Declutter Checklist | Get Rid of 99 Things Today
Understanding Clutter
Clutter can be defined as a collection of items that are not organized or arranged in a neat and tidy manner. I call clutter having too much stuff that you don’t need, often don’t want and would not miss if it was gone.
Inefficient and frustrating
Clutter can be found in various places in your home, such as your closet, kitchen, and living room. Clutter can take up valuable space in your home and make it difficult to find what you need when you need it. I don’t know about you, when I want something I want it now, I do not want to go on a scavenger hunt.
How did all the clutter get here?
Clutter can be caused by a variety of factors, including a lack of time to organize, emotional attachment to sentimental items, or simply not knowing where to start. It can also be a result of accumulating too many items over time without getting rid of anything.
Mental and physical health
Clutter can have negative effects on your mental and physical health. It can increase stress levels, cause anxiety, and make it difficult to focus on the task at hand. It can also make it difficult to clean your home, leading to the growth of bacteria and other harmful substances.
If you want a clutter-free environment the easiest way to combat clutter is to have a plan in place. Having a plan is important. This can include setting aside time to declutter, creating a system for organizing items, and getting rid of items that no longer serve you. By taking these steps, you can create a more organized and stress-free home environment.
Here are a few tips to help you get started
Start small
The hardest parts of decluttering is usually starting. Begin by decluttering one room or area at a time. If this is too much for you just pick up one item and decide if you will keep this item or toss, donate or sell. This will help you avoid feeling overwhelmed and make the process more manageable.
Be ruthless
When deciding what to keep and what to get rid of, be honest with yourself. If you haven’t used an item in the past year, it’s probably time to let it go. If an item is broken and you keep thinking ‘I will fix this one day’ again it is likely time to toss the item.
Use the “one in, one out” rule – For every new item you bring into your home, get rid of one old item. This will help you maintain a clutter-free home.
Donate or sell items
If you have items that are still in good condition, consider donating pieces to charity shops or selling them. I enjoy donating to my local animal shelter. This can help you declutter while also benefiting others.
Create a system
Once you have decluttered, use storage solutions for creating systems for organizing items. This can include using storage containers, labeling items, and creating designated spaces for specific items. Without a system you have little chance of staying organized.
I am not referring to pricey organizational systems. One of my most often used ‘systems’ or habit is the one touch rule’. When I use something I immediately return item to the place I have designated item to live. In other words I do not use a hammer and leave it laying around to put away ‘later’. I use the hammer and return it to its place as soon as I am finished hammering,.
The benefits of decluttering
Decluttering your home can be a daunting task, but it is an essential step towards creating a more organized and stress-free environment. A cluttered home can cause unnecessary stress and anxiety, making it difficult to focus on the things that matter most. By decluttering your home, you can create a more peaceful and calming environment that will help you feel more relaxed and focused.
Decluttering and finances
Decluttering can also help you save time and money. When you have a cluttered home, it can be challenging to find the things you need quickly. You may end up buying duplicate items you already own because you can’t find them. By decluttering your home, you can get rid of the things you don’t need and organize the things you do, making it easier to find what you need when you need it.
Decluttering improves your productivity
Another benefit of decluttering is that it can help you be more productive. When your home is cluttered, it can be challenging to focus on the task at hand. You may find yourself getting distracted by the mess around you, making it difficult to get things done.
I cannot work in a cluttered environment, nor would I be able to concentrate. I would feel like a long to-do list was dancing in front of me in bright orange flashing neon lights. This would not work for me. By decluttering your home, you can create a more organized and productive environment that will help you stay focused and motivated.
Decluttering your home is an essential step toward creating a more organized, stress-free, and productive environment. By getting rid of the things you don’t need and organizing the things you do, you can save time and money, reduce stress and anxiety, and be more productive. So, grab your declutter checklist and start decluttering today!
Kitchen declutter checklist
An essential first step towards creating a clean and organized space for cooking and dining is decluttering your kitchen. This can feel huge. Try starting your kitchen decluttering journey using this checklist of items for a more focused and easier time. By focusing on one thing at a time you will see progress quickly.
Expired food items
Expired food items can take up valuable space in your kitchen and can even pose a health risk if consumed. Check your pantry, fridge, and freezer for any expired items and dispose of them. Here are some common items to look out for:
- Canned goods past their use-by date
- Stale chips, crackers, and cookies
- Moldy bread or other baked goods
- Expired dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt
Unused kitchen appliances and utensils
If you have utensils that you never use, it’s time to get rid of them. They’re just taking up valuable drawer space and making it harder to find the utensils you actually need. Here are some examples of utensils you might want to consider getting rid of:
- Single-use utensils like corn cob holders or melon ballers
- Specialty utensils like garlic presses or avocado slicers
- Duplicates of utensils you already have
- Air popcorn maker from the nineties, broken toasters
Extra mugs and cups
It’s easy to accumulate more mugs and cups than you actually need, especially if you’re a coffee or tea drinker. But if your cabinets are overflowing with mugs and cups, it’s time to pare down your collection. Here are some things to consider:
- Mugs or cups that are chipped or cracked
- Mugs or cups that are rarely used
- Duplicates of mugs or cups you already have
Old cookware
Cookware can take up a lot of space in your kitchen, so it’s important to be selective about what you keep. If you have cookware that’s old, damaged, or just taking up too much space, it’s time to get rid of it. Here are some things to consider:
- Cookware that’s warped or damaged
- Cookware that’s missing a lid or have other missing pieces
- Cookware that you haven’t used in over a year
By following this kitchen declutter checklist, you’ll be well on your way to a cleaner, more organized kitchen. Remember, getting rid of clutter is the first step towards creating a space that’s both functional and enjoyable to spend time in.
Living room declutter checklist
Your living room is one of the most frequently used spaces in your entire home, which makes it a prime location for clutter to accumulate. Use this living room declutter checklist to eliminate unnecessary items and create a more organized and comfortable space.
Unused electronics
Do you have old electronics lying around that you no longer use? It’s time to let them go. Consider donating or recycling them if they are still in good working condition. If not, dispose of them properly. Here are some examples of electronics to get rid of:
- Old televisions, old cell phones
- Broken DVD players, old VHS tapes
- Unused gaming consoles
- Outdated stereo systems
Old magazines
Old magazines can pile up quickly and take up valuable space in your living room. Sort through them and keep only the ones that you truly enjoy. Consider donating them to a library or hospital waiting room, or recycle them if they are outdated. Here are some examples of magazines to get rid of:
- Outdated issues
- Magazines you’ve already read
- Magazines that don’t interest you anymore
Unwanted decorations
Decorations can add character to your living room, but too many can make it feel cluttered and overwhelming. Consider removing decorations that no longer serve a purpose or that you don’t truly love. Here are some examples of decorations to get rid of:
- Knick-knacks that collect dust
- Seasonal decorations that are out of season
- Decorations that clash with your current style
- The dusty dried flower arrangements you decorated with 3 decades ago
Excess furniture
Furniture can take up a lot of space in your living room, so it’s important to only keep what you need and what fits comfortably in the space. Consider removing excess furniture that is taking up valuable space. Here are some examples of furniture to get rid of:
- Old or uncomfortable chairs
- Tables that are too big for the space
- Bookshelves that are overloaded with books
By following this living room declutter checklist, you can create a more streamlined and comfortable space that you’ll love spending time in. Relaxing comes easier in a clutter free environment.
Bedroom declutter checklist
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the clutter in your bedroom, don’t worry – you’re not alone. It’s easy for clothes, shoes, and accessories to pile up over time, but with a little effort, you can declutter your space and create a more calming environment.
Unworn clothes
Start by going through your closet and dresser and pulling out any clothes that you haven’t worn in the last year. Be honest with yourself – if you haven’t worn it in that time frame, it’s unlikely that you will wear it in the future. Consider donating or selling these items, or passing them on to a friend who might enjoy them.
Be honest with yourself, are you ever going to lose the few pounds to fit into the too tight clothing?
Unused bedding
Next, take a look at your bedding. Do you have old bedding – extra sheets, blankets, or pillows that you don’t use or need? If so, it’s time to let them go. Consider donating gently used bedding to a local shelter or animal rescue organization.
Old shoes
Shoes can take up a lot of space in your closet, so it’s important to be selective about which ones you keep. Go through your collection and pull out any shoes that are worn out, uncomfortable, or that you simply never wear. Consider tossing, donating or recycling them.
Excess accessories
Finally, take a look at your accessories – jewelry, scarves, hats, and bags. Do you have any that you don’t wear or need? Consider donating or selling them, or passing them on to a friend who might enjoy them.
By following this bedroom declutter checklist, you can create a more organized and calming space. Remember, it’s okay to let go of items that no longer serve you – in fact, it can be liberating!
Bathroom declutter checklist
When it comes to decluttering your bathroom, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. But with this checklist, you can easily get rid of the things you no longer need or use. Here are some categories to help you tackle your bathroom decluttering project.
Medicine cabinet
It’s important to get rid of expired medications as they can be dangerous to use. Check the expiration dates on all your medications, including over-the-counter drugs, and dispose of them properly. You can take them to a pharmacy or drug take-back program.
Beauty products
Makeup has a shelf life, and using expired old makeup can lead to skin irritation or infections. Check the expiration dates on your makeup products and get rid of anything that is past its prime. Also, if you have makeup that you no longer use or that doesn’t suit your skin type, it’s time to let it go.
I learned the hard way to toss mascara after 3 months use because I never want another eye infection.
Unused toiletries
We all have toiletries that we bought but never used. Maybe they didn’t work for us, or we simply forgot about them. Take a look at your bathroom cabinets and drawers and get rid of anything that you haven’t used in the last six months. This includes hair products, lotions and old perfume.
Extra towels
Do you have a pile of towels in your bathroom that you never use? It’s time to declutter them. Keep two sets of towels per person and donate or recycle the rest. You can also repurpose old towels as cleaning rags or donate them to an animal shelter. Get rid of old shiny thread-bare towels – you deserve fluffy towels! Especially after all the effort you are using to make your home more inviting.
Garage declutter checklist
If you’re looking to declutter your garage, you’ve come to the right place. Here are a few sub-sections to help you get started.
Unused tools
Do you have tools that you haven’t used in a while? Maybe you have duplicates or tools that you never learned how to use. If so, it’s time to get rid of them. Consider donating them to a local charity or selling them online. I like finding someone local and just starting out in business to give used tools to.
Old paint cans
Do you have old paint cans taking up space in your garage? Check to see if the paint is still usable. If not, dispose of it properly and recycle the cans. If the paint is still good, consider donating it to a local theater group or school.
When disposing of paint please follow the environmental rules. Paint disposed of improperly can contaminate our water resources and the environment. Another option is to take the paint to your community’s household hazardous waste collection site.
Unwanted sports equipment
Do you have sports equipment that you no longer use? Maybe you have equipment from a sport that you no longer play. Consider donating it to a local sports team or school. You could also sell it online or at a garage sale.
Excess storage containers
Do you have excess storage containers taking up space in your garage? Maybe you have containers that you no longer use or that are broken. If so, it’s time to get rid of them. Consider donating them to a local charity or recycling them if they’re broken.
By following this declutter checklist, you can free up space in your garage and possibly park your expensive vehicle in it! Remember to be honest with yourself about what you really need and what you can let go of. Good luck!
Office declutter checklist
When it comes to decluttering your office, it’s important to start with a plan. Here are a few things to consider when decluttering your office:
Outdated documents
One of the most important things to get rid of in your office is outdated documents. These can include old receipts, invoices, and bills, as well as old files and folders that are no longer needed. Make sure to shred any sensitive documents to protect your privacy.
Unused office supplies
Another area to focus on when decluttering your office is unused office supplies. Take a look around your workspace and identify any supplies that you haven’t used in the past six months. This can include pens, pencils, paperclips, and other stationery items.
Old electronics
Old electronics can take up a lot of space in your office and can be difficult to dispose of properly. Consider recycling or donating any old computers, printers, or other electronics that you no longer need. Electronics you may consider old may likely be welcome by a student.
Excess books
If you have a lot of books in your office, it may be time to declutter your bookshelf. Consider donating any old books that you’ve already read or that you no longer need for reference.
By following this office declutter checklist, you can create a more organized and efficient workspace. Remember to take your time and be selective about what you keep and what you get rid of.
Digital declutter checklist
When it comes to decluttering, it’s not just physical items that need to be addressed. Digital clutter can be just as overwhelming and distracting as physical clutter. Here are some areas to focus on when decluttering your digital life.
Unused Apps
Apps can accumulate quickly on our phones and computers, taking up valuable storage space and slowing down our devices. Take some time to review the apps that you haven’t used in the last six months. If you haven’t used them, chances are you won’t need them in the future. Uninstall them to free up space and simplify your device’s home screen.
Old emails
Emails can pile up quickly, making it difficult to find important messages. Go through your inbox and delete any emails that are no longer relevant or necessary. Consider setting up filters to automatically sort incoming emails into folders, making it easier to find what you need.
Old emails and text messages can take up valuable storage space on your computers, especially if they include pictures and videos.
Unnecessary files
Just like with physical clutter, it’s easy for digital files to accumulate over time. Take some time to go through your files and delete any that are no longer needed. This includes duplicate files, old downloads, and files that you no longer have a use for.
Outdated software
Outdated software can pose a security risk, so it’s important to keep your devices up to date. Check for any updates to your operating system, apps, and antivirus software. If you have any software that you no longer use, uninstall it to free up space and simplify your device.
By focusing on these areas, you can simplify your digital life and reduce the distractions that come with digital clutter. Take the time to regularly declutter your digital devices to keep them running smoothly and efficiently.
Maintaining a decluttered space
Once you’ve completed your decluttering checklist and gotten rid of all the unnecessary items, it’s important to maintain a decluttered space. Here are a few tips to help you keep your space clean and organized.
Create a cleaning schedule
It’s important to set aside time each week to clean and organize your space. This can include dusting, vacuuming, and wiping down surfaces. Creating a cleaning schedule can help you stay on track and prevent clutter from building up.
Put things back where they belong
One of the easiest ways to maintain a decluttered space is to put things back where they belong after you use them. Here is the one touch rule again. When you use the pair of scissors put it back immediately. Don’t wait until later – when you have to touch it again. This can include putting away clothes, dishes, and other items as soon as you’re done with them. This will help prevent clutter from building up and make it easier to find things when you need them.
Limit your purchases
Another way to maintain a decluttered space is to limit the amount of stuff you bring into your home. Before making a purchase, ask yourself if you really need the item or will it just end up in the land fill? Do you have space for it? This will help prevent clutter from building up and make it easier to maintain a clean and organized space.
Regularly revisit your checklist
It’s important to regularly revisit your decluttering checklist to ensure that you’re staying on track. This can include going through your belongings every few months to see if there’s anything you can get rid of. By regularly revisiting your checklist, you can prevent clutter from building up and maintain a clean and organized space.
You have spent a fair amount of time and effort on your decluttering journey. By following these tips, you have made your home and workspace a healthier and more enjoyable, relaxing place to spend time.
For your continued peace of mind keep up with maintenance and you will never be faced with a big cleaning out project again!
Marj Bates is a life long ridiculously organized declutter-er and artist. Less is more are words Marj lives by in everything she does except collecting dogs. “Dogs are like potato chips! Can’t have just one.” says Marj. Marj wonders if growing up with a fanatically clean Jewish mom means her decluttering and organizational skills are in her blood.
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