6 Types of Clutter & How to Get Rid of Them

Simplify
by Simplify

Decluttering can be confusing, and some things we never know how to handle. Kallie Branciforte explains the six different types of clutter and how to declutter each of them.

1. Don’t-want-to-waste-it clutter is stuff you do not need but feel like it would be wasteful to get rid of. The best solution for this type of clutter is to rehome it - sell or donate it. If no one wants it, however, you have two options: to keep it out of guilt or throw it away and use it as a lesson in conscious consumption in the future.


2. Aspirational clutter is clutter you keep for the future version of yourself - one that has lost weight, has more free time, etc. To deal with this kind, you have to have a heart-to-heart with yourself and decide if it is realistic that you will need it in the near future.


3. Incompleted clutter is items that need to be tended to. Until they are, they only occupy space, so be sure to make a plan to act on it. It might take less time than you expect.


4. Just-might-need-it clutter. This is a tough one since any slightly useful object can be in this category. Try asking yourself: what is the worst that can happen if I don’t have it? Do I have actual plans to use it? Could I borrow or rent it? Could I make do with something else?

Types of clutter

5. Sentimental clutter is self-explanatory. With this one, it is important to know the measure. If it interferes with the flow of your home, try storing it away.


6. Gifted & inherited clutter we keep out of fear of disrespecting someone. If it is a family item, try asking your relatives if they want it. With gifts, remember that most gift-givers would not want you to keep something that gives you extra work or stress.


Types of clutter

Thanks to Kallie, you now know more about how to get rid of clutter in your house. Good luck!


For more decluttering advice, discover this guide on decluttering sentimental items or how to get rid of Christmas clutter before the holidays.


To see more videos, check out the But First, Coffee YouTube channel.

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