Decluttering Archives - Minimalism Basics

How to be Ruthless when Decluttering Clothes

October 18, 2022 by Diana

Needless to say, you need to be ruthless when decluttering clothes. Otherwise, your wardrobe will always be full of clothes you don’t wear.

Decluttering clothes is not an easy task. It requires you to be honest about the clothes you like and wear and those you don’t. It also requires you to let go of sentimental attachments to certain items of clothing.

However, if you want to declutter your wardrobe effectively, you HAVE TO be ruthless. Not only that, but you also need to be systematic in your approach.

And as you already know, it is not easy:

You might have spent a lot on a dress that doesn’t suit you;
you might have received a T-shirt that you don’t like but you feel guilty letting go of;
you might have items of clothing from your high school that you’re not sure you should keep or let go of.

But unless you want your wardrobe to be full of clothes you don’t wear, you need to learn how to be ruthless when decluttering clothes.

So in this guide, I’ll show you how to be ruthless when decluttering clothes, step by step, and what you need to do in case you get stuck. This article is inspired by the KonMari method of tidying up, created by Marie Kondo.

Steps on ruthless decluttering

1. Place all of your clothes in one spot on the floor

The first step is to take all of your clothes out of your closet or wardrobe and place them in one spot.

By doing so, you can see everything you own at once and it will be easier to make decisions about what to keep and what to let go of.

And when I say all of them, I mean every single piece of clothing. Dig out those clothes you never wear from the back of your closet and put them with the rest. Also, check your entranceway, your other drawers, and any other place where you might have clothes stored.

It is truly essential that you take everything out so that you can make an accurate assessment of what you have and what you need. Also, it is going to be super satisfying at the end to see where you came from and how much you decluttered.

2. Take each item of clothing in your hand

Now that you can see all of your clothes, it is time to start decluttering. And the best way to do that is to take each item of clothing in your hand and ask yourself this question:

“Does this piece of clothing bring me joy/happiness?”

We all want to surround ourselves with happiness, so this is the perfect question to ask yourself when decluttering. This might be the only question that will put you into a ruthless mindset when it comes to decluttering.

Use your intuition here. You will know in one second whether an article of clothing brings you joy or not. If it does, keep it. Otherwise, let it go.

If it takes you more than a few seconds to think and you start including your rational part, like “I spent so much money on this shirt and didn’t wear it enough. I must keep it” or “I might wear this piece of clothing again in the future when I get slimmer”, then it doesn’t bring you joy and you should let it go.

The idea is to sink with your heart, not your head. So if something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.

The role of that piece of clothing that you haven’t worn in a long time was to teach you a lesson. And that is, not to buy clothes just because they are on sale or because you feel like you need them.

Be thankful for the lesson and let go.

3. If you still can’t decide, ask yourself some more questions

It is not unusual to feel attached to certain pieces of clothing, even if they don’t bring you happiness. If that is the case and you find it hard to let go, ask yourself this question:

“Is it hard for me to let go because it reminds me of the past or makes me anxious about the future?”

We are living in the present. And right now, we want to be happy, to feel light, and to move forward. The past is long gone, and it is not coming back. It just makes you less likely to enjoy the now.

The future is also not here yet. Would you better keep just-in-case items and let them dust or jet moldy in your storage, or just let go and move freely without any burden?

The present is all we have. So if something doesn’t make you feel good in the present, it is time to let it go.

It’s not the end of the world, you can still rebuy it if you truly need it

You might think that if you will let go of that piece of clothing, you will never find anything like it again. But that is only a thought in your subconsciousness.

You can rebuy it if you want it that badly. The thing is, you will probably never even remember about it.

And if you do, it means that now you know what brings you happiness and what your true style is.

With this mindset, it will be easier for you to be ruthless when decluttering clothes.

4. Donate the discarded items as soon as possible

Have you ever placed an item in your storage room for getting rid of it later but after a few weeks you have changed your mind and took it back?

It is human nature. We are sentimental creatures, and we tend to rethink the story that we are telling ourselves to our advantage.

The solution is to get rid of the clothes that you no longer want as soon as possible. Donate them to a charity, give them to a friend, or sell them online.

The further away the clothes are from your sight, the less likely you are to change your mind.

How to be ruthless when decluttering clothes flowchart

Items that you MUST get rid of

There are certain items in your closet that have to go without too much thought. These items include:

Clothes that don’t fit

If an article of clothing is too small or too big, it doesn’t belong in your closet. It is taking up valuable space and making you feel bad about yourself.

Let it go and make room for clothes that fit you and make you feel good.

Broken/worn-out clothes

Shirts that are missing some buttons, worn out jeans, or clothes with holes and stains are not doing you any good. The best you can do is to recycle or repurpose them.

Outdated clothes

I am quite outdated when it comes to fashion. But even I know when something is too old-fashioned and it is time to get rid of it.

I mean, if that piece of outdated clothing still brings you joy when you wear it, then keep it. But if you are only keeping it because you think the trend will come back or because you are attached to it, then let it go.

Clothes that you haven’t worn in the last year

Clothes are there, in your closet, to be worn. So if you haven’t worn something in the last year, it is time to let it go.

You will feel lighter, trust me. The fewer pieces of clothing you have, the easier it is to get dressed in the morning. You will also have more space in your closet for the things you wear.

Too many clothes from the same category

Duplicates are taking up valuable space in your closet. If you have more than one black blazer, for example, get rid of the ones you don’t wear.

The same goes for other items, like jeans, sweaters, or dresses. If you have too many of the same item, discard them.

Now, it is ok to have more than one pair of jeans, for instance. But it is not ok to have more than one pair of jeans in the same style.

Unwanted gifts

We have all been there. We received a piece of clothing from someone and we don’t like it. But we feel bad about returning it or getting rid of it.

If you don’t like the gift and you will never use it, get rid of it. Do you think the person who gave it to you will appreciate it if he/she will know that you hold onto it only out of guilt?

I think not.

Clothes that don’t make you feel good

This is a very personal reason to let go of something. But it is a very valid one.

If a piece of clothing doesn’t make you feel good when you wear it, it means that it is not for you. I am sure you don’t want to feel uncomfortable in your own clothes.

So if something doesn’t make you feel good, you must let it go.

Work on your mindset

Your mindset is the one that makes you either ruthless when decluttering clothes or not.

If you want to keep everything because you are attached to it or because you think you might need it someday, then you will never declutter your closet. Remember:

Fewer clothes mean more time for other stuff

If you declutter your closet and get rid of clothes you don’t need, you will have more time for other things.

It will be much easier for you to choose the outfit for the day, and you will save time because you won’t have to look through your whole closet.

Fewer clothes mean less stress

Studies are showing that fewer clothes mean less stress and anxiety. Isn’t that a huge reason for you to be ruthless when decluttering clothes?

Just let go of that “maybe” pile that had to be gone a long time ago. You will feel so much happier, and less stressed.

If you don’t like it, you just know

You know when you like something and when you don’t. So if you are not sure about something, just let it go.

You can always buy it back if you change your mind. But chances are, you will never even notice that it is gone.

The money is gone

Once you have bought something, the money is gone. Next time, hopefully, you will be more rational when making a purchase. So this was a lesson for you. Thank life for the lesson and say goodbye to that new but ugly piece of clothing.

Free yourself

When you declutter your clothes, you are freeing yourself from the burden of too many things.

You are also freeing yourself from the need to keep up with trends. You are making space for yourself, both physically and mentally.

So be ruthless when decluttering clothes, and you will see how much better you will feel.

The past prevents you from living in the present

This is the most important reason to declutter your clothes. If you keep holding onto the past, you will never be able to live in the present.

You will always be attached to your memories, and you will never be able to move on. That is why keeping sentimental items leads to unhappiness.

It is time to let go of the past and move on with your life. Make space for new memories, and new clothes that bring you happiness and fulfillment.

Tricks you can use to ruthlessly declutter your clothes

Turn hangers around

This is a great way to see which clothes you actually wear.

Take all the hangers from your closet and put them facing the opposite direction. After you wear an item of clothing, put the hanger back in the closet facing the right direction.

At the end of the season (about 4 months), you will be able to see which clothes you have actually worn and which ones you haven’t.

Let go of the ones that are still facing the opposite direction without too much thought.

Create a “maybe” box

If you are not sure of some of the pieces of clothing, place them in a box and write “maybe” on it. Then put the box away somewhere where you won’t see it for about 4-6 months. Write a deadline on the box, as well as in your calendar.

If you don’t even remember that you have the box after the set time, it means you don’t need the clothes.

So you can get rid of them without any guilt.

Decide how many clothes you want to have in total in your wardrobe

This is a great way to be ruthless when decluttering clothes. Let’s say for instance that you want 50 pieces of clothing in total (excluding underwear, socks, and shoes) in your wardrobe.

So play around with your clothes and don’t let more than 50 pieces in your closet after the end of decluttering.

You can also decide on how many clothes you want in each category:

shirts
pants
dresses
skirts
jackets, etc.

This method might be even easier for you because it is more specific and it creates a balance between your outfits. And you will have a better idea of what to keep and what to let go of.

Final words

By being ruthless when decluttering clothes, you are making space for the things that bring you joy. You will always feel better when you open up your closet and see clothes that make you happy.

So be ruthless, and let go of the clothes that don’t do anything but occupy your precious space, both physically and mentally.

I hope these tips were helpful! If you have any decluttering tips of your own, please share them in the comments below.

Happy decluttering!

Cheers, Diana

Life After Decluttering: Now What?

October 15, 2022October 5, 2022 by Diana

You’ve decluttered your home and your life, and it feels amazing, you love your life after decluttering. You’re finally able to breathe again, and you like the way your home looks without all of the clutter. But now what? How do you maintain a minimalist lifestyle? And what do you do with all the clutter that you put aside?

Let us face the truth: life after decluttering can be either really good or the same. You might think that once you declutter – you are done. But an important ongoing step is to maintain & prevent your space from cluttering again.

Another important point to remember is that decluttering is the first part of the project, the second one is to get rid of all the clutter by donating, selling, recycling, or just throwing away.

Once you master these two things, a clutter-free home is guaranteed for the rest of your life. Therefore, a happy, healthy, and productive life too!

What happens after you declutter?

You will probably find that you have more time on your hands after decluttering. This is because you are no longer spending time searching for things or cleaning up clutter.

Some people find that their relationships improve after decluttering, according to this article, because they finally focus on what matters to them and not consuming their energy on unnecessary things.

Others find that they have more money after decluttering because they are no longer tempted to buy things they don’t need and can save/invest their money.

Whatever the case may be, decluttering has the potential to change your life for the better in many ways.

What to do after decluttering?

Congratulations! You have done a great job with decluttering your stuff. But those items are still in your house, so what can you do with them?

Donate

The easiest and most common thing to do with your decluttered items is to donate them.

There are many charities that would love to have your things. And it is a great way to declutter your house and help others at the same time.

Things to remember when you want to donate your stuff:

Make sure all the items are in good condition.
Do some research and find a charity that accepts the type of items you want to donate.
Get a receipt for your donations so you can use it for tax purposes.
Ideally, you want to sort and distribute them to make it easier for the charity.
Let go emotionally and feel good about your decision to help others.

Give to friends and family

If you have items that are in good condition and you think that some of your friends or family members could use them, then you can give them away.

By doing this, you declutter your house and help your loved ones at the same time. It’s a win-win!

Maybe your sister could use that dress that you never wear because it’s too big. Or your brother could use that tool set that was gifted to you but you don’t need it.

Just make sure that the person you are giving it to actually wants it and will use it.

Sell

If you want to make some money from your decluttered items, then you can sell them. You can have a garage sale or sell them online.

Things to remember when you want to sell your stuff:

Take good pictures of your items if you are selling them online.
Write a product description that is accurate and honest.
Price your items reasonably.
Make sure all the items are in good condition and working properly.
Do some research and find out what similar items are selling for.
Be prepared to negotiate the price.
Promote your garage sale in the neighborhood.

Tip: It is best to have a garage sale over an online sale because it takes less time. Usually, it takes a lot of time to sell stuff online, which means that those items are still going to stay in your house and take up space.

Recycle

If you have items that are no longer usable, then you can recycle them.

This is a nice way to declutter your house from broken or unusable items and help the environment at the same time.

Things to remember when you want to recycle your stuff:

Check with your local recycling center to see what items they accept.
Make sure the items are clean and dry.
Remove any batteries or light bulbs and recycle them correspondingly as well.
Follow the instructions of the recycling center.

Repurpose

If you feel creative, then you can repurpose your decluttered items.

This means that you can use them for something other than their original purpose.

Things to remember when you want to repurpose your stuff:

Use your imagination and be creative.
Look for inspiration online or in magazines.
Give the item a new purpose that BRINGS VALUE to your house.

How to maintain a decluttered home?

There are some key things you can do to make sure that your home stays decluttered:

1. Implement the one in, one out rule

One way to make sure that your home stays decluttered is to use the one in, one out rule. This means that for every new thing that comes into your home, you have to get rid of an old thing. This rule helps to prevent your home from becoming cluttered because you are always getting rid of things as new things come in.

However, it doesn’t mean that you are allowed to buy new things all the time, it just means that when you do buy new things, you have to be conscious of getting rid of something else.

Another thing to be aware of is that the one in, one out rule doesn’t just apply to physical things, it can also apply to digital things like subscriptions or apps.

2. Have a place for everything

Another way to maintain a decluttered home is to have a place for every item in your home. This means that you know where everything is supposed to go and it has a designated spot. When everything has a place, it is easier to keep your home decluttered because you can just put things away when you’re done using them.

Otherwise, those items are going to end up in a pile somewhere and eventually create clutter.

3. Declutter on regular basics

A well-kept home requires decluttering regularly. This means that you go through your things regularly and get rid of anything that you no longer need or use.

You can do this once a month or every two months, depending on how quickly your things accumulate (the slower, the better, obviously).

The important thing is to declutter regularly so that it becomes a habit and your home stays clutter-free.

If not, all of your hard work will go to waste and you’ll be back to square one.

4. Set limits on things

To maintain a decluttered home, it is important to set limits on the number of things you own. This means that you only allow yourself to have a certain number of items in each category.

For example, you might only allow yourself to have 50 pieces of clothing in your wardrobe.

Or no duplicates of anything (if you have two of the same thing, you get rid of one).

This helps to prevent your home from becoming cluttered because you are only allowing yourself to have a certain amount of things.

It also helps you to be more mindful about the things you do allow into your home.

5. Be mindful of your purchases

No impulsive buying!

This is probably the most important rule of all when it comes to maintaining a decluttered home. You have to be mindful of your purchases and only buy things that you need or will use.

If you’re not careful, it is very easy to let your home become cluttered with things that you don’t need or use.

One way to do this is by creating a list of things that you do need. And then only buy those things. If you see a cute cup in a store and you are tempted to buy it, remember that it is not on your list, which means that you don’t need it.

You can also give yourself a cooling-off period before making a purchase. This means that you wait 24 hours or more before buying something. This gives you time to think about whether or not you need or want the item. If after the cooling-off period you still want the item, then you can go ahead and buy it. But more often than not, you will find that you don’t want it anymore.

6. Keep a decluttering box

Keeping a decluttering box is a smart way to prevent your home from becoming cluttered.

A decluttering box is a box where you put all of the things that you no longer need or want.

So, let’s say you peacefully walk through your house and you see a pillow on your couch that you think doesn’t add any value to your home.

You would then put that pillow in your decluttering box.

The idea with the decluttering box is that when it gets full, you get rid of it. This way, you are constantly decluttering your home and getting rid of things that you don’t need.

Also, you keep all of your clutter in one place which makes it less noisy visually.

7. Have a regular cleaning routine

Having a regular cleaning routine is essential for maintaining a decluttered home.

This is because clutter can also be associated with dirt and dust. It plays the same role: it feels like it’s everywhere and it’s just too much to deal with.

So it is better to have a regular cleaning routine to help you keep your home decluttered and clean.

You can create a cleaning schedule and plan to clean certain areas in your house. For instance, you can dedicate Monday to cleaning the bathroom, Tuesday to doing the laundry, and so on.

8. Have enough storage space

This one is a little bit contra intuitive, and I get it. But let me explain.

I live in a house with only the essentials. So I have only what I strictly need. But I also tried to stay pretty minimum with furniture. And that is where a problem has arisen.

I had so little space to put my things that everything was constantly out in the open.

And that led to visual noise and a feeling of being overwhelmed every time I looked around my house. It was a disaster.

So, I’ve learned that it is very important to have enough storage space in your house. This way, you can put things away and avoid visual noise.

You don’t need a lot of storage space, but you need to find that sweet spot where you have just enough to put your things away.

Life after decluttering: Final thoughts

You have done a hard job of decluttering. It’s a lot of work but it hasn’t finished yet. You have to constantly keep up with it or else your house will become cluttered again.

But it’s not going to be that hard anymore once you get into the habit of decluttering. In fact, it could become quite an enjoyable activity.

And it will be worth it because you will have a clean and organized house that brings you joy.

I hope this was an insightful article that helped you understand what to do with your life after decluttering. If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment below and I will get back to you.

Cheers, Diana

How to Finally Get Into the Decluttering Mindset

October 1, 2022 by Diana

happy woman finally getting into a decluttering mindset

Getting into a decluttering mindset takes a little bit of time and effort, but once you get there, you are good to go.

Anybody who wanted to declutter their lives knows that it is not easy. It requires not only a lot of time, which is hard to find but also a lot of motivation. In other words, it is hard to get into the decluttering mindset.

You just postpone that decluttering day, and you just don’t have that mental energy to deal with all the stuff that has gathered throughout the years, even decades.

The thing with decluttering mindset is that it is the starting point of your decluttering process. And you either have it or not. If you don’t, it is going to be hard, even impossible, to start living a decluttered life.

But once you do have that decluttering mindset, things will start falling into place. You will find the time and motivation to declutter your life. You will be pumped and ready to start living a decluttered life.

So, what is this decluttering mindset? How do you get it?

What is the decluttering mindset?

The decluttering mindset is the state of mind where you are fully committed to decluttering your life. You are mentally and emotionally ready to deal with all the stuff that has been cluttering up your life.

You are ready to let go of all the things that no longer serve you. And you are ready to declutter your life and live a simpler, happier life.

If you don’t have a decluttering mindset, you hold onto things because you think you might need them someday. Or because they have sentimental value.

On the other hand, when you have a decluttering mindset, you realize that all this stuff is just stuff. It’s not important. And it’s not worth your happiness. So, you let go of it.

Signs that you need to work on your decluttering mindset

If any of these signs resonate with you, it means you need to work on your decluttering mindset.

You keep postponing your decluttering project.
You don’t know where to start.
You feel overwhelmed when you think about decluttering.
You keep buying things you don’t need.
Your house is cluttered and messy.
You feel like you are a hoarder.
You are constantly cleaning but your house is still cluttered.
You feel like you can’t live without all this stuff.
You are attached to your things and have a sentimental value for them.

If you can relate to any of these signs, don’t worry. You are not alone. A lot of people feel the same way. And the good news is, you can change your mindset.

A decluttering mindset & a cluttered mind

These two can’t coexist. It’s either one or the other.

If you have a cluttered mind, your house is going to be cluttered. And if you have a decluttered mind, you are going to start making progress towards a clean, tidy home.

It all starts with your mindset. So, if you want to declutter your life, you need to start with your mindset. And this is what we are going to do. We will go through some ways to develop a decluttering mindset.

Ways to get into the decluttering mindset

The more of these mindset shifts you can implement, the better.

1. Constantly get inspired

One way to develop a decluttering mindset is to constantly get inspired.

Look for people who have already decluttered their lives and are living the life you want. Read their stories. Watch their videos. Follow them on social media. And let their story inspire you to declutter your life and live a simpler, happier life.

Also, look for other sources of inspiration. Read books, listen to podcasts, and watch movies that will inspire you to declutter your life.

For instance, on Netflix, you can find Tidying Up with Marie Kondo, which is a show about decluttering. And it’s very inspiring.

Similarly, there are many books about decluttering and minimalism that will inspire you to declutter your life.

Some of my favorites are:

The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo
Goodbye things by Fumio Sasaki
The More of Less: Finding the Life You Want Under Everything You Own by Joshua Becker

As you get inspired, you will start to develop a decluttering mindset. And you will be more motivated to declutter your life.

2. Material things are not going to matter at the end of our lives

One of the biggest mindset shifts you need to make is realizing that things are not going to matter at the end of your life.

All the stuff you have been holding onto is not going to matter. The only thing that is going to matter is HOW you have lived your life and the relationships you have.

According to BJ Miller, what matters at the end of life is simply love, the feeling of comfort, and respect. BJ Miller is a board-certified palliative and hospice specialist who works with people facing the end of life, so he knows what it is all about.

When thinking about death, we can easily define our priorities and what matters to us.

And when you realize that things will not matter at the end of your life, it becomes easier to let go of them.

It’s a powerful way to develop a decluttering mindset.

3. Fill your life with meaning

What do you want from this life?

To keep all of your belongings and stay where you are, and be always weighted down by your stuff? Or do you want to live a life full of adventure, experiences, and memories?

Do you want to have yourself tied up with your stuff? Or do you want to be free?

Do you want to spend your only life in a mess, or do you want to live in a clean, uncluttered, and organized space?

The choice is yours.

But true fulfillment and happiness come from having a life full of meaning. And you can only have that if you start decluttering your life and living with less.

When you have less, you are free to do more. You are free to pursue your dreams and live a life full of meaning.

4. Less is more

Similar to the last point, with less stuff, you have more freedom. You have more time, energy, and money to pursue the things that matter to you.

Less clutter can lead to more happiness.
Less clutter can lead to more focus.
Less clutter can lead to more free time.
Less clutter can lead to more productivity.
Less clutter means more fulfillment and meaning.

When you think about it, it is true. You can’t have the life that you want when your life is full of clutter. It’s also not good for your mental health, according to Very Well Mind. You have to choose what is important to you and get rid of the rest.

When I say important, I mean what brings value and joy into your life. These are the things that you should keep and everything else should go.

5. The past is gone

I am sorry to tell you this, but the past no longer exists. So why hold on to things from the past? Why keep things that prevent you from living in the present?

You can’t change the past, but you can certainly influence the future. So focus on what is important to you NOW and let go of what is holding you back.

6. More stuff doesn’t equal more happiness

“Only if I had that kitchen gadget, I would be so much happier” or “If I only had that new car, my life would be perfect.”

We have all been there. We think that we need something new or different to be happy. But the truth is, more stuff doesn’t equal more happiness.

More stuff makes you have more responsibilities, and more to worry about.

So instead of chasing after material things, chase after experiences and memories.

For instance, rather than buying a new car, take a road trip with your friends. Instead of getting the latest gadget, go on an adventure. These are the things that will make you happy, and that you will remember for the rest of your life.

7. Picture your perfect life every day

Visualization is a powerful tool that you can use in order to achieve your goals, according to this article on Forbes. The better you get at visualizing your perfect life, the easier it will be to get motivated to declutter your life.

What does a perfect life look like to you?
Do you see yourself living in a beautiful home with only the things that bring you joy?
Do you see yourself spending your days doing the things that you love, surrounded by the people who matter to you?
Do you see yourself being happy, healthy, and fulfilled?

Keep this picture in your mind every day, and let it be your guide as you declutter your life.

8. You can’t put memories in boxes

You might be tempted to keep things because they remind you of happy times in the past.

But here’s what we know: memories are always with us, whether or not we can change that specific moment from long ago. So instead of lovingly storing these precious moments under your bed for safekeeping (which does happen), get rid of any physical reminders.

The photos and papers cluttering up space at home; trinkets collecting dust on shelves. And focus on keeping only mental ones alive by remembering where all those great stories were first told!

9. It’s not just about getting rid of stuff

When most people think about decluttering, they think about getting rid of things. But that’s not the only way to declutter your life.

While decluttering your stuff, you get rid at the same time of negativity, mental weight, and emotional baggage.

It’s also a great way to let go of things that no longer serve you, such as old beliefs, habits, and grudges.

It’s about making space for what does serve you and what will make you happy.

10. Just start now

Sometimes all we need is just to start. And then it gets easier, we get into the mindset,

Why? Because we love the results. We feel lighter, happier, and freer. We can finally breathe again.

Start with one small area, such as your bedside table, and go from there.

Be curious about how it’s going to go. Think about the meaning of your life and ask yourself if the stuff that is in your hands now will help you live that life.

If not, let it go!

And then observe the changes. They might be small, even non-existent but they should motivate you to keep going. You know that the end result is going to be wonderful, so you have no reasons not to declutter.

Don’t be a prisoner of your own clutter

Make this mindset shift and see yourself as the person who is in control of your stuff. Not the other way around!

Be brave and make decisions.

Don’t be a prisoner of your clutter, don’t make it your identity.

You can escape, all you need is that shift button in your head to make the change. And you are ready to go.

And when you’re done, you can live the life you want to.

Now go and take control of your life! Start decluttering and let go of what’s no longer serving you. You got this!

Final thoughts

I hope that you finally have that motivation, that decluttering mindset to get rid of what’s no longer serving you.

I know that it can be really tough, especially when we get attached to material things. But once you let go, it feels so liberating!

And if it doesn’t, you still have to try. Don’t worry, you can always rebuy what you got rid of. And maybe one day you will come to a point when you enjoy decluttering and it’s going to be a part of your life!

If you have any tips on decluttering or how to get into the mindset, please share them in the comments below! I would love to hear from you.

Cheers, Diana

What You Can Do When You Have Too Many Clothes

October 18, 2022September 5, 2022 by Diana

Do you feel like you have too many clothes? If yes, why so, and how to fix it?

Most people have too many clothes. In fact, research shows that the average person has around 300 $ worth of clothes they never wear. That means that most of us are wasting a lot of money on clothes we’ll never wear.

The reason we buy so many clothes is that we don’t know how to shop wisely. We buy things impulsively, without considering whether we’ll actually wear them.

We also don’t think about what will go with what, so we end up with a closet full of clothes that don’t match anything.

Well, if so, you are in the right place. This guide will show why you have too many clothes and how to get rid of them.

How do you know if you have too many clothes?

There are a few signs that you have too many clothes:

You can’t fit everything in your closet: This is a physical sign that you have too many clothes. In fact, if you can’t even close your closet door, it’s definitely a problem.
You have clothes with the tags still on them: If you have clothes with the tags still on them, it means you’ve never worn them. Why keep them if you’re never going to wear them?
You have clothes that don’t fit you: Having clothes that don’t fit you is a waste of space. If they don’t fit, you MUST get rid of them.
You feel overwhelmed when you think about dressing: In general, if getting dressed feels like a chore, it’s because you have too many clothes. You should be able to look at your closet and easily put together an outfit.
It’s difficult to match your clothes: If you can’t find anything to match your clothes, it’s because you have too many clothes. If this is the case, it’s hard to keep track of everything and match everything up.
You don’t like what you wear: Not being satisfied with your wardrobe is another sign that you have too many clothes. You should be able to look in your closet and find something that you desire to wear.

Reasons why you have too many clothes

It is useful to know the reasons why you might have too many clothes. After all, if you know the reasons, it is easier to change your behavior.

That is why in this section we will look at the main reasons people have too many clothes.

Buying clothes on sale

When clothes are on sale, it is hard to resist buying them. After all, who doesn’t love a good deal? However, just because something is on sale doesn’t mean you need to buy it.

Think about it: if you will wear it only a couple of times, is it really a good deal?

Of course not.

The only time you should buy clothes on sale is if you were planning to buy them anyway. Otherwise, you’re just wasting your money.

Not knowing your style

A lot of people have a ton of clothes because they don’t know their style. They buy clothes impulsively, without considering whether it is their style or not.

As a result, they end up with a mix of styles that don’t really go together.

Impulsive buying

We open our closets and are greeted by an overwhelming sea of clothing, all claiming to be perfect for us but not actually being worn anywhere near enough!

The truth about these garments?

They were bought on impulse shopping sprees where we followed styling trends rather than assessed if the items matched what was needed or wanted.

Or, we simply saw something we liked and bought it without thinking if we’d use it often enough to make the purchase worth our while.

Being sentimental

Some of us keep clothes because they hold sentimental value.

For example, you might have a shirt that you wore on your first date with your spouse. Or, you might have a dress that you wore to your high school prom.

While it is understandable to want to keep these items, you need to be realistic.

Be ruthless and ask yourself if you will really ever wear them again (if not, you need what you need to do!).

Read more about getting rid of sentimental items here.

You don’t know how to declutter

The average person wears just 20% of the clothes in their closet, according to this study. The rest are just taking up space.

But decluttering your closet can be daunting. It’s hard to let go of clothes that you spent good money on or that have sentimental value. And it’s even harder to keep your closet tidy if you don’t have a system for organizing it.

If you need help decluttering your closet, here are some resources to get you started: The Complete Guide on How To Get Rid of Clothes

Further reading: 20 Effective Ways to Stop Buying Stuff You Don’t Need

You have a “just in case” mindset

We have all been there: we are out shopping, we see something we like, and we think to ourselves “I might need this one day.”

So we buy it.

Just in case.

However, more often than not, that “just in case” item never gets used. It just sits in our closet, taking up space.

If you find yourself buying things “just in case,” it might be time to reassess your shopping habits. Instead of buying things impulsively, take a step back and think about whether you really need the item or not (need, not want!). The answer is probably no.

You have an “I’ll wear it eventually” mindset

On the other hand of the “just in case” mindset is the “I’ll wear it eventually” mindset.

This is when you keep clothes that you don’t wear now because you think you might wear them in the future.

Are you holding onto clothes that you hope to fit into one day?
Or are you keeping clothes that are out of style, thinking they might come back in style eventually?

If you find yourself thinking “I’ll wear it eventually,” it might be time to let go of those clothes.

What to do if you have too many clothes?

Maybe you have found yourself in one or probably more of the reasons listed above, but it is not too late to change your shopping habits.

There are things you can do to prevent yourself from accumulating too many clothes. And also, there are ways to help you declutter your closet so that you finally have a closet that you love.

I have decided to segment this part into 4 categories:

before making a purchase

during the purchase

after accumulating too many clothes

maintaining a clutter-free closet

Before making a purchase

One big reason why you have a lot of clothes is that you don’t know how to stop doing that. You still go shopping. You still buy clothes. So obviously, you will end up with more clothes that you don’t need.

That is why it is important to stop this from happening. Here are some tips on how to do that:

Decide on your style

The first step to having a closet that you love and not overloaded with clothes is to decide on your style.

Figure out what clothes make you feel good and what style you are most comfortable in.

This will help you when you are out shopping because you will be less likely to buy something that is not your style. Besides that, deciding on your style will help you with decluttering (we will get there later on).

Browse Pinterest, fashion magazines, fashion blogs, and even people around you that you like their style to get inspiration.

Have good reasons to have a less cluttered closet

When you are trying to break a habit, it always helps to have a good reason why you want to do it. So take some time to write down your reasons for wanting to have a less cluttered closet.

Some of the reasons are:

I want to be able to see all my clothes so that I can choose what to wear easily
I want my closet to look nice and tidy
I want to wear all the clothing that I have
I want to save money by not buying clothes that I don’t need
I want my clothes to match between them

Having a clear why will help you stay motivated when you are trying to break your habit of accumulating too many clothes.

Don’t go shopping if you don’t need anything

This one is pretty self-explanatory, but it is worth mentioning.

If you don’t need anything, don’t go shopping.

It is so easy to go into a store when you are bored or have nothing to do and come out with a new shirt or pair of pants. But if you don’t need anything, there is no point in going into the store and buying something that will clutter your closet.

Make a list of needed clothes and stick to them

Let’s say you need a new jacket because the one you have is too small/old/not your style anymore. You need a new pair of jeans because you ripped yours.

Write it out. And don’t buy anything that is not on your list.

Making a list will help you stay focused on what you need and not get sidetracked by all the other things in the store.

During the purchase

Somehow you ended up in a store. Maybe you even are trying out a shirt and you really like it. Let me remind you, you are in a trap now. However, there are strategies that might help you get out of it:

Ask yourself some questions

Before you buy anything, always ask yourself these questions:

Do I need it? When I say “need” I don’t mean “want”.
Do I have something similar?
Do I have an outfit in mind that I can wear this with?
Is it my style?
Can I afford it?
Will it help me match my clothing easier or it will just add to the pile of clothes that I never wear?
Is it a quality item or it is just cheap and will probably fall apart after a few wears?

Answering these questions will help you decide if the piece of clothing is worth your money or not.

Don’t fall for the “it’s on sale” trap

Many times we see something that we like and it is on sale. And because it is on sale, we think that we are getting a good deal and we buy it.

But here is the thing, just because something is on sale doesn’t mean that you should buy it. You should still ask yourself the questions from before. If the answer is no to any of them, don’t buy them.

Don’t let emotions rule your decisions

This is a big one. Many times we buy things because they make us feel good at the moment. But you have to remember that the feeling will go away and you will be stuck with the clothes.

I know, you feel like you are in love with that shirt and you will wear it all the time. But considering that you probably have a lot of them, the chances of you actually wearing it are slim.

So, don’t let your emotions rule your decisions when you are shopping for clothes.

Buy only clothes that match your wardrobe

For me, this is a very important point. I used to have a lot of clothing, but I had nothing to wear because none of my clothes matched.

I would go into my closet and I would have a shirt that I liked, but I had no pants that matched it. So the idea is to buy clothes that you can mix and match.

This way, you can create a lot of different outfits with the same pieces of clothing and you will actually wear them.

Quality first

I have mentioned it above but I will say it again. Quality over quantity.

It is better to have a few quality pieces of clothing that you love and wear all the time than a lot of cheap clothes that you will never wear.

Sure, the quality garments might be more expensive but they will last you longer and you will actually get your money’s worth.

After accumulating too many clothes

There are things you can do if you have too many clothes and you want to declutter your closet.

And you need to declutter it the right way. You can’t just take all your clothing and throw them away. Or declutter just a few pieces. You have to do it the right way if you want to be successful.

I have a full guide on how to get rid of clothes but here are the essential points:

The process of decluttering clothes

The whole point of decluttering is to get rid of the clothing you don’t need. But if you are not organized about it, you will probably end up keeping most of your clothes.

So, my advice is to:

go through your whole closet and take out all of your clothes.
sort them into 3 piles: keep, maybe, and donate/sell.
go through your clothes one by one asking yourself the questions above and put them in relevant bins
Take the “maybe pile” and ask if that piece of clothing brings you joy. If it doesn’t, donate/sell.

Ask questions

There are also questions to ask yourself that might help you get rid of some clothes:

Do I feel good when I wear it?
Does it match my style?
Is it comfortable?
When was the last time I wore it?

If the answer to any of these questions is no, get rid of the clothes. You don’t need them in your life.

Be ruthless

The most essential thing when you are decluttering is to be ruthless. If you are not, you will probably end up keeping most of your clothes.

Don’t keep items for sentimental reasons, because you “might” wear them someday, or because they are expensive. Get rid of it if you haven’t worn it in the last 2-3 months.

What to do with the clothes that you want to get rid of?

Donate

The donation process is simple. You can either donate to a local charity, to friends, family, or to thrift stores.

Thrift stores are always a good option because they will sell the garments and the money will go to a good cause.

Just make sure that the clothes are in good condition before you donate them.

Sell

If you want to make some extra money, you can always sell your clothes. There are a few options when it comes to selling clothes.

You can have a garage sale, sell them online (on websites like eBay or Poshmark), or take them to a consignment store.

Throw away/recycle

Sometimes, you will have garments that are in such bad condition that you can’t sell or donate them.

In this case, you will have to throw them away or recycle them.

Maintain a clutter-free wardrobe

Once you have decluttered your closet, it is essential to maintain a clutter-free wardrobe.

Every time you buy new clothes, make sure to get rid of an old piece of clothing. This way, you will always have a balanced number of clothes in your closet.

And, every few months, go through your clothes and get rid of the ones you don’t wear. This way, you will always have a decluttered closet full of clothes that you love and wear.

Another thing to do in order to maintain a clutter-free wardrobe is to be mindful of the clothes you buy. Like really, just stop when you catch yourself thinking about buying things you don’t need. Feel your breath and move on.

You don’t need any more clothes. Your wardrobe is perfect as it is. It’s time to start enjoying your life without clothes taking up space in your closet.

From too many clothes to a capsule wardrobe

If you have too many clothes and you want to declutter your closet, one option is to create a capsule wardrobe.

A capsule wardrobe is a small collection of clothes that can be mixed and matched to create multiple outfits.

With a capsule wardrobe, less is more. So don’t try to cram too many clothes into it. Just choose a few pieces that you love and that will make you feel good when you wear them.

Some important tips that can help you get started:

Choose a colour scheme
Get inspired by browsing Pinterest
Stick to a few basics
Add some statement pieces
Organize your capsule wardrobe so you can easily find what you are looking for

Once you have created your capsule wardrobe, you might be surprised at how little clothing you actually need to be happy. And you will also save time getting dressed because you will know exactly what to wear.

Final thoughts

Having too many clothes is not as much fun as some people think. It’s actually quite stressful and it can be hard to keep your closet organized.

If you have a lot of clothes, the best thing to do is to declutter your closet and get rid of the clothes you don’t need. Moreover, you need to get into the right mindset so you don’t repeat the same mistakes of accumulating too many clothes again.

And, if you want to simplify your life even further, you can create a capsule wardrobe. With a capsule wardrobe, you will only have the clothes that you love and that make you feel good.

I hope this article has inspired you to declutter your closet and live a simpler life with fewer clothes.

Have a clutter-free day!

Cheers, Diana

20 Signs That You Have Too Much Stuff & How to Deal With it

October 5, 2022July 25, 2022 by Diana

If you are wondering whether you have too much stuff, you are in the right place. This article will help you understand the signs that you have too much stuff and how to deal with it.

Despite some beliefs, having too much stuff is not a sign of wealth or success. In fact, it can be quite the opposite. Having too much stuff can be a burden, both physically and emotionally.

If you can relate to any of the following signs, it might be time to declutter your life and get rid of some of your stuff.

Signs that you have too much stuff

You don’t have to fit in all of these categories to have too much stuff. Even a few of them is enough.

1. You don’t have enough storage space

This is a big one. If you don’t have enough storage space, it’s a clear sign that you have too much stuff. Usually, storage space is one of the first things to go when you have too much stuff.

2. You can’t find things

We’ve all been there- you can’t find your keys, your phone, or your favorite book. So, you spend ten minutes searching through the house, moving couch cushions, and emptying out drawers. Eventually, you find what you’re looking for, but the process is so frustrating.

When you have too much stuff, it becomes difficult to keep track of everything. This can lead to frustration and wasted time when you’re trying to find things.

3. You are constantly cleaning

Having too much stuff takes up more time for cleaning. As simple as that. So if you find yourself cleaning all the time, it might be a sign that you have too much stuff.

4. You’re always moving stuff around

One of the most frustrating things in life is feeling like you can never get your stuff under control and organized.

It seems like no matter how often you tidy up and move things around, there’s always something out of place. And continually rearranging and moving things around is so time-consuming. If you find yourself doing this often, it’s a sign that your stuff is taking over your space.

5. You don’t have a specific place for your stuff

If your stuff doesn’t have a specific place, it’s going to stay on the countertops, tables, and floors. This creates clutter and chaos and makes it difficult to find things when you need them. So, if you don’t have a place for your stuff, it certainly means that you have too much stuff.

6. You don’t have any white space in your house

White space is the empty space in a room. It’s uncluttered and free of any furniture or decor. And having some white space in your house is important. It makes the space feel bigger, brighter, and more open.

If you don’t have any white space in your house, it’s a sign that your stuff is taking over. And that’s not a good thing.

7. You’re constantly buying new storage solutions

If you find yourself constantly buying new storage solutions, it’s a sign that you have too much stuff. You might think that buying a new storage unit will solve the problem, but it’s just a temporary fix. Eventually, you’ll run out of storage space and your stuff will take over your house. And we don’t want that!

8. You barely/never use some of your stuff

Do you have in mind now some of the things you haven’t used in months or even years? If you do and the answer is “yes”, then you might have too much stuff.

8. You only buy things and don’t get rid of anything

We all know that person who always seems to have the latest gadgets, the trendiest clothes, and a never-ending supply of new things. And while it might seem like they’ve got their life together, the truth is that they’re probably drowning in a sea of stuff.

Constantly buying new things and never getting rid of anything is a sure sign that you have too much stuff. And it’s a problem that’s only going to get worse over time. Holding onto things might not be a big deal now, but it will be a huge problem down the road.

9. You have no idea where that item is

Your spouse asks you where the pictures from your last vacation are and you have no idea. You spend the next half an hour looking through closets, drawers, and boxes, but you can’t find them anywhere. Sounds familiar?

If you can’t find things when you need them, it means that you have too much stuff.

10. You never know what to wear

Studies show that too many choices lead to indecision. And that’s certainly true when it comes to clothes. If you have a closet full of clothes but can never seem to find anything to wear, it’s a sign that you have too much stuff.

Further reading: What You Can Do When You Have Too Many Clothes

11. You’re always losing things

Do you have any items that you couldn’t find even until now? Well, if you do then that’s another sign that you probably have too much stuff. When you have too many things, it’s easy to lose track of them. And that can be frustrating, not to mention costly.

12. You’re constantly buying duplicates

Those “just in case” items or that updated version of something you already have. If you find yourself buying duplicates of things, it’s a sign that you have too much stuff. Not only is this a waste of money, but it’s also a waste of space.

13. You’re embarrassed by your house

Do you ever have friends or family over and feel embarrassed by the state of your house? If so, it means that you have to get some decluttering done. The sooner the better.

14. You don’t know what is inside some of the drawers and cabinets

If you have to open a drawer or cabinet and take everything out just to find what you’re looking for, it’s clearly not good. Imagine how would it be to have everything organized and know exactly where everything is. Wouldn’t that be great?

15. You feel like you’re living in a storage unit

If your house feels more like a storage unit than a home, it’s time to get rid of some stuff. Nobody wants to live in a place that’s crammed full of stuff. It’s just not healthy or sustainable.

A home has to be cozy and inviting, not chaotic and claustrophobic.

16. You have no space for your car in the garage

There is an interesting study that found that almost 1 in 4 Americans can’t fit their car in the garage because of clutter. Are you one of them?

17. You don’t have any empty/almost empty shelves

Every single square inch of your house is accounted for and there’s no room for anything new. If you don’t have any empty shelves, it means that the stuff is starting to take over.

18. It’s difficult to vacuum or clean

Do you need to move a bunch of stuff just to vacuum or clean a certain area? If so, then it’s definitely time to declutter. A home should be easy and pleasant to clean, not a constant battle.

19. You haven’t decluttered your space in ages

This is pretty self-explanatory. If it’s been years since you’ve decluttered, then it’s safe to say that you have too much stuff.

20. You have more than one storage unit

Do you have so much stuff that you had to rent an additional storage unit? If so, then it’s time to save some money by getting rid of some things. You don’t need all that stuff, trust me.

Where to start if you have too much stuff?

If you ran through the list above and realized that you’re guilty of most, if not all, of the signs then don’t worry. It’s not too late to declutter and get your life back on track.

If you make a plan and commit to it, you’ll be less overwhelmed and more likely to stick with it.

I have a comprehensive guide on clutter clearing here.

How to deal with too much stuff?

Set the mindset

Decluttering is not easy, especially if you have too much stuff. It will take time, effort, and energy. But it’s important to remember that it’s worth it. A decluttered home will make you feel lighter, happier, and more at peace. So, keep that in mind as you go through the process.

Ask yourself some questions during the process

These questions include:

Do I need this?
Do I love this?
Does this bring me joy?
When was the last time I used/wore this?
Do I have a place for this?
Is this worth the storage space?

Asking yourself these questions will help you narrow down your belongings and make the decluttering process a lot easier.

Get rid of big stuff first

This includes furniture, appliances, and other large items. Not only will this give you a sense of accomplishment, but it will also make your space feel more open.

Work in smaller chunks

If the thought of decluttering your entire house is too daunting, then break it down into smaller tasks. For example, focus on decluttering your bedroom first. Once that’s done, move on to the living room, and so on.

Don’t over-declutter

Please don’t underestimate this point. Just because you have a lot of stuff doesn’t mean you need to get rid of everything. Keep the items that are important to you and that make you happy.

Make it fun

Decluttering doesn’t have to be a chore. Put on some music, and make a game out of it. The more fun you have, the more likely you are to stick with it.

Recycle, donate and sell

This is an important process of decluttering because it helps you get rid of things in a responsible way. Plus, it’s a great way to make some extra cash.

Organize after you declutter

Once you’ve decluttered your space, it’s important to organize what’s left. This will help you keep your space clutter-free in the future.

Why having too much stuff is bad?

It is certainly bad to have too much stuff, but why?

There are a few important reasons:

You spend money on things you don’t need. The PR Newswire has a statistical article that people have lots of stuff and not enough money. Well, that’s not surprising. When you have too much stuff, you’re more likely to spend money on things you don’t need. It clutters your home and your life.

It’s bad for the environment. We buy things and they end up in the landfill. Climate change is getting worse and worse, and it’s our responsibility to take care of the earth. Read this article on How Buying Stuff Drives Climate Change to find out more about this problem.

It causes stress and anxiety. It’s actually true. If you find yourself feeling stressed and anxious, it might be because you have too much stuff. NY Times published an article that links clutter to stress and anxiety.

It’s a waste of time. When you have too much stuff, it takes up your time. You spend time cleaning, organizing, and looking for things. It’s time that you could be spending on more important things, like your relationships or your hobbies.

Why is it so hard for me to get rid of stuff?

You might be in one or more of these categories:

You are too sentimental. If you have a hard time getting rid of things because they remind you of someone or something then you are too emotional. You might also feel like you’re getting rid of a part of yourself. This article might help you.

You are a collector. You might collect certain items, like books or records. It can be hard to let go of these things, even if you don’t use them.

You think you might need it in the future. This is a common problem. We hold on to things because we think we might need them in the future. But the truth is, we probably won’t. If you haven’t used it in a year, chances are you won’t use it in the future.

You’re afraid of change. Change can be scary. But change is a good thing. It means improvement.

You don’t know where to start. It’s hard to know where to start when you have too much stuff. But once you get started, it’s not so bad.

Will I regret getting rid of stuff?

If you don’t over-declutter, which means getting rid of things that are important to you, then you shouldn’t regret it. On the contrary, you’ll probably feel a sense of relief and freedom.

Avoid over-decluttering, so don’t get rid of things like hobby items, useful everyday items, and in some cases sentimental items (although it is best to take a picture and let go).

Keep the clutter from coming back

If you had too much stuff and finally made the step to declutter, you should also make an effort to keep the clutter from coming back. Here are some tips:

Don’t buy duplicates. When you’re out shopping, resist the urge to buy things you already have.

One item in, one out. This rule means that for every new item you bring into your home, you should get rid of one.

Declutter regularly. Decluttering is an ongoing process. You should declutter your space regularly, so it doesn’t get out of control again.

Think before you buy. Before you make a decision to buy something, give it a day or two. Ask yourself if you really need it. If you can live without it, then don’t buy it.

Be mindful of your consumption. Be more mindful of your consumption overall. Not just with physical things, but with everything. Be mindful of the food you eat, the energy you use, and the way you live your life.

Final thoughts

If you feel like you have too much stuff and you have proven it by the fact that you can’t close your drawers or cupboards (just an example), then it’s time to do something about it. Don’t let your stuff control your life.

You have to get through the initial pain of decluttering and letting go, but it will be worth it in the end. A decluttered space will lead to a decluttered mind and a happier life.

I hope this article was helpful. And I hope you will embark on your own decluttering journey.

Have a lovely day!

Cheers,
Diana

How to Get Rid of Sentimental Items With No Regret?

October 1, 2022July 25, 2022 by Diana

Sentimental items can be some of the hardest things to get rid of. They can bring back memories, both good and bad, and they can be difficult to let go of. However, if you’re holding on to too much sentimental clutter, it can start to take over your home and your life.

We all know the feeling of being bogged down by too much stuff. Our homes become cluttered and cramped, and it feels like we can never find anything we need. But getting rid of physical clutter is only half the battle. When our belongings are also infused with emotional baggage, it can be even harder to let them go.

We may not realize it, but we often attach sentimental value to objects that have little or no actual value. This can make it very difficult to get rid of things, even when we know we should. We might hold onto an item because it belonged to a loved one, or because it brings back happy memories.

But sometimes, hanging on to these things can actually hold us back from moving on in life.

So if you are one of those people who find it hard to let go of sentimental clutter, I have some tips for you.

What are sentimental items?

Sentimental items are things that we keep because they hold sentimental value. This can be anything from an old toy to a piece of jewelry. We might keep these things because they remind us of a happy memory or a loved one.

They are usually not useful or valuable, but we hold onto them because of the emotions they evoke.

Ways to get rid of sentimental items

Make a “sentimental items” folder on your phone or computer

I have started with the best (in my opinion) way to let go of sentimental things.

JUST TAKE A PICTURE AND LET GO.

For instance, if you have a vase that was given to you on the day your child was born and you feel way too emotional about ever getting rid of it, take a picture of it. Now you have the memory without having to keep the physical object. And let’s be honest, how often do you use that vase? Do you even like it?

If you really want to keep the sentimental value of an item without actually keeping the item, take a picture of it and put it in a “sentimental items” folder on your computer or phone.

This way, you can look at the picture whenever you want, but you don’t have to keep the actual object taking up space in your home.

Write down your memories associated with the item

Sometimes, just putting your thoughts and feelings into words can help you to see the item in a different light.

Get a piece of paper and write down all the memories you have associated with the item.

For instance, if you are holding onto an old t-shirt from your high school days, write down all the memories that come to mind when you think of that shirt. You might remember the first time you wore it, or the first time someone complimented you on it. You might remember how good you felt when you were wearing it, or how confident it made you feel.

Some of the memories might be happy, and some might be sad. But by writing them all down, you will get a better sense of what the item really means to you. And once you have done that, it might be easier to let it go.

This is because you are giving yourself permission to remember the happy times without hanging on to the physical object.

That is why I think this is such a powerful exercise.

It allows you to keep the memories without keeping the clutter.

Remember that you are more than things

It is easy to get caught up in the idea that our belongings define us. We might think that if we get rid of certain things, we are getting rid of a part of ourselves.

But that is not true. Remember, you are MUCH more than the sum of your belongings.

You are not your clothes, your furniture, or your knick-knacks. You are a unique individual with your own thoughts, feelings, and memories.

And no matter what you own, or don’t own, that will never change. All of those memories associated with the items are in your head, not in the items themselves.

So even if you get rid of an item, those memories will still be with you. They are a part of you, and no one can take them away.

Focus on the future, not the past

When we are holding onto sentimental items, we are usually holding onto memories of the past.

But if you want to move forward in life, it is important to focus on the future, not the past.

Think about the things you want to achieve and the person you want to become. And remember, you don’t need material possessions to help you achieve those things. In fact, sometimes getting rid of sentimental clutter can actually help you to move on and achieve your goals.

It can help you to see that you don’t need those things to be happy or successful.

So instead of dwelling on the past, focus on the future and what you want to achieve.

Start with one item and see how it goes

If you are feeling overwhelmed by the thought of getting rid of all your sentimental clutter, start with just one item.

And see how it goes.

You might feel like you won’t be able to get past the attachment you feel to that item. But it might be just in your head. In reality, it might be easier than you think.

So start with one item and wait for a few weeks. Notice if you miss it or if you feel better without it. And then take it from there.

I assume that you will be so fine without it and probably won’t even remember it after some time.

Otherwise, it might be a sign that you are not ready to let it go yet. And that is okay. Just take your time and work through your feelings.

Put them out of your vision

One of the reasons we hang onto sentimental items is because we see them every day. You might think that you need to see that item every day to remember the memories associated with it.

But try this: put the item out of your vision for a while. And see how you feel.

Dedicate some time to put away all of your sentimental items. You might notice that you don’t actually miss them. You might notice that there is more space for something else. And you might even find that you feel lighter without them.

If that happens, get rid of sentimental clutter that is just occupying space in your house without serving any purpose.

Realize that there are people who might actually use that item

When you are holding onto an item because of sentimentality (and not because of utility), chances are that there are other people in the world who could actually use that item.

Think about it:

That shirt you never wear but can’t get rid of because it was your favorite in high school? Someone else might actually wear it and enjoy it.

That book you read once and will never read again? Someone else might find it helpful or interesting (Having books as a minimalist).

Those things that are just sitting in your attic or basement, taking up space? Someone else might be able to use them.

Change your mindset and think about how you can help others by getting rid of your sentimental clutter.

Realize that it is only in your head

One of the most common reasons we keep sentimental items is because we believe they are valuable. When examined closely, this is not always the case.

We assign value to things that are really just junk and then we feel the need to keep them forever. The key is to realize that the sentimental value is only in your head and that you can get rid of the item without losing the memory. Realize that it’s only in the back of your mind, that you don’t actually need that item.

Also, it might be that those items limit you from creating new memories in the present.

Think about it: every time you look at that item, you are living in the past instead of the present.

Look at how minimalism can change your life

Minimalism can be life-changing. It can help you to focus on what is important and let go of what is not. It can also help you to live in the present and enjoy your life more.

If you are struggling with sentimental clutter, then I would encourage you to look into minimalism. It might just be the thing you need to help you let go of your sentimental clutter.

You will find out that you don’t need all that stuff to be happy. You can be happy with less. This is because stuff brings us down, it clutters our minds and our homes. It takes up our time and energy to take care of it.

Get out of the consumerism trap

Many of us are caught in the consumerism trap. We think we need to keep buying stuff in order to be happy. We think that we need to keep stuff in order to be happy.

Society is a very nice thing but it tells us that we need to keep consuming in order to be happy. And this is simply not true. You can be happy without all the stuff.

Sentimental items are a part of this trap. They are things that we think we need to keep in order to be happy. But they are just clutter. And they are taking up space in our homes.

If you want to get rid of sentimental clutter, you need to get out of the consumerism trap. You need to find other “things” that make you happy. You need to find other ways to express your love and affection.

Ask yourself the hard questions

If you want to get rid of sentimental clutter, you need to ask yourself some hard questions.

These questions include:

Do I really need this item?
Why am I keeping it?
Is this item taking up valuable space in my home?
Is this item adding to my happiness or taking away from it?
Can I express the sentiment another way?
Is there someone else who would appreciate this item more than I do?

Be honest with yourself when you answer these questions. If you are honest, you will probably find that you don’t need most of the sentimental clutter in your life.

For instance, for the question “Why do I keep it?” a common answer is “Because it reminds me of a happy memory.” But if you think deep enough, you will realize that it’s not true. You can let go and still have the memory.

Why is it so hard to get rid of sentimental items?

Sentimental items are often hard to get rid of. We all know it. We have all been there. But why?

They remind us of happy memories. This is probably the most common reason. We think that by keeping the item, we are keeping the memory.
We think we need them to be happy. Happiness comes from within, not from stuff.
We think that they are a part of our identity. But our identity is not defined by our stuff.
We are afraid of change. Getting rid of sentimental clutter can be a big change. But it can also be a very good change.

Although it is hard, it is important to get rid of sentimental clutter.

Why is it important to get rid of sentimental clutter?

There are a few reasons why it is important to get rid of sentimental clutter.

It can take up valuable space in your home.
It can be a source of stress and anxiety.
It can prevent you from living in the present.
It can be a drain on your time and energy.

Do you need to get rid of all sentimental items?

You can keep some things that are very sentimental to you. Don’t be too harsh on yourself. But you need to be mindful of what you keep. You don’t need to keep everything.

A wedding dress or a letter from a loved one is fine. But do you really need that shot glass from your 21st birthday? Probably not.

If you are in doubt, leave it in a box somewhere untouched for a while. If you have remembered it and you still want it, then keep it. Otherwise, get rid of it.

The bottom line is that it is fine to have a tiny memory box of sentimental items. But not a full house.

Final thoughts

Sentimental clutter takes up space not only in your house but also in your mind. And it fills up your life with stuff that doesn’t really matter. Yes, stuff is not important. What is important is how you live your life.

Do you want to live your life with less stuff? Do you want to focus on what is important?

If you answered yes to these questions, then it is time for you to get rid of sentimental clutter.

I hope this article has helped you to see the importance of getting rid of sentimental clutter. Don’t let your stuff control your life. You are in control. You can make the decision to let go.

Have a sentimental-free day!

Cheers!

Your Complete Clutter-Clearing Guide

October 5, 2022June 11, 2022 by Diana

A complete & comprehensive guide on clutter-clearing your house.

If you are here, then probably your house is quite cluttered and you need some input to get started on clearing that clutter with as less stress as possible (and as much efficiency as possible).

Clutter seems to accumulate without you even realizing it. Suddenly, you look around and realize that your once tidy home is now a mess.

Decluttering your home can be a time-consuming process, but it’s worth it in the end. A decluttered home is a happy home.

An interesting fun fact brought by NAPO is that after clearing the clutter, your housework will downsize by 40%. So I wouldn’t wait for even a second to get started on clearing clutter.

I have some tips to offer on how you can clear the clutter in your home and finally achieve that sense of peace and orderliness you’ve been longing for.

What is clutter?

In order to avoid some confusion, I want to define what clutter means.

Clutter can be defined as anything that’s not being used or needed and is just taking up space. It can be clothes that no longer fit, old magazines, broken toys, or anything else that’s just taking up space without serving any purpose.

Let’s be clear: Clutter is not your hobby items, collections, or anything else that brings you joy. These things are not clutter, they are part of your life and make your home a happy place. So, do not get rid of anything that brings you happiness just because it doesn’t serve a “practical” purpose.

Ask yourself these questions while clearing clutter

Before you start throwing things away left and right, you need to pause and ask yourself some questions. These questions will help you to make clutter clearing more efficiently and make better decisions about what to keep and what to get rid of.

These questions are:

Do I use this regularly? Regularly means at least once a month. If you don’t use something more than that, then it’s probably not worth keeping.
Does it bring value to my life? If an item doesn’t serve a purpose or bring you joy, then it’s probably time to let go.
Do I have more than one? Do you really need 6 coffee mugs? Probably not. If you have duplicates of something, then get rid of the extras (there are exceptions of course, like having multiple sets of sheets, or more T-shirts).
Is it broken? If something is broken and you don’t plan on fixing it, then get rid of it. There’s no point in keeping something that doesn’t work.
Do I keep it just in case? Be sincere with yourself. If you’re keeping something just in case you might need it one day, then get rid of it. “Just in case” is usually never.
Am I emotionally attached to this item? This question is for your sentimental items. If you have something that has sentimental value but doesn’t serve a purpose, then ask yourself if you really need it. If you have a box of old letters from an ex-boyfriend, do you really need to keep them? Sometimes it’s best to let go of the past and make room for new memories.
Am I keeping it just out of guilt? Let it go if you’re holding on to something just because someone gave it to you. You don’t need something in your house that doesn’t bring you joy just because you feel guilty.
Am I keeping it just because it was expensive? Those items can be sold or gifted to someone who is going to use them. Just because you spent a lot of money on something doesn’t mean you have to keep it.

Steps on starting clearing clutter

There are a few main steps to start clutter-clearing your home.

1 – Make a plan.

You need to decide what areas you want to declutter and in what order. You also need to set some timelines.

For instance, you could start with clutter clearing your closet let’s say this week. Next week, you could move on to your bathroom drawer, and the week after that you could declutter your home office.

You need to be realistic with your timeline. Don’t try to declutter your entire home in one day, it’s just not possible (and not practical).

Also, I would recommend setting some decluttering goals. Your goal could be to get rid of 50 items this week or to donate 5 bags of clothes. Having a goal will help to keep you motivated and on track.

2 – Prepare yourself mentally and emotionally.

This might seem like a weird and unessesary step, but it’s important. Decluttering can be emotional and overwhelming, so you need to be prepared for it.

I would recommend taking a few deep breaths and reminding yourself why you’re decluttering. This will help you to stay focused and on track.

3 – Clear that clutter.

Now it’s time to start clutter clearing! This is the fun part.

Start with one area at a time and go through each item. Ask yourself the questions I listed above and make a decision about whether to keep or get rid of it.

Below, you can find tips on clearing clutter that will help you to make the decluttering process easier.

Also, make sure to sort the clutter. Make a few piles, depending on what you want to do with the clutter:

donate
sell
throw away
recycle

4 – Organize.

After you’ve decluttered each area, it’s time to put everything away.

Make sure to put everything in its rightful place and to label everything. This will help you to keep your home decluttered and organized.

Everything has to have its own place, no items should be left out on countertops or tables.

Tips on clearing clutter

I have for you a few tips that will help you to clear the clutter effectively:

Start with fast decluttering.

What it means is that you go through your house with a big bag and you fill it with items that you no longer need. This is a quick way to get rid of a lot of unused things.

The idea is that you don’t need to think a lot about each item, you just grab it and put it in the bag. This is because when we start decluttering, we tend to get sentimental about each item.

However, if you just grab things and put them in a bag, you won’t have time to get emotional. Your mind will be in the “Do I NEED this?” mode.

Get rid of big items.

Big items take up a lot of space and they can be difficult to declutter. But it feels so satisfying to get rid of them and make lots of free space!

If you have any big pieces of furniture that you no longer need or want, get rid of them. The same goes for any large appliances like a TV or a fridge.

It is also so motivating to see all that free space!

Get rid of duplicate items.

Do you have more than one iron? Or more than one coffee machine? Why?

Chances are, you will never use that second iron or coffee machine, so get rid of it.

There are of course exceptions. For instance, having two pairs of scissors can be useful. Clothes are another exception. But in general, try to get rid of duplicate items.

Don’t be emotional.

It can be difficult to let go of things, especially if they have sentimental value. But it’s important to remember that the sentimental value is in the memory, in your mind, not in the object.

If you’re holding on to things because of the sentimental value, take a photo of the item and then get rid of it. This way, you will still have the memory, but you won’t have the clutter.

Get rid of items that haven’t been used in the last 6 months.

This is a good rule of thumb when it comes to decluttering.

If you haven’t used an item in the last 6 months, chances are you won’t use it again. So get rid of it!

There might be some exceptions, like seasonal items. But in general, this rule works well.

Set aside items that you aren’t sure if you need.

If you’re not sure if you need an item, put it in a box and set it aside. Write the date on the box and if you haven’t used the item in 6 months, get rid of it.

This is a great way to declutter because it gives you a chance to think about each item and make a decision later.

Start small.

This is for people out there who feel overwhelmed by the idea of decluttering.

Start with one drawer or one shelf. Once you’ve decluttered that, move on to the next one.

The idea is to start small and work your way up. This will make the task feel less daunting and it will also give you a sense of achievement as you go along.

Do one drawer at a time.

Don’t go back and forth between different areas. This will make the task more difficult and it will also make it take longer.

Once you’ve decluttered one drawer, move on to the next one, and so on.

This will help you stay focused on one task and it will be less overwhelming since you’re not moving around a lot.

Don’t touch others staff.

It’s important to respect other people’s belongings and not declutter them without permission. Even your kids have to be there with you and agree with what goes and what stays.

I have a blog post about decluttering kids’ toys here.

The same goes for your partner, parents, and roommates. You can’t go through their stuff and get rid of it without them knowing.

Don’t over-declutter.

Yes, it’s important to get rid of things that you don’t need or use. But don’t go overboard and declutter too much.

You don’t need to get rid of everything in your house, and you don’t need to live a life with only the bare essentials.

Just get rid of the things that are taking up space and that you don’t need.

For instance, don’t give away hobby items, or get rid of your toolbox just because you don’t use it every day.

What I want to say is to be rational and don’t be an extremist. You probably know it, I just wanted to make sure.

How to keep things from coming back?

Now that you’ve decluttered your house, it’s time to focus on how to keep it that way.

Here are a few tips:

Make it a habit.

After the big declutter, try to make it a habit and clear the clutter in your house at least once a month.

You can even set aside one day every month to declutter. This will help to keep your house clutter-free and it will also make the task feel less stressful (or even joyful).

For each item that you buy, get rid of one that you have.

Keeping a good balance between the things that you own and the things that you use will help to reduce clutter.

So for each new item that you buy, get rid of one that you already have. This could be something that you no longer use or need, or it could be something that you can live without.

You can also call it “passive decluttering” because you’re decluttering without even knowing that you do!

Be mindful of what you buy.

Before you buy something, ask yourself these questions:

Do I really need this?
Do I have space for this?
Will I use this often?

If the answer to all three questions is yes, then go ahead!

If you’re not sure whether or not to buy something, put it back and think about it for a day or two.

Sleeping on it will help you to make a more informed decision.

And if you’re still not sure, don’t buy it!

Give things away/sell.

If you notice that you have too many of something, or that you’re not using something as much as you thought you would give it away.

There are always people who could use what you don’t need, so why not give it to them?

If you don’t want to give it away, sell it! This is a great way to declutter and make some extra money at the same time.

And if you’re not sure what to do with something, ask yourself this question: Would I buy this now?
If the answer is no, then get rid of it.

Focus on quality over quantity.

When you’re buying new things, try to focus on quality over quantity.

It’s better to have a few items that you really love and that you use often than a lot of things that are always broken or that you never use.

Not only will this help to reduce clutter, but it will also help you to save money in the long run.

And it’s also better for the environment!

Keep things organized.

One of the best ways to keep your house clutter-free is to keep things organized.

Invest in some good storage solutions and use them!

Labeling things will also help you to keep track of what you have and where it is.

When everything has its own place, it’s much easier to put things away and find them when you need them.

And a tidy house is a happy house.

You might want to consider creating a Minimalist Aesthetic Style in your house, learn how.

Example of decluttering process

To give you an idea of what the decluttering process could look like, I’ve made a list of what I would do if I were to declutter my house.

Day 1. Go through each room and declutter the surfaces (tables, shelves).

Day 2. Declutter the bathroom.

Go through each drawer and declutter the contents (toiletries, towels, etc).

Day 3. Declutter the bedroom.

Go through each closet and declutter the clothes, shoes, and accessories.
Go through each drawer and declutter the contents (sheets, etc).

Day 4. Declutter the kitchen.

Go through each drawer, and cupboard and declutter the contents.
+ PANTRY, FRIDGE, FREEZER.

Day 5. Declutter the living room.

Go through each CD and declutter the ones that I don’t want.
Go through each drawer and declutter the contents (coffee table, side table, etc).

Day 6. Declutter the office.

Office desk.
Go through each book and declutter the ones that I don’t want.
Go through each drawer and declutter the contents.

Day 7. Declutter the kids’ room.

Go through each drawer and declutter the contents (toys).
Go through each closet and declutter the clothes, shoes, and accessories.

Day 8. Go through the house and declutter anything else that I can think of.

Day 9. Declutter the car (trash, items that don’t belong, etc).

Day 10. Declutter the garage (tools, sports equipment, etc).

Day 11. Declutter the yard (gardening tools, furniture, etc).

See, if there is something more specific that I think about (i.e. CDs, I write it down).

With a plan like this, you can declutter your house in less than two weeks. It might seem like a lot but if you break it down into even smaller tasks, it’s… not that bad.

Some days when you are busier, you can declutter for only 10 minutes. On other days, you can declutter for a few hours.

The goal is to do something and to make progress. After you are done with this, you hopefully won’t do a big declutter again for a long time.

But you can (and should) declutter on a regular basis to keep your house tidy and organized.

Final thoughts

Clearing clutter will not only make the house look better, but you’ll also feel better.

Moreover, it will be easier to find things, and you’ll save time and nerves.

The main idea is not to be perfect but to make progress. Start with one drawer, and then take it from there.

I hope these tips will help you to clear the clutter in your house!

Have a clutter-free day!

Cheers!

The Complete Guide on How To Get Rid of Clothes

September 29, 2022June 7, 2022 by Diana

Learn how to get rid of clothes without getting overwhelmed and see the results and benefits of decluttering!

It feels like a never-ending battle to keep your closet organized and streamlined. Every season you add more clothes, and they just keep piling up.

That is why it is so important to know how to get rid of clothes the right way. Getting rid of too many or too few clothes can make your closet feel cramped or empty.

You need to find the sweet spot for how much clothing you should keep in your closet and what kind of clothes. I am going to guide you through the process on how to get rid of clothes so that your closet can be neat and tidy all year round.

Is the thought “I don’t know what to wear” (even though your closet is full of clothes) familiar to you?

If yes, then it is time for a clothes purge! This will help you to get rid of clothes that you don’t need and make more space in your closet for clothes that you actually wear.

How do you know if you have too many clothes?

There are some ways to know if you have too many clothes:

you feel like you have nothing to wear even though your closet is full of clothes. There are studies that show that having too many choices is actually bad for us.
you have clothes that are taking up too much space in your closet or drawers. If your clothes are crammed into your closet, then you have too many clothes.
you never wear certain items of clothing. If you have clothes that you never wear, then you don’t need them taking up space in your closet.
you have clothes that don’t identify with your current style.

If any of this sounds familiar to you, then it is time to get rid of some clothes.

How many clothes do you actually need?

Do you know what a capsule wardrobe is? A capsule wardrobe is a small collection of clothes that can be mixed and matched to create multiple outfits.

The key to a capsule wardrobe is quality over quantity. You want to have a few staple pieces that you can wear over and over again.

A capsule wardrobe is perfect for people who want to simplify their closet and have a more minimalist approach to fashion.

A capsule wardrobe typically contains around 30-40 pieces of clothing. This includes everything from tops and bottoms to dresses and outerwear. You can adjust the number of clothing items in your capsule wardrobe depending on your personal style and needs.

Why should you get rid of clothes?

There are many benefits of getting rid of clothes that you don’t need:

You will have more space in your closet for clothes that you actually wear.
You will be able to see your clothes better and it will be easier to get dressed in the morning.
Your closet will be more organized and less cluttered.
It will save you time and money. You won’t have to waste time looking for clothes that you never wear and you won’t be tempted to buy clothes that you don’t need.
You will feel lighter and freer. When you get rid of clothes that you don’t need, it can be freeing. You will feel like you don’t have to hold onto clothes that you don’t wear.

How not to get rid of too many clothes?

Now that you know how getting rid of clothes can benefit you, it is time to learn how to get rid of clothes the right way. You don’t want to get rid of too many clothes or you will end up with a closet that feels empty.

To make sure you don’t get rid of too many clothes, here are some tips:

Keep a list in your mind of the clothing items that you wear the most. This will help you to make sure that you don’t get rid of clothes that you actually wear.
Think about the clothes that you feel most comfortable in. Leave those in your closet, even if you don’t wear them that often.
Try to keep a mix of casual and dressy clothes. This way you will have something to wear for every occasion.
Keep seasonal clothes to a minimum. You don’t need a lot of seasonal clothes. A few of them are more than enough, but of course, it depends on the climate that you live in. For instance, if winter in your area lasts for more than 3 months, then it might be a good idea to have more winter clothes. (Here in Denmark, I wear a winter jacket 7-8 months per year. Yep, it’s cold. So I have more winter clothes than summer ones.)

Tips on how to get rid of clothes

The process of getting rid of clothes can be difficult, but it is possible to do it effectively.

Before starting the actual decluttering, do this:

Take all of your clothes out of the closet so that you can see everything that you have.
Make sure that you have a place to put the clothes that you are getting rid of. I would suggest making 2-3 piles, one for clothes to donate, to sell, and one for clothes to throw away (it depends on you).

Also, it would be best if you actually try on all of your clothes. I know it is such a long process, but it is worth it. This way you can make sure that you are getting rid of clothes that don’t fit you or that you don’t like.

There are a few tips that can help make the process easier:

Get rid of clothes that have stains, holes, or are otherwise damaged.

While it can be tempting to hang on to those clothes in case we ever need them, the truth is that we’re probably never going to wear them again. Clothes take up a lot of space, and holding on to damaged clothing is just a waste of time and energy.

Otherwise, you can try to repair the clothing or repurpose it. For instance, if you have a shirt with a hole in it, you can turn it into a cotton bag.

Get rid of clothes that you didn’t wear in the last 3 months.

Besides that piece or two of clothing for special occasions, we generally wear the same clothes over and over again. If you haven’t worn something in 3 months (3 months is maximum, normally I would say in the last month!), chances are you’re not going to wear it again.

Keep in mind that it doesn’t apply to seasonal clothes. For example, you’re not going to wear your winter coat in the summer, so don’t get rid of it just because you didn’t wear it in the last 3 months.

Get rid of clothes that don’t fit you anymore.

This is a difficult one for a lot of people because we often hope that we’ll fit into our clothes again someday. But if you haven’t been able to fit into your clothes, it’s time to let them go.

So, don’t keep clothes that are too small for you in the hopes of fitting into them someday. This just sets you up for disappointment and could lead to unhealthy eating habits.

In case you do lose weight and need new clothes, you can always buy them (or thrift!).

Get rid of clothes that you don’t feel comfortable in.

Just because something is your size, doesn’t mean it’s comfortable. If you don’t feel good in a piece of clothing, get rid of it! There’s no point in keeping clothes that we don’t feel good in. We should only keep clothes that make us feel confident and comfortable.

Even if that piece of clothing looks good on you, if it’s not comfortable, get rid of it. Do you really want to be uncomfortable all day just because your clothes look good? I didn’t think so.

121 Minimalist Quotes That Will Inspire You to Live with Less

Get rid of clothes that don’t match your current style.

Our styles change over time, and that’s okay! Just because you liked a certain style in the past, doesn’t mean you have to keep those clothes now. Even for memory’s sake. If you’re not currently wearing those clothes, get rid of them.

If you keep clothes for sentimental reasons, you’ll have a closet full of clothing that you don’t wear. And we don’t want that. Take a picture and let go.

Get rid of clothes that you bought but never wore.

We’ve all been there. You see a piece of clothing and you think, “I love it. I need it!” And then you buy it and it sits in your closet with the tags still on it.

It’s time to let those clothes go. If you haven’t worn it within a month or two of buying it, chances are you’re never going to wear it. Get rid of it and save yourself some space (and nerves!).

Get rid of the type of clothes that you have too many of.

Do you have too many t-shirts? Do you have 20 dresses? We don’t need so many t-shirts in our closets, especially if we only wear a few of them.

I would go with:

one, maximum 2 pairs of jeans
a few t-shirts
a few shirts/blouses
one or two dresses
one pajama
one set of sportswear
a jacket
and one or two pairs of shoes.

This is just a general guide, but it gives you an idea of how many clothes you actually need.

Get rid of clothes that don’t match with other clothes.

Do you have a shirt that you love but can’t seem to find anything to wear it with? Get rid of it! We only want to keep clothes that we can mix and match with other pieces in our closets.

A good rule of thumb is that you should be able to create at least 3 different outfits with each piece of clothing. If you can’t, it’s probably not worth keeping.

I find that colorful clothes (a piece of clothing that has more than 3 colors) are often the hardest to match with other clothes. If you find yourself having a hard time matching them, let them go.

Get rid of clothes that are low quality.

Don’t get me wrong, it is ok to have a favorite T-shirt that costs 5 bucks. But let’s face it, most of the time we regret buying that piece of clothing because it’s not well made and it falls apart after a few washes.

It’s better to have a smaller number of high-quality clothes than a large number of low-quality clothes. Not only will your clothes last longer, but they will also look better.

Also, bad fabric clothes such as polyester are not only bad for the environment but also for your skin. So it’s a win-win to get rid of them!

Get rid of clothes that you are keeping because “you might need them someday.”

This is a common one. We tend to keep clothes “just in case” we might need them someday. But the truth is, we probably won’t need those clothes.

“Someday” is usually never.

Whether it’s a dress for a special occasion or a pink bunny pajama, if you’re not going to use it now, get rid of it.

Get rid of clothes that are in your closet just because someone gifted them to you.

It is such a bummer when you receive a gift that you don’t like.

But you don’t have to keep those clothes just because someone gave them to you.

If that person is going to ask you about those clothes, just be honest and say that you didn’t like them and you gave them away. They will (probably) understand.

Further reading: Unwanted Gifts: How to Handle & Prevent Receiving Them

Get rid of clothes that you hold onto just because they were expensive.

We’ve all been there. We spend a lot of money on a piece of clothing and we think, “I need to keep this forever because it was so expensive.”

But clothes are meant to be worn. And if you’re not wearing them, it’s a waste of space (and money, but it’s too late, oops).

So if you have clothes that you’re not wearing because they were too expensive, get rid of them. You can sell them if you want to, but getting rid of them is probably the best option.

Ways to get rid of clothes

There are a few ways you can get rid of your clothes:

Sell them online. Facebook Marketplace and Poshmark are great places to sell clothes.
Give them away to friends or family.
Sell them to a consignment store. A consignment store is a place where you can take your clothes and they will sell them for you.
Throw them away. This should be your last resort because it’s not good for the environment. But if the clothes are in really bad shape, sometimes it’s the only option.
Donate them to a charity or thrift store.
Repurpose them. As I mentioned before, you can turn old clothes into something new. For example, you can turn an old T-shirt into a pillowcase or a cotton bag.
Give them to a clothes recycling company. Usually, these companies will take your clothes and recycle them into other clothes or other materials.
Sell them at a garage sale.

Keep your closet clutter-free

Once you’ve gotten rid of all the clothes you don’t need, you need to remember to keep your closet decluttered and organized.

In order to do that, do not buy new clothes unless you truly need them.

And when you do buy new clothes, make sure to get rid of a piece of clothing that you don’t need. That way, your closet will always have a good balance of clothes.

You can also declutter your closet regularly. I like to do it every season. That way, I can get rid of clothes that I don’t wear anymore and make room for new clothes.

Final thoughts

Getting rid of clothes can be a difficult and emotional task.

But it makes life so much easier.

A decluttered closet means less time spent looking for clothes and more time doing the things you love.

Hopefully, this guide has helped you understand how to get rid of clothes. If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment below.

Happy decluttering!

Cheers!

Further reading: Your COMPLETE clutter-clearing guide
Bonus article: What You Can Do When You Have Too Many Clothes

How to Declutter Toys for a Happier Family?

September 28, 2022June 2, 2022 by Diana

Learn how to declutter toys in order to have a happier, calmer family.

It’s hard to keep your house clean when you have kids, and it seems like their toys are taking over.

Kids love having lots of toys to play with, but all those toys can quickly make a mess.

Too many toys can actually be overwhelming for kids and make it hard for them to focus and play.

So, if your children’s toys collection is out of control, or if you are too stressed out by all the clutter, it’s time to declutter.

Why decluttering toys?

There are several reasons why you might want to declutter your child’s toys.

More space in the house, less clutter, and less mess. Having less clutter and mess is such a time saver! Not only that but it can help you become a better parent because you will have more mental energy to play with your kids and be more mindful and present.
Easier to clean the house after decluttering. Cleaning will be both quicker and more effective when there is less stuff around!
Your child may become more independent and resourceful. If there are fewer toys around, your child will have to find ways to entertain themselves. This can be a good thing as it can lead to more creativity and independence.
A sense of calm may be restored in the home. A calmer home environment can lead to a calmer family.
Less stress for you, mama. Less stuff means less to worry about, keep track of, and clean. You might also find that you have more patience with your kids when the house is less chaotic.
An opportunity to teach your child to let go. As you declutter, you can talk to your child about why it’s important to let go of things that we don’t need. This will help them understand the value of things and how to be more mindful in the future.
Children become more attached to the toys they have and they play with them more. When there are fewer toys around, your child will appreciate the toys they have more and play with them more. Quality over quantity!
They value and appreciate their toys more. Similar to the above point, when children have fewer toys they will value and appreciate them more. Moreover, you may find that your child is more grateful for the things they have in general.

All these benefits lead to a happier family!

Wondering if it is possible to be a minimalist and have kids? Check out this article.
Also, a lot of minimalist bloggers would agree that it is possible!

How many toys do children need?

There is no magic number when it comes to the number of toys that children need. It depends on the child, the space you have, and your own family’s values.

So make what works for your family, but always choose quality over quantity. Also, offering them your time is way more important than offering them more things.

Don’t forget that the most important thing is to have fun with your children and create lasting memories!

That is why I encourage you to keep only essential toys and to get rid of the ones that are just taking up space.

How to declutter toys? A step-by-step guide

As you probably imagine, decluttering toys is not so easy. It takes time, effort, dedication, lots of communication with your children, and some tough decisions. But, it is so worth it!

When every surface is covered in toys, it can be difficult to maintain a sense of order. If you find yourself regularly tripping over Legos or stepping on Hot Wheels, it may be time to declutter your child’s toys. Though the process may seem daunting, there are some simple steps you can follow to make things go more smoothly.

Step 1. Involve your children by talking to them first

The first step is to have a talk with your children about why you want to declutter their toys. This is an important step because it will help them understand what is happening and why.

Be sure to explain that you are not getting rid of all their toys, only some of them.

It is best if you keep repeating it over and over, so your children get used to the idea. You can say something like:

“Remember that in 5 days we are starting decluttering some of your toys. We are going to have so much fun doing that”.

The next day you do that again until the big day comes.

Step 2. Observe their play

Make sure you know what are toys that are not very used or are not used at all. This is key to knowing what to declutter.

The best way to do this is by observing your children at play. Do this for a few days or even a week.

You can do it secretly, or involve your children and ask them:

You can say something like: “Oh, I see you are playing with your blocks. Do you like them? What other toys do you like to play with?”.

As a parent, you probably already know what your child’s favorite toys are. But, it is still helpful to observe their play to get a sense of what they are currently interested in.

We are going to keep children involved in the process all the time. You are going to declutter with them, but sometimes they are emotional and don’t want to let go even of unused toys. That is why you need to know their favorite and least-liked toys. By knowing what toys they don’t like, you are going to encourage them to declutter them.

Step 3. Gather all the toys in the same room/pile

The bid day came. Now it is time to declutter!

The first step is to gather all the toys in the same room or even make a pile in the middle of the room.

Seeing all the toys in one place will help you and your child get a sense of just how many they have. Also, you are going to see if they have doubles of some toys or if they have too many of one type of toy.

Step 4. Parent’s part

Before asking your child about what to declutter, you need to do your part.

Get rid of the toys that:

Are broken and can’t be fixed
Are missing pieces
Have been outgrown

You certainly don’t need your child involved in this process. Just get rid of the toys that you know need to go.

Step 5. Children’s turn

This might be more than a one-day job, depending on the number of toys your children have and how hard it is for them to let go.

Now it is time for your children to start decluttering their toys.

As we said, it is important that you involve your children in this process as much as possible.

One way to do this is to ask them which toys they want to keep and which ones they are willing to part with.

You can also ask them to put all the toys they want to keep in one pile and all the ones they are willing to declutter in another.

Pick each toy and ask them: “Do you want to keep this toy or are you willing to declutter it?”.

In case they say that they don’t want to get rid of any toys, go to Step 6.

If they say they want to keep it, then put it in the “keep” pile. If they say they are willing to declutter it, then put it in the “declutter” pile.

You can also give them the option of keeping the toy but only if they are willing to declutter another one. This is a good way to help them let go of toys they may be attached to but don’t really need.

Step 6. Help and encouragement

If your children are having a hard time decluttering their toys, here are some things you can do to help them:

Encourage them by saying something like: “I know it is hard to let go of some of these toys, but remember that you are doing a great job and that you are helping mommy to make more space in our house, so there is more room to play and have fun”.

Help them by saying something like: “Let’s see, this toy is in good condition but you haven’t played with it in a while. Why don’t we put it in the declutter pile?”.

You can also ask them why they don’t want to declutter a certain toy. This can help you understand their attachment to it and see if there is anything you can do to help them let go of it.

If they are having a hard time deciding which toys to declutter, you can ask them if they would be willing to declutter a certain number of toys. For example, you can say: “How about we declutter only 5 toys today?”.

In case your child wants to keep all of their toys, you can try to negotiate with them. For instance, you can say: “How about we keep only the toys that fit in this bin?”. Make it a game, make it fun for them!

It is important that you don’t force your children to declutter their toys. The goal is to help them let go of the things they don’t need, not to make them get rid of things they are attached to.

Step 7. Declutter the toys

Now that you have gone through all the steps, it is time to start decluttering the toys!

To make it better for the environment, try to:

donate the toys in good condition to charity
donate to friends or family who have children
recycle the toys that can’t be donated
sell the toys that are in good condition but that your children have outgrown
throw away the toys that are broken or missing pieces

It is important to involve your children in this process as much as possible. They need to see that their toys are going to a good home, and they need to know that they are helping others by decluttering their toys.

Step 8. Talk to your children about what they learned

After you have decluttered the toys, it is important to talk to your children about what they learned.

You can ask them questions like:

How did it feel to declutter their toys?
What were some of the hardest things to let go of?
Was it fun?
Are they happy that their toys will go to other children in need?

Also, you can tell them how proud you are of them for decluttering their toys and helping others. This will help them understand the importance of decluttering and will encourage them to do it again in the future.

If you sold some toys, tell them that you can go to an aquapark, dinosaur museum, or any other place they have been asking to go. They will surely be happy and willing to declutter more in the future!

How to declutter toys – infographic PDF

how to declutter toys minimalism basics Download

Keeping the toys from coming back

When you have decluttered the toys, it is important to take some measures to prevent them from gathering again.

Here are some things you can do:

For each new toy that they want, make them declutter one that they don’t use anymore. This is a rule that you can make and that will help to prevent the accumulation of toys.

Have a bin for toys that they have outgrown, are broken or are missing pieces. When you see an unused toy, just put it in the bin. After a while, declutter the bin.

No toys on sale. This rule is important because most of the time, the toys on sale are not really what your children need or want. So if you see a toy that is on sale, don’t buy it for your children. Let them decide what they want, they certainly want a lot of things!

Be mindful of the gifts you give them. Give them something that you know they will use and that will last for a long time. Try to avoid giving them things that are just going to clutter up their room.

Be an example to your children. If you are constantly buying things that you don’t need, they will think that it is okay to do the same. So, be mindful of your own consumption and try to lead by example.

Talk to your spouse/partner/family. If they are constantly buying your children new toys, talk to them about it. Explain to them that you are trying to have as fewer toys as possible and ask them to help you with this goal.

Have regular decluttering sessions. Every month or so, go through the toys with your children and help them declutter the things they don’t need. This will help to keep the toys under control and will make it easier for them to let go of things.

Choose experiences over toys. Instead of buying them a new toy, take them to the park, the swimming pool, or the zoo. Experiences are more valuable than things and will create lasting memories. Ask your children what they would rather do: buy a new toy or go to the aquarium? They might likely choose the second.

Encourage them to play outside. The more time they spend outside, the less time they will have to play with their toys. And that is a good thing!

Categories of toys to consider keeping

There are certain categories of toys that you might want to keep, even if you are trying to declutter. Here are some examples:

Blocks: Blocks are great for building and imagination. They can be used in many different ways and they last for a long time.
Educational toys: These are toys that help with the development of your child. They can be things like puzzles, flashcards, or books.
Musical instruments: If your child is interested in music, you might want to keep some musical instruments around. They can be things like a keyboard, a guitar, or a drum set.
Sports equipment: Encourage your child to be active by keeping some sports equipment around. This can be things like a basketball, a football, or a jump rope.
Dolls or cars. If your child is into pretend play, dolls and cars are great to have around. They can use them to create all sorts of different stories. They are also very versatile and can be used in many different ways, depending on the creativity of your children.
Art supplies: They can be things like crayons, markers, paint, and clay. Art supplies are great for creativity and imagination.
Outdoor toys: If you have the space, outdoor toys are great to have. They can be things like a swing set, a trampoline, or a bike.

Organizing toys after decluttering

Once you have decluttered the toys, it is time to organize what is left. Here are a few tips on how to do that:

Create a toy rotation. This is a great way to keep toys from becoming boring. Put half of the toys away and only bring them out every other week. This will give your child something to look forward to and also help you keep the toy area clean.
Create labels and organize toys into categories. This will help your child know where everything goes and make it easier for them to put the toys away.
Use clear/transparent storage containers. By doing so, your kids will see what is in each container and also help keep the toy area clean.
Make sure the toy area is easily accessible for your child. By doing so, they will be more likely to put the toys away when they are finished playing with them.
Ask your kids for help. Ask them where is the best place to put a certain toy. This will help them feel involved in the process and more likely to keep the toy area clean and organized.

Final thoughts

The most important thing to remember when decluttering toys is that less is more. You don’t need a lot of toys to have a happy and healthy child. So choose quality over quantity and only keep the toys that are essential.

Also, make sure to organize the toys after you declutter so that your child knows where everything goes.

And finally, don’t forget to have fun with your children!

Hopefully, these tips will help you declutter your child’s toys and create a more organized and enjoyable play space.

Have a clutter-free kid’s room!

Cheers!

Further reading: Your COMPLETE clutter-clearing guide

The ultimate minimalist list of things to get rid of

October 18, 2022May 20, 2022 by Diana

This minimalist list of things to get rid of will make your life less cluttered and more enjoyable!

Minimalism and getting rid of things are synonyms. If you’re a minimalist then you’re probably always looking for ways to declutter your life. If you are not a minimalist then you probably want to find out what is the minimalist list of things to get rid of?

I have to say that there is no definitive list. Every minimalist has their own unique set of things that they have decluttered from their life and a set of things that they want to keep.

An important thing that I have to mention is that you don’t need to follow the exact list that I have created. The goal is to guide you and give you some ideas through this minimalist list of things to get rid of.

Try to adjust the list to your own needs and wants! You could add more to this list, or omit some things. It’s up to you!

Why this minimalist list of things to get rid of is important?

When you declutter your life, you make space for the things that matter most. And in this case, by “things” I don’t mean material possessions, I mean time, energy, and experiences.

You can spend the time that you usually spend cleaning and organizing your home on things that are far more important and interesting, like your relationships, your hobbies, or your goals.

We live in a world full of distractions and it’s easy to get caught up in the rat race. But if we want to live a more meaningful life, we need to declutter our lives and focus on the things that matter most.

This list is also important because it helps you simplify your life. A simpler life is a happier life.

So you have all the reasons in the world to start decluttering.

What to do with the clutter?

Now that you will get rid of some items, you might be wondering what to do with all the clutter.

There are a few options:

– Sell. This is a great way to make some extra money in case you have some expensive items in your house. There are many online platforms where you can sell your stuff, such as eBay or Facebook Marketplace.

– Donate. By doing so, you will not only declutter your life but also will help others to have a better life.

– Throw away. If the item is damaged or very worn, it’s probably best to get rid of it.

– Recycle. This is a great way to reduce your environmental footprint. Here is how to do that.

Remember, the goal is to get those items out of your life!

Now, let’s get into the minimalist list of things to get rid of in order to simplify your life and be happier.

Minimalist list of things to get rid of

This list can be endless, considering how many things some people have. I am not judging, I am just remembering you that there are things in our houses that don’t add any value to our lives.

It’s not about how much stuff you have, it’s about how much stuff you need.

And again, that’s why this list is important because it will help you get rid of the things that you don’t need.

The kitchen

For me, the kitchen is the soul of the house. So let’s start here.

Unused kitchen appliances

This is something that a lot of people have and don’t use. You probably have that juicer that you used once and then forgot about it. Or that bread machine that you never used because you don’t have time to make bread.

Be ruthless and get rid of all the kitchen appliances that you never use. You don’t need them and they are just taking up A LOT of space.

Expired food

We are all guilty of this. We buy food and then we forget about it and it expires. Check your pantry, your fridge, and your freezer, and get rid of all the expired food.

Kitchen utensils

Do you really need that much cutlery? Do you really need 10 different kinds of salad spoons? Nope.

Trust me, it’s going to feel so satisfying to get rid of all the unnecessary kitchen utensils. You are going to have so much more space in your drawers.

Kitchen towels

Keep only 3-4 kitchen towels and get rid of the rest.

Ask yourself: how many kitchen towels do you use in a week? 3? 4? If you only use a few, then you don’t need 20 of them, since I assume you do laundry at least once per week.

Extra plates, glasses, and cups

Do you really need 8 plates when you live alone? Do you really need 8 plates when you have a spouse? I really don’t think so.

Notice how many plates, glasses, and cups you need in order to not run out of them during the day and get rid of the rest.

Extra pots, pans, and lids

This one is for all the “chefs” out there. Do you really need 5 frying pans? Do you really need 3 saucepans? Trust me, you don’t.

Identify how many you actually need and declutter the rest.

Plastic bags

We are all guilty of having way too many plastic bags. We have bags in bags in bags… Surely you don’t need that many of them!

They can be recycled usually in shopping malls and grocery stores. So do that!

Cookbooks

If you have a favorite cookbook that you use often, you can surely leave it! I am talking about the ones that gather dust on them.

Trust me, if you haven’t used it until now, you are not going to use it in the future. And if you want a specific recipe, you can find it online.

Extra containers and jars

I know, you think that one day you are going to need all your containers and jars to store food and them. All at once. Probably because you will have thousands of guests and a lot of food will remain uneaten.

Ummm… not. Just leave a few of them that are better quality and declutter the rest. They take so much space for nothing.

The bedroom

I think that the bedroom is the place where we should feel the most relaxed. But how can we relax in a room that is full of clutter?

Clothes that you don’t wear

This is the most important part of the whole bedroom. Clothes are taking up so much space in our closets and we don’t wear all of them!

Be ruthless when it comes to clothes. If you didn’t wear a piece of clothing in 6 months, it means that it doesn’t bring any value to your life and you can easily live without it.

In case you are in doubt about a piece of clothing, place it in a box and mark it with a date 6 months from now. If you didn’t think about it and this time, it means that you don’t need it.

Shoes that you don’t wear

The same goes for shoes. If you have shoes that you never wear but you keep them “just in case” on occasions, it is time to let go. Because what are the chances that you will actually wear them?

My husband still has those shoes that I told him to get rid of a couple of years ago because he hadn’t worn them. And yes, he still didn’t.

Socks and underwear

Socks and underwear are the easiest things to declutter since you can see immediately if they have holes or not and if they are very used. If they do, it is time to say goodbye.

Extra bedding

I am a believer that 2 beddings are enough. When you wash one, you can use the other and vice versa.

Makeup and skincare products

First of all, expired makeup and skincare products. They have an expiration date for a reason. After that, they can cause irritation and skin problems.

Second of all, you don’t need a lot of makeup. I am pretty sure that you don’t wear all of it. Choose the colors that suit you best and get rid of the rest.

Towels

The same goes for towels. How many do you actually need? 3-4 should be more than enough.

Jewelry

I am not an expert in jewelry because I don’t like wearing it. But I see a lot of girls and women that have so much of it and they never wear most of it.

If you are not wearing it, why do you keep it? Do you think that one day you are going to wake up and say “Today is the day! I am going to wear that jewelry.”? I don’t think so.

Unused items inside your nightstands

We all have those things that we put inside our nightstands and we never use them. I am talking about magazines, creams, some random bills, and other things. Go through them and see what you actually need and use. The rest has to go.

Candles

I love candles! But I like to have a few of them that are high quality and pretty. I don’t need 20 of them that I am never going to use.

Try to implement a similar concept. Choose the candles that you love and use often and declutter the rest.

The living room

This is the place where we spend a lot of time. You should feel good in your living room, and that is why you need to declutter your stuff.

Books that gain dust

A minimalist library is totally ok to have, but a huge one that you never read is not.

Leaving only the books that you love and coming back to is a great idea. The rest can go.

Movies and TV series that you will never watch again

You surely have some DVDs that you don’t like to come back to.

So why do you keep them? The room is going to feel so much lighter without them!

Old magazines and newspapers

These items are really useless, and they take up a lot of space that you could use for something else.

If you have a lot of them that are outdated – recycle them.

Unused vases

There is no point in having something just for the sake of it. The only purpose of those vases is to gather dust and to spend time cleaning them.

Keep only one for flowers and get rid of the rest. You can also always use mason jars instead.

Decorations that you don’t like

You might have some decorations that you don’t really like, but you keep them because they were a gift or because you feel guilty for spending money on them.

If they don’t make you happy, get rid of them! You can try to sell them if they are expensive and you don’t want to just donate them.

The bathroom

The bathroom is usually a smaller room, but it can get cluttered easily.

Old medication

You should declutter your medication every 6 months or so. Check the expiration dates and get rid of the ones that are no longer good. It is such a satisfying thing to do, oh!

Unused bottles

Do you have a lot of empty or unused shampoos, conditioners, perfumes, and body wash bottles?

They are useless! Recycle them as fast as possible!

Extra hair ties and clips

Sometimes even I am guilty of having too many hair ties and clips. They are small, so it is easy to lose track of them.

But you don’t need more than 2-3 of each. Get rid of the ones that are old and stretched out.

Razor blades

Invest in a reusable razor, and you won’t need to keep so many razor blades around. It saves money and nerves!

The office/study place

This place can get pretty cluttered because it is where all documentation and miscellaneous thing go.

Pens that don’t work

Unless you are a pen collector, you don’t need pens that don’t even write.

Unused notebooks

Do you have a ton of cute notebooks that are waiting for you to come and pick them up but it never happens?

You can either use them now or get rid of them.

One option could be to start a gratitude journal and write every day or so things that you are grateful for.

Papers that you don’t need

Whether it’s emails, old documentation, or anything else – if you don’t need it, get rid of it!

Promotional materials

Do you have a lot of business cards or other promotional materials that are just taking up space?

Set up a place for them and go through them every few months to see if you need to keep them or not.

Extra office supplies

No more than one pair of scissors, 2-3 staplers, one pack of paper clips, and so on.

You don’t need more than that, and they are just going to take up space.

The kid’s room

This is probably one of the most challenging places to declutter. This is because it doesn’t involve only you, but also your kids.

P.S.: Read this article about minimalism with kids before decluttering their room.

Old toys

Get rid of the toys that your kids don’t play with anymore. The ones that are broken.

Also, the ones that they have outgrown.

Old clothes

Kids grow so fast that their clothes become too small for them in what feels like the blink of an eye.

Get rid of the clothes that they have outgrown in order to make some space in their closet.

Books that they don’t read anymore

The same concept goes for books, as well.

If they haven’t read these books in quite a while, it is time to let go.

Other items

There are some other items that don’t really belong in any of the categories above.

But they are still things that you can get rid of to declutter your home!

Furniture

Furniture takes up so much space. You might have some extra furniture in your storage or some that you don’t need in your house.

Get rid of it to declutter your home and make some extra space.

Those junk drawers

Ohh, this is not only an item. I would need a special minimalist list of things to get rid of only for these drawers.

You probably have some drawers in the house that contain everything in this world, from old batteries, and cables, to receipts.

Go through them and declutter them! You will feel so much better after that!

Sports equipment

If you are not using it, someone else could be! Get rid of the sports equipment that you don’t use to make some extra space in your house.

Sentimental items

These are probably the most challenging things to get rid of. Unused gifts, expensive but unnecessary purchases, and items with sentimental value that you don’t use.

It is hard to let go of them, but if they don’t bring any value to your life, it is time to say goodbye.

Embrace simple living

Once you have gone through this minimalist list of things to get rid of and decluttered your house, you should feel so much lighter and happier.

But, more importantly, you will have taken the first step towards a more minimalist lifestyle.

Now, it is time to embrace simple living and make a conscious effort to live with less.

In order to do that, I would encourage you to let go of anything that no longer serves you. I don’t mean only material possessions, but also toxic relationships, bad habits, and anything else that is holding you back.

Also, make a conscious effort to live in the present moment and enjoy the simple pleasures in life.

Last but not least, don’t forget to declutter your mind from negative thoughts and emotions!

If you want to get a more comprehensive understanding, you can read this article about Minimalist Items to Keep

Final thoughts

Minimalism is powerful. It can help you declutter your home, your mind, and your life.

But most importantly, it can help you find happiness in simple things and live a more fulfilling life.

By going through this minimalist list of things to get rid of, you will take the first step towards a more minimalist lifestyle.

And probably toward a better life in general!

Happy living! Cheers!

Further reading: Your complete clutter-clearing guide

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