Blog

The following post is from Becky of Clean Mama: De-clutter Before You Spring Clean

Ready to start spring cleaning?   Did you de-clutter first?  If you want your spring cleaning to be effective and worth the time and effort, put in a little time before you start the cleaning process to de-clutter. 

Why?  It’s like prepping for a painting project.

You have to tape, put down drop cloths,  and cut-in corners.  Without that prep work, your painting job will be sloppy without neat edges and clean lines.  Doing a little de-cluttering before your spring cleaning will bring about similar results.  Your spring cleaning will have a bigger impact and longer-lasting results. 

Here’s why:

• Getting rid of some of your clutter and visual noise will make it easier to clean because there will be less moving around stuff to clean underneath it.

• Removing the clutter will energize and motivate you to spring clean.

• Taking time to think about the stuff that’s cluttering your life will cause you to be more intentional about what you bring into your home and what you display.  Do you love it and use it?  Keep it.  Otherwise, figure out a better place for it.

What’s the best method to de-clutter?  Regardless of your system, moving quickly is the key.  My favorite sorting method?

• Keep
• Toss or Recycle
• Donate
• Sell

Start by de-cluttering major areas first before narrowing them down into smaller spaces.

• Surfaces – tables, desks, counters, dressers.

• Floors – probably stray socks, toys, stuff under beds and dressers.

• Hot Spots –  it might be a stack of perpetual bills on the counter or electronics cluttered near a charging station.  Hot spots are areas that continue to multiply because there isn’t a good solution for the stuff.  Take some time to think of a better solution to avoid the hot spots from repeating themselves.

Once you’ve tackled the surfaces, floors, and hot spots, you’re ready to move on to specific rooms and areas.

This de-cluttering method can be used for one room or the entire house.  Once the clutter has been cleared, you’re ready to move on to your spring or deep cleaning. 

I just released a brand new eBook/guide, Cleaning Around the Seasons: Deep Cleaning On Your Schedule.  If you’re looking to do some spring cleaning or deep cleaning in your home, my guide will help you de-clutter and determine the best way to deep clean your home on your schedule.  It also includes 7 printable guides for your de-cluttering and spring cleaning.  I’d love for you to check it out!

What’s your take on spring cleaning?  Do you attempt a little, a lot, or none at all?