By Margarita M. Cossuto, PhD
Every year we hear the phrase “Spring Cleaning” and for many of us it is a reminder to start the task of decluttering, organizing, and cleaning. This phrase conjures up images of clear and open spaces and organized rooms, but who wants to clean or organize when the days are warmer and longer and we’re rearing to get outdoors after being cooped up for the winter? Finding the motivation to start with spring cleaning can be so overwhelming that we oftentimes get stuck in thinking about it and don’t actually do anything. Let’s go over some steps on how you can start with the process of Spring cleaning so you can conquer the clutter in your home.
Pace yourself: The key to successful spring cleaning is to not try to do it all. Start with a few manageable and realistic goals that you know you can do. For example, plan to organize your small entry way closet versus organizing the entire attic that is full of boxes and seasonal items. Set aside time for your clutter clearing sessions. Think about how you work best – some people prefer to work for no more than 30 minutes, whereas some people may find that once they start the momentum makes them want to do more.
Know the key threes – Keep, Toss, or Donate: Set aside at least 3 boxes for each room that you will be working in. Boxes are easier to work with than bags, because they have structure and can be stacked vertically in order to maximize space. Note that you may need additional boxes for each type below as you go through all your items. Start by labeling your boxes into these three simple categories that will be used for sorting:
• Box 1 = “Keep” box. This box will be for items that you use and love, and truly enjoy. These will be items that you will likely use again and again. As you start to put items aside to keep, think about the categories you’re making. The trick to simplifying the organizing process is to put things into categories (i.e. like with like, versus categorizing by color, size, or favorite items). It will be a lot easier to sort through your items when you can see how much you have of similar type.
• Box 2 = “Donate” box. This box will be for items that you might still use occasionally, but no longer need or like.
• Box 3 = “Toss” box. This third box will be for items are that damaged beyond repair, expired items, and items that need to be recycled.
Work with each box:
• “Keep” Box: These items will stay in your home and space. As you review the items in this box, consider the amount of space you have in your home, where each item will go – whether on a surface, bookshelf, closet, cabinet, or drawer. If you do not find proper space for each and every items in your “Keep” box, you might have to let some of them go. If you find yourself running out of space, or even questioning if you really want to keep something, give yourself a moment to really think about the item. Sometimes we keep things simply because of the strong emotional attachment with have with the item and the associate memories. Consider whether the emotions are good or bad, and how the item really makes you feel.
• “Donate” Box: The Donate box goes out of your home. You could give these items to a local charity, a shelter, a religious organization, bring them to the Good Will, give them to friends, arrange a garage sale…there are many options. Just remember that the sooner this box goes out, the better, do not keep it in your home for too long.
• “Trash” Box: The amount of trash you have to discard will dictate how you get rid of it. Depending on how much you have, you may simply be able to put the trash and recycling aside in time for the next regular pickup. If you have large items to discard, there are many local services that will pick up the items directly from your home. CT.gov has suggestions on how to discard just about any item in your home.
Relax and relish: Organizing can be physically and emotionally draining. Plan something to treat yourself after each organizing session for your hard work and time well spent. Make time for a night out with friends, a relaxing day at the spa, or a quiet night at home. Whatever you do, know that you have conquered your space and are well on your way to living organized.
Margarita Cossuto, PhD is a professional organizer and owner of Living Organized, LLC. She applies her background in psychology to understand the unique needs of her clients to give them the organized space they’re looking for. Margarita works with a variety of clients in the CT/NY area and can be reached at 203-451-7880 or www.livingorganized.com
