Spring Cleaning (That Lasts)
When the warm Spring sun comes out, there’s something deep within us that begs to open the windows, clear cobwebs, and declutter our home. This year, why not embrace some new rhythms that could keep that Spring cleaning habit going all year round?
Take Inventory and Keep Current
Consider your kitchen. Chances are, it runs like a small diner and your backstock may be in bad shape. Spend some time organizing your pantry and fridge, throwing out old and expired items, and taking stock of multiples you’ve collected. Pull everything out at once. This may be overwhelming and take a bit of time, so don’t rush yourself. Have trash bags ready to cull old items, a notebook and pen ready to take down items you need to replace, and a great playlist or podcast to keep you moving.
For closets, create a “Rotation Zone”. Not sure if you’ll wear that blouse again? Thinking you may try those pants you forgot about for an upcoming occasion? Put those items somewhere to the front of your closet so you can access them easily and they don’t slip your mind. If you find that you make it through a season without touching these pieces, they’re goners!
Begin a monthly rhythm of editing your spaces to keep your home on a constant cycle of decluttering. One room (or closet, space, etc.) per month…an hour at a time…will keep your spaces fresh, organized, and relevant for your current stage of life.
Repair and Restore
Make a plan to fix the things that need fixing or restoring items that need some TLC! Over winter, the projects to accomplish in Spring always pile up. You know, “We’ll do that when it gets warmer.” Those warm days are closing in, so now’s the time to make a plan.
If lists help you feel accomplished, create one with every small and large task so you can check off things as you go! Call the repairman, figure out your DIY plan, and schedule weekend time for the projects. This is a good time to do simple maintenance too…clean your leather bags, vacuum your sofas and other upholstered pieces, and scrub down appliances.
Digital Decluttering
Even though virtual pictures and videos may not take up physical space in your house, they’re eating up valuable space on your devices. Create a habit of cleaning out text messages and albums every six months to clear up space on your phone and tablets. Clear videos from group threads and even consider an online subscription service for physical photo albums that are shipped to you on a regular basis. Pulling your most treasured pictures from your phone to a book keeps your favorite images easily accessible. Our favorite is Chatbooks for a reasonably priced printing service that keeps small, lovely photo albums coming to your door.
Easy steps like these will keep your home functioning well all year round and keep you from feeling overwhelmed before big holidays or events. Small rhythms can lead to big freedoms and Spring is the perfect time to start!
