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.
We put up some great ideas on Facebook. Follow us in Australia and New Zealand