If you follow me on Instastories, you may have noticed me talking about getting organized lately. With the start of a new season, it just feels natural to declutter and reorganize our space. We were in full on declutter mode in January as well, and every time we do this, it amazes me at how much stuff accumulates. Basically, every corner of our apartment was filled up! The end result is beyond peaceful though.
Top: Target x Who What Wear (sold out) – Necklace: c/o Morning Lavender
Going through the entire home can be overwhelming, but I personally like to just get it done. Pick a weekend that you’re free, stay in your pajamas, blast the music, and get to work. Here are 5 areas to focus on:
1.) Closets – Obviously! Go through each item and decide if you want to keep it. If you haven’t fit into it (I’m totally guilty of this) or worn it in the last year, donate it. If it’s just a mess, toss it. Either way, pull out each item in your closet and reorganize it. Throw away broken hangers and make sure your shoes have a dedicated place to live.
2.) Dresser – Another obvious one, but totally necessary. Get rid of old or mismatched socks, underwear, and even bras that are worn out. I like to make note of what I need (so if I’m getting rid of my black bra, I know I need to order a new one). This is when I’ll donate old pajamas or workout gear and keep my list of what to buy as I can afford things.
3.) Pantry – This is always a bit depressing because you realize how much food has been wasted (hello old pasta!), but go through everything in your pantry and check dates. If something is expiring soon but you won’t use it, bring it to a food shelter and let them know the urgency. Don’t forget to check spices and replace what you’ve gotten rid of.
4.) Toy baskets – This is obviously only if you have little ones in your life, and if the kids are old enough, let them help you with this process. It might cause conflict and some tears, but teaching kids about donating and decluttering is important—at least I think so! I go through and clean up all the toys too; a little vinegar is a natural way to get rid of germs on legos, books, all the toys.
5.) Car – Oh my gosh, our cars get sooo messy, anyone else?! It’s such a forgotten space, but with 2 kids and 2 adults, our vehicles take a beating. Go through each corner and compartment and toss any trash, old napkins, etc. After doing this, I take the cars to get detailed, then I’ll add in a bag or bin to keep in the car for trash and random things we need to get rid of. I’ll usually keep a backpack full of emergency things: napkins, snacks, water, etc., too. There is just something magical about a totally clean, organized car—am I right?
Other areas you can organize: linen closets, bathroom + medicine cabinets (get rid of old meds), fridge (a good wipe down is usually needed), & under the bed. If dedicating a weekend is too much, commit to 30 minutes at the end of each day for a week, and you should make good progress.
I hope this helps your organization AND peace of mind 🙂
It feels so good to rif of junk and donate the things someone else can use. I like less stuff and more space to breathe.