Every parent knows
that it's a constant struggle to deal with clutter. Getting rid of all the
unused toys, clothes, collections and more is hard enough in itself. But
getting through the process without any hurt feelings can be even more
difficult.
Here are six tips
to make decluttering easy and harmonious.
1. Communicate
Decluttering is ten times easier if everyone is on
board. If you throw things out without talking to their owner first, it's
guaranteed to cause tension.
2. One thing in and one thing out
This simple rule can be incredibly helpful. Everyone
needs new things on occasion, but if you don't throw anything out, your house
will be a pigsty in no time! Obviously this needs to be applied in a common
sense way – if you have enough space for a new sofa you buy, there's no need to
throw out an old one – but this rule can be very useful as a framework to keep
on top of clutter. Some of the best targets for this principle include clothes
and toys.
3. Do the easy things first
Decluttering is all about momentum: You have to work
up to things. Get rid of outgrown clothes, things you haven't used for a long
time and any items that are broken first of all. Once you're on a roll, then
you can start thinking about whether those unused toys that used to be prized
possessions should be kept, thrown out or put into storage.
4. Make it regular
With all the demands on everyone's time, it can be
very difficult to make sure that decluttering gets done. The best way to ensure
that it actually happens is to put it in the calendar and schedule other things
around it. A good frequency for a basic declutter is around once a month, while
a comprehensive declutter should take place around once a year. With all the
influx of gifts on Christmas, many families find it useful to do an annual
declutter in December.
5. Create limits
Your sense of what is normal and acceptable determines
how much clutter will be in your house. To get a handle on this stuff, come up
with clear rules. Maybe the collection of stuffed toys can keep growing until
it fills the cupboard, or you can keep getting new military models provided
that they can fit on a table. Having clear limits in place creates structure
for your living space. It is a great way to minimize clutter without putting a
lot of effort in.
6. Do it as a family
On a practical level, you'll get rid of clutter more
quickly with more people doing the work. Decluttering might never be a whole
lot of fun, but collective family activities are always good for your kids'
development. Getting rid of clutter together represents an opportunity to
encourage your kids to take responsibility for things rather than expecting you
to take care of them. It's a way to get your kids started with a good habit
that will serve them well in later life.
