Day 7: Tackle The Final Clutter Zones
Welcome to the 7-Day Declutter Challenge! This step-by-step plan will help you clear clutter and create a calm, organized home that’s uniquely yours.
By Day 7, you’ll tackle the extra clutter zones around your house that we haven’t addressed yet. Let’s finish strong!
“Edit your life frequently and ruthlessly. It’s your masterpiece after all.”
Nathan W. Morris
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Day 7: Decluttering Hacks To Tackle The Rest
Fun Fact: Did you know the average person spends 2.5 days a year searching for misplaced items? This statistic from a 2014 IKEA study highlights the importance of staying organized.
1. If You Haven’t Used It In A Year, Donate It
The one-year rule is simple: if you haven’t used an item in the past 12 months, it’s time to donate it to someone who can.
2. Clear Out Items Your Family Has Outgrown
Give yourself permission to let go of toys, clothes, and other items your family no longer uses. Consider donating to a local family or community group.
3. Recycle Old Electronics Responsibly
E-waste contains valuable materials to reuse and hazardous components needing safe handling. Here’s how to recycle responsibly:
- Local Recycling Centers: Many cities offer e-waste drop-off facilities for items like phones, cords, and TVs.
- Retail Take-Back Programs: Stores like Best Buy and Staples often accept old electronics. Some brands even offer trade-in credit.
- Donate: If your electronics still work, donate them to charities, schools, or thrift stores that refurbish and reuse them.
Did you Know? Electronics take up valuable space in landfills and do not decompose. E-waste contains toxins like lead and mercury, which can leach into the soil and water.
4. Properly Dispose Of Old Paint
Getting rid of old paint requires proper disposal to protect the environment. Here are some effective ways to do it:
- Use It Up: Apply leftover paint for touch-ups or donate it to schools or community projects.
- Hazardous Waste Programs: Check your city’s events or drop-off locations for safe disposal.
- Dry It Out: Mix latex paint with cat litter or paint hardener, let it solidify, and then dispose of it (check local guidelines).
- Recycle: Some stores like Sherwin-Williams accept old paint for recycling.
5. Purge Old Papers
- Sort and Shred: Keep only essential documents. Shred sensitive items and recycle the rest.
- Go Digital: Use apps like Adobe Scan to digitize important papers.
- Designate a Paper Zone: Create a spot for bills or mail that need attention, and recycle unnecessary items regularly.
Everything Else Decluttering Checklist
Use this guide to tackle the final areas:
- Donate pet items no longer needed
- Clean out old craft supplies
- Sort games and puzzles (donate what your family has outgrown)
- Recycle old technology and cords
- Sort coats and winter accessories
- Properly dispose of old paint
- Declutter office supplies
- Sort, organize & shred unneeded documents
Go to Day 1 of the declutter challenge to grab this free printable decluttering checklist!
What’s Next?
Congratulations on completing the 7-Day Declutter Challenge! Keep the clutter away by applying the tips you’ve learned.
Missed a day? Jump back to Day 1-6 to get started!
- Day 2: Restore Order in the Living Room
- Day 3: Refresh Your Bedroom & Closet
- Day 4: Take Control of Kids’ Spaces
- Day 5: Streamline the Bathroom
- Day 6: Simplify the Laundry Room
- Day 7: Tackle the Final Clutter Zones