Last Updated on: 30th March 2023, 09:31 pm

Whether you’re planning to move this year or not, the beginning of a new year is the perfect opportunity to tackle the little “to-do’s.” We’re here to share our favorite tips on how to get organized in 2017.

Set A Time Limit

If you haven’t used it, worn it, or even seen it in 12 months, it’s time to get rid of it. While this doesn’t count for heirlooms or keepsakes, it can include clothing, kitchenware, bedding, and knickknacks. Items have a tendency to pile up, especially when they’re just socked away in a drawer or closet.

Remember, we recommend “the pile method” of keep, sell, donate, or trash. You can read more about it here.

Take It Slowly

If you try to tackle your entire home or office in a single attempt, you’ll likely get burned out. Try choosing two rooms per week: one simple (like the guest bathroom) and one more challenging (such as the kitchen). It may take a bit longer to organize everything overall, but it will also prevent you from getting frustrated and quitting.

Clean Up As You Go

As you finish decluttering a room, be sure to give it a thorough scrub. This includes fan blades, baseboards, shelves, and lighting. You’d be surprised how much better you will feel after your space is organized and the room smells fresh.

Make A Paper Trail

One of the biggest clutter culprits is…paperwork. While everyone hates it, paper documentation is most definitely a good thing in most cases. However, it has a tendency to pile up, leaving you with a mountain to sort through. The folks at Consumer Reports share their tips on which paperwork you should keep and what can a be tossed. Here’s a quick rundown:

  • You can trash monthly statements, ATM receipts, and other receipts after reconciling accounting information and filing taxes (for consumers). For businesses, consult your accountant.
  • Keep all loan origination and documents until the loan is paid off.
  • Keep tax documents for at least seven years.
  • Always keep title information, social security cards, vital information documents (like marriage, birth, and death certificates), wills, and other important legal information.

Everything else? Buy shredder. Additionally, be sure to sign up for paperless statements for your bills. Everything is collected online, reducing litter and clutter.

If you’ve been motivated by this post on how to get organized, don’t forget that Brothers can help you through the process…and not just if you’re moving! We also offer high quality packing materials and storage solutions for the items you just don’t have space for anymore. Just contact us today and get your home or office newly organized in 2017!