From Cramped to Spacious: Decluttering Tips for a More Organised Home

We can all agree that a clutter-free home is more than just aesthetically pleasing; in fact it enhances your well-being, improves functionality, and creates a sense of spaciousness. Whether you’re preparing to move into a new home or simply want to make better use of your space, decluttering is an essential step towards a more organised lifestyle.  

At PLAN Group, we understand the importance of making a house feel like home, and we’re happy to share some practical strategies to reclaim your space. 

1. Start Small and Stay Consistent  

Decluttering can feel overwhelming, however, breaking it down into manageable steps makes the process easier. Start with a single drawer, a shelf, or one corner of a room, and eventually commit to decluttering regularly. Setting aside just a few minutes each day can lead to significant results over time. 

2. Use the One-Year Rule 

A simple yet effective method is the one-year rule: if you haven’t used an item in the past year, consider donating, selling, or recycling it. This applies to clothes, kitchen gadgets, decor, and more. The key here is about being honest about what you truly need and use to eventually free up valuable space. 

3. Adopt Smart Storage Solutions 

Maximise space with multifunctional furniture, storage bins, and vertical shelving. Investing in storage solutions that blend seamlessly with your home’s aesthetics ensures that every item has its place, reducing visible clutter and maintaining an organised look.  

4. Categorise and Sort 

Sort your belongings into categories – keep, donate, recycle, or discard. This way, you can evaluate each item’s usefulness and prevents unnecessary hoarding. Labelling boxes for different categories can streamline the process. 

5. Digitalise Where Possible  

Paper clutter can quickly accumulate, from old receipts to unused manuals. Embrace the digital power by considering scanning important documents and switching to digital formats where feasible. This reduces paper waste while keeping important files easily accessible (and not risk losing them to unfortunate spills or ending up as unintentional drawing paper!). 

6. Create a Maintenance Routine  

Decluttering isn’t a one-time task; it obviously requires ongoing maintenance. Establish simple daily habits, such as returning items to their designated spots, tidying up before bed, or implementing a one-in, one-out rule to prevent future accumulation. It’s tough we know, but trust us it works wonders when done properly.  

Bonus Point: When Decluttering Isn’t Enough 

If you’ve tried every trick in the book and still find yourself struggling with space, maybe it’s time to consider a bigger home. PLAN Homes can help you find the perfect property to suit your needs, whether you’re upgrading to a more spacious dwelling or searching for a better layout.

Explore PLAN Homes current developments and discover properties designed for comfort, functionality, and practicality.