Joyful Downsizing

Kim Kubsch

Want to live a more minimal and organized life? Here are eight things I don’t buy anymore.

When I started my journey as a professional organizing specialist, I learned pretty quickly that there are certain things that just add unnecessary clutter to my home and the homes of my clients. Here is my list of items I don’t buy anymore:

1. Gadgets that only perform one function. Be cautious of infomercials for items like melon ball maker or egg slicers. These gadgets that do not multi-task take up a lot of space and can create unnecessary clutter.

2. Souvenirs get lost in drawers and cupboards and even attics or basements. In the age of digital photos, the memories are easy to share via photos rather than buying or gifting others with souvenirs.

3. Why buy books and audiobooks when you can get them free from the library? Not only are they free, but they don’t take up space in your rooms. Try the Libby or OverDrive apps to access or request the books you want. Libby is great if you just want to download a book to your Android or iOS phone or tablet. OverDrive is the “classic” app and is compatible with more devices.

4. Face creams offer a lot of promises via their marketing messages. You can spend a lot of money trying to find one that fulfills their promises and be left with drawers of undesirable products and more clutter.

5. Rather than buying tools for one project, try renting tools from The Home Depot or A to Z Rentals. Why fill your garage and waste money when renting tools is more affordable and doesn’t take up space!

6. Themed clothing for St. Patrick’s Day, Easter, or Christmas. Why take up space in your closet for clothing that you wear only once each year?

7. Bulk food purchases may make you feel like you are saving money, but the question is, can you find where you buried all the extras you bought? Reconsider buying bulk on sale, especially when you are limited on space.

8. Buying craft supplies is great when you have a project in mind or are ready to create. Buying craft supplies, especially when on sale, just to store and have no idea what or when you plan to use them is not productive or a good use of space.

Asking yourself questions like these may help you identify other things that you can live without to simplify your life: Do I use this item regularly? Do I have a specific use planned for it? Do I have the space to store it? Could I replace it for less than $10 in less than 10 minutes?

Future articles will feature digital photo storage, drawer organization, favorite organizing tools, what to do if you inherit clutter, and moving preparation. Stay tuned.

Call me to learn about my Free 30-minute consultation at 480-720-8566.

I can also be reached by email at [email protected] and  www.joyfuldownsizing.