Tips for Efficiently Organizing and Removing Unwanted Items

Arliegh Boswell • October 30, 2023

A clutter-free home not only looks aesthetically pleasing but also promotes mental well-being. With fewer items around, cleaning becomes easier, and your living space feels more inviting. But getting there is the tricky part. How do you decide what to keep and what to toss? And once you've made up your mind, what do you do with all those unwanted items? Fear not, for we have compiled a list of tips to help you efficiently organize and remove the excess.


1. Make Decluttering a Habit

What it means: Clean out regularly, not just once in a blue moon.

How to do it:

  • Every month, pick a day for a quick decluttering session.
  • If you can, get family or a friend involved. They might offer insights you hadn't considered.


2. Begin With Baby Steps

What it means: You don't have to tackle the whole house at once.

How to do it:

  • Start with one drawer or one corner of a room.
  • Once you feel accomplished there, move to the next.


3. The Three-Box Trick

What it means: Separate items quickly and effectively.

How to do it:

  • Grab three boxes and label them: ‘Keep’, ‘Donate’, and ‘Toss’.
  • As you sort, put items in one of these boxes.
  • Done sorting? Store, donate, or toss as labeled.


4. Questions to Guide You

What it means: Sometimes we hold onto items out of habit, not need.

Questions to guide you:

  • Did I use this in the last year?
  • Does this thing make me happy?
  • If shopping today, would I buy this again?


5. Handle Unwanted Items Mindfully

What it means: Instead of just tossing items, think of better ways to let them go.

How to do it:

  • Donate: Many folks could benefit from what you don't need. Think charities or community centers.
  • Sell: You might make a little cash from your unwanted items. Consider a yard sale or online selling sites.
  • Recycle: Do the planet a favor. Ensure recyclables don't end up in the trash.
  • Repurpose: Some old items can be given a new life with a little creativity.


6. Use Simple Organizing Aids

What it means: Having the right tools can make a huge difference.

Tools that help:

  • Shelves or racks can help use up vertical space.
  • Transparent bins let you see what's inside without rummaging.
  • Simple labels help remind you where things go.


7. Keep It Up

What it means: Stay organized, and you won't have to declutter as often.

How to do it:

  • After you use something, put it back. Simple but effective.
  • Before buying something new, think about where you'll keep it.



Keeping a tidy space is more than just about how it looks. It's about creating a peaceful environment to think clearly and relax. With these simple tips, you can work towards having a home that feels good. It’s not just about getting rid of the old but making space for the new experiences, memories, and moments of clarity. So, take a deep breath and dive in. The light feeling of an organized space is worth every minute spent.

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