There are a million and one ways things enter our homes, but we often don’t have a way of getting rid of stuff. This fact alone can make even the most organized home become cluttered real fast. That’s why every house needs an exit plan for stuff.
Between purchases, gifts, hand me downs, and free things we might get from friends or promotional offers, there are a lot of ways we can accumulate stuff. Before we know it we’re drowning in clutter and not sure how it all got here. It can be overwhelming to try to declutter everything all at once. But I have an easy exit plan that any home can adopt and the best part is it doesn’t take much effort. Every home needs a Donation Box. Here’s how to create one and start your exit plan for stuff today:
First, grab a cardboard box and a sharpie and write in big letters DONATION BOX. Second, put the box in an out of way but high traffic area. For example, a coat closet or garage is a great spot because its out of the way but still accessible. Third, any time you come across something in your home that you no longer need or want put it in the Donation Box right away. Not sure if you still need the item? Put it in the box anyway and if you find yourself still thinking about it then you can take it out. But more often than not you will find with the item out of sight, it becomes out of mind. Lastly, once the box is full take it immediately to your local donation centre. Don’t let it sit in your car for months. It will feel so good to get rid of it! Then you can come back home, find another cardboard box and start the process all over again.
You might be surprised to see how quickly your donation box fills up!
Ashly is mom to one boy and twin girls. She is passionate about living with less, creating long lasting solutions for an organized home, and simplifying life at every level. She lives with her family in Surrey, BC and loves spending weekends at Crescent Beach and the White Rock Farmer’s Market.
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