Closet LifeHax: Using a Bag for Effortless Decluttering
When it comes to decluttering, many tips and methods suggest setting aside dedicated time to sort through every item in your closet or room. While some urgency can boost productivity, I often find that the pressure to make quick decisions about what to keep and what to discard leads to procrastination. Instead, I’ve discovered a more relaxed approach: using a bag to declutter gradually over time.
All You Need Is a Garbage Bag
Of all the cleaning and organizing techniques I’ve explored, I strongly believe in the power of working in short bursts. As someone who writes about cleaning but isn’t particularly fond of it, I’ve learned which methods resonate with people who share my sentiments. Those who enjoy tidying and organizing likely don’t need my advice!
Cleaning for long periods can be exhausting, and even if you manage to stick with it, your efficiency may wane. I prefer to tackle cleaning tasks in quick, 15-minute spurts. Although this approach may take longer overall—since you won’t see immediate results—it keeps motivation high and makes the process feel less daunting. I sometimes follow a structured schedule, but often I clean spontaneously. If I notice a cluttered shelf while lounging on my couch, I’ll jump up and spend a few minutes tidying it up. My bathroom, kitchen, and other spaces are all fair game for these bursts of inspiration.
However, this method initially left me with minimal decluttering results, as I wasn’t consistently taking items to donate. To remedy this, I began keeping a garbage bag in my closet. Whenever I come across something that could be donated during my cleaning sessions, I simply toss it in the bag. Once it’s full, I do a quick check to ensure there’s no trash, and then I donate the rest.
Why This Approach to Decluttering Works
This method works well for me because it allows for one-by-one assessment of items rather than overwhelming myself with everything at once. When I sit down to declutter a specific area, I often make excuses to keep certain items. This can lead to burnout and frustration, preventing me from letting go of things that should really be discarded. In contrast, when I encounter an item during my daily routine, I can evaluate it more objectively and with less stress. More often than not, I end up getting rid of it.
The bag is especially beneficial for clothes, which is why I recommend keeping it in the closet. While getting dressed, I often try on various outfits and find items that no longer fit. Having a designated bag to toss these items into is incredibly convenient. If I were actively decluttering my closet, I might not try on every piece, missing out on many ill-fitting garments that I’d otherwise keep. Trying things on with the intention of wearing them allows me to discard them immediately if they don’t fit.
Setting a Routine for Donations
I suggest keeping the bag until it’s full. You can establish a timeline, such as taking it to the donation center every couple of weeks, but it’s often more effective to simply commit to dropping it off as soon as it’s ready. Over time, you’ll notice patterns in what items you’re tossing, which can help you decide where to keep the bag. For instance, mine resides in my closet since most of my donation items come from there. If I start noticing more kitchen items going into the bag, I might move it to a cupboard under my sink instead.
Conclusion
Using a bag in my closet to declutter has transformed the way I approach organizing my space. This method reduces stress and allows for gradual decluttering without the pressure of making immediate decisions. By cleaning in short bursts and utilizing a donation bag, I can maintain a more organized home while enjoying the process. If you’re looking for a low-stress way to tackle clutter, consider adopting this approach!
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