Are you wondering what types of things you should declutter when cleaning out your home, barn, garage, basement, attic, or business?
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Wonder no more! On this page you will find a detailed "Declutter Reference List" of the items you should consider decluttering. There are MANY more items than what we have listed, but it will help get you started. If you only have a little time to declutter, the best strategy is to start with a small room or area. However, if you have extra time, go for the worst cluttered room or area. Tackle the space where it will make the biggest impact and where there are many things to get rid of. Grab some boxes and begin filling them with all the items you no longer want or need.
A Quick Declutter (Clean-Out) Guide
• Have you used it in the last six months? No = declutter it.
• Is it broken or missing pieces? Yes = declutter it.
• Is it something that you will most likely not use in the future? (Be honest) Yes = declutter it.
• Is it something that you hardly ever use? Could someone else use it? Yes = declutter it.
• Is it stored in a safe environment, protected from water, mice, and weather? No = declutter it.
• Is it an item that none of your family members want now, or after you pass away? Yes = declutter it.
• Would it make you feel better if you got rid of the item? Yes = declutter it.
• Could you use the space for something more enjoyable or to help you function? Yes = declutter it.
• Is it something you don't even like and have no idea why you even held on to it? Yes = declutter it.
• Is it an item someone gave you (or you inherited), and you don't want or use it? Yes = declutter it.
• Do the kids have so many toys and clothes that they don't take care of them? Yes = declutter them.
• Is it broken or missing pieces? Yes = declutter it.
• Is it something that you will most likely not use in the future? (Be honest) Yes = declutter it.
• Is it something that you hardly ever use? Could someone else use it? Yes = declutter it.
• Is it stored in a safe environment, protected from water, mice, and weather? No = declutter it.
• Is it an item that none of your family members want now, or after you pass away? Yes = declutter it.
• Would it make you feel better if you got rid of the item? Yes = declutter it.
• Could you use the space for something more enjoyable or to help you function? Yes = declutter it.
• Is it something you don't even like and have no idea why you even held on to it? Yes = declutter it.
• Is it an item someone gave you (or you inherited), and you don't want or use it? Yes = declutter it.
• Do the kids have so many toys and clothes that they don't take care of them? Yes = declutter them.
What Types of Things Should I Declutter?
|
|
|
|
|
Basically, you should get rid of anything that you don't need or use. Items that are broken, missing pieces, don't fit you anymore, cause you stress or sadness, things you have multiple of, things that you have no interest in, or things you know that you will never do anything with. If you haven't been using it, most likely you will not miss it if you get rid of it. Holding on to all the "maybe someday I will need it or use it" items are things you will never end up using.
Mother Declutter accepts items that are: new, old, dusty, rusty, used, broken, and missing pieces. Although, we do prefer things that are in good usable condition, worthy of donating or selling, especially if you want to have the items credited toward getting our clean out services at significantly discounted rates or possibly free. However, we do clean and try our best to repair items. We know people and families who can use many of the items listed below. Many times we might have an item that is missing a part, and we can make one good working item out of two broken ones. So, please do not throw out items that are broken, missing pieces, etc. We might be able to save them in various ways.
We also have very talented artists who buy items (or we donate the items to them) that are broken and missing pieces. The artists create masterpieces with several of the items, making our towns, stores, buildings, houses, and our world a beautiful, creative, colorful, and unique place for us to view and admire! They use everything from oddball metal pieces and old tools, fabric, old buttons, and hats, to jewelry (the gaudier, the better), canvas, toys, and everything else you could possibly imagine!
Many of the items listed below just sit around in people's homes collecting dust, never getting used or repaired, often forgot about and eventually thrown out after they pass away. Sometimes they are stored in environments where water, weather, or rodents have damaged them. Why not let other people who can and will use the items, or need and want the items, make good use of them?
The list below is just a very small list of the numerous things people have acquired and could declutter. The best way to declutter is to simply get rid of anything you don't want. Don't worry if it is broke, missing pieces, or needs to be cleaned. Let us determine what is truly trash. We will remove the items you no longer want from your home, garage, barn, business, storage unit, etc. You won't have to worry about cleaning them, fixing them, or figuring out what to do with them. We do all the hard, time-consuming work, and you enjoy a lot more space and a decluttered, organized home! You get freedom, less stress, and you can finally go and enjoy your life, having fun and not worrying about a bunch of stuff.
Mother Declutter accepts items that are: new, old, dusty, rusty, used, broken, and missing pieces. Although, we do prefer things that are in good usable condition, worthy of donating or selling, especially if you want to have the items credited toward getting our clean out services at significantly discounted rates or possibly free. However, we do clean and try our best to repair items. We know people and families who can use many of the items listed below. Many times we might have an item that is missing a part, and we can make one good working item out of two broken ones. So, please do not throw out items that are broken, missing pieces, etc. We might be able to save them in various ways.
We also have very talented artists who buy items (or we donate the items to them) that are broken and missing pieces. The artists create masterpieces with several of the items, making our towns, stores, buildings, houses, and our world a beautiful, creative, colorful, and unique place for us to view and admire! They use everything from oddball metal pieces and old tools, fabric, old buttons, and hats, to jewelry (the gaudier, the better), canvas, toys, and everything else you could possibly imagine!
Many of the items listed below just sit around in people's homes collecting dust, never getting used or repaired, often forgot about and eventually thrown out after they pass away. Sometimes they are stored in environments where water, weather, or rodents have damaged them. Why not let other people who can and will use the items, or need and want the items, make good use of them?
The list below is just a very small list of the numerous things people have acquired and could declutter. The best way to declutter is to simply get rid of anything you don't want. Don't worry if it is broke, missing pieces, or needs to be cleaned. Let us determine what is truly trash. We will remove the items you no longer want from your home, garage, barn, business, storage unit, etc. You won't have to worry about cleaning them, fixing them, or figuring out what to do with them. We do all the hard, time-consuming work, and you enjoy a lot more space and a decluttered, organized home! You get freedom, less stress, and you can finally go and enjoy your life, having fun and not worrying about a bunch of stuff.
|
The Declutter Reference List
|
|
|
Toys:
Puzzles Old or new dolls Barbie Dolls and other dolls Doll houses / doll accessories Bikes and ride on toys Plastic toys (Fisher Price, etc.) Board and boxed games Videos games (older or newer) Video gaming systems Baby and toddler toys Kitchen sets and accessories Pull along or walk behind toys Legos & other building toys Hotwheels & other toy cars Stuffed (plush) Animals Piggy Banks Metal, plastic, or wood: trucks, cars, airplanes, wagons, etc. Jewelry:
Old, new, complete, broken, missing pieces, worn-out. Earrings, necklaces, bracelets, rings, etc. Metal, plastic, store bought or homemade. Vintage or out-of-date costume or party jewelry. Modern, kids, men's, or women's jewelry. Watches, watch parts, cuff links, and pins. Jewelry and Trinket boxes: old, new, broken, parts, etc. Random Odds and Ends and Miscellaneous Items:
Bottles / Cans / Tins Keys / Locks Mailboxes Weather Vanes Metal Signs Scales (candy, meat, deli, baby) Typewriters Sewing Machines and Parts Sewing Patterns Zippers / Buttons / Metal Tags Clocks (old, new, small or large, broken, missing pieces, etc.) Exercise Equipment Luggage / Travel Bags Keepsake or Hope Chests Small or Large Electronics Dog Tags / Licenses (old/used) Miscellaneous odds and ends (Anything you don't need or want) |
Sporting Goods:
Bicycles and tricycles Roller skates Skate boards Ice Skates Snow boards Skis and skiing equipment Helmets & protective gear Golf clubs and accessories Hunting equipment and gear Fishing equipment and gear Bowling balls and accessories Football, soccer, & tennis items Baseball, basketball, & boxing Dance recital dresses & outfits Trophies Sport clothing, shoes, & Gear Musical Instruments:
Old, new, damaged, missing pieces, empty cases, etc. Brass Instruments (horns, etc.) Acoustic or Electric Guitars Drums Violins Keyboards Flutes Banjo Party Supplies plus Holiday and Special Occasion Decorations:
Christmas Easter Halloween Thanksgiving Valentine's Day St. Patrick's Day Independence Day (4th of July) Weddings Graduations Birthdays and more! Beauty / Personal Care:
Make Up / Make-Up brushes Make-Up Cases (Bags) Nail Polish / Nail Kits Perm and Curling Rods Curling Irons / Flat Irons Hair Coloring Kits Lotions Perfume (even if partially used) Cologne (even if partially used) |
Automotive:
Cars, trucks, SUV's, and other vehicles with clean titles (older or newer) non-running or running, damaged, rusty, missing parts, etc. We do have people who can remove vehicles without titles too. Trailers: Utility, enclosed, farm, snow mobile trailers, boat trailers, car dollies, etc. Other transportation, vehicle, and recreational items: Campers, ATV's, Motorcycles, Scooters, Mopeds, and Segways. Exterior car parts: doors, hoods, handles, emblems, hood ornaments, fenders, side mirrors, headlights and taillights, bumpers, etc. Interior car parts: consoles, stereos, gear sticks (shifters), blinker switches, seat belts, seats, door panels, interior lights and buttons (switches), visors, instrument clusters, head liners, floor mats, and more. Engine compartment parts: motors, starters, alternators, batteries, transmissions, etc. Tractors and Tractor parts Lawn, Yard, and Garage,
Workshop, Barn, etc: Push and Rider Mowers (including the manual mowers) Weed Wackers (Trimmers) Leaf Blowers Hedge Trimmers Shovels / Rakes / Brooms Workshop Equipment Saws / Drills / Power Tools Hand Tools Work Benches and Cabinets Tool Boxes (small or large) Welders Lathes Sand Blasters Air Compressors Air Guns and Paint Guns Used or new Paint Brushes and so much more! |
|
Electronics:
Video Game Systems & Games (Handheld or large systems) Televisions (older or newer) Radios / Stereo Receivers Record Players CD players 8-Track players Microphones Karaoke machines Speakers / Sound Systems Home or Car Audio equipment Alarm Clocks (any) Walkie-Talkies Printers / Copy Machines Cameras (old or new) Camera accessories Lap Top Computers Desk Top Computers Keyboards / Mouse / Cords Flash Drives, etc. Tablets / iPads / iPods Smart Watches and Fitbit Apple or Android Watches Fitness Trackers Pagers Phones (old or new, landline plug in phones, or cell phones plus accessories - chargers, cords, batteries, etc.) Collections or Hobbies: Train sets and Train Items RC Airplanes and Cars Dolls / Barbies / Vintage Pressed Steel Toy Trucks / Cars Pedal Cars / Boats Tin Cans or Bottles Beer (or Pop) Cans and Bottles Coins / Stamps / Etc. |
Other Electronics Related Items, plus Media & Books:
Children's Books Teen Books Romance Novels Mystery / Crime Fiction / Non-Fiction Self-Help Bibles Magazines Comic Books Homeschool Curriculum Educational Books (Books and magazines can be old, new, used, back-issues, etc.) DVD's / Movies VHS Tapes Cassette Tapes 8-Track Tapes CD Music Discs Records (LP's, 45's, etc.) Cameras (old, new, or broken) Film / Slides / Reels Video Camcorders Arts and Crafts Supplies:
Paint Brushes (used, old, new) Drawing Pencils Pens / Makers / Crayons Molding Clay / Pottery material Drawing (Sketching) Paper Canvas (used or new) Yarn / String / Rope Crochet Hooks Knitting Hooks Craft Beads and Jewels Cloth / Material / Fabric Paints (oil, acrylic, water color) Craft Organizer Bags Craft Storage Containers Just about anything can be turned into art and used for crafts, even broken odds and ends. |
Paper Type Items:
Greeting Cards (old, new, even if they have writing in them) Stationary Paper / Envelopes Postcards (old, new, used) Photos (old or newer) Stickers Bookmarks School Paper Trading and Collector Cards Baseball Cards Advertisement Pamphlets Brochures Manuals (any - older or newer) Educational, School and Homeschool Supplies:
Curriculum / Workbooks Flash Cards (Word, Phrases, Sentences, Alphabet, Phonics, Math, Numbers, Picture, etc.) Globes / Rulers / Protractors Charts / Posters Pens / Pencils / Markers Hole Punchers / Scissors Glue / Tape / Paste Crayons / Colored Pencils Coloring Books / Dot-to-Dot Microscopes / Slides Biology and Chemistry kits Other Science Experiment Kits Dry Erase Marker Boards Dry Erase Markers Sidewalk Chalk Lined Paper / Copy Paper Graph Paper / Colored Paper Educational DVD's Educational CD Rom's School Desks and Chairs Binders / Spiral Notebooks Anything Educational |
|
Furniture & Home:
Couch (Sofa) and Loveseat Chairs (incl. recliners & rocking) Tables and chairs End tables and coffee tables Night stands Dressers Beds (rails headboards, etc.) School or Computer Desks Benches School Lockers Cabinets (storage or medicine) Shelves (metal / plastic / wood) Baskets (wicker / wood / metal) Plastic Totes Vanity sets Sewing Machines and Parts Bar Stools and Bar Counters Entertainment centers Mirrors / Wall Hangings Paintings / Home Decor Knick-Knacks / Figurines Quilts / Rugs / Welcome Mats Kitchen Items:
Pots / Pans / Cookware Dishes / Platters / Plates Cups / Mugs / Glasses Silverware / Eating Utensils Serving Utensils Baking Pans and Bakeware Mixing Bowls / Storage Bowls Blenders (small or large) Juicers Hand Mixers Stand Mixers Coffee Grinders Microwaves Cookie Cutters / Rolling Pins Can Openers Coffee Pots Toaster Ovens Baking Stones China Glassware Cookie Jars Salt and Pepper Shakers Mason or Canning Jars Lunch Boxes Pop and Beer Bottle Openers Salt and Pepper Shakers Trivets Table clothes Pottery |
Misc. Household Goods, Appliances, & Storage:
Lamps (floor or table-top) Lamp Shades or bases Humidifiers Dehumidifiers Space Heaters Washers and Dryers Refrigerators (mini or full size) Freezers (chest or upright) Appliances (small and large) Book Shelves File Cabinets (metal or wood) Storage Cabinets Home and Building Parts, Supplies, Fixtures, and Accessories.
Lighting fixtures & ceiling fans Door knobs (handles) Locks, keys, and fixtures Drawer pulls (handles) Door hinges and knockers Doors (Interior and Exterior) Drawers / Cabinets Sinks / Faucets / Shower heads Trim boards and wood Windows and frames Garage doors Drop Ceiling and Fixtures Clothes & Accessories:
Infant / Children / Adult / Plus Size Men / Women / Boy / Girl Jeans / Pants / Shorts Dresses / Skirts / Skorts Shirts / Tops / Blouses T-Shirts / Tank Tops Sweaters / Sweat Shirts Sweat pants / Yoga Pants Hats /Gloves /Mittens / Scarves Shoes / Boots / Sandals Homecoming & Prom Dresses Wedding and Bridal Gowns Purses / Handbags / Wallets Ties / Belts / Baseball Caps Casual or Formal Clothes * Any clothes, shoes, or accessories... no matter how outdated or used they are. |
Baby Furniture, Clothes, Toys, and Accessories:
Cribs Portable (Pack-n-Play) Beds Play Pens / Play yards Car Seats Bouncy Seats Carrying Wraps / Slings Backpacks Diaper Bags Diapers (unused) Bottles Baby Monitors Changing Tables Diaper Pails Strollers Clothes (Boy / Girl / All Sizes) Bassinets Cradles High Chairs Baby Swings Infant Bath Tub Towels / Wash Clothes Sheets / Blankets Receiving Blankets Bibs / Spoons / Cups Medical Supplies & Items:
Blood Pressure Cuffs Stethoscopes Eyeglasses / Sunglasses Dentures and partials Hearing Aids Walkers / Canes Back Braces Knee and Ankle Supports Arm / Shoulder Slings Neck and Back Massagers Not sure about it stuff:
Basically anything you don't want or need. We can usually find someone who can use, repurpose, fix, or make something creative out of just about anything. From old pop caps, ties, belt buckles, etc, to furniture, car parts, wagon wheels, yard tools, and so much more! Whatever we are not able to find a use for, or that is not salvageable, we will make sure it gets disposed of in an environmentally friendly manor. |
Ten Toys or Less is the Best!
Studies have shown that kids who have more than ten toys (a set of legos would count as one toy) lost interest more often, were easily distracted, and were more likely to have ADHD, anxiety, frustration, and even threw more temper tantrums. They often did not respect their own stuff or other people's belongings. The more toys they have they will naturally take less care of them. They know if they lose or break a toy it will quickly be replaced with another toy. Why should they even bother taking care of their toy, since it is so easily replaceable?
They were also less likely to be creative by using their own mind, talents, and imagination. However, kids who have less toys, are more likely to go outside, get creative and come up with ideas to make toys out of household objects which also trigger problem solving techniques and is healthy for the processing part of the brain. They also use their talents doing art projects, read more, get more exercise from physical play, and so much more. It is healthier for their body and brain.
By allowing your kids to have more than ten toys, you are limiting their potential and hindering their creativity. They often feel like a failure because they so overwhelmed from all the toy clutter, that cannot complete the task of putting away their toys. In their mind it seems like an unreachable goal that is too hard to achieve or maintain. Declutter the toys and you will open up a whole new world for your kids!
According to Psychology Today, the kids who were given fewer toys focused more, were more engaged, played more creatively, and interacted with their toys in more varied ways for longer periods of time. “There was a significant difference in the quality of toddlers’ play between the two toy conditions,” the study concluded. In other words, less clutter and chaos can lead to increased focus, creativity, and more joy.
They were also less likely to be creative by using their own mind, talents, and imagination. However, kids who have less toys, are more likely to go outside, get creative and come up with ideas to make toys out of household objects which also trigger problem solving techniques and is healthy for the processing part of the brain. They also use their talents doing art projects, read more, get more exercise from physical play, and so much more. It is healthier for their body and brain.
By allowing your kids to have more than ten toys, you are limiting their potential and hindering their creativity. They often feel like a failure because they so overwhelmed from all the toy clutter, that cannot complete the task of putting away their toys. In their mind it seems like an unreachable goal that is too hard to achieve or maintain. Declutter the toys and you will open up a whole new world for your kids!
According to Psychology Today, the kids who were given fewer toys focused more, were more engaged, played more creatively, and interacted with their toys in more varied ways for longer periods of time. “There was a significant difference in the quality of toddlers’ play between the two toy conditions,” the study concluded. In other words, less clutter and chaos can lead to increased focus, creativity, and more joy.
The "Surprise" Toy Box!
When I used to do Professional Organizing along with decluttering of homes, one of the jobs I did involved decluttering and organizing a huge toy room (with the kids helping). This toy room not only had a few large toy boxes full and overflowing, but also a floor and closet full of toys. Together we went through each toy, with the kids knowing that the toys they were getting rid of were going to be donated to other kids who didn't have any toys. They were pumped up and super excited! With each toy they picked up, they would make their own decision about it, saying things like, "I don't use this one a lot, so I will let the other kids have it" and "I don't like this as much as the other one, but another kid might like it".
When we got down to the bottom of one of the toy boxes, one of the boys was nearly in tears and yelling with excitement... "I can't believe it! I found my most favorite toy I have ever had. I thought I lost it forever." I asked him why do you suppose you couldn't find it when you searched for it before? He said, "because I have too many toys, and I don't like digging through all of them". When we finished decluttering the toy room, the boys were down to one half-full toy box. They actually enjoyed their toy room and being able to easily find, and play, with their toys now. Weeks later, they were still just as excited and keeping their toy room clean and organized. Best of all, they were so happy they got to give some of their toys to other children.
When we got down to the bottom of one of the toy boxes, one of the boys was nearly in tears and yelling with excitement... "I can't believe it! I found my most favorite toy I have ever had. I thought I lost it forever." I asked him why do you suppose you couldn't find it when you searched for it before? He said, "because I have too many toys, and I don't like digging through all of them". When we finished decluttering the toy room, the boys were down to one half-full toy box. They actually enjoyed their toy room and being able to easily find, and play, with their toys now. Weeks later, they were still just as excited and keeping their toy room clean and organized. Best of all, they were so happy they got to give some of their toys to other children.
Doing What Works... Solves So Many Problems.
|
|
|
|
|
Kids are very logical, smart, and observant. They are capable of recognizing a problem, and they even know how to fix it. Just as adults get overwhelmed and frustrated with clutter and when things get out of control... it has the same affect on children. So, when kids have too many toys or clothes, they don't want to clean up the overwhelming mess.
Parents can help by limiting the amount of toys and clothes, so it is manageable. Then teach the children how to do their chores so they know what is expected. Children do and learn what they see and are taught. Teach them correctly when they are young and stick with it by being consistent with clear expectations, following through with consequences for bad behavior or disobedience, and everything else will fall into place. Consistency is the key!
Kids should be taught manners, self-respect, and respect for others. Kids also need order, structure, chores, rules, boundaries, guidance, and most importantly, love. If you include them in the chores and home responsibilities, they have far more respect for other people's belongings, as well as their own stuff. It makes them feel like they are an important part of the family and doing their fair share. It gives them a meaningful sense of belonging, family, and teamwork. It teaches them self-respect, love, hard work, appreciation, responsibility, admirable skills, positive character traits, and so much more. You will be preparing them for a successful, creative, and bright future.
Parents can help by limiting the amount of toys and clothes, so it is manageable. Then teach the children how to do their chores so they know what is expected. Children do and learn what they see and are taught. Teach them correctly when they are young and stick with it by being consistent with clear expectations, following through with consequences for bad behavior or disobedience, and everything else will fall into place. Consistency is the key!
Kids should be taught manners, self-respect, and respect for others. Kids also need order, structure, chores, rules, boundaries, guidance, and most importantly, love. If you include them in the chores and home responsibilities, they have far more respect for other people's belongings, as well as their own stuff. It makes them feel like they are an important part of the family and doing their fair share. It gives them a meaningful sense of belonging, family, and teamwork. It teaches them self-respect, love, hard work, appreciation, responsibility, admirable skills, positive character traits, and so much more. You will be preparing them for a successful, creative, and bright future.
|
|
|
Copyright © 2010 - 2023 Mother Declutter. All rights reserved.