OUR TOP 10 SUPER EASY TIPS

This month... HELPFUL DECLUTTERING

1 Plan of attack

Try to declutter in bite-size chunks. Focus on contained spaces such as a drawer, cupboard or shelf.

2 Prepare

Have three bags at the ready: donate, recycle and rubbish. Also have an action box, for items that need mending and a Memory box for anything with a sentimental value.

3 Empty and clean

The easiest way to start decluttering is to completely empty the space you are decluttering onto a flat surface.

4 Declutter

Approach each item individually deciding on the category: donate, recycle, rubbish, action, memory, keep. Mentally answer: Do I have something similar? Could someone else make better use of it?

5 Start with 'storage' areas

Hard to reach areas are prime locations for stashing. Start with these first and you'll have enough space to store things that you actually need.

6 Make a decision

It can be hard to decide about what to do with some items and seem easier to pass them by. But by pushing through that challenge, that's how you will see real results.

7 Avoid the ‘selling cycle’

Selling second hand items can be a good way to make quick cash. But be honest about the time it takes to do so and whether you are willing and able to invest the energy.

Assign a place for items 8 due to leave the home

Have a designated spot in the house where family members can add items they want to pass on.

9 Organise

When putting your items back, think about organising by colour, or height. This way you’ll help to avoid another declutter!

10 Remove

Move your decluttered items out of the area aiming to donate/recycle/tip your items as soon as possible.