Is your home feeling too big for your current lifestyle? A recent seminar titled ‘Smart Strategies for Downsizing’ provided valuable insights for those considering taking the plunge. Hosted in Bolingbrook, the event attracted individuals seeking practical advice on decluttering and staging homes for sale. With the explosion of tiny living trends, it’s no surprise many attendees were eager to learn techniques for simplifying their living situations.
The speaker emphasized the importance of readiness for change, stating, “Whether you’re planning to move soon or just exploring your options, this session will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to make the transition smooth and successful.” They discussed practical tips on how to effectively declutter and find the right space to fit personal needs.
According to Jordana Thirlwall, interior designer and co-founder of Super Easy Storage, the first key to achieving and maintaining order at home is regular decluttering. “Decluttering isn’t a once-a-year job,” she advises. “I recommend doing it every three months; it keeps you mindful about what you’re bringing home.” This practice encourages homeowners to ponder the necessity of each item occupying their space.
The hidden gem of Thirlwall’s advice is the importance of smart storage solutions. “Space is challenging, especially with smaller homes and growing families,” she explains. “Investing in dividers, baskets, and containers can significantly aid organization.” For areas prone to clutter, such as entryways, she suggests practical systems like hooks for bags, shoe racks, and bowls for keys. “If you’re renovating, incorporating mudrooms or storage cupboards can be game changers!”
The takeaway? Regular maintenance cannot be overlooked. “I conduct a weekly ‘reset,’ spending just 15 minutes on Sundays putting everything back in its place,” Thirlwall shares. This simple habit prepares one for the upcoming week and helps nip chaos in the bud.
Silverthorn echoed similar sentiments surrounding the need for methodical approaches. Operating her home organization company, You Need A Vicky, she has become adept at identifying useful products. She highlights the efficiency of multi-purpose furniture, such as coffee tables converting to dining tables. “They’re perfect for maximizing space without crowding your living area,” Silverthorn notes.
Vicky is particularly enthusiastic about fold-down beds. “Many people designate their spare rooms for infrequent guests without considering how else they could utilize the space,” she explains. Instead, foldable setups could convert rooms for multiple uses, whether for storage, play areas, or guests.
When asked about children’s toy storage, she presented attractive solutions to eliminate clutter. One innovative product she praises is geared for legos, sorting them neatly by size. “This keeps the chaos at bay!” she claims.
Managing laundry also calls for thoughtful solutions. “Collapsible baskets save space when not used,” Silverthorn points out, alongside the utility of wall-mounted drying racks. Keeping cleanliness organized translates significantly to the overall tidiness of the home.
Thirlwall and Silverthorn agree on embracing imperfections. “No home can be entirely clutter-free, but with the right strategies, you’ll have a substantially improved chance of maintaining order,” Thirlwall concludes, reminding us to prioritize functional systems over unattainable perfection.
Both experts also advocate the power of patience when decluttering. Rushing through the process can lead to regrettable decisions—items should be evaluated thoughtfully. “If you’re unsure about certain items, store them out of sight and revisit them later. Time helps clarify what’s worth keeping,” Thirlwall wisely advises.
With everyday life increasingly hectic, the necessity for practical downsizing and decluttering strategies cannot be overstated. Whether considering moving, seeking to make living more efficient, or simply aiming to have less, these tips offer actionable pathways to attainable goals. Simplifying your space leads to simplifying your life.
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