For those who are trying to accomplish the same thing. My
first point is remind you that it is NEVER to late to start and don’t get
overwhelmed. Growing up, I had a closet the size of my current bedroom –
really, I did. I used to have sleepovers in my closet. I was blessed with
material possessions. In High School, I was voted “best dressed”, I’m sure this
had something to do with this extensive wardrobe.
My closet today is about 1/20 of what it used to be (my small closet is
only half full). It is true that you “wear 10% of your clothes, 90% of the time!”
Clothes – I don’t spend a bunch of money on clothes (see my blog about thrifting), so I have NO attachment. Even my wedding dress(es) are M.I.A. ! When I let go of clothes, there is no resentment. I try to purchase clothes that are flattering and fit well (mostly basics). But, if I get an item home and it is not “becoming” on my beautiful figure J It is removed. If I have not worn an item in 1 year, it is removed. If it is too trendy or out of style, it is removed. I follow the same guidelines for my kids clothes. Here is the secret, I purge – All the time! When I am folding laundry, if I notice an item that fits in one of the above categories or a sock/undies with a hole – it is put aside. Most of the time, I leave a plastic Wal-Mart bag in the kids closet and as they out grow things, it goes in this bag. So a couple times a week, I take the items that I have gathered and divide it up.
For my
clothes, I consign once a month. I actually don’t do “consigning”, bad luck
with that. But, rather the stores that purchase while you wait. I start with Clothes Mentor (really good luck
with them) or Ditto (great results) and what they don’t purchase I take to Plato’s closet (trendy
teen). For those of you in my local area, I have also had some luck with White
Clover, but not too impressed with what they give for cash buying. Often, I get
paid back more for my clothes, than what I purchased them for. It’s a win-win,
and provides money for my next thrift trip! For my kids, I do well at Children’s
Orchard (up to size 16). I only go
during walk-in hours and try to be the first one there. However, I rarely purchase at
Children’t Orchard – I get more for my money thrift shopping. I have been blessed with Chase, he gets
hand-me-downs. And, due to the fact he is a slow grower, his clothes are worn well. I
typically donate his items to a needy family or thrift store. For those items that don’t succeed at a “consignment-type”
shop, I donate to my local thrift store. I am careful to always get a receipt for my
donation AND a coupon for 25% my next purchase. I tend to donate at Salvation Army or D.A.V.
The store Savers has a punch card type program, that offers big incentives for donation.
However, I find that their items are high priced, so I don’t really save in the
long run.
Kids Toys/Household Items –
Usually go on Craigslist, if they have value OVER $10. Of course, I encourage
everyone to use Craigslist safety measures – I have had a couple of interesting
customers! One of my favorite places to
Donate is the W.O.W. Ministry Thrift Store. I don’t get a coupon, but it is a
good organization, doing great things for the community. They also offer good
prices, so I enjoy giving them my business. If my kids are not using it, it is
gone. We keep what they play with, not what has sentimental value.
Papers – I open my mail OVER the
trash can. I keep a very minimal amount of paperwork. I have never had to find
an item that I didn’t have. I keep taxes, car and house papers. After I read a magazine or book, I get rid of
it. I have a collection of my 10 favorite books, the kids have 3 small book shelves.
We utilize the library often, it keeps their interest AND we don’t have to
store them! I own 2 cookbooks, if I need a recipe, I look online. For bills,
etc. I keep a very small basket of important documents. When it’s time to get
rid of books, I sell at “Half Priced
Books” first. They pay low, but it’s better than nothing. What I have left, I
donate.
Holiday Crap / Memorabilia – I like
to decorate for the holidays, however, I don’t want to store the festive junk!
So, I have the typical plastic bins marked 3 holidays to a tub. Christmas has 3
tubs, but still minimal. As far as
Memories, I do keep a couple of things. I pick out a few of my favorite things
for a “Stacey Box”, which includes stuff
from my first 35 years – and a “Kids Box”, I keep one outfit from the their infancy, a few favorite pieces of artwork and Baptism items. My mom still has my lost teeth. Nice.
Kitchen/Bath- My makeup drawer
used to look like the MAC counter. Now, it is only what I use – nothing more.
This has also came with learning what my favorite items are, I use what I love and use it until it is gone. My linen closet, has only the towels that we need. I have one box of
medications and 1 box of misc. bath items. I have one set of sheets for my bed,
when those go bad ..I donate and buy another. See the pattern? I do not overstock anything, except toilet
paper and diapers!
I have heard every excuse from those who don't get it, and those who what to know how.
We are a materialistic generation, its sad. I have learned to appreciate what I have and get rid of what is taking up space. It is true, some may find great joy and comfort in a house that is full. But, for me, I
appreciate the clear mind that comes with clutter free and easy to find
possessions. When things have their
place, it is easy to clean and provides a stress free environment. Another perk, my kids know
where their items belong, which helps with clean up. Start today, enjoy the gratification.
A couple of related articles:
xo -s
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