1. Set Goals

Trying to declutter your home can be overwhelming. To make it easier, start by setting goals for yourself. Ask yourself “What bothers me the most?” Is it the kitchen countertops? Your closet? Maybe the overabundance of takeout menus, stray papers, and old mail? Whichever it may be, setting daily and weekly goals will help you achieve the ultimate goal of decluttering your entire home much quicker then attempting to do it all at once. It’s best to begin with small projects and then gradually increase the project size but be sure to complete each task fully before moving on to the next or you may create an even bigger mess for yourself.
(Bonus tip: A great way to keep track of your achievements is to create a “to-do” list for each room and check off each item as you go. This will help you stay on track as well as offer a sense of accomplishment.)

2. Sort it out

Now that you know where to start decluttering you can begin the process by sorting through your possessions. The first step is to decide what you want to keep, toss, sell, or donate. If it’s something that you use frequently the choice is obvious – keep it, but items that have seen better days or have no useful life left need to be tossed, and gently used items can be sold or donated… Yes, I know it’s easier said than done. Sure, some items we hold onto for sentimental value or because we spent a nice chunk of change on them, but be realistic with yourself – if you’re holding onto old memories you can’t make room for new ones and a sunk cost is a sunk cost whether the item is sitting in your closet unused or you choose to sell it or donate it. But if you really can’t part with the item today put it in an “maybe” box, label it with today’s date, and revisit the decision in one year. If you haven’t used the item since the date on the box then it’s time to let go.

3. Start Organizing

Now that you know what you’re keeping and what is going it is time to organize. Before you decided to hit the store for some storage and organization products, check to see what supplies you may have laying around the house first, such as stackable drawers and clear containers. These are great options for keeping your cabinets and closets neat and organized. Hanging organizers and pockets are also great for closets and doors and can be used for storing everything from shoes to cleaning supplies to jewelry.

If you do need some additional supplies think about investing in decorative bins and baskets. These are not only a great way to store your belongings and keep your home neat and clutter free, but they also add additional style and décor to your place. You can use bins and baskets for toys, craft supplies, seasonal items, and so much more. If you are in need of additional storage, invest in a timeless storage ottoman or trunk to store your least frequently used items such as extra pillows and blankets. Shelves are also a great solution for adding extra space and can be used for your books, DVDs, and collectables.

4. Get rid of those piles

Now that your home is almost free of clutter it is time to tackle the pile of old mail and other papers that have made your end table and countertops their happy and growing home. Before we start the process, let me first say that the best way to start reducing this pile is to sign up for online bill pay and e-statements for all possible accounts. This will not only stop the pile from growing but it will always cure your “I’ll do it later” syndrome which usually contributes to the creation of this monstrous pile. OK, now that that’s said let’s get to organizing and managing this pile.

The answer to decluttering your old mail and other miscellaneous papers is to create a filing system. This can be easily accomplished by using magazine holders, staking trays, or file holders. Label the files appropriately (i.e. bills, coupons, receipts, warranties, user manuals) and file all papers instantly. Contrarily, if you know that a notice is just junk mail then recycle or shred it right away so that you don’t create another pile for yourself. As for important documents such as W-2s, tax returns, home records, insurance policies, or any documents of legal nature, be sure to store those in a fire and water resistant safe.

5. Store your items on demand

Alright you’re almost there… your living room, kitchen, and bedroom are decluttered but wait! Your bike, luggage set, artificial Christmas tree, and that large box of extra items you just cannot part with are still in the way… what do you do now? Do not despair. You have MakeSpace storage in Los Angeles – your on-demand storage option. MakeSpace is a full service storage company that drops off storage bins at your residence, picks up your packed items, takes them to a storage facility near you, and brings them back whenever you need them!

And not only does MakeSpace offer free durable storage bins and wardrobe boxes, but it also offers various storage plans to fit your specific needs. From a small 2’ x 2’ storage space to a x-large 10’ x 30’ unit, MakeSpace has the right space for you. Plus, with an online photo inventory you’ll never forgot what you put in storage again. So, what are you waiting for? Visit MakeSpace today, pick the storage plan that is right for you, and finally enjoy your beautiful work of art – your clutter free home.

And there you have it – not only is your house free of clutter but you’re also on your way to a healthier mental state with less stress and more energy. Don’t forget the most important step in all of this… Be sure to keep it up! Remember, clutter is behavioral so it is important to keep up with your newly learned skills and not give in to old, bad habits. So take the time and make the effort to continue with your clutter free journey today.

The post Top 5 Tips to Declutter appeared first on GoShare.

1. Declutter
First things first: You don’t want to move or haul any unwanted items to your new place so take a moment to go through your closets and kitchen cabinets and check for any old items that you no longer want or need. To help stay organized, it’s best to create a Keep, Toss, and Donate pile that way once you’re done decluttering you’ll know exactly where what goes.

2. Sell unwanted furniture
This is a great extension of No. 1. If you know that your couch isn’t a great fit for your new place, why not sell it before the move? This way you’ll earn some extra cash and you’ll have less furniture to move. It’s a win-win! After all, that extra cash could be used to reward yourself after the move.

3. Research moving companies
Now that you know what all you’ll be taking with you to your new place it’s time to do some homework. How much help will you need? One truck? Two trucks? Possibly a cargo van? While there are many options out there, GoShare allows you to customize your move to get the help you need, and the best thing? It’s on demand! Whether you want to schedule ahead or get it done on moving day, with GoShare you are just a few clicks away from an easy, convenient, and affordable move.

4. Get moving supplies
From boxes, to tape, to bubble wrap and sharpies, make sure it’s all on hand before the packing begins. And don’t forget cushion foam to protect any fragile items as they can break easily.

5. Packing and labeling
Here comes the fun part… Packing! Okay this may not be your idea of fun, but as much as you want to put it off until the last minute it’s best to start packing early. The more time you give yourself, the more organized your boxes will be. Start by packing items that aren’t used frequently and remember to label each box clearly as this will help make your move easier and more organized.

6. Use frozen/perishable foods
It’s the day of your move and you have a full fridge of food. What do you do? Toss it? Oh boy, what a waste! Avoid this dilemma by remembering to start using frozen and perishable foods a couple of weeks before the move. This will eliminate any waste and all the hassle of moving frozen and perishable foods.

7. Update address
Moving day is approaching so it is important to start updating your address. Be sure to update it with your bank, car insurance company, and the DMV. You also want to submit a Change of Address with the post office early on so that no important mail is missed or lost in transition. This can be done in person or online.

8. Switch utilities
Another important step to remember is to switch your gas, electric, water, cable, and internet services before the move. You don’t want to find yourself in the dark at your new place, having to take a cold shower only to realize that there’s no cable or Netflix. No, don’t allow this to happen to you! Switch your services before the move and avoid any possible interruptions.

9. Cleaning
Before you turn the lights off for the last time and hand over the keys make sure you clean the place thoroughly. If you are renting make sure that all cleaning that could possibly hinder a full return of your deposit has been completed. Don’t forget to give the fridge and oven a good scrub and be sure to double check all closets and cabinets so that nothing is left behind.

10. Transport valuables personally
While GoShare will transport your belongings safely and securely, it is always recommended that valuables such as important documentation (i.e. passport, bank statements) and jewelry are transported personally. Sure, moving can be a hassle, but if you follow these helpful tips your move will be quick and easy. And one final thing: Don’t forget to reward yourself after the move… after all you’re a moving pro now so wear that badge proudly!

The post Top 10 Things to Do Before You Move appeared first on GoShare.

1. Old electronics
The last things you need in your storage unit are old electronics. Hogging an old VCR for
the past five years isn’t going to increase its value, neither is your collection of old CD’s.
The EPA  and the electronics take back coalition are offering to buy your old electronics while they are still worth something. Cash in on this opportunity to begin this year’s storage unit clean out.

2. Old clothes
While storing old clothes might seem practical under the notion of  “One day my
grandchildren/children will use it,” you are better off giving them away to a family who needs clothes now. Ask yourself, “Have I worn this in the last five years?” If not, give it away. Who knows, maybe a college frat boy can find a cool use for your 80’s neon green jumpsuit. Thrift shopping is back in style thanks to Macklemore and Ryan Lewis.

3. Furniture
Now here is where the money is. All of the furniture that you have been holding onto since forever is probably starting to cram up space in your storage unit. If you’re looking to clear up some space, it might be time to move on and sell your furniture. Used furniture always has a market, whether it’s a college student moving into their new apartment or a newly wed family that doesn’t want to invest in new furniture. Craigslist and Offerup are two great places to sell your old furniture. Here are some tips to help you sell your furniture on Craigslist and Offerup like a pro.

4. Toys
Old toys always seem to take up space in your home or apartment, which makes it one of the most common items stored in a storage unit.  Try posting some picture of your old toys on Facebook or Instagram to see if any family or friends are interested in that super cool Lego set you have laying around. If that fails, you can always donate to Salvation Army or Goodwill. They are always welcoming any new donations.

5. Books
How many times can you read 50 Shades of Grey before you start to get bored? Apart from a very select handful of books, most of them are household commodities with a short shelf life. Storing them might solve the space problem for a while, but when it comes to clearing up space in your storage unit, we suggest getting rid of some of the thicker volumes.

Follow these hints and cash in on your next storage unit clean out! Learn more about our storage pick up and delivery service.

The post Five Ways To Cash In On Your Storage Unit Clean Out appeared first on GoShare.