handbags!
I hope you enjoyed my tips. please see my website for my beautiful non-slip hangers which you can purchase online http://www.youneedavicky.com/shop/
*In addition a great tip for cleaning, especially when you have children - use Method products!
You can find these non-toxic cleaning products online easily as well as at many supermarkets nationwide. Have a read - http://www.methodproducts.co.uk/ I don't think you'll go back!
You can also follow me on twitter @youneedavicky