Are you downsizing for retirement or simply wanting to declutter? We’ve compiled some tips to help you start the process and liberate yourself of the things you no longer want or need.

1. Start now

If you’ve made the decision to downsize or declutter, the sooner you start, the better. It takes time to work through an entire home and decide what you’re ready to part with, particularly if you have lots of stuff hidden away in drawers and cupboards. If you don’t want to go it alone, ask a friend or family member to help. An extra pair of hands will make the process go quicker, and your ‘assistant’ can provide a bit of moral support, too.

2. Be systematic – and keep at it

Decide how you want to tackle your clutter – whether by area or by dealing with specific items at a time e.g. furniture, clothing, electronics. Then set aside a few hours each week to get stuck in. It might seem like a lot of effort in the beginning (because it is) but as you build momentum and start to see progress, you’ll be more motivated to stick with it. And it’ll be worth it in the end, when you can enjoy your home with the things you actually use and love.

3. Get rid of your clutter

Once you’ve decided what you want to keep, think about how to dispose of the things you want to get rid of – and try to do this as quickly as possible, as you don’t want to have a pile of unwanted items gathering dust in a corner for months to come. Here are some options:

• Give to friends and family. You might not need that bar fridge, mirror or occasional chair anymore, but a friend or family member just might. Invite them over to see whether there’s anything they want or need.
• Go online. Consider selling your furniture or appliances on a Facebook group in your area.
• Donate to charity.  If you’d like to pass along your items to someone in need, consider donating to a local charity or church. There are also plenty of charity shops that are happy to take second-hand furniture, clothing, books and more.

Decluttering your home will take time (and some elbow grease) but it’ll be worth it in the end, when you can enjoy your space with the things you actually use and love.