Clutter Control Tips

1. Keep - These items look like clutter because they are either arranged improperly or are completely misplaced. The rule for the Keep pile is that everything must be given a permanent home, or placed within a designated controlled clutter area. A controlled clutter area is a room or part of a room where temporary clutter, such as puzzle pieces or homework papers, can be left out. If something is in its proper place but looks like clutter because it's impossible to keep it stacked neatly, such as mail or a pile of magazines, store it in baskets or other attractive containers.

Important: If you find yourself placing nearly everything into the Keep box, ask the following questions:

• When did I last use this item?
  
• If I haven't used it recently, is there a specific date in the future when I will?
  
• Does it truly hold a lasting value, purpose, or sentiment for my family or me?

2. Give Away - Be honest with yourself. If you haven't used something for a year, it is highly unlikely that you will ever use it again. Many charities welcome donated items that are clean and functional.
    
3. Throw Away - Anything that is broken, stained, or damaged beyond repair should be thrown away. If you feel guilty because you suspect that you're wasting something, consider how much time and effort you will waste in the years ahead by storing, cleaning around, and otherwise caring for things that should be thrown out. The Bible says there is "a time to keep and a time to throw away" (Eccl. 3:6b).
   
   These items should not be included in the Give Away box. Charities are usually staffed by volunteers, who prefer not to waste valuable time sorting through unsalvageable junk.
    
4. Storage - This category is for seasonal and special occasion items that are used infrequently, but will be needed in the future. Also, if you have difficulty deciding whether to keep, give, or throw away an item, it may be a good idea to put it into storage for six months. If at the end of that time you haven't used it, most likely it can be safely donated or thrown away. Today's retailers offer a myriad of functional storage containers such as hard plastic storage boxes, vacuum-sealable plastic bags, and easy-to-assemble shelving. Choose an efficient storage method that matches your lifestyle and budget. Whatever method you choose, make sure that your storage containers are out of sight and out of mind. This could be in the attic, in the basement, under beds, or in closets.
   

Maintain
Clutter control is a way of life. After initial clutter has been eliminated, it will require daily effort to keep it eliminated. The good news is that clutter maintenance is less time consuming than allowing clutter to grow, then spending several weeks cleaning it up again. Train yourself and your family to spot clutter the minute it starts building. Have an "everything has a place" policy in your home.

Be Realistic
Lastly, unless your home is empty 24/7, there is no way everything will be in its place every minute of every day. This is real life. Encourage clutter management habits in your family, but allow them to live in their home. Remember that making a mess is not a big deal. The important thing is what you and your family choose to do with the mess after it is made.