Declutter One Space at a Time-Basement

The basement is the pit that everything ends up in and many do not even remember what is down there. Because many basements were made for storage, we tend to leave it that way. Occasionally, some will decide to finish the space and that is when they are forced to go through all the items, make decisions and get it ready for construction. Others wait until it is time to move before they tackle the space and still others are forced to tackle the space when a loved one has died.

In any of these situations, the biggest challenge is deciding where to start. It is an overwhelming vast space for most and it seems to be something that cannot be accomplished. When I start with my clients in their basements, I pick a corner and move forward from there. I try to start where there is the least amount of emotional attachment to the items and decisions can easily be made and the space can clear quickly. This progress keeps my clients going and will keep you going as well.

Before starting, make sure to have plenty of trash bags and use boxes you are emptying for donations. If the items will be donated, take them out of the space as quickly as possible and get them in the car. Avoid saying you will do it later as usually it ends up not happening. If you have a certain amount of time to work in the space, 20 minutes before you are finished, start taking those items and the trash out of the space. You will see the results immediately.

For those items staying, store in plastic bins, as anyone can have a water event and if they are in cardboard, they will get ruined, especially pictures and any delicate item you are keeping. Labeling bins will also help to keep items in order and remind you and others where items go when they have been used.

Lastly, it is very important to continue to review what is in your basement as we grow and make decisions to move in different directions. Holiday decorations might become less important as your family members grow up and you spend holidays away from home more often. Reviewing often will keep your basement in order.