LightenUp
We’ve heard it many times, and you probably have, too. In the effort to declutter, look at all your belongings through two lenses: Have you used it in the last year? Does it bring you joy? Nope, and nah? Then it goes. Grasping that concept is the start, but then comes the hard part. In case you haven’t heard, today’s younger generation has no interest in inheriting their acquisitive parents’ stuff. Baccarat wine goblets, the Arhaus storage ottoman, your Precious Moments figurines; they want none of it. So what exactly do you do with this first-world surplus? Sending it to a landfill is the last resort. Here, discover how simple it is to donate, recycle … or even sell it.Edited by Christina Vercelletto | Illustrations by Peter Crowther
Bathroom, Kitchen,And Main Area
Build momentum by starting in the bathroom, kitchen, and main area. The items here are usually the least emotionally charged in the home. That makes them easiest to part with. And whether it’s a living room, busy den, or stately great room, dispatching its nugatory contents can make all the difference.
Bedroom, Clothing,And Office
In the digital age, home work spaces need less to equip them than ever but while your closet may seem daunting, push on. You’re almost there!
GarageAnd Attic
Time to head outside—and grab your partner. Discarding someone else’s stuff without them on board rarely ends well and with fresh resolve, attack the attic, a typically crammed space. You’ve got this, one piece of jetsam at a time.
In The DefenseOf My Clutter
His Broad Ripple home is packed with too much stuff. But this middle-aged dad has finally recognized the emotions that make it hard to let go.By Sam Stall
TheAfterglow
Now that you’ve pared down, it’s time to organize all the good stuff that’s left. Here’s advice from a pro on stylish space- conquering.Byline by Michelle Mastro | Photo by Tony Valainis