Decluttering Cure 2024 - Tasks & Discussion

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  • gina9158
    gina9158 Posts: 2
    edited December 7

    I did two sections today. First, I went through the tupperware cabinet - it was a huge mess and now it looks so nice. I also have a cabinet where I keep cleaning supplies but last year I got a maid and so most of that stuff was just setting there. Now that's cleaned out and I can keep the bottled water there instead of out in the garage. Loving this declutter cure.

  • nsessa1715
    nsessa1715 Posts: 1
    edited December 7

    This is my third year on this cure and each time, I've found things in that junk drawer that have no place in my home. How about 10 pairs of extra shoelaces? A piece of broken pottery? Fresh eyes help!

  • DanielaAraya
    DanielaAraya Posts: 489
    edited December 7

    Time to turn all those 'maybes' into a confident 'yes' or 'no.' A good rule of thumb here is if you can't remember the last time you wore an item, it's probably time to part ways with it

    Pro-Tip: Don't overthink it! 👗

  • DanielaAraya
    DanielaAraya Posts: 489
    edited December 7

    Love that you've made it habit to be here! The things I've found in my drawer haha — old chargers I had been looking for, expired gift cards (😩), etc. A good reminder for me to tackle this more often

  • DanielaAraya
    DanielaAraya Posts: 489
    edited December 7

    Bravo! I have a closet in my house that sounds just like this. I use this on my wall to organize the mops/brooms and it works nicely because my closet is a little deeper. There's also a similar version but for over the door which could be good for saving space

  • DanielaAraya
    DanielaAraya Posts: 489
    edited December 7

    The tupperware cabinet is no easy feat. Kudos to you! While I was organizing mine, I realized I have so many old ones that don't match up with the lids. Lots to declutter here

  • charlyn2810
    charlyn2810 Posts: 1
    edited December 7

    I decluttered the kitchen cart and even cleaned the microwave. Also, organized the glass containers in a plastic basket from another room. When I moved, I replaced the tupperware stuff with glass. Actually, a friend took the plastic for her college going child.

  • DanielaAraya
    DanielaAraya Posts: 489
    edited December 7

    Paper clutter has a way of piling up when we're not looking 👀

    Tackle it bit by bit and give yourself permission to let go of anything that isn't serving you!

  • mymanchome
    mymanchome Posts: 1
    edited December 7

    Mine is: decluttering doesn't just happen once.

    Even if you're a tidy person who doesn't buy much, it's surprising how much 'stuff' you end up with. It's good to keep on top of it regularly, donating and selling and mending on a quiet weekend at home.

  • DanielaAraya
    DanielaAraya Posts: 489
    edited December 7

    Halfway there, friends! Today might pull on our heartstrings a bit, so be easy on yourself. Breaks are highly encouraged, whether you need to take some time to yourself, call a friend, or lean on the community. Take this one slowly, and know that we're here for you! 🫶

  • DanielaAraya
    DanielaAraya Posts: 489
    edited December 7

    I love today's task because it's all about future-proofing your space (future you will thank you!). What's one simple change you can make that will make your life easier? Just think: Every small task today will make a big difference tomorrow, and moving forward!

  • DanielaAraya
    DanielaAraya Posts: 489
    edited December 7

    Time to make your bedroom the sanctuary you've always dreamed of!

    Pro-Tip: Try starting with surfaces — clear off nightstands, dressers, and then floors. If there's anything that feels like a distraction from a restful space, it should probably go 👋

  • DanielaAraya
    DanielaAraya Posts: 489
    edited December 7

    Today’s bathroom declutter can be as quick or as detailed as you want. Only three steps 🫧✨

    It’s amazing how much better you’ll feel when your daily routine starts in a tidy space. I have a feeling I'll be finding a lot of old makeup and things under the sink!

  • DanielaAraya
    DanielaAraya Posts: 489
    edited December 7

    Every home has *that* spot — the one where clutter just loves to hang out. Today, pick one and give it a makeover

    My problem area has consistently been my bedroom chair with piles of clothing stacking up. Can anyone relate? 😵‍💫 We got this!

  • DanielaAraya
    DanielaAraya Posts: 489
    edited December 7

    It’s time to face the 'maybe’ box 🪄

    Let’s practice some decision-making magic: if you haven’t missed it since day one, chances are you don’t need it. Box it up, banish it, and free up space for the things you truly love. My box is filled with clothes I haven't worn in ages. I have a feeling most of this will be going to a donation bin!

  • DanielaAraya
    DanielaAraya Posts: 489
    edited December 7

    Today is all about letting go — for real this time. Whether you’re donating, selling, or giving things away, take pride in knowing these items will have a second life with someone who needs them. Goodbye clutter, hello freedom 🤩

    Pro-Tip: Have a clothing swap party with your friends! Or check your local thrift shops to see if they're accepting donations. There are also companies that will send you a bag for you to ship back to them, like Thred Up and Trashie. I also like Poshmark and Depop for selling certain name brands

  • DanielaAraya
    DanielaAraya Posts: 489
    edited December 7

    Woooo, we did it! Take a deep breath and look around at your freshly decluttered space. I'm resting easier knowing just two short weeks can make such an impact on our homes 🙏

  • bbkitty
    bbkitty Posts: 2
    edited December 7

    I tried to think if I wore any of these sweaters last winter and if I had not, boom -it went in the pile. I also purged the closet wearing shorts and tank top so I tried on stuff to see if I liked it or not and if I was so so, boom- pile. The things that were hard were sentimental sweatshirts and a couple of formal dresses. I DID get rid of at least two of these items (each category) that i did NOT purge last decluttering so I'm thinking maybe NEXT decluttering I will get rid of the ones I felt too sentimental about this time. make sense?

  • Myk
    Myk Posts: 8
    edited December 7

    I was a day late, but couldn’t get to this task till the weekend. (Maybe because I’m scared of my closet?) Hopefully shoes count as clothes! I was able to put 4 pairs into my donate pile and to organize the rest of my shoes. It wasn’t as stressful as I thought it was going to be. May even tackle my summer clothes as I switch out to my winter clothes.

  • DanielaAraya
    DanielaAraya Posts: 489
    edited December 7

    Totally makes sense. I love your thinking with this, especially because it can take time with the sentimental pieces. Bit by bit!

  • DanielaAraya
    DanielaAraya Posts: 489
    edited December 7

    I definitely count shoes as clothes — both wearables 😂 Keep it going!!

  • Zephy
    Zephy Posts: 28 ✭✭
    edited December 7

    Well, I've finished the file cabinet and am plugging away at my desk drawers now. Everything has been much easier than I expected, but I think the hardest decisions are coming at the end, as everything I'm not ready to deal with now I'm putting on the desktop for later! So the drawers are emptying, but the desktop is getting full. Still, I'm making progress and feeling excited about it.

  • Zephy
    Zephy Posts: 28 ✭✭
    edited December 7

    I'm devoting my entire Cure this year to paper clutter and the stationery supplies, memorabilia, etc. that wound up in my desk. I'm getting rid of a lot, but it seems like I have more paper in my home than any other material (if you also count books, photos, art . . .). More of my recent stuff is on the computer, so it seems like the paper mass isn't growing as fast as before. There's also a lot of fabric, metal, wood, plastic. When you look at things as materials, it seems strange that it's so hard to get rid of stuff! You separate out all the emotions and see that most things are just not worth much in themselves; it's the meaning you attach to them that's hard to deal with. Sigh.

  • feral_housewitch
    feral_housewitch Posts: 2
    edited December 7

    I declutter our kitchen junk drawer once a year during the January Cure, so I chose to tackle our medicine drawer. So much expired product 🙈 but at least I now know what inventory we’ll need to stock up on to brave cold and flu season!

  • DanielaAraya
    DanielaAraya Posts: 489
    edited December 7
  • DanielaAraya
    DanielaAraya Posts: 489
    edited December 7

    I relate to this! When I was going through my desk, I found so many scrap samples from old design projects, notebooks, etc. While I don't necessarily need them anymore, they feel sentimental to me because they bring me back to a certain place and time. I'm really trying to encourage myself to think differently about some of these items, but there are a few things I know I'm going to hold onto

  • DanielaAraya
    DanielaAraya Posts: 489
    edited December 7
  • rachel7655
    rachel7655 Posts: 3
    edited December 7

    I tackled my mug cabinet and created a peg rack for them. It limits me to 12 and it's so much easier to access, no more digging through a packed cabinet.

  • rachel7655
    rachel7655 Posts: 3
    edited December 7

    I tackled my office supply drawer. This one becomes a catchall for random items. I was able to relocate craft items to my crafting box, and throw out a ton of junk!

  • Green
    Green Posts: 3
    edited December 7

    I’m late to post on this topic, but here goes…

    One thing to possibly consider is body shape and personal “color season” when decluttering clothes from your wardrobe and/or incorporating future items. It may sound old school, but better understanding the colors and styles that suit natural features can save time and money, prevent purchases that don’t flatter (future clutter) and instill confidence that you are projecting a solid personal look. Deciphering what truly looks/feels good is one way to help define personal style versus being swept away by fast-turning trends that result in a chaotic closet. (Note: I’m not a color season consultant- I’ve researched the topic for free online, am a recent adapter, and am continuously learning and striving to build a modest wardrobe that works.)

    I also find it helpful to lean toward quality and preferred fabrics. Think about your lifestyle and what clothing supports it. Streamline accordingly.

    During this decluttering exercise, I admitted that a vest that I technically love (in a burnt orange color) really wasn’t doing me any favors. Because the color doesn’t suit me, I don’t gravitate toward wearing it, just admiring it on the hook in the coat closet. I will sell it online. 

    Good luck to everyone during this Decluttering Cure!

  • DanielaAraya
    DanielaAraya Posts: 489
    edited December 7

    Love this! I just got my color analysis done and it has been interesting to compare my "true" color palette to the colors I wear normally. I've had friends who have redone their entire wardrobe after getting their analysis done. It's nice to have something to help you as you go through your closet

  • DanielaAraya
    DanielaAraya Posts: 489
    edited December 7

    This looks so great! Is that a hidden duck in one of the mugs? 🥹

  • DanielaAraya
    DanielaAraya Posts: 489
    edited December 7

    Bravo!! Also I need that "Song to Make Dogs Happy" CD 😆

  • rachel7655
    rachel7655 Posts: 3
    edited December 7

    Yes! Urban outfitters has mugs with hidden surprises! It's my favorite place to buy mugs.

  • CullenOrmond
    CullenOrmond Posts: 168

    Expert

    edited December 7

    the Decluttering Cure is inspiring me! behind my bedroom door (which I keep open most of the time) is a bunch of miscellaneous junk. sometime within the next couple of days, I'm going to remove all of it!

  • losfrangeles
    losfrangeles Posts: 63 ✭✭✭
    edited December 7

    I had to downsize into a much smaller space with very little notice - and my current digs have very little storage. I have been working on it, but my clutter problem area is my entire house!

  • StephanieNguyen
    StephanieNguyen Posts: 115

    Expert

    edited December 7

    Way to go, @charlyn2810 ! Bonus points for working in a cleaning task, too!

  • StephanieNguyen
    StephanieNguyen Posts: 115

    Expert

    edited December 7

    Your mug collection is beautiful @rachel7655 😍

  • StephanieNguyen
    StephanieNguyen Posts: 115

    Expert

    edited December 7

    that's great, @CullenOrmond !

  • DanielaAraya
    DanielaAraya Posts: 489
    edited December 7

    And that's a wrap on Apartment Therapy's Decluttering Cure! Bravo! What did you all think? How are we feeling?

    For anyone who's joining late, you are welcome to complete this at any time and at your own pace! This 14-day program will guide you through decluttering your home, and by the end, you’ll achieve a tidier space in just two weeks.

    📆 Download the free calendar to get you started HERE.

    Comment below with any thoughts, learnings, or tips for those joining in later 📣 Bonus points for anyone who shares photos of their tidy homes!

  • StephanieNguyen
    StephanieNguyen Posts: 115

    Expert

    edited December 7

    @losfrangeles Downsizing is no easy feat! If you're looking for any creative ideas about storage for small spaces, I definitely recommend this article. Using tools like hooks, a pegboard, high shelfs, or slim, moveable cabinets can help add storage.

  • hollynlh761881
    hollynlh761881 Posts: 2
    edited December 7

    My biggest problem area is my coffee table and kitchen table, Help.

    As of recently, as a result of sorting through items throughout my house, for downsizing purposes, exclusively in my living room, I've created an overwhelming situation for myself. I am disabled and in desperate need of two surgeries, lower back, and neck, second surgery for both, and the only way I can accomplish the decluttering process is to do it from my couch, seated, because the pain is unbearable within a couple of minutes of standing on my feet.

  • DanielaAraya
    DanielaAraya Posts: 489
    edited December 7

    Oh Holly! I commend you for still powering through. Remember, bit by bit. How's it going? We're rooting for you!

  • my727
    my727 Posts: 22
    edited December 7

    https://d.pickupsforbreastcancer.org/schedule/1

    This is in Florida, but there might be similar groups in your state, too. This one is notable as sometimes they will come to PICK UP the donated items. Proceeds go to breast cancer research.