Spring Into Cleaning! Decluttering Tips

Spring is in the air! Along with warmer weather comes a sense of renewal, new beginnings, and eventually spring cleaning. Many of us have a project of clutter that we have been meaning to tackle such as cleaning out the garage, a closet, or a guest room. However, what may have been seen as simply junk could hold perceived value or sentimental feelings to loved ones. This may present a difficult situation to navigate. Let’s break down how to clean efficiently while preventing clutter from building up again by next spring.

Start a plan
Jot down your list of goals including your to-do list, supplies, and areas to clean. Start by organizing what you need and thinking about where things will go. Try using different bins to organize items to keep, donate, and toss. Take a moment to research local charities and reuse places you can take things to. Consider having a yard sale to make some extra money. Once your space is cleared you can deep clean the area for a fresh space. Talk to your team if the cleaning will involve others helping. Make a schedule of time set aside for the project.

Monitor your progress
After your plan is made put it into motion and get started! Check in with your team and take breaks when needed to not burn out. If you run into unexpected issues do your best to be patient and adapt to the situation. It may not be perfect, but progress is the first step to moving forward and hitting your goals. If push comes to shove and you have to have more space look into renting a storage unit as a temporary solution to move forward until there is time to finish.

Enjoy and Reflect
When you’re done enjoy your new space! Think about how you want to use it and organize it so that it won’t get dirty or cluttered again. This process may take maintenance and discipline to not fill it back up with stuff. If you or a loved one is struggling with hoarding behaviors and tendencies look into getting professional assistance. Talking through it and getting help is in the best interest to get to the bottom of issues and improve the situation. Professionals or cleaning crews can also assist in deep cleaning and organizing your space. Caregiver services such as Senior Helpers may also provide light housekeeping to maintain your home!


Resources
More cleaning tips
https://www.seniorhelpers.com/tx/san-antonio-north/resources/blogs/5-simple-spring-cleaning-tips/

Teepa Snow’s Positive Approach to Care “4 Ways to Recognize Hoarding Behavior in Someone Living with Dementia
https://teepasnow.com/blog/4-ways-to-recognize-hoarding-behavior-in-someone-living-with-dementia/