Prevent Clutter By Asking Yourself Where Items Will Go Before Buying

Prevent Clutter By Asking Yourself Where Items Will Go Before Buying

The best way to get rid of clutter is by preventing it from accumulating in the first place. The next time you’re out shopping, ask yourself where the item you’re considering buying is going to go, even if it’s not an impulse buy.

Photo by Gareth Williams

Sometimes clutter in our homes and workspaces builds up because we don’t take the time to organise, but other times it’s because we buy something we need without thinking about where it should go. Over time, your items can pile up, and you may not have the time to have a big organising spree. Laura at weblog I’m An Organising Junkie suggests you ask yourself some specific questions before buying:

1. Do I have a place to put this away?

2. Do I have the time and energy to organise a space to put this?

3. Am I willing to toss something to make room for this item?

4. Will I really use this item and if so will it be within the next 3 months?

You should know exactly where the item is going, or plan on making the space for it. Not only can asking yourself these questions save you some grief in home organising, they may also save you money. Maybe you won’t be using the item anytime soon, or maybe you’re not willing to take time for making space for it, so you decide it’s not worth the purchase. Kicking your clutter habit isn’t easy, but these questions can help prevent some of it.

How to Stop Clutter Before It Even Happens [I’m An Organising Junkie]


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