Spring is the best time of year to throw open the windows, let the house air out and get in a deep clean after the winter greys fade. It's also the perfect time to get a few organizing projects done! Tanna of Graced Space shares her favorite tips for getting started:
Does It Stay or Does it Go?
Set up two boxes in each hallway or major living space. Label one "donate" and the other "relocate." As you pick up, dust, and clean everything, decide what you are ready to get rid of and drop it in the donate box. If anything belongs in another room, put it in the relocate box to put away when you are finished.
Winter Wear
Gather all the winter gear and get it washed and put away. This is a great time to get rid of anything outgrown and worn out from last season. Hang those clean coats in the back of the closet, or put all the winter gear together in one box. Make a note of who needs what for next year.
Use it or Lose it Bin
It's safe to say we tend to spend "good money" on the latest and greatest makeup, toiletries, and even beard oils. You hate to waste money by throwing these things out, but once the money is gone, friends, it's gone. If you have bathroom goodies taking up space and you can't decide what to part with, create a "use it or lose it" bin to corral it all. If you try it and like it, add it to the routine; if you don't, let it go! Start using it now or lose it.
Linen Closets
I've worked in many closets overrun with old towels, sheet sets, and all the extra stuff that doesn't have a home. The easiest way to tackle the abyss is to empty it all. Start over with the basics. Keep an extra set of sheets for each bed and let the rest go. Donate old towels to an animal rescue like Old Friends Senior Dog Sanctuary. Categorize everything else, put like with like, and decide on storage options. Again, now is your chance to toss anything you no longer need or use.
Pantry Purge
Take an extra 10 minutes to check expiration dates in the pantry. Toss anything expired. A fun way to tackle the excess is to create a weekly menu plan only using what's in the pantry. Substitute anything you need, but the point is to use as much as possible and get creative with meal ideas. Do this anytime the pantry is starting to feel out of control.
Get the Garage in Gear
The garage tends to become a dumping ground during the winter. Gather the no longer needed items you've been tossing to the side and have that yard sale! Make the bicycles and outdoor toys easily accessible for the kids. Rethink your storage options and what you are storing. You don't have to tackle your garage in one day, but one box a week is doable.
No matter what space you are working on, break it into small, manageable tasks. The clutter didn't get there overnight, and unless you have a team to help you, it won't disappear overnight either. Give yourself grace when it comes to your home. If doing this yourself seems too overwhelming, book a consultation with Tanna to do the work for you! https://gracedspace.com