It’s safe to say one thing we all have in common this winter is spending more time at home than usual -- Freezing temperatures paired with pandemic restrictions in Toronto don’t exactly make for the greatest conditions to go exploring. Why not make the best of your extra downtime by giving our five-day decluttering challenge a shot? We promise you’ll thank us later!
Day 1: Closet Cleanout
Challenge yourself to fill up one tote bag full of clothing to donate. Put aside any pieces that either don’t fit as comfortably as they used to or don’t suit your current style. Pro tip: If you haven’t worn it in the past six months, it’s probably time to say goodbye.
Day 2: Fridge Inventory Check
Those expired condiments and wilted vegetables have got to go. Once the not-so-fresh food items are tossed, it’s the ideal time to give the inside of your fridge a good old-fashioned scrub down. A great fridge cleaner that’s gentle on the environment (and your pockets) is dish soap and vinegar diluted with water. In the spirit of recycling, you can even use an old spray bottle to fill the DIY cleaning solution with.
Day 3: Bathroom Bottle Toss
If you have a shampoo bottle graveyard tucked at the back of your bathroom cabinet, you’re certainly not alone. Sort through which toiletries make it into your everyday hygiene routine and get rid of the products that don’t make the cut. The same goes for expired medications and worn-out loofas.
Day 4: Simplify Your Office Space
Papers scattered, dried out pens, and tangled chords can add unnecessary distractions to your work from home setup. Clear off your desk and start with a clean slate. Once you have all your office items in an easy-to-see pile, it’s time to start sorting. Get rid of any note pads that are mostly scribbles or old receipts you no longer need, keeping only important documents tucked away in a neat file folder. Next, wash out an empty mason jar to store your favourite pens, paper clips, and other office supplies. Voilà, a desk you have room to write on!
Day 5: Minimize the Mementos
Let’s face it, we’re all sentimental in our own way and it’s a beautiful thing! But it’s another story when keepsakes become excessive clutter that takes over your space. Marie Kondo, author of “The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up”, says you should ask yourself if the item truly brings you joy. If you are keeping the item because you fear parting with the past, it’s ok to embrace this new chapter and take steps toward a cleaner space.
And just like that, you’re finished! Pat yourself on the back for your hard work and put your feet up in your cleaner, clutter-free Greenrock apartment. Looking for other ways to beat the winter blues? We have the perfect blog for you: