Four Solutions For Home Clutter

You’re ready to declutter your home—but what are you supposed to do with all of the clutter? If Marie Kondo inspired you to get rid of your excess items, there are a several storage and disposal solutions for the clothing, appliances, books, toys and other things that no longer spark joy in your life. Four solutions to be exact.

Because not all forms of clutter are created equal, there may be some items you’re hoping to keep out of sight and out of mind (Marie Kondo probably wouldn’t approve, but we won’t tell on you.) and others which you’d like to get rid of or pass onto someone else.

Let’s break down solutions for each type of clutter:

1. Self Storage

What Type of Clutter This Works For: A storage unit is the perfect solution for items you don’t use regularly but still have a need for. This includes seasonal items such as pool toys and holiday decorations, hand-me-down clothes for future grandchildren and sentimental items like your wedding dress or family photos.

You can rent a storage unit online. Leases are month-to-month, and a variety of sizes are available that allow you to essentially have an extra closet or an extra room. Climate control is recommended for those sentimental items, such as antique furniture from your grandmother, which may be sensitive to temperature and humidity.

2. Donation

What Type of Clutter This Works For: Donation is a great solution for items that are still in good condition but no longer are useful to you. This includes furniture, clothing, kitchenware, books and anything else that another person might enjoy.

Non Profit organizations that accept donations include Goodwill, Salvation Army and Habitat for Humanity. These organizations may offer pick-up services for larger items, such as furniture. Be sure that your items are clean and in working order. Take a look at local, smaller charities in your area including homeless shelters and outreach programs to find other options for donating clutter.

3. Recycling

What Type of Clutter This Works For: Recycling is best for clutter that no longer has a use for anyone but can be repurposed. This includes unwanted documents, outdated electronics, metals, glass and plastic.

Always check with your local recycling center first. Your next step is to find a service for hard to recycle items and electronic waste. Be sure to follow recycling rules for your community, and clean out recyclables before getting rid of them

4. Home Storage

What Type of Clutter This Works For: Items you don’t want to get rid of, still use fairly often but would prefer to store elsewhere. This includes the junk that’s jamming up your drawers, the toys you’re constantly tripping on and the toiletries that are crowding your vanity.

When we say home storage, what we’re really saying is smarter home storage. Get more storage space in cabinets by hanging shower caddies on the inside of doors. Store children's toys or rolled up t-shirts in an over-the-door shoe rack. Get an under-the-bed organizer with wheels to make under-the-bed storage easier. Spending the time to really look at the home storage potential of just one space in your home—whether it’s a closet, a cabinet, a desk drawer or a shelf—can have a seriously positive impact on your clutter.