10 Reasons to Get Rid of Clutter

Is clearing clutter on your to-do list this year? Having trouble getting started? Sometimes finding the proper motivation is what finally gets us to take action on a goal — so to help, here are 10 good reasons to get rid of clutter once and for all.

1. Enjoy more free time. A clutter-free abode makes it much easier to find what you need when you need it — meaning less time wasted looking for misplaced items. Having less stuff also makes your home quicker and easier to clean.

2. Spend less money. You’ll naturally spend less on things in general when you’re conscious about maintaining a clutter-free space — but you’ll also save by not spending on organizing tools and storage containers to house those extra items. You could even potentially spend less on your home if you decide you don’t need as much space once you’ve cleared the clutter!

3. Feel more calm. Just imagine coming home to a serene, welcoming space where everything you own fits comfortably, with room to spare. When we over stuff our home, we can feel more stress and anxiety. Why not clear some material goods and give yourself the gift of more peace and calm instead?

4. Always have something to wear. A stuffed closet and nothing to wear is a common “complaint” these days — but have you stopped to consider why? If your closet is packed with clothes that don’t make you feel and look your best, those clothes are simply getting in the way. A pared-back wardrobe filled only with favorites you love makes getting dressed in the morning easy.

Get rid of clutter before the holidays to reduce stress!

5. Help others by donating to a good cause. Those old winter coats, cellphones, toys and even crafting supplies can be put to good use by nonprofits and charitable organizations helping people in need. Wouldn’t it feel good to know that, rather than taking up space in your closets or basement, your unused belongings were helping homeless families, veterans, the elderly or another group dear to your heart?

6. Enjoy more sleep. Distractions can make it more challenging to fall asleep, so if you’ve been having trouble getting some quality shut-eye, clearing the clutter from your bedroom may help. Leave the worries of the day behind when you enter your clean, serene and clutter-free space to rest and destress.

7. Simplify your child’s life. Toys getting a bit out of control? Get rid of clutter and refocus family life on creativity and imagination. When sorting through toys, consider whether the toy does more of the work or whether your child can use it in many ways. Simpler toys and materials encourage open-ended play and problem solving.

8. Get out the door quicker. Are mornings frantic at your house? Little things, like not being able to find your keys or a child’s backpack, can completely derail the morning. Get rid of clutter and your morning routines will go more smoothly. Just imagine easily choosing clothes from your closet, making breakfast and lunches in a neat kitchen and selecting a coat and shoes from a clutter-free coat closet on your way out the door.

9. Make room for your car in the garage. Can’t fit your car in the garage? You’re not alone. The Department of Energy estimates that 25 percent of people who have two-car garages can’t fit a car inside because it’s too packed with stuff! Get rid of clutter and finally get your vehicle inside, protecting it from weather damage and maybe even break-ins.

10. Sell your home for more. Thinking of putting your home on the market? Decluttering is one of the best ways to make it look its best, and it costs nothing! A clutter-free home looks cleaner, more spacious and more inviting, potentially helping boost the sale price, especially when paired with strategic staging.