Previous maximalist/vintage collector, now chronic pain makes all homemaking/cleaning very difficult

emily6464 · 2025-03-23T04:24:36+00:00

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Hi,

I would love some advice on de-cluttering/simplifying/cleaning tips. I used to have shelves full of knick knacks, gallery walls, lots of treasures. Now I have fibromyalgia and 3 back surgeries in the last 5 years.

I'm trying to limit the amount of stuff on the floors so I can use the robot vacuum. I'm also one of those people who had a difficult time getting rid of anything. I used to keep everything and do a lot of crafting and DIY projects but now I just need to simplify. What are your best tips to simplify and to set up your home so cleaning is easy and not physically exhausting for me?

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Comments

Cmj1973

You should related I have the same issues though recently moving and there is no storage at new place made me able to finally give away more than half my closet of clothes that were not only outdated but haven't fit in years. Of course I did thred up for the nicer items to make a lil cash then donated the rest to h&m to get the 15 percent off coupon for when I decide to buy clothing again.

DanielaAraya

Hi Emily! First of all, it sounds like your home has been such a creative space, and I hope that you can find a way to maintain that while still being able to declutter and create a space that evolves and works for you 💛 Here are a few ideas to make simplifying a little less exhausting (and maybe even a little fun!):

Pick a designated display spot, so instead of spreading things everywhere, you choose one area to craft or rotate your favorite treasures. This way, you can still enjoy your things but in a more contained space
Lean on your people and phone a friend! Ask someone to help you sort or move things out. Decluttering is way more fun when you have some support. Make it a party! (You should totally join us for our Spring Cleaning Cure)
To get things off the floor for your robot vacuum, think vertical storage. Use baskets on your bookshelves to organize things further and let your vacuum do its thing
This one can be difficult, but try to let go without guilt. Snap photos of sentimental things before parting with them to make a little album, or think of ways you can potentially repurpose or gift certain items to other people. I always feel better knowing my things are going to someone else who might need them more than me

I hope this helps!

Zephy

Hi — I love all the things @DanielaAraya said. I will just add one idea that's helped me — which is to figure out what your end goal is, where you're heading, and then look at each object and ask, "Are you going with me?" So the question is not whether the thing has any value in itself, because most things do, and that makes them hard to get rid of. The question is whether the thing has value for your life now and where you're going. It sounds like right now, empty space is more valuable to you than much your stuff, even if it's nice stuff. Courage!

emily6464

These are great ideas and help give me direction. Thanks for the input and support!

emily6464

Really smart way to think about it. I've always had a hard time when people say to look at an item and think if you need it or if you've used it in the last year. Reframing this the way you suggested is very helpful. Thanks!

DanielaAraya

Of course. Glad you found them helpful! 💛