Are you ready to have a sound mind and create a space that truly reflects who you are? Whether you’re gearing up for a big spring cleaning and decluttering session or simply looking to start fresh, we’ve got some fun and educational tips to help you on your journey! Keep reading to get started.  

Embrace the Joy of Decluttering 

Imagine walking into your home and feeling instantly relaxed because everything has its place. Sounds great, right? Decluttering isn’t just about tossing out old junk – it’s about making room for what really matters in your life. A well-organised space can boost your mood, improve productivity, and even inspire creativity. It’s time to stop putting off sorting through the mess and start tackling it, head on. You got this!  

Spring Cleaning and Decluttering: A Perfect Duo 

Does your wardrobe look similar to the one the right? 

If so, it’s time for a change. 

Spring is the perfect time to refresh your space. The season of renewal naturally invites us to clear out the old and welcome in the new.  

Here’s how to get started with your spring cleaning and decluttering: 

• Set a Date: Mark your calendar for a weekend dedicated to decluttering. Think of it as your “new beginnings” day! 

• Play Some Tunes: Create a fun playlist to keep the energy high while you sort through your items. This sets the vibe and puts your mind into focus.  

• Start Small: Begin with one room or even a single drawer. Success in a small area can inspire you to tackle larger spaces. This is more effective than trying to tackle it all in one go, as this can be demotivating and becomes a stressful experience.  

How to Start Decluttering When Feeling Overwhelmed 

Feeling overwhelmed looking by your clutter is a familiar experience for everyone. Don’t worry, this feeling is going to change.  

Here are some steps to help you get started when everything seems like too much: 

1. Break It Down: Divide your space into manageable zones. Focus on one area at a time, such as a drawer, shelf, or a specific corner. 

1. Set Timers: Work in short bursts (say, 20 minutes) and then take a break. This keeps the task from feeling endless. 

1. Prioritise: Identify what truly matters to you. Ask yourself, “Does this item add value to my life?” If not, it might be time to let it go. 

1. Don’t get sentimental: Think long and hard about the things you’ve been holding onto for a long time. If you’re holding onto gifts that you haven’t used/worn in years, it’s time to let go, or pass it on to someone who actually needs it.  

1. Celebrate Small Wins: Every item you remove is a step closer to a clutter-free home. Reward yourself for each little victory! Take yourself out for a meal or treat yourself to a nice bath. However, don’t treat yourself to buying more stuff! (I see you there).  

Decluttering Tips for Hoarders 

If your home feels more like a storage unit than a sanctuary, these decluttering tips for hoarders might be just what you need: 

• Start with a Friend: Sometimes, having a supportive buddy can make the process less daunting. They can help you make decisions and offer encouragement. You could also ask if they would like to have anything you’re willing to give away.  

• One-In, One-Out Rule: For every new item you bring home, consider donating or discarding an old one. This helps prevent clutter from building up again. 

• Memory Box: Hold onto a small box for sentimental items. But limit yourself – only the most cherished memories make the cut! 

• Professional Help: Don’t hesitate to seek professional organising services if the task feels too overwhelming. Sometimes, an expert eye can work wonders. 

The Rule of Thumb for a Simplified Wardrobe  

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but many minimalists and organisational experts suggest a simple rule of thumb for everyday items.  

Here’s a general guideline to consider: 

• Tops: If you’re building a capsule wardrobe, consider having around 8–10 versatile tops that can mix and match. Aim for plain tops and less patterned ones so they are easier to match with trousers/skirts. 

• Bottoms: Keep it simple with about 3–5 pairs of trousers or skirts that suit most occasions. 

• Dresses (if applicable): One or two versatile dresses should be enough for those days when you want a quick, stylish outfit. 

• Outerwear: Depending on your climate, one to two jackets or coats should cover your needs.  

• Socks and Underwear: Aim for about 7–10 pairs for each. This way, you have enough for daily use throughout the week, with a couple of extras for wash days. 

• Shoes: Three pairs are a common starting point – a casual pair for everyday use, a formal pair for special occasions, and an athletic or outdoor pair (walking boots/wellies/trainers). 

• Accessories: A few key pieces should suffice unless your lifestyle or wardrobe demands more variety. If you don’t ever reach for it, it’s not something you wear. Time to bin it! 

Remember, these numbers are flexible. Your ideal “pair count” depends on your lifestyle, how often you do laundry, and your personal style preferences. The goal is to strike a balance between having enough to cover your needs and keeping your space clutter-free. 

How SmithPackaging Can Help Tackle Decluttering 

Decluttering often means sorting, storing, and sometimes even shipping items you no longer need. That’s where SmithPackaging comes in. Our high-quality packaging solutions are here to make your decluttering journey a breeze: 

• Versatile cardboard boxes: Whether you’re packing up items to throw away or prepping items for donation, our range of cardboard boxes – from single wall boxes for lighter loads to double wall boxes for heavy-duty tasks has you covered. 

• Secure shipping solutions: Planning to send some items off to family or charity? Our robust boxes ensure that everything is safely packaged, making both moving and shipping stress-free. 

• Easy organisation: With our wide selection of sizes and styles, you can neatly store and label your items, ensuring that every box finds its perfect place in your new, clutter-free home. 

At SmithPackaging, we believe that a great packing solution is the first step towards a more organised, vibrant living space. Let our products help you create the room you need to focus on what really matters. 

It’s Time to Live Lighter 

Remember that decluttering takes time, depending on how much you have, it can take anywhere from a day to weeks to sort out. Decluttering doesn’t have to be a chore – it can be an exciting journey towards a more intentional and fulfilling life.  

Ready to take the plunge? Grab your favourite playlist, set a timer, and start making space for what really matters. And remember, SmithPackaging is here with the right tools to help you pack, store, and ship your way to a clutter-free life.