Know Your Clutter – And How to Remove It

All disorganization and clutter aren’t equal. To avoid frustration, you’ll want to know which area of clutter is giving you the worst headache.

Organized and clutter are two words that rank at the top of resolutions, Google searches and Pinterest boards. As a society, we’re chasing the definition of this “zen” experience and can get perplexed as to why we aren’t experiencing it or keeping it once we reach it. So, before you get more frustrated with these two words, you’ll want to know which of the five areas of clutter is giving you the most headache.

• Tech. Too many cords, chargers, and remotes can definitely be overwhelming. Try labeling all wires so you know which device it belongs to and get rid of those that no longer have a mate. Wireless chargers are an inexpensive way to get rid of cords all together for some devices. You can also switch to a universal or smart remote to lessen gadget clutter.
• Sentimental. Clutter in this area can be tubs of baby clothes, every art project since kindergarten, Grandma’s dishes and the empty wine bottle from your first date. Do you want to keep the memory alive? Do you want the actual item or is it the value in something that keeps you holding onto it? Pictures and shadowboxes can preserve a memory. Repurpose the wine bottle into a cool vase. Donate or have a yard sale for the baby clothes. If you view these things as clutter, then you’re missing the reason why they tug at your heartstrings.
• Excess. Is your disorganization coming from mega rolls of toilet paper, four cases of lima beans and a closet full of Christmas wrapping paper? Just because it was a good price doesn’t mean you have room to store it. Bulk buying, impulse purchases and 80 percent off can be the cause of excess clutter. Clean up this type of clutter by using up what you have before buying more.
• Behind closed doors. Your house is immaculate yet don’t open the cabinet! Many times there’s shame and embarrassment that’s associated with this type of clutter. In overflowing closets, crammed file drawers and bulging pantries, the clutter is caused by delayed decisions. You don’t know what to do with something or where to put it, so you stick it in the closet and shut the door. A simple way to start making decisions on what to keep is to ask yourself, “Do I need it, want it, value it, or could I get another one if needed?”
• Knowledge. Excess books and magazines are common sources of clutter. Go digital whenever possible. Scan articles from magazines and then recycle the magazine. Make a clearly defined space for the books. Then, stick to the “one in and one out” thought process to keep the stacks at a limit.

Don’t fall into thinking that all disorganization and clutter are equal. There’s no magic ball on why we keep some things or why we spend money to save money. Take a look at what area is really causing you the most trouble. Then, address that one area before tackling the next. It’s that simple.