The early months of a year are always a time of tidying up and clearing things out. Most of us, especially those of us with children or grandchildren needed to make room for new Christmas gifts, and it’s often a time of reflection. Clearing out some old clutter is a great way to start a new year. But, this year it’s been hyped up a little bit by the enormous popularity of the Marie Kondo series on Netflix.
Everyone has been talking about it, social media is full of related memes and comments, and charity shops are reporting a considerable rise in donations since the release of the show. There’s no denying that having a good declutter can be good for you. It can make your home neater, and significantly easier to keep clean and tidy. It can help you to clear your mind and think more positively. A clutter free home can have a positive effect on your mood. But, if you are currently sitting in between piles and piles marked “keep” or “get rid of” then you might be wondering what on earth you are going to do with all of that clutter. Here are some ideas to help you.
Get Some Storage
Ok, so it’s kind of cheating, but not really, the clutter is still leaving your home. Decluttering is fantastic, but it’s not always as simple and clear cut as things that bring you joy and things that don’t, and we’re not all as ruthless as Ms. Kondo. Sometimes, it’s hard to commit to getting rid of something that’s meant a lot to you in the past, and it’s even harder to know what you might want in the future. Hiring local storage gives you a middle ground. Move some of your clutter there, give life without it a try and then make a final decision when you are ready.
Donate to your local Charity Shops
Charity shops are perhaps the best way to get rid of your old, unwanted goods that are still in usable condition. But, not all shops accept all things. Anything upholstered like old furniture will need its fire safety tag, and toys often need their safety certificate or mark. Some shops will also only accept things that they are short of or sell well, and many are currently turning things away due to overstocking. Speak to your local stores first and then look further afield.
Make Some Money
Donating is great, but there’s nothing wrong with making a little extra cash off your unwanted clutter. You can sell on auction sites and apps, and plenty of websites will pay for old electricals and DVDs.
Upcycle
Upcycling old furniture, clothes and even toys can be a way to give your clutter a new purpose so that they bring you joy once more. Or, it can be a way to make more cash when you sell them on. If you’ve got enough, you might even be able to open an Etsy store. At the very least upcycling gives you a way to try a cool new hobby and stretch your creative muscles.
