January, the month of the Great Purge. Do you go into full on cleaning and organizing mode like I do?
There is no better time for a fresh start then the turn of a new year. We’ve been homeowners for close to seven years. There is no shortage of improvements and things that need to be organized, especially on a fixer-upper.
Each year, I try to do a little throughout the year, but when January comes I get a burst of energy and need for renewal.
After spending the last quarter (Oct/Nov/Dec) on family activities, cooking, decorating and good ol’ fashion quality time, it’s nice to take some time to reflect and renew for the upcoming year.
Pair that with third trimester nesting urges, and it’s game on. This year I decided to be a little more ambitious with my purging plan, creating 31 things to declutter, toss, or donate. If I am keeping it, there must be a place for it.
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Decluttering with a Family
When you have a family it becomes much more communal to clearing out clutter.
Therefore, instead of committing to an “everything must go” mantra, I find it more reasonable to purge on things we don’t love, don’t need, or won’t use.
Getting our Organization On
As we prepare to get organized for the new year these are some action items:
Find a Spot for It
Some items continue to move around the house, never finding a proper place to call home. Is it something you keep moving around the house because it has no home? Find a spot for it.
Try to use items and bins you already have on hand.
Toy organizers are a great way to keep toys sorted and in one spot.
Toss it
Is it Broken? Has it been in your “repair” pile for a while? Pick a day to repair broken items, or toss it.
Donate it
Ask your self why you are keeping the item. Is it something you love, or are you holding on to it because you feel you have to? Donate it.
Is it something you use? Have you used this item in the last year? Realistically, will you use it in the next year or probably never? Donate it.
Related Post: How to Start Cleaning when it Completely Overwhelms You
31 Things you should Throw Away, Donate, or Reorganize
- Toy clutter
- Holiday decorations and holiday bins
- Master closets
- Make-up, nail polish, and beauty items
- Old Linens
- Children’s closet(s)
- Medicine cabinets
- Junk drawers
- Shred or destroy old papers
- Bills, medical papers, and financial documents
- Clothes
- Pantry
- Under the bathroom sink
- Sock drawer(s)
- Fridge
- Desk
- Entry closet
- Old electronics
- Old candles
- Expired coupons
- Broken jewelry
- “Fix-it” items you never fixed
- Games or toys that are missing pieces
- Pet toys, collars, etc.
- Tupperware (Especially Lids)
- Storage Closets
- Old bedding and sheets
- Books
- Magazines
- Mismatching dishes, dishes with no lids, etc.
- Wallet & Purse
Free Printable PDF of 31 Things you should Throw Away, Donate, or Reorganize
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I’m Chanele. Housewife, Mama, and Chief of Household Management. I love charm, simplicity, and getting organized.
I‘m always on the hunt for inspiration
and love the creative process. All of the tips I share are for busy moms managing a household and family.
Please join me in making magic, molding memories & managing a household.
