Many of us opt to declutter every year after the holidays as a once-in-a-year occasion. Decluttering an entire house can look like an impossible chore, especially when there are a lot of large spaces you don’t know what to do with. However, it’s much easier once you break it into smaller, more manageable chunks and employ clever Decluttering solutions. Here are the best tips and strategies for large spaces that we have thought of.
1 Take before and after decluttering photos
One of the essential things about decluttering in large spaces with lots of stuff is motivation. A lack of impetus for clearing your area can be disheartening and overwhelming, especially if you’re decluttering before renovations, a move, or another stressful situation. And your clutter situation will likely become worse before it gets better. That’s where a before and after photo comes into play. You will be amazed at your progress if you take before and after shots. In turn, inspiration for more decluttering will come.
2 Strategize and stick to a schedule
It’s essential to have a strategy in place before you begin. You’ll be less frustrated and encounter fewer hurdles when you start with defined goals in mind, regardless of how much mess you are going through. Give each area a rating based on the degree of chaos to assist you in setting priorities. Cluttered rooms and closets can be graded from one to three, with three being the most chaotic. Decide on realistic completion dates and timelines for each stage of your cleanup. Making decluttering feel more like a fun exercise will help you stay motivated and avoid getting discouraged. Moreover, when decluttering a space that will take more than a few hours, such as the basement or garage, schedule time to work on it in two-hour increments. Make sure to stretch first and hydrate.
3 Organize by room
Even when not downsizing, decluttering a whole house is a significant undertaking that requires time and effort. Focusing on one room, one area, or even one zone inside a room (like your kitchen cabinets) and finishing the work before moving on to another space is an excellent method for decluttering easier. Another thing that could help is to get some of your items out of the house while you declutter. If you want to protect your pieces, renting storage in Los Angeles or Orange County can be the correct option. It will help with picturing the place as you want it to be. And as you progress, your confidence will grow as you see the results of your hard work. This is one of the decluttering tips for large spaces that will change your perspective – not just your home.
4 Evaluate your possessions
Decluttering is the perfect moment to look through your stuff and analyze what you want in your home. Pick and choose what you will keep in your space, where it belongs, and whether you will gift it or donate it after going through your clutter piles. Don’t be harsh with yourself in parting with things, even when it comes to furniture. Be honest about what you still use, and use The Clutter Remedy© Clear and Concise Critera: Ask yourself “What do I use, what serves a purpose, is sentimental, and loved?” It is natural to gather many items over time, especially in large spaces, but retaining it all can lead to an overcrowded, cluttered home with things challenging to find. Overstuffed cabinets and corners are difficult to maintain and can eventually make your daily life more difficult. In her book “The Clutter Remedy: A Guide to Getting Organized for Those Who Love Their Stuff,” Marla Stone, a former psychotherapist and current owner of I-Deal-Lifestyle Inc. professional organizer services, demonstrates how to declutter effectively and how this process can help you live a more balanced lifestyle.
5 Start small, then go big is one of the best decluttering tips for large spaces
When you first start decluttering in large spaces, don’t make big decisions. Just go for the easy stuff. Fill numerous bags and boxes with items that can be swiftly and simply disposed of. At this point, you’re seeking quick and straightforward decisions to make the more extensive task easier. Make a mental note of the obsolete things already in your line of sight. And after you do that, go for the stuff in the garage, drawers, cabinets, and closets! Empty each area and categorize what you own. Clear every space, categorize, go through your stuff, make good decisions about what to keep, and then fine-tune what you keep. Fine-tuning can be tedious, and yet it is the most critical step. Seeing all the new space you created will provide you with the motivation necessary for decluttering. As long as you see your progress, you’ll be inspired to continue.
6 Keep the clutter away permanently
Instead of merely tossing things away, decluttering involves finding ways to better organize and store what you wish to preserve. A good question to ask yourself is, “Have I utilized the storage in my home?” Consider using previously underutilized spaces, such as the garage. Underneath your bed is NOT an option. Always keep the area around your bed clear. Whatever you decide to do with your space, stock up on innovative storage solutions to prevent the mess from taking over your home again. Contain everything you own, and do not put things back directly onto shelves. You can organize in subject groupings (out-of-season clothing, for example) and clearly label or put items in see-through boxes for rapid identification. Stackable boxes, baskets, and bins keep things by category and easy to access. Furniture with a lift-up lid, such as an ottoman, benches with storage, and armoires help save space. Also, keep in mind that bin tops or covers are better at protecting your items from dust and grime than open storage areas.
7 Get help
Decluttering your home might be a difficult chore to take on alone. You could rely on the help of close family members and friends to support you in your endeavor, only if they will be supportive and don’t take particular interest in your belongings. Having helping hands when you’re decluttering large spaces to make room for a growing family can be a bonding experience. It will also be easier to let go of some of your possessions when you enlist the support of friends. They don’t have the same emotional ties to your stuff as you do. This can help you get closer to having a clutter-free home faster. When family and friends are not an option, professional organizers in your area can be found at OrganizersNow. And after you finish with your decluttering spree, why not take some time to enjoy it? Order some good food, buy some refreshments, and marvel at a job well-done.
Final words
We hope our guide has provided you with all the necessary decluttering tips for large spaces. Even when it feels overwhelming at first, it will be worthwhile when you have a clean, open room in your home. Happy decluttering, and don’t forget why this task is essential!
