With many of us spending more time at home than ever – be it working from home, chilling out, hosting and socialising – if you’re trying to get into a positive mindset, clutter can be one of the little things that niggle … and is counterproductive to your wellbeing.
Indeed, studies show it has a direct link to the way we function and feel – causing us stress even if we don’t consciously realise it.
All the more reason to refresh, declutter and effectively organise your storage space to improve your happiness.
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Beyond the health and lifestyle benefits, it can also add financial value to your home.
In fact, ample storage space is the feature most likely to create envy amongst friends and family, according to research by housebuilder Redrow. Almost a third (32 per cent) of homeowners say ample storage space would be a ‘must-have’ feature if they were buying a new home.
To help homeowners de-stress their home, Redrow has teamed up with organisational expert Vicky Silverthorn to make storage tips as effective as possible.
Start with a detox
Before you start decluttering your home and your mind, it’s crucial to get into the right headspace, says Ms Silverthorn.
“Take a step back, set your goals and be critical of what you truly don’t need in your life anymore. Create a designated pile for charity donations and see what pre-loved items you could give to a new home.”
Declutter first, buy last
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A mistake people often make is to go out and buy storage for their homes before they know what they need, observes Ms Silverthorn.
“It’s so tempting when you see beautiful baskets and clever storage, but the process should be to declutter an area – and then measure up for storage that will enhance that space and its needs.”
As she points out, walking around your home and wondering what you should put in your beautiful new basket is fun … but not efficient.
Form and function
When walking round a showroom, choosing online or buying pre-loved pieces, consider the overall aesthetic and how you can solve the toughest storage dilemmas.
“Be clever with the furniture you choose and opt for items that will maximise the space on hand,” says Ms Silverthorn.
“Opting for a storage bed in the bedroom allows you to utilise the floor space as a dual-purpose area – and switching out bedside tables for two small chests of drawers will be aesthetically pleasing, whilst also delivering significantly more storage space.”
Don’t forget about wall space
One of the most under-utilised storage spaces in a home is wall space, notes Ms Silverthorn.
“For space saving, it’s understandable homeowners don’t want to close in the space by adding too many cupboards, but by thinking vertically you can keep a light and spacious feel whilst still incorporating sensible storage.
“This could be by utilising hanging hooks, open shelving or baskets.
“These techniques also avoid blocking any window space and encourage natural light into the room, which can improve your mood and energy levels, contributing to better health.”
Keep it neutral and natural
“Your home is your sanctuary, so it’s important your organisation and design is kept as balanced and uplifting as possible,” says Ms Silverthorn.
“From your cleaning products to baskets, try to use natural products and sustainable materials where you can to limit exposure to harmful chemicals – for your family and the environment.”
Similarly, she says to opt for storage solutions in colourways that blend with the surrounds, even keeping the same colour as the walls.
“This stops them from standing out and further cluttering your space – and will keep the mind at peace, and promote a sense of freedom.”
Weave in textured storage baskets
Baskets can create a beautiful Scandi-inspired feel whilst providing additional storage solutions, and shouldn’t be limited to the floor, says Ms Silverthorn.
“Adding storage baskets to the wall can complement shelving and help offer a clean frontage for storing regularly used cables or toys that you want out of sight, but in reach.”
In the kitchen, creating a pantry wall with metal baskets can double the space and provide a fun and effective way to organise supplies, she adds.
Create designated spaces
“To have optimal organisation everything you own needs a home,” stresses Ms Silverthorn.
“I suggest grouping similar items together to create a serene space you’ll be proud of. Think simple drawer dividers and items that can be used throughout the home in the immediate every day, and the long term – especially with plastics.
“Also consider making visible the items you use frequently on a day-to-day basis, while other items could be neatly stored away out of sight.”
Stylish homework nooks
Keep your home working and study spaces separate from your day-to-day living is a tip that is both functional and visually appealing, she advises.
“This will keep your work-related clutter out of your living spaces, and help you mentally unwind and detach from stress outside the home.”
One step at a time
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“Working on a small area at a time can still give you a huge feeling of satisfaction but also, because it’s less overwhelming, it means you can give your full focus and attention to that space,” suggests Ms Silverthorn.
“Trying to take on such a task all at once achieves the complete opposite to what decluttering exists for. Taking these tasks on step by step will ensure healthy habits, less stress and enhanced production.”
Do you regularly declutter? Does it improve your mood? Why not share your experience in the comments section below?
Also read: How to clean your jewellery at home
– With Sam Wylie Harris
Don’t bother about donating, as alot of charities don’t want the donations. Alot in my area and surrounding areas actually put out signs saying no donations until …..(they put down a day). Every time I manage to declutter one space, the family seem to fill it in again.
Our home is not cluttered. But, it is BIG and we will be downsizing in the next 12-18 months to a smaller property. We have lots of storage and most of it is full. So, we are currently looking at “unfilling” those storage places. It is going well so far, particularly as our local tip has recently opened a “tip shop” where goods can be taken and people can rummage through and there is no charge to “tip” or “buy”.