Spring Cleaning: 7 Simple Steps to Become Clutter Free

Tidy up on a consistent basis. 

Setting aside a weekly time to refresh gives me peace of mind and also cuts down on the need for future deep cleans when our space gets out of hand. These tidying sessions also serve as a way to check on anything that might need replacing, whether it’s cleaning products or a new pair of sandals. Even though it’s always tempting to put this off until later or “leave the dishes for tomorrow”, it really will feel better to wake up to a clean home, I promise. 

Less really is more. 

While I’m not advertising the gospel of minimalism, I do think it’s helpful to take stock of what works and let go of what doesn’t. Whether you live in an urban studio or a large house, it’s smart and financially savvy to maximize both your space and the value you get from your items.  This year I’m rebuilding my wardrobe one section at a time and, after living in one pair of jeans, I finally found two perfect pairs at the local thrift store for a fraction of the cost. I’ve learned that finding pieces I love will keep me from needing to do a closet purge next year and help me to enjoy what I have. 

Be at peace with space. 

In her book Homebody, Joanna Gaines wrote that “Clearing away clutter and nonessentials really can promote peace.” I used to feel like I constantly had to fill every corner of my home, but I’m learning to leave space for peace. Clutter isn’t limited to dirty dishes or a pileup; it can also be pictures or furniture that are only there to fill space. If your home is clean but still feels chaotic, try setting aside some items, rearranging the furniture, and then adding in items as desired. You may find that your sense of style has changed or that you gravitate to different colors than before, giving you fresh inspiration for your space. 

It’s okay to ask for help.

I’m a pretty self-sufficient gal, but I’ve learned it’s important to ask for a hand when needed. There’s no shame in hiring a CPA to complete your taxes or a service to clean your home if it’s worth the extra time saved in your schedule. If your spring cleaning might be a job for two instead of one, ask a friend if they can help or have any recommendations depending on the task. Some of us love to clean and organize, and others don’t. Thankfully for the latter, there’s a wide variety of services available to you at the push of a button. One of my favorite female-owned businesses is Space Camp, a professional organization company that provides great storage solutions and workshops to help others create tidy, functional spaces of their own to love. 

Reward good behavior.

It’s scientifically proven that reward systems work, so why not give yourself a sweet treat for spring cleaning? Find something that motivates you to complete a project and let it help you keep your eye on the prize. I love hosting friends, so buying a nice bottle of wine to share with a friend for dinner is a great motivation for me to spring clean. It could also be a mani/pedi or even a nice relaxing bath at the end of a long day of decluttering. Whatever will spark your motivation!

Find a rule of thumb that works for you and stick to it.

If you have a pile-up area in your bedroom or car, find a good rule of thumb when it comes to cleaning to stay consistent. For example, I have a 24-hour rule for dirty dishes in the sink, not just because we don’t have a dishwasher but also because I feel better when our kitchen is tidy. If you or your housemate misses the mark, just clean that area when possible. Remember, the rule is there to serve you, not to breed criticism. At the end of the day, staying clutter free is less about a set of black and white rules to follow than a series of daily choices that work for you. 

I hope these have encouraged you to tackle your spring cleaning or home project!