Have you ever tried to mop a floor covered in shoes, or dust shelves packed with random ornaments? It takes twice as long, and you end up moving items from one side of the room to the other. To make your cleaning routine fast and effective, you must declutter first. Separating organizing from cleaning is the secret to a tidy home.
The Difference Between Decluttering and Cleaning
Decluttering is the process of sorting and removing items you no longer use, need, or love. Cleaning is the process of removing dirt, dust, and grime from surfaces. When you try to do both at the same time, you get distracted and lose momentum. Always declutter your surfaces a day before you clean.
The Three-Box Method
When clearing a room, carry three boxes with you:
- Keep: Items that belong in this room and are useful. Put them in their designated home.
- Donate/Sell: Items that are in good condition but you no longer need.
- Bin: Rubbish, broken items, or recycling.
