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"The best way to find out what we really need is to get rid of what we don't." -Marie Kondo
Spring is finally here—and this time of new beginnings and fresh starts is a great opportunity to refresh your living space. And while "spring cleaning" may be the first thing that comes to mind, the reality is that it's better to declutter your space before you deep-clean it.
Not sure where to begin when it comes to decluttering and organizing your apartment this spring? We've got some essential tips and tricks to make this often-daunting task a lot easier.
The Benefits of Decluttering and Organizing Your Space
Why declutter in the first place? Believe it or not, cutting back on clutter doesn't just make your living space look better. It can actually improve your mental and physical health. Think about how you feel when you walk into a messy room; you might feel stressed, overwhelmed, or even unable to focus.
By cutting down on clutter in your space, you can reduce stress and get more out of each room. Likewise, you can improve your overall focus and simply feel better about where you live. And with fewer objects lying around, you'll be able to clean and dust more effectively. This, in turn, can reduce allergens and asthma triggers to help you lead a healthier life.
So, what steps can you follow to start decluttering and organizing your apartment today?
1. Set Aside Enough Time
Start by actually scheduling time in your busy life to focus exclusively on this task. You might not be able to get it all done in one day or even one weekend, but dedicating even a few hours here and there can make a huge difference. Rather than trying to tackle this project intermittently, consider choosing a weekend when you have no other plans to really focus on decluttering your space. If you want to have a little more fun with it, consider inviting a trusted friend or family member over to help you out.
2. Choose Specific Areas
The idea of decluttering an entire apartment can feel overwhelming. This is where it can be useful to prioritize two or three areas or rooms in your living space that need the most attention. For example, if your primary bedroom closet has gotten so disorganized that it stresses you out every time you open the door, you might make this a priority in your decluttering project.
And remember, the areas you choose don't have to be entire rooms. If you work from home, perhaps your desk needs some attention. Likewise, your kitchen pantry or bathroom vanity might benefit from a little TLC. Once you tackle the areas of your apartment that are in the most dire need of attention, you can move onto other areas with a greater sense of confidence.
3. Try the Three-Container Method
One of the most effective methods for decluttering is known as the "three-container" method. Specifically, start with three large boxes or containers; one is for items to throw away, one is for items to donate/sell, and one is for items to keep/store. As you go through each space you wish to declutter, each item should go in one of these three boxes.
With this method, you might be surprised at how much you're able to purge. Just be sure to dispose of any items in your "throw away" container properly. For example, if you live in an apartment home with a communal trash/dumpster, you shouldn't use this to dispose of potentially hazardous materials like electronics, batteries, and light bulbs. Likewise, if you're getting rid of larger furniture items, these should be transported to your local dump.
4. Take Photos of Items
It's common to hold onto items for sentimental reasons, even if they're no longer useful to you. However, these items can take up a lot of space and create unnecessary clutter.. As a "compromise" of sorts, you might consider taking some pictures of these items on your phone before you throw them away (or donate them). Having images of the items will help you remember and appreciate them. Meanwhile, they'll no longer be taking up precious space in your apartment home.
5. Keep an Ongoing "Declutter" Box
Even once you've decluttered your apartment, you can take proactive steps to keep it that way. One of the simplest yet most effective tips for keeping things organized is to keep a large cardboard box or other storage container in your closet. Each time you try on a piece of clothing that you no longer like, toss it in the box. You can also use this box to store anything else you come across that you no longer want or need.
Having an ongoing "declutter" box is a great way to gradually get rid of things, rather than waiting until next spring to have to declutter your space all over again!
6. Invest in the Right Organization Tools/Furniture
Last but not least, allow yourself to invest in some great storage pieces for your apartment. If you decide to sell off any of your old items, you might consider using some of the funds to purchase these pieces. Storage ottomans, for example, are excellent for apartment spaces because they serve both storage and functional purposes. Likewise, be sure to take advantage of under-bed storage solutions and over-the-door storage. All of these options are apartment-friendly and can be used to tidy up every room.
Some other apartment-friendly storage solutions to consider include:
- cabinet organizers
- drawer dividers
- damage-free hooks
- free-standing shelves
- baskets and totes
Start Decluttering and Organizing Your Apartment Today!
A little time, planning, and effort can go a long way when it comes to refreshing your apartment this spring. Once your apartment is decluttered and better organized, you can move onto the next big task of spring cleaning! From there, you can crack open some windows, relax, and enjoy your revitalized living space.
Still looking for a great apartment in Kansas City, Dallas-Ft. Worth or the surrounding area? Price Brothers is here to help, with properties to suit every need and lifestyle. Contact us today to find your dream space!
