Are you feeling overwhelmed by clutter in your home? You’re not alone! Decluttering can feel like a daunting task, but breaking it down into simple steps can make it manageable and even rewarding. One of the best ways to tackle clutter is to sort your items into three categories: store, donate, or toss. Here’s how to decide what goes where.
1. What to Store
Some items have sentimental or practical value but may not be needed daily. These are great candidates for storage:
- Seasonal Items – Holiday decorations, winter coats, summer gear, and camping equipment.
- Furniture & Appliances – If you’re in between moves, downsizing, or planning to use them later.
- Family Heirlooms & Memorabilia – Keepsakes, photo albums, and childhood treasures.
- Important Documents – Tax records, legal paperwork, and business files.
- Hobby & Sports Equipment – Bicycles, fishing gear, or craft supplies that aren’t in constant use.
2. What to Donate
Many items that clutter your space could be useful to someone else. If something is in good condition but you no longer need it, consider donating:
- Clothing – If you haven’t worn it in a year, it might be time to pass it on.
- Books & Magazines – Libraries, schools, and shelters often welcome donations.
- Furniture & Home Goods – Many charities accept gently used furniture, kitchenware, and décor.
- Toys & Baby Gear – Outgrown toys and baby items can help families in need.
- Electronics – Old but functional gadgets can be donated to schools or nonprofit organizations.
3. What to Toss
Some items have outlived their usefulness and should be discarded responsibly:
- Broken or Damaged Items – If something is beyond repair, it’s time to let it go.
- Expired Goods – Food, medications, beauty products, and cleaning supplies have expiration dates for a reason.
- Paper Clutter – Shred outdated documents, receipts, and junk mail.
- Single Socks & Mismatched Items – If you haven’t found the pair in months, it’s time to say goodbye.
- Worn-out Linens – Old towels and sheets can be repurposed as cleaning rags or recycled.
Tips for a Successful Decluttering Session
- Use the “One-Year Rule” – If you haven’t used it in a year, you likely don’t need it.
- Start Small – Tackle one room or category at a time to avoid overwhelm.
- Label Storage Bins – Clearly mark what you’re storing to make retrieval easier.
- Schedule Regular Decluttering – Make decluttering a habit by revisiting your space every few months.
By following these simple guidelines, you can create a more organized and stress-free living space. Need extra room for your belongings? Renting a self-storage unit can help keep your home clutter-free while keeping your cherished items safe and accessible. At Lakeside Storage, we have units in a variety of sizes to help you find exactly what you need. Come on down or give us a call today! Happy decluttering!
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