When considering decluttering, some believe it must be a massive, time-consuming endeavor, which can feel overwhelming. However, starting with smaller, manageable spaces can help you build momentum and motivation. Here are five areas or items that are quick and easy to declutter:
1. Makeup
Disposing of beloved eyeshadows or lipsticks can be challenging, yet holding onto expired makeup poses risks to your skin. Cosmetics can harbor bacteria, leading to skin irritations, breakouts, and eye infections. Regularly replacing them is essential for maintaining skin health. To determine when makeup expires, check the product packaging for a small symbol indicating its shelf life after opening. If unsure of purchase dates, inspect the packaging for clues like worn labels or dried-out products. Additionally, a foul odor is a clear indicator that it's time to bid farewell to the makeup.
2. Magazines, Newspapers and Catalogs
Magazines, newspapers, and catalogs have a way of accumulating rapidly. If it's been a while since you've cleared out a sizable stack of them for recycling, today is the day to do so! Grab a paper grocery bag, set a timer for 15 minutes, and comb through every room in your home to gather up these items along with any other recyclable paper like mailers or flyers.
3. Handbag/Purse
If you haven't emptied your handbag or purse in a while, it's a good idea to do so now. I personally prefer the "dump method" - simply turn your bag upside down and empty its contents onto the floor. This approach allows you to clean the interior of your bag and thoroughly assess the items inside to decide if they should stay.
4. Medicine Cabinet
It's highly likely that you have expired medicines in your home. In every household that Neat Nathalie has organized, a common find is numerous expired medications occupying valuable space. Dedicate a few minutes to check the expiration dates on prescription bottles and over-the-counter medicine boxes or containers.Before you throw anything out, do a little reading on how to properly dispose of them.
5. Car
Vehicles frequently become cluttered and collect debris swiftly. When you next park your car, take a few moments to gather any trash, papers, or items that don't belong. You'll be amazed at how quickly you can refresh your car by simply removing these out-of-place items.
Decluttering a few small areas, whether it's one, two, or five, brings a sense of fulfillment that fuels the momentum to tackle other spaces. Rapid improvements in these smaller zones can inspire confidence to take on larger organizational endeavors.
~Nathalie xoxo