Downsizing tips - 2020 edition

Keeping your home in tip-top shape can be overwhelming even under ordinary circumstances. However, with the worldwide coronavirus pandemic not showing any signs of slowing down, taking care of this task might not be on the top of your priorities list. On the other hand, one of the sure-fire ways of minimizing the risk of infection is by having a clean, organized home. The first step of this process is decluttering and getting rid of anything that you don't really need or want. On that note, we have prepared some expert downsizing tips that will ensure your home is clutter-free!

The best downsizing tips for your kitchen

In most homes, the kitchen is often the most cluttered room. We tend to leave the appliances we use on the countertops, and fill drawers with various items that don't necessarily belong in the kitchen. While this is okay sometimes, it shouldn't be a habit. We all want to spend time in an organized space that allows us to express our creativity, rather than hinder it. So, when it comes to downsizing your kitchen, you should begin with your appliances. As soon as you are finished using them, put them away in the cupboard or pantry. A good tip would be to install additional shelves or even pull-out ones under the countertop.

Keeping your kitchen clean and organized will make cooking much easier.Next, move on to the drawers. Every kitchen has that one drawer with old wrappers, notes, rubber bands, etc. Take everything out and throw away things that are clearly trash. Also, empty out the drawers with utensils and kitchen tools, and see how many of the same item you have. For example, if you have more than 3 whisks, it is probably too many. Instead of throwing the extra items, you can place them in plastic moving boxes and store them for future use. Who knows, you might find someone in need of a whisk at some point. Your utensils should be placed in an organized way inside your drawers. You can use separators for this purpose, while extra sets of utensils should be wrapped with rubber bands and put away as well.

Move on to the bathrooms next

If you have a small bathroom, you probably want to do everything you can to keep it neat. That is why you shouldn't place too many things on the shelves and next to your shower/tub. First, make sure to go through your medicine cabinet and shelf and throw away everything that has expired. You might even have some creams or other products that you don't really use. All of these can go in the trash, as it is not a good idea to give away hygienic or medical products. After that, see how many cleaning products there are in your bathroom. There will probably be some half-empty bottles of disinfectants that you haven't used in a while, so be sure to toss them out.Adding shelving is a great space-saving idea in general, and one of our most useful downsizing tips. You can add shelves in your shower or above your toilet, depending on what you plan to use them for.

Keep your bedrooms neat and organized

Start with your closet, as this is likely the most cluttered part of this room. Take out all the clothes and separate them into three piles: keep, donate, and throw away. Try not to be too sentimental when it comes to this task, as your ultimate goal is to have a closet where you can find anything you need. Those jeans that you haven't worn since 2010 are probably due for the trash. On the other hand, if there are some clothes that others might find useful, make sure to donate them to charity or simply give them away. This is also a great opportunity to teach your kids about eco-friendly living, as well as the importance of giving to others.

If your bedroom is small, place a large mirror to give it the illusion of space.After you've sorted out your clothes, finding the best storage solution for them should be your priority. A great way to store your clothes is through green box rentals, as these boxes are eco-friendly and also durable. The next step is to go through your linen closet and repeat the same process as with your clothes. You can also add some baskets or shelves in this room, or you can place a hanging shelf on the back of your bedroom door. This is a great way to keep regularly-used items within hand's reach and still out of the way.

Your kids' rooms need some love and care

It's no secret that most kids have more toys than they know what to do with. While we love seeing the look on their face when they receive them, these toys usually give us a headache when it's time to put them away. Moreover, there are likely some toys that your child doesn't really play with. Not to mention those that have been outgrown long ago. Some of these toys may be beyond help, but others can serve their purpose again and make another child really happy. Therefore, try to find a local charity that will take them of your hands, while also putting a smile on someone else's face!

Teach your kids to put away their toys after they are finished playing.You should follow the same route when it comes to your kids' clothes. Kids grow out of clothes faster than we can buy them, so you are bound to have some pieces that have long become too small. Toss anything that is torn or has a stain that cannot be removed. For everything else, you should go the donate route. There are many kids in need of warm clothes, so don't shy away from contacting your local Red Cross or another charity organization.

One of the best downsizing tips is to stay on track

All of the downsizing tips that we have mentioned will greatly improve your quality of life. However, the best practice would be to apply them regularly. Instead of letting things pile on for months or even years, do your best to get rid of things as soon as you realize that you have no use for them. This will prevent the need for a big downsizing project down the line.