Spring clear-out: decluttering homes for rejuvenated living spaces

The renowned "spring cleanings" are practised in several British homes. We thoroughly clean our homes to cap off the lengthy winter and welcome a sunnier time of the year with rejuvenated energy. However, cleaning windows or shaking carpets isn't the be-all and end-all. Clearing the house of extra items is also advisable.

We often accumulate a host of items in our homes that are either no longer usable or have long since proven to be redundant. Tucking them in various corners culminates in a cluttered environment, which complicates maintaining order, and often hampers the ability to relax comfortably. How can one prevent this?

Equip yourself with two large receptacles or strong garbage bags. As you sift through your collections, designate items you no longer need but can pass on to one container. For the other, designate broken and completely unnecessary items. We suggest what should be discarded.

Old newspapers, flyers, bills

Some people have a penchant for postposing them for later. However, consider whether you'll truly need them at some point. Unless they are collector's editions or hold sentimental value, feel free to dispose of magazines, advertising pamphlets, or long-settled bills into the waste paper basket. You'll benefit from extra space and reduced dust.

Outdated cosmetics

This applies to more than those you seldom use. Spring is the ideal season to examine your entire cosmetic collection and reevaluate some habits. Mark the usage commencement date on such products and adhere to the manufacturers' guidelines. Most products are unsuitable for usage beyond 3, 6, or 12 months from initial use. Subsequently, they can grow hazardous.

Worn-out underwear and other clothing

People fall into two primary groups: those who promptly discard tattered socks or underwear and those who postpone them for "later". However, the truth is that such a moment never arrives. If a clothing item is irreparable, it must be discarded. You'll gain closet space, which you can definetly utilise more effectively.

Decor that's worn with time

Common amongst knick-knacks is their ability to set the mood of a location and help organise space to some extent. We quickly grow accustomed to them. We struggle to envision, for instance, a shelf devoid of a specific frame or vase. However, taking an objective look at such items might be a good idea. If something has aged poorly, perhaps it's time to dispose of it?

Useless equipment

Typically, such items end up in drawers we haven't opened in years. Cables from outdated devices, broken remote controls, frayed headphones, and much more. If they're not functioning and beyond repair, they belong to one category - electronic waste.