WHY IT’S GOOD TO DECLUTTER
Decluttering is a really good thing to do before you decorate
A few years ago, during lockdown, my husband and I took the chance to declutter. Our garage, our kitchen cupboards and shed were gone through with immaculate precision. My husband’s enthusiasm was infectious. I got on board and started sorting through all the books that had sat untouched on our bookshelf. My taffeta dress with puffy sleeves and bows, from my school formal didn’t survive the process (I’m not really sure why I still had it).
So, what are the benefits of decluttering?
Feeling of calmness – The actual process of decluttering is not actually that calming. But once we got through the hard part and then starting sorting, there was a feeling of calm in our home. The rooms feel lighter, airier and renewed. Even my laundry that had become a bit of a dumping ground is now a delight to go into.
Found things that had meaning – By going through drawers and cupboards, we found things that we’d forgotton about or had misplaced. I had wondered where some paintings I got when travelling years ago had gone. I thought I must have thrown them out – but they appeared in a box that had been buried away in the garage.
Found places for things – Once we’d sifted through the things we wanted to throw out and the things we wanted to keep, we were able to find places for our belongings. And it wasn’t just a matter of throwing them back in the same cupboard but creating a proper place for them to live. Containers have now become my new friends!
Put the important things centre stage – This process has helped put the important things centre stage. I can now easily find a book on the bookshelf that I want to read rather than having to rummage through too many books to find something. And I’ve moved some keep sakes into places where I can see them. Hopefully it also means that I can spend more time doing the things I enjoy rather than spending time looking aimlessly for something.
Recycle or donate – There is also a nice feeling knowing that what you don’t need can actually be used by someone else. And I think for me, it makes the process a bit easier if I know something will have a second life. Like, perhaps somewhere my school formal taffeta dress may make an appearance in an 80’s party (if we are ever allowed to have a party again).
A declutter is a really good place to start before redecorating your home. Want to hear more tips? Want to know what other 80’s fashion I found in my wardrobe? To receive helpful tips and inspiration direct to your email inbox, please sign-up to receive my “All Things Interiors” newsletter.
