How to Prevent Clutter from Entering Your House

The first step to keep your house uncluttered is to prevent the clutter from even making its way into your home. I know, easier said than done. Seemingly innocent things make their way into your house and become the clutter you see around you. These are tied and true that can stop clutter from even making it inside your house.

Say no to freebies

Who doesn't love anything free? Just because something is free doesn't mean you need to take it. Free pens, tote bags and t-shirts are great but when you come across a freebie stop and think and ask yourself: Do you need it? Will you use it? Avoid thinking 'This can come in handy someday.' If you don't need or wont use it now, just walk away.

Buy only what is on your list

Shops have a way of making thing look so attractive and make them call out to you "take me home." As hard as it may be to resist, try by thinking to yourself where will this go? If you do not have an exact spot in your mind of where to put it in your home don't buy it.

A different kind of gifting

It's fun to give gifts as it is to receive but sometimes a well meaning gift ends up as one more thing to find a place for in your home. Talk to your friends and family about exchanging time or donating to your favorite organization instead of things. Spending time together with a friend or family member can be even greater than a gift that sits on your shelf.

Rethink hobbies

Scrapbooking, knitting, crocheting, and stamping are all fun hobbies but sometimes the supplies can take up a lot of space and just sit there as you collect more and more for that project you and going to complete someday. Think of when the last time you actively did your craft. If it has been almost a year, it might be time to let it go or at the least stop picking up more supplies until you complete at least one project.

Recycle each time you shop

If you take your bottles and cans for recycling, place the empty bottles and cans in your reusable shopping bags. Then next time you go shopping take your recyclables with you and exchange them right before you go shopping. That way you wont be collecting a mass amount and having them clutter up your home or garage.