honoluluadvertiser.com

Sponsored by:

Comment, blog & share photos

Log in | Become a member
The Honolulu Advertiser
Posted on: Saturday, December 29, 2007

Escape the clutter

By Donna Birch
McClatchy-Tribune News Service

Hawaii news photo - The Honolulu Advertiser

Gannett News Service

spacer spacer

The end of the holiday season and start of the new year is often the time when people think about cutting the clutter from their lives. In fact, the National Association of Professional Organizers has designated January as Get Organized Month for the past four years.

The key to successful organizing isn't just about cleaning up a mess but maintaining order once you've done the initial purge. Those who are serious about getting organized should come at the task with a plan.

  • The first step should be to sort through the clutter to determine what stays and what goes.

    You'll need boxes or containers to use for sorting. Divide the boxes into these categories: trash, donate, keep and relocate. The relocate box is for items that belong in another room. Dump the trash box and arrange for donated items to be picked up or dropped off right away.

  • Next, survey the items you plan to keep. Knowing what will stay will help determine the type of storage container or furniture needed. When shopping for containers, look for units that are clear and stackable.

    If you're thinking of installing a closet system, you can either hire a company or do it yourself. Warehouse stores including Home Depot and Lowe's offer an assortment of systems, from solid components to wire shelving.

  • If paper and mail are your bugaboos, try these tips:

  • Create a designated spot for essential mail such as bills.

  • Open mail over a trash can or shredder.

  • Check with your tax consultant or attorney to determine how long you should keep paperwork such as W-2 forms, old tax returns and bank statements.

  • Have your name removed from mailing lists to cut down the amount of junk mail received.

    Make a difference. Donate to The Advertiser Christmas Fund.