As the calendar turns to a new year, many of us feel the urge to start fresh. One of the best ways to create a clean slate is by decluttering and organizing your home.
A clutter-free space isn’t just visually pleasing—it can also reduce stress, increase productivity, and make daily life more enjoyable. Whether you’re an Ash Street Housing Cooperative member or considering becoming one, these simple strategies will help you transform your home into a more serene and functional space.
If you’re not yet a member, stop by the Ash Street office to explore this unique form of home ownership and check on availability.
Step 1: Tackle One Area at a Time
The idea of decluttering your entire home can feel overwhelming, so break the task into manageable chunks. Focus on one room, or even one small area, at a time.
For example:
Start with a kitchen drawer or cabinet.
Declutter your closet by tackling one section (shoes, shirts, etc.).
Sort through the bathroom cabinet or linen closet.
Set a timer for 15-30 minutes and work on that space until the time is up. This approach keeps the process manageable and helps build momentum as you see progress.
Step 2: Apply the "Keep, Donate, Discard" Method
When decluttering, use three categories to guide your decisions: keep, donate, and discard.
Keep: Items you use regularly or that have sentimental value. Store these in an organized way for easy access.
Donate: Items that are in good condition but no longer serve you. Clothing, kitchenware, and books are great examples of things others might benefit from.
Discard: Broken, expired, or unusable items that can’t be repaired or donated. Be sure to recycle whenever possible.
Keep boxes or bins labeled for each category, and make it a goal to remove the donation and discard items from your home as soon as possible.
Step 3: Maximize Your Storage Spaces
Once you’ve decluttered, it’s time to organize what remains. Making the most of your storage spaces will help you maintain a clutter-free home throughout the year.
Here are a few tips:
Use Clear Bins: Transparent bins make it easy to see what’s inside without rummaging through everything.
Take Advantage of Vertical Space: Install shelves, hooks, or hanging organizers to free up floor and counter space.
Group Similar Items Together: Keep like items in the same area, such as placing all your winter accessories in one bin or grouping cleaning supplies in one cabinet.
By organizing your belongings efficiently, you’ll spend less time searching for things and more time enjoying your home.
Step 4: Let Go of "Someday" Items
Many of us hold onto items with the hope that we’ll use them “someday.” Whether it’s clothing that no longer fits, craft supplies for a project you’ll never start, or old furniture collecting dust in the garage, these items can clutter your space and your mind.
Ask yourself:
Have I used this in the last year?
Does this item bring me joy or serve a purpose in my life right now?
Am I keeping this out of guilt or obligation?
If the answer to these questions is no, it’s time to let it go. Donating or discarding these items will free up valuable space and help you focus on what truly matters.
Step 5: Maintain the Momentum
Decluttering isn’t a one-and-done task—it requires regular upkeep to prevent clutter from creeping back in.
Here are a few habits to help you maintain your tidy space:
Adopt a One-In, One-Out Rule: For every new item you bring into your home, remove an old one.
Schedule Decluttering Days: Set aside time every month or season to go through your belongings and remove what you no longer need.
Avoid Impulse Purchases: Before buying something new, ask yourself if it’s truly necessary and where you’ll store it.
By incorporating these habits into your routine, you can enjoy a clutter-free home year-round.
Why Decluttering Matters at Ash Street
At Ash Street Housing Cooperative, our homes are designed to provide comfort, functionality, and a sense of pride in ownership. A well-organized, clutter-free home not only enhances your living experience but also adds to the overall appeal of our community.
If you’re not yet part of Ash Street, now is the perfect time to make plans to visit our office. Discover how you can become a member and enjoy the benefits of living in a cooperative housing community in the Chicago South Suburbs.
Start Fresh This Year
Decluttering is a powerful way to start the new year with a clean slate. By tackling one area at a time, sorting your belongings thoughtfully, and maintaining an organized space, you can create a home that feels peaceful and inviting.
Whether you’re organizing your current Ash Street home or considering making Ash Street your new home, these tips will set you on the path to a fresh and clutter-free start. Stop by the office for details and availability!
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