“Minimalism is the intentional promotion of the things we most value and the removal of anything that distracts us from it.” — Joshua Becker.
With so many Canadians stuck at home, our space and the items within it have become much more important. For those living in a home full of clutter, or wishing they had more space to do the things they love, a minimalist life might be the answer.
If you are thinking about switching to the minimalist life, here are 6 tips to beginning your own minimalist movement at home.
Clear Any and All Surfaces
Take a look around your house, how many surfaces are clear? Check tables, counters, desks, and dressers and see what needs to be there vs. what is there. If there are items that should be in other spaces, relocate them. Get rid of items that you don’t need.
Check Storage Spaces For Unwanted Items
Take some time to go through your storage areas. Write down the items you see that you do want to keep and get rid of the ones you do not. Once you have finished, go through your list and determine where everything you want to keep should live. Some things might stay in storage, but the chances are that your storage areas will empty pretty quickly once you get going.
Tackle Clothing
The closet is where much of our clutter lies. Over the years, many of us have collected clothing for many reasons and then much of this goes unworn once time has passed and takes up a lot of space we need for other things.
Start with your closet and move onto your drawers, accessories, and shoe rack. Look at your outerwear last, and determine which coats, scarves, mittens, and gloves are no longer needed.
Kids & Pets
Children and pets can add much more clutter to a home- to help remove some of the clutter in these areas, it helps to make a list of the essentials. For pets, it’s especially important knowing you have one leash, one travel crate, one bed, one or two favourite toys, one bowl for food, and one for water. When this list is checked off, you can dispose of anything left over that’s unnecessary.
For children, things are a bit more complex. Important mementos can be stored in a keep-safe box. If your child is old enough, having them sort through their own belongings is a great way to instill a sense of self and independence. It also helps you determine what they see as important or disposable.
Sell!
As the saying goes, one man’s trash is another man’s treasure. This adage is applicable when getting rid of virtually anything with life in it. Websites such as eBay and Kijiji are great ways to get rid of old clothing, games, furniture and more.
Consider bin rentals for junk removal
As you organize and declutter, you are bound to find some broken or unusable items that cannot be rehomed or sold. If you live in the Kitchener/ Waterloo/ Cambridge area and are in need of a rental dumpster bin, don’t hesitate to call us or visit our website! We will be happy to answer any other questions you may have.