Spring is the perfect time to clear out the clutter and refresh your space. After the winter months, our homes often accumulate extra items—unused clothes, old papers, or out-of-season decor. A spring declutter helps create a cleaner, more organized environment and can reduce stress and improve productivity.
Before you begin, set yourself up for success using these 3 general decluttering tips:
- Use three boxes labeled “Keep”, “Donate”, and “Trash” for each area you declutter. If you struggle with deciding what to do with an item, use a fourth box labeled “Maybe” and store it in your basement or attic. If after time, you’ve forgotten it or haven’t opened it to retrieve something, then you know you can donate it without having to go through and analyze its contents again.
- Focus on one room (or space) at a time to avoid getting overwhelmed. If you start with your bedroom and find it’s becoming too much, focus on just one area, like a nightstand drawer, or the top of your dresser.
- Sentimental items can be a big challenge; only keep items that truly bring you joy or hold significant meaning. Try and refrain from keeping an item out of guilt, or fear of not having enough or needing it in the future.
Start with high-traffic areas like the front porch and entryway. Clear out old boots, coats, hats, scarves and reusable shopping bags. Scan your living room for games, magazines and books you’re finished with. Simplify decor and donate items you no longer need. In the kitchen, sort through your pantry, compost or toss expired food, and deep clean the fridge. Declutter your bathroom by getting rid of old cosmetics and toiletries. Eco tip: cut up worn out towels for reusable rags as opposed to using single-use wipes.
Your bedroom closet is another key area. Donate clothes you haven’t worn in a year and store away bulky winter items. Under-bed storage often hides forgotten belongings—sort and discard anything unnecessary. In your home office, tackle paper clutter by filing important documents and shredding the rest. Digital decluttering, like organizing files and deleting unused apps, also helps create a fresh start.
Don’t forget about storage spaces like garages or basements. Sort through tools, seasonal decorations, and sporting equipment, donating or discarding anything you no longer use.
A good declutter will leave your home feeling lighter, more organized, and ready for the fresh energy of spring!