Thank you so much for watching! You can find 3 Weeks of Decluttering Check Lists for Free right here: www.theminimalmom.com/pl/2147651507 (it includes the Choose Your Own Adventure Guide, too!) I hope you have a great day!!! - Dawn
Dawn! Whenever I need cleaning and organizing information, you are my go-to RUclipsr! Thanks for all the thoughtful, logical, truly useful videos to help us all both inside and outside of our homes!
I've been devouring your videos. Thanks for sharing your genius. I offered my 5 year old grand daughter $5.00 for some of her "stuffies". After thinking about it she decided she wanted more pairs of magnetic earrings. I grabbed a black bag (so she couldn't see inside) and off we went to her room. She immediately set up an area for things she wanted to keep and started handing me things for the bag. Some things she just handed over upon picking it up. Some things she looked at tenderly, hugged, kissed, and said, "I love you but you're going to a better place." At one point I thought it may have been difficult for her so I offered her a break. She refused me gently and reassured me that she was okay. By the time she was done we had filled 1.5 thirty gallon black trash bags! She was so happy with her results that she asked if we can sort baby dolls tomorrow! All toys will be donated.
One thing I've never heard you talk about is battling the upbringing of "you can't quit" and/or "you have to finish what you start". Watching your channel has given me permission to get rid of books I don't want to finish and puzzles I wished I had never finished. In terms of mental garbage, it's given me permission to leave movies in the middle and switch off stupid RUclips content. Keep going...you're doing great.
Resonates with me too! So hard to change old patterns of behavior, but it is the DOING of the new thing (even in small batches of time like 5 or 10 min) that builds those muscles & frees us from so much (not just STUFF).🌻🇺🇸
If I could only get my daughter to understand this and get some of her stuff out of our house. She lives in an apartment in Brooklyn So she says she has no room. Every visit she brings a bag of stuff to offer me. Unless it's something I love it is donated,sold online or tossed after she leaves. When I moved in a my dad after my mom passed you could not pull a car in the garage. I have uncluttered now and both cars are in there. My mom kept everything. She was a kid during the depression and learned it from her folks. I might need that or that's usuable, or so and so have me that. I have severe RA so it's a slow process but I am working on it.
Sue Wolfe-My sister and I had to clean out our parent's house, who both lived through the depression. It wasn't until after I left home that things got bad. I flew in at least 4 times for 2 weeks at a time to clear things out. It was amazing to fill a garbage bag with knee-high stockings! When a place is cluttered you keep buying things because you can't find what you're looking for! For me, it was eye opening!!
I recently used Got Sneakers. I have tried it and it works. You request a shipping bag, collect all your shoes and send it in (no shipping costs). They sort through and decide what is fit for donation centers, trash, or recycleable. I like that I don't have to make those decisions.
Totally agree with you Dawn : putting nice stuff in the garbage Can sound wasteful but in the long term, decluttering leads me to drastically decrease my consumerism. And garbage therapy has been a Real game changer for me as I am really tired and busy with work and kids. It's so freeing and easy ! No guilt because at the end, decluttering is just a step, the goal is to change your buying decisions. That's the bigger impact I think.
Declutting really is such a muscle memory thing. I am three years in to our declutter journey. It was super slow going at first. I agonized over every question. But I just worked determinedly at it and watched your videos. Recently I seemed to have entered another level of the game because I am flying through garbage and donation bags. Now I understand better the value of my time and guard my mental capacity much more. My tolerance for things is healthy and limited. I am quicker at making decisions. I know what fits and what doesn't and how long something is welcome to stay in our home. Thank you Dawn. You are blessing so many !
I hope it gets easier. I'm in my 70's, limited physical ability and retired now for 2 years. My house is still a mess even though I do a little bit each day. Got rid of 80% of my clothes. That was easy but so much other stuff that overwhelms me. I hope I can get it all done by end of this year. I hate the clutter and want to enjoy retirement.
@@patriciacerwin6266 Me too Patricia. I’m nearly 70 with osteoarthritis in both knees and heart problems resulting in chronic fatigue. Decluttering of all the stuff accumulated over so many years, (even from my late parents and in laws !) is a slow process and I watch these videos to try and motivate myself. Wish I’d started decluttering years ago….
Just use the cleaner : You could clean the sink and counter tops, rather than dumping into the drain. Another option, use one of the containers you're about to recycle. Fill it with paper towels and the remaining liquid cleaner . Now you can use them like cleaning wipes .
If I have a little shampoo or conditioner left in a bottle, I just add water to it in the shower and pour it on my head and same with the body wash. As a believer we should be good stewards of everything Yahweh has blessed us with to have. The same goes with everything else with just a little in bottles. Even with our plain almond milk and vanilla almond milk, I'll just mix them together. Thank you for the encouragement to declutter on garbage day.
I recently bought a moisturizer for my face that I do not like. Instead of throwing it away, I decided to use it on my feet! It works great for my feet, just wasnt the right thing for my face. And now it wont go to waste and I'll recycle the bottle when its empty.
@@dianasimplifies Yes. And we don't ALL have to become minimalists either. I don't get this feeling from Dawn, which is why she's the only Minimalist I can even stand listening to, honestly, but it is a "trend" that is often shoved down people's throats. I will NEVER EVER be a minimalist because I LOVE being able to, for example, build a faux mantel with junk wood that I rescued from some other minimalist when my daughter says, "Do you think we could make a mantel for the stockings this year, Mom?" I live in a rural area, so just getting what you need at the store, or even delivered in less than a week is not an option very often. But I do think that we all need balance in our lives, and after a years long health battle, my house is not balanced. I just do not like the "all or nothing" approach that so many minimalists have.
Wow. I'm almost 70 and you made me realize that the stack of old clothes on the top shelf in the closet, the ones not good enough to donate that I'm saving for if/when I decorate...They are not needed because when the time comes I will have other clothes that I don't mind getting paint on or I'll be paying someone else to do it! I'm on my way to the closet with my black bin liner right now.👍
Yes. We used to have a thrift store and people would donate broken, worn shoes, stained and ripped clothes. It was so much work for us. We used to throw out so much stuff because no one will buy that stuff. We even labeled a box “free” but still it would not move. Eventually we would throw it out. I don’t remember one item that sold that was broken. Please don’t donate things that are broken stand and are worn unless it’s a designated place that takes that kind of things.
I buy mostly natural fiber clothes. So, being a cheapskate, I wear them until they are worn out and then I put them in my compost heap. YES they do compost just fine.
It's more frustrating if the hole is hidden and you find out when you bring that stuff home. It's reason I don't like shop certain things in thrift stores any more like clothes or bed covers etc but I would have no issues buying them used from online private seller, knowing the condition
Great video! I am a professional organizer, a lot of my clients struggle with the issues you brought up. It's a great reminder that we not only have to have a physical space for our things, but head space too!
With cream tubes, I cut them in half and use a tiny rubber spatula to get out the remainder to use. With my fairly expensive foot cream I can get about a dozen or more treatments this way
Two months ago i stumbled across this page and I’ve been obsessed ever since…seems funny to say but dawns ‘permission’ to throw things away is what kicked my decluttering journey into high gear!! Maybe it makes me realize that we all overbuy and we’ve all gotten rid of perfectly good items just bc we aren’t using them! Saving stuff for someday only made life harder ❤️ Thank you Dawn 🙏🏼
I agree. I've only just found Dawn. Only a couple of weeks ago, and am binge watching all the videos. I've done a good stack of my clothes, my jeans stash for bag making got a culling, bathroom today, kitchen drawers done. So much more to go. Just have to get hubby into the garage to do his part, yikes! 22 years in this house and the junk is maddening!!
Me too.. stumbled across your channel and omg... finally its clicked... im ready for a clear and uncluttered house..and in turn a clear and uncluttered mind!!! Xxxant thanks ❤❤❤❤
I do this the DAY BEFORE garbage day so I can take the garbage to the street the night before & don’t risk having the trash bag sit until next week. It’s also the day I refill & restock items in my home so I can throw away empty packaging & make a new shopping list. I grocery shop on Thursdays, so I clear out my fridge & we eat any leftovers every Wednesday. I don’t spend a lot of time doing it-just a quick glance & wiping one shelf a week and eventually the fridge is under control.
trash day was Tuesday. Monday evening was leftover night. Never could decide was it the leftovers or was it the quantity of bits of dishes that drove the kids crazy. anywyays everyone should have a plan to make a hash or strange stew or just plain reheat the leftovers and get them eaten and out of the fridge.
Implementing decluttering into my everyday cleaning routine has kept our home clutter free for around 10 years. I love finding things to donate that we no longer need 😂❤
This is an older video I happened to click today and it happens to be garbage day! So I went along with you and want to thank you for encouraging us to not sit and watch which I’m prone to do. I’m a chronic hoarder and between, you, Dana, and Cas, I see hope!
Hi Dawn! In 2019 - 2020, I majorly minimized our home with your help and I loved the peace and tranquility it provided and so did my family of four adults. Then, I had some health problems and the “inventory” increased. I am doing well now and I am ruthlessly donating and tossing the unwanted and unnecessary things I accumulated. It feels wonderful! Thank you for the support an encouragement you provide. God Bless You!
I've been in the same boat. I think gaining inventory when you are going through health issues is something that is often overlooked as a reason for why things can pile up. It doesn't take long for it to happen but it's good to be gentle on yourself. Best wishes
I was raised to not be so wasteful...also the landfills are full...DO NOT buy things you DO NOT want...DO NOT work for nothing...you haul it IN the front door and OUT the back...
This is also were i am after my mom moved to an aged care home. I am 1 of 4 children but it wàs my job to clean up and clear our her 1 bedroom unit, so much stuff for 1 person.
I'm doing this as well. They have they're own stuff to declutter. They don't need mine. I've siash rid them if there is anything I have that they want, tell me. They may 'inherit' it sooner than later. 😊
Thank you for the term “I give you permission.” Such a relief and helpful statement when throwing things that have been bought and spent money on. What a great mental relief ❤
I understand not donating broken or worn out items - that is definitely the right thing to do! We do need "permission" to let ourselves throw those things away. I can't help but feel disheartened by the advice to throw other things away though...things that are still useful. Partially used cleaners and toiletries, for instance, can be offered to friends or family. Given away for free on apps like fb marketplace, gumtree, olio, craigslist etc. They are sometimes also accepted by shelters or hostels. A "please take" box outside of ones home, on a dry day, is also an option. I know this takes extra work and mental bandwidth. Once we buy, or acquire, an item, it becomes our responsibility. It is ours to manage appropriately. I personally feel that we should take that extra time or energy to deal with these things, in a careful and responsible way. Not shirk the responsibility because it's easier. Unwanted cords, if in good condition, can be donated or recycled at recycling centres. It's also worth mentioning that (at least here in England) medicine shouldn't be disposed of in general rubbish/garbage. It should be taken to a local pharmacy, for them to dispose of safely 👍
Your slow and steady every day methods have been more helpful to me than konmari piles. I'm thankful there are so many different people and ideas out there to reach everyone. Thanks for doing what you do. 💙
In my neck of the woods we have donation bins for textiles, they are actually at each one of our schools. Shoes, clothing, bedding, pillows etc...can be donated and not for reuse but for recycle! I highly recommend anyone to check out if their community has these donation bins or if you don't maybe you can nudge city hall!! I cringe any time anything goes into the trash, and I 100% get Dawn's message and I agree decluttering is HUGE but I also believe we need to be mindful of our Great Mother Earth! I also must add that there are hazardous waste days for chemicals and medications can be dropped off at your local police stations (at least in my area) This is an extra step in decluttering, but it you just load it all into the car and create an hour of your day you can dispose of things properly!
In the UK you should take medications to your local pharmacy, especially antibiotics. I've given them to the pharmacy in supermarkets or Boots/Superdrug before. They're used to it.
Medication or cleaners can be mixed with cat litter, double bagged and then in the garbage. Sometimes the water treatment center will take mediation so it won’t end up in the drain.
Some pet shelters take bedding/sheets for their own use. Many of them depend on donations. I did that in Texas. Here in Arkansas, the ones I contacted didn't want anything but towels, so I gave the bedding to an actual veterinarian. Sure, they make good money, but at least it's re-used.
Channels like yours keeps me from going back to my old habits of being a hoarder. Growing up, I never noticed how a pack rat I was because my mom is a mild hoarder but once I got my own place, choosing a minimalist lifestyle has really changed my life. Clutter gives me anxiety and while I got rid of so many, I still have a long way to go.
One thing that helps me with fridge leftovers is a magnetic whiteboard with the days of the week. I reverse meal plan in that, I write down what we had only if there are leftovers, so that I can remember a couple days later how old the container in the fridge is. Once the container is gone, I erase it. Gives me and my family a reminder of what they should eat up for leftovers night and for hubby's lunches
Dawn, you don’t know how much you have helped me. I love your enthusiasm. I love the fact that you you don’t make excuses but you also give us grace to make mistakes. You also give us permission which is so helpful. I also love you and Tom the way you are together. I laugh when you to do things. Keep up the good work and thank you.
Your treasure bin is a good idea. I’ve learned with my grand kids, they like to see pictures of themselves on my phone. So I take a picture of them with their creation. When they are ready to let it go we still have the memory of them with their creation.
The last half is the best part. The thing about a lot of these people that promote decluttering is that they have a storage area bigger than a lot of people have a living area.
Once again, your ability to be genuine in front of the internet is so encouraging to me! I really can’t imagine doing that myself but I really enjoy your being so real like we are actually just hanging out with you in your house.
Yes. I was doing it along with her today and pausing the video here and there. I got my quick throw garbage bags fill in a bit over and hour (was stuck at the wires) Pretty sure it will be much faster next week.
I want to thank you for giving me permission to not feel guilt and shame. Those things bog me down and you, over and over again in your videos, tell me that it is ok and that feeling good in my home is worth it. Also, I loved those Choose Your Own Adventure books but I think I remember getting to an ending I didn't like and going back to choose a different choice to get a different ending....but i could be remembering wrong because my memory is definitely not the best.
I agree with you here. I have been watching for a while now and for some reason these last few videos have hit hard and made a light bulb go off in my head. Lol
Garbage is garbage, whether it sits on your shelf or is recyled. The huge difference is that garbage that is out of your house, taught you a lesson and helps you to do better moving forward, which could have been its only purpose. Especially if it was from the Dollar store ;) I know the number one comment you are going to get with this is how wasteful it seems. I used to think that way too. But the more I get rid of and work to simplify my house, the more intentional I am about bringing things into my house in the first place. I waste so much less because I have felt the loss, the disappointment and shame about being wasteful, it hurt and I learned from it.
I totally agree with you ! People seem to shame us for tossing out stuff! Well I think those would shame us for having a messy home to. So I say the heck with them it’s our stuff to do with as we see fit 😅
Dawn, this is such a super, professional video. Thank you sooo much for making a boring task so exciting. My decluttering muscles are gaining strength and it is all thanks to you. I loved the visual aids, that really gets the points across to your viewers. Your enthusiasm is contagious.
In the book "The House that Cleans Itself" she suggests asking yourself the question, "How much of my time is this item worth?" when you are thinking about keeping an item "just in case"
Yep we keep the food storage containers on the way out in a box in the garage. Lids can be used for a gluing or painting surface, bottoms are used for mixing stuff, holding small things for the donate box, etc.
I cannot throw things away that someone else could use. That would stress me out. We have a community site for our area where people post things for free. That’s how I get rid of most things.
Instead of shaming people for throwing garbage away, let’s focus on overconsumption. The corporations that tell us what WE need to do to protect the environment are the ones that are selling us all this garbage that ends up in landfills!
Dawn I would love to see a video of you interviewing people who work at a donation and / or recycling center to show what they're overwhelmed with or what they just throw away anyways!
The graphic showing the thinking process after choosing to keep an item and come across it again then go through the whole guilt/shame/choosing process over and over again was helpful.
I am so glad that you mentioned your friend. I am that person that freaks out on this side of your videos when you’re throwing away things that could be recycled! 😂😂😂😂😂 I hear your heart and see that you get that there are those of us who simply cannot do that! What I have had to do is to make it a weekly stop to take all of our decluttered items to a Christian mission every week. No excuses. It took a few weeks to make it a habit, but now that I have, our children are on board, they know where the brown boxes are that are for donations, they know where to put things and they know how to get it to my car so that I can take it every week.
Totally LOVED this episode. The charger cords was so real. My husband just happened to be watching when you talked about this. Hearing it from you was more effective than hearing it from me. So thank you for that!!
I made memory boxes this week for my 6 kids and they are amazing!!!! I have been finding random things all squirrelled away, now they have homes in each box❤ best idea ever
I get flyers in the mail, scattered throughout the year from organizations that will come pickup donations left on the porch. The nearby high school band collects things in January and then has a huge “garage” sale the first Saturday in February. I’ve been using each instance as an opportunity to declutter.
Dawn, after following you for a few years, you continue to amaze me with how you come up with new content and insights on the topic of decluttering and minimizing! I always learn something new! As a former interior designer (turned SAHM) I LOVE all the psychology behind all of it. I also have noticed lately as I am getting more confidence to get rid of something that's no longer useful to me, I still want to find "just the right place" to donate or gift it too. But in reality, that just takes so much more time that I don't have in this stage of life with 4 kids AND the longer it sits around in a box, waiting to until I can take it somewhere, I'm more likely to second guess myself and pull it back out! Thanks for the encouragement to just get rid of it NOW. You know me too well. 😉 I also have a son who likes to keep everything (like his pack rat recovering Mama) and has taken over multiple drawers around the house and claimed them for his stuff. I have been meaning to sit down with him and go through his things to see if he is ready to let go of some items. Thanks for the reminder. Next time we do, we will define a new LIMITED space where he can keep those things. Thanks for all your constant encouragement and teaching. Blessings to you and the family.
Your container philosophy always comes to my mind when finding a place for things. Today you mentioned setting a deadline for taking items to be recycled and I thought 'deadlines are like containers'. If it doesn't fit the container you don't keep it. If you can't make the deadline to recycle then don't keep it. Let it go. I think we might be surprised/appalled at how many donated items go straight to the dumpster anyway because the donation 'container' is full. I really like that sweatshirt you're wearing.
If you’re going through a process that makes it easier to not purchase things that aren’t necessary, you actually ARE doing something for the environment. Maybe today it looks wasteful and not good for the environment, but down the road you’ll be a person who doesn’t contribute to environmental waste because you honed that muscle. Also, things are produced based on demand. The minute something is produced it’s destined to be some form of waste no matter whose house it goes to. When we buy anything, it’s destiny is a waste bin. Even if you donate it. At some point that thing will be waste. Hope this helps someone dealing with guilt over purging, donating, decluttering, and throwing away things ❤️
I so needed this today. I am running all over town donating stuff. I need the courage or permission to throw things away that nobody wants not even me. Thank you! Thank you! Thank You!
My local Goodwill and Compassion Center takes torn worn faded clothing - they sell it for rags. I bag separately. Easier and quicker to throw away, but helps until you develop your throw away muscles and mindset.
Hi. We've a large donation center not taking items now also. I had to drive further up the road to drop off. 6 bags full. Felt so good. Maybe everyone else is also decluttering? Suppose this is a good thing.
I actually wish I had more towels to donate--the animal shelter people are so grateful that it is very rewarding to make the extra trip. But yes, "the road to he'll is paved with good intentions" and so many of my intentions are just laying around the house as unfinished, useless projects.
When it comes to shampoos, conditioners, and body washes, a little water can be added to the bottle and shaken. You’ll be able to get 1-2 more uses depending on what’s left. I’ve even cut open tubes of makeup/sunscreen etc (keep tube in a ziplock and use a butter knife to get product out). Usually get an extra week out of the item. Things I don’t like get tossed.
I found you, Dawn, almost exactly 3 years ago. I can add my own experience that having less in my home means that I make better decisions about what I buy! We moved into a new house and I know before than I would have spent/wasted so much money buying a ton of cute (and cheap and trendy) stuff to fill up my house with but instead, I picked a paint color I love for each space, picked a few special family pictures to hang and bought one large piece of art for our formal living room that I loved and the house is absolutely so calm and easy to maintain. I’ve been ignoring the boxes that got shoved into the storage room when we moved in, but trying to use my new year motivation to get rid of about half of it by the end of the month. 😂😂 To anyone wondering if it’s really worth it- it is!! I have 5 kids and still manage to feed them just as well with 5 pots/pans as I did when I had 11 and I feel more confident in my clothing choices now than I ever did before I simplified my wardrobe. Do it! You really won’t miss anything you get rid of!
Love this video! I have been getting rid of more things that aren’t used, worn out, don’t need etc Today I made another trip to the dumpster and loaded donations to drop off tomorrow Progress
I have realized that everything I detested when my parents became Ill and I had to deal with all stuff….is now my life. Your videos inspire me to let go. Tuesday is the day our trash is picked up. I have designated Tuesday as massive declutter day. My goal every Tuesday is to add to the trash pile and fill my Ford Expedition with donations. Your videos play in the background. Hearing you say “it’s ok to let it go” and “does it fit in the container” helps so very much! My house didn’t become this big mess overnight it took years. However, I have no intention of it taking years to get rid of it all. Thank you for your videos!
We got a digital photo frame a few years ago and it’s freed me from photo guilt. When any one of us has a frame worthy pic, we add it. We all love seeing our pictures on a daily basis. Recently got one for the elders in our family and I hope they also enjoy it.
A friend of mine got one of those frames that she can add to for the grandparents and aunts so everyone's frames get the same photos so all can enjoy them. Keeps the grands happy and less stuff. I remember when I got the box of photos back that we gave to the grands. She didn't want to throw them away so she gave them all back. It was neat to see them all in one spot!
YES! I was waiting for you to say it and you did! Better clarity and decision making about bringing things into our home and buying things! That’s IT when you have been doing this for awhile. Declutter is KEY when starting but at some point you realize to stop bringing things in and that is most important. I’m so much more intentional and mindful now. 2023 is a no-buy year for me! I have “enough” and working on being content.
I’m doing a no-buy except essentials for January and will add more months as I go along. Love hearing others do no-buy challenges too. Inspires me to keep going
A life hack for worn out socks… don’t throw them away cut them open and bring them to the garage or shop rags, also do the same thing for Worn out T-shirts
One thing we did for the socks in our family - everyone has a set “colour” and we bought a dozen pairs each. This way it’s very easy to tell whose sock is whose, especially since my kids & I are now wearing the same size lol! 🤣 But also, no worries about mismatches, because anytime one sock is thrown out, there’s only 1 other sock without a mate until another sock gets thrown :)
I want to do that but I can't find different coloured socks in one pack. I can do black or grey for my boy but buying 2 solid colours for my girls.... where do you buy them?
@@chelseahoagland4250 Walmart George brand - I found a pack that had a few pairs each of solid blue, solid pink, white with pink heels, and white with blue heels. This way, she can mix and match a little and it won't look too terrible, and she gets more than 1 colour so she is happy :)
Use those old dryer balls and essential oils to freshen drawers, closets, or cars. We get two trash/recycle/lawn waste per week on Thursday and Monday.
Thank you, Dawn, for permission to have no guilt, and letting go physically and mentally! I’m recently off from work and dedicated my morning before garbage day morning to the trash bag. One thing lead to another and hours later I’m still trashing, donating, getting rid of packaging, filling the empty glass pantry jars, and took a cooking break when dinner was inspired by the fridge clean-out💕decluttering bliss 🙏freedom,and inspo every garbage day!😘
Omg. The Choose Your Adventure visual is super helpful. I am very visual and also, out of sight, out of mind. So much clutter around my house right now, but this helps me see the less seen mental process that is involved with keeping these items. Thank you so much for this. 💛
Dawn! I'm just so grateful for you!! You are out here changing lives. You have freed me of so much guilt and helped me realize that my home can be a representation of my priorities and not a dumping ground for other people's (or my own past) ideas of who I am or should be. The psychology of our connection to our things is incredibly fascinating and I feel my relationship to not only things, but myself, shifting as I move through my home and let go of things. I'm currently working on my kids room and I'm most excited for this, out of the whole house. I'm excited for them to have a space that is truly relaxing and spacious and not a constant struggle to keep clean. We had a snow day yesterday so we all went through it together and I just kept reiterating so many of the things I've learned from you. I kept saying "It's ok to have loved that thing and for it not to serve you anymore" and "Value your space and make sure it only has things that actually fit who you are and what you love now", plus lots and lots of "I'm so proud of you!". My folks, bless them, are still very connected to "things" as a physical representation of love so my house has been FULL of things they put here. I'm excited to change the conversation generationally and hopefully foster a healthier connection to material items for my kids and their future. It sucks to throw things away but hopefully this mindfulness we're cultivating will mean more thoughtfulness about consumption and ultimately be a step towards a more sustainable relationship to our planet. THANK YOU times a million!
You are like a breath of fresh air honestly I’ve struggled most of last year struggling with clutter I found your Channel about a month ago and I am obsessed you’ve helped me so much thank you ❤️🤍
Thanks for the great ideas/inspiration. Also FYI, partially used personal hygiene products could be easily donated to homeless and women’s shelters. As someone who has sensitive skin and accumulates way too many products that cannot be used this donation option has been a game changer. Not only will they take partially used shampoos and soaps but also perfume, body sprays, deodorant, hair products, etc. have a great week!!
My local women’s shelter will only take unopened toiletries. I called to check, and they thanked me for checking. They accept all donations, but had to throw away anything opened. Just an fyi
Most likely this depends on the shelter’s policies. We are fortunate to have a centralized shelter shop that accepts and distributes the items collected to the appropriate shelters in need. When in doubt it is probably best practice to call ahead and see what items are acceptable.
These plastic massage sponges from bathroom can be washed with your regular laundry. I had one for many years and give it ocassional refreshment with my laundry and it's like new. It saves on your soaps so they are good but they need some love from time to time. I have literary one for all family and it's ok. We don't have any skin problems so there is no need to keep one for each member.
I decluttered my music on my phone and laptop this week! Felt so good to delete music I don't listen to anymore so I have just songs I LOVE and am excited to hear!
As a visual thinker person, there are so many joyful items that when I see it makes me smile and recall the precious moment or memory. I just could not have all open surfaces. Photos, great grandmothers hand mirror, 2nd great grandfather’s war medals. That special tea cup that reminds me of my Daughter in law in a different country and culture. If I didn’t have theses things in order and able to be viewed I would feel robbed.
I just again have to say thank you. We had to have our entire bathroom replumbed yesterday. So an expensive and stressful prospect. I have to say though in the past when our house wasn't simplified I would be very anxious about the house and do multiple days of manic cleaning which really was stressful and full of shame for me. And by cleaning I mean hiding. Not getting rid of things but hiding them so that I could actually clean (think Monica's crazy closet). I have been following you for a few years now so I have successfully simplified our home...and the night before the plumber came all I had to do was literally move toothbrushes and towels out of the way and move our dining table over so they could get to the pipes from the dining room. It took like 10 stress-free minuets. Thank you, I literally stopped and thought about how it used to be when trades people were in my home vs now. I remembered what that felt like and am so thankful that I don't have to feel like that now.
I heard this quote the other day: "You Can Do Anything, But Not Everything." this helps me forgive myself and not feel guilty if I couldn't do everything that I dreamed of/ wishlist/ or to-do list of doing it.
Thank you so much for watching! You can find 3 Weeks of Decluttering Check Lists for Free right here: www.theminimalmom.com/pl/2147651507 (it includes the Choose Your Own Adventure Guide, too!) I hope you have a great day!!! - Dawn
This am was my garbage day:)
Thank you Dawn!
Dawn! Whenever I need cleaning and organizing information, you are my go-to RUclipsr! Thanks for all the thoughtful, logical, truly useful videos to help us all both inside and outside of our homes!
@@zuzu2416 Thank you!!!!!
Thank you, Dawn! This is so helpful!
Dump the cleaner in the toilet and give it a good swish and swipe :) That way you aren't wasting the product! win , win
Oh yes! That's a much better idea!!!
Yes! I do that with the dabs of shampoo left that would get thrown out.
Soo smart!!!! ❤❤❤
I do the same, even if nobody in the family likes the smell of a product it’s a nicer smell than most toilet bowl cleaners. Swish and swipe!
I agree! No need to waste & at today's prices...! Do a quick clean on counters & sinks by pouring that on your cloth, if the trigger doesn't work
I use cleaners that I'm not fond of to clean the toilet. It uses it up quickly and isn't "wasted". the Fly Lady says, soap is soap! Blessings!
I wholeheartedly agree!
I've been devouring your videos. Thanks for sharing your genius. I offered my 5 year old grand daughter $5.00 for some of her "stuffies". After thinking about it she decided she wanted more pairs of magnetic earrings. I grabbed a black bag (so she couldn't see inside) and off we went to her room. She immediately set up an area for things she wanted to keep and started handing me things for the bag. Some things she just handed over upon picking it up. Some things she looked at tenderly, hugged, kissed, and said, "I love you but you're going to a better place." At one point I thought it may have been difficult for her so I offered her a break. She refused me gently and reassured me that she was okay. By the time she was done we had filled 1.5 thirty gallon black trash bags! She was so happy with her results that she asked if we can sort baby dolls tomorrow! All toys will be donated.
That is genius!
You're definitely teaching her a valuable life skill AND by children spell love "t-i-m-e".
One thing I've never heard you talk about is battling the upbringing of "you can't quit" and/or "you have to finish what you start". Watching your channel has given me permission to get rid of books I don't want to finish and puzzles I wished I had never finished. In terms of mental garbage, it's given me permission to leave movies in the middle and switch off stupid RUclips content. Keep going...you're doing great.
This resonates with me! Thank you for sharing
Resonates with me too! So hard to change old patterns of behavior, but it is the DOING of the new thing (even in small batches of time like 5 or 10 min) that builds those muscles & frees us from so much (not just STUFF).🌻🇺🇸
Sue Wolfe- I love your phrase: Do we want a home that's not a storage unit? That's a powerful statement and really hit home! 👏 👍❤️
If it's wither that or paying even more to rent a storage unit on top of my home then I guess I want that (just kidding haha).
If I could only get my daughter to understand this and get some of her stuff out of our house. She lives in an apartment in Brooklyn So she says she has no room. Every visit she brings a bag of stuff to offer me. Unless it's something I love it is donated,sold online or tossed after she leaves. When I moved in a my dad after my mom passed you could not pull a car in the garage. I have uncluttered now and both cars are in there. My mom kept everything. She was a kid during the depression and learned it from her folks. I might need that or that's usuable, or so and so have me that. I have severe RA so it's a slow process but I am working on it.
Sue Wolfe-My sister and I had to clean out our parent's house, who both lived through the depression. It wasn't until after I left home that things got bad. I flew in at least 4 times for 2 weeks at a time to clear things out. It was amazing to fill a garbage bag with knee-high stockings! When a place is cluttered you keep buying things because you can't find what you're looking for! For me, it was eye opening!!
You’re a SPECIAL one of a kind person hope you realize how much we all love you and your help!
Thank you Denise!!! I greatly appreciate that :)
I agree
I recently used Got Sneakers. I have tried it and it works. You request a shipping bag, collect all your shoes and send it in (no shipping costs). They sort through and decide what is fit for donation centers, trash, or recycleable. I like that I don't have to make those decisions.
❤❤
Totally agree with you Dawn : putting nice stuff in the garbage Can sound wasteful but in the long term, decluttering leads me to drastically decrease my consumerism. And garbage therapy has been a Real game changer for me as I am really tired and busy with work and kids. It's so freeing and easy ! No guilt because at the end, decluttering is just a step, the goal is to change your buying decisions. That's the bigger impact I think.
Declutting really is such a muscle memory thing. I am three years in to our declutter journey. It was super slow going at first. I agonized over every question. But I just worked determinedly at it and watched your videos. Recently I seemed to have entered another level of the game because I am flying through garbage and donation bags. Now I understand better the value of my time and guard my mental capacity much more. My tolerance for things is healthy and limited. I am quicker at making decisions. I know what fits and what doesn't and how long something is welcome to stay in our home. Thank you Dawn. You are blessing so many !
Thank you Kim!!!
It's true. It gets so much easier.
I hope it gets easier. I'm in my 70's, limited physical ability and retired now for 2 years. My house is still a mess even though I do a little bit each day. Got rid of 80% of my clothes. That was easy but so much other stuff that overwhelms me. I hope I can get it all done by end of this year. I hate the clutter and want to enjoy retirement.
@@patriciacerwin6266 - Remember, it's not a race. Celebrate your progress.
@@patriciacerwin6266 Me too Patricia. I’m nearly 70 with osteoarthritis in both knees and heart problems resulting in chronic fatigue. Decluttering of all the stuff accumulated over so many years, (even from my late parents and in laws !) is a slow process and I watch these videos to try and motivate myself.
Wish I’d started decluttering years ago….
Just use the cleaner : You could clean the sink and counter tops, rather than dumping into the drain.
Another option, use one of the containers you're about to recycle. Fill it with paper towels and the remaining liquid cleaner . Now you can use them like cleaning wipes .
I really like this idea.
If I have a little shampoo or conditioner left in a bottle, I just add water to it in the shower and pour it on my head and same with the body wash. As a believer we should be good stewards of everything Yahweh has blessed us with to have. The same goes with everything else with just a little in bottles. Even with our plain almond milk and vanilla almond milk, I'll just mix them together. Thank you for the encouragement to declutter on garbage day.
Jup, I do the same with my shampoo. And I don't have loofahs since they become gross. A washing cloth works just fine.
I recently bought a moisturizer for my face that I do not like. Instead of throwing it away, I decided to use it on my feet! It works great for my feet, just wasnt the right thing for my face. And now it wont go to waste and I'll recycle the bottle when its empty.
@@SauerPatchGardening That's right. I thought I was being too frugal doing these things, but it just feels right:)
But we don’t ALL have to do it that way if we want to trash it. That’s her point.
@@dianasimplifies Yes. And we don't ALL have to become minimalists either. I don't get this feeling from Dawn, which is why she's the only Minimalist I can even stand listening to, honestly, but it is a "trend" that is often shoved down people's throats. I will NEVER EVER be a minimalist because I LOVE being able to, for example, build a faux mantel with junk wood that I rescued from some other minimalist when my daughter says, "Do you think we could make a mantel for the stockings this year, Mom?" I live in a rural area, so just getting what you need at the store, or even delivered in less than a week is not an option very often. But I do think that we all need balance in our lives, and after a years long health battle, my house is not balanced. I just do not like the "all or nothing" approach that so many minimalists have.
Wow. I'm almost 70 and you made me realize that the stack of old clothes on the top shelf in the closet, the ones not good enough to donate that I'm saving for if/when I decorate...They are not needed because when the time comes I will have other clothes that I don't mind getting paint on or I'll be paying someone else to do it! I'm on my way to the closet with my black bin liner right now.👍
I usually have one outfit for painting or really dirty work. It doesn’t take up much room for just one outfit and I can get rid of the rest.
Yes. We used to have a thrift store and people would donate broken, worn shoes, stained and ripped clothes. It was so much work for us. We used to throw out so much stuff because no one will buy that stuff. We even labeled a box “free” but still it would not move. Eventually we would throw it out. I don’t remember one item that sold that was broken. Please don’t donate things that are broken stand and are worn unless it’s a designated place that takes that kind of things.
Our charity shop takes 'rags'.
I always say if I wouldn't buy it, it goes in the trash. 😉👍
I buy mostly natural fiber clothes. So, being a cheapskate, I wear them until they are worn out and then I put them in my compost heap. YES they do compost just fine.
It's more frustrating if the hole is hidden and you find out when you bring that stuff home. It's reason I don't like shop certain things in thrift stores any more like clothes or bed covers etc but I would have no issues buying them used from online private seller, knowing the condition
100% yes. With one exception… I think goodwill recycles clothes.
Great video! I am a professional organizer, a lot of my clients struggle with the issues you brought up. It's a great reminder that we not only have to have a physical space for our things, but head space too!
Lotion, shampoo, etc. - I just put that remnant in the new bottle. There's usually plenty of room in the "full" bottle.
With cream tubes, I cut them in half and use a tiny rubber spatula to get out the remainder to use. With my fairly expensive foot cream I can get about a dozen or more treatments this way
Two months ago i stumbled across this page and I’ve been obsessed ever since…seems funny to say but dawns ‘permission’ to throw things away is what kicked my decluttering journey into high gear!! Maybe it makes me realize that we all overbuy and we’ve all gotten rid of perfectly good items just bc we aren’t using them! Saving stuff for someday only made life harder ❤️ Thank you Dawn 🙏🏼
I agree. I've only just found Dawn. Only a couple of weeks ago, and am binge watching all the videos. I've done a good stack of my clothes, my jeans stash for bag making got a culling, bathroom today, kitchen drawers done. So much more to go. Just have to get hubby into the garage to do his part, yikes! 22 years in this house and the junk is maddening!!
Me too.. stumbled across your channel and omg... finally its clicked... im ready for a clear and uncluttered house..and in turn a clear and uncluttered mind!!! Xxxant thanks ❤❤❤❤
I do this the DAY BEFORE garbage day so I can take the garbage to the street the night before & don’t risk having the trash bag sit until next week. It’s also the day I refill & restock items in my home so I can throw away empty packaging & make a new shopping list.
I grocery shop on Thursdays, so I clear out my fridge & we eat any leftovers every Wednesday. I don’t spend a lot of time doing it-just a quick glance & wiping one shelf a week and eventually the fridge is under control.
same
Excellent habits! Love your leftover Wednesdays & cleaning just one frig shelf each week. I will be incorporating these 2 habits. Thank you!
We have to do the day before as well. Garbage truck comes by around 4:30-5:00am. Not getting up that early if I don't absolutely have to
trash day was Tuesday. Monday evening was leftover night. Never could decide was it the leftovers or was it the quantity of bits of dishes that drove the kids crazy. anywyays everyone should have a plan to make a hash or strange stew or just plain reheat the leftovers and get them eaten and out of the fridge.
@@nancykaplan7163 You also wind up discovering what your family does not like to eat so you can stop wasting time & money on that food item.
I have a long way to go with decluttering but I have noticed myself being more cautious about what I bring into my home.
Implementing decluttering into my everyday cleaning routine has kept our home clutter free for around 10 years. I love finding things to donate that we no longer need 😂❤
This is an older video I happened to click today and it happens to be garbage day! So I went along with you and want to thank you for encouraging us to not sit and watch which I’m prone to do. I’m a chronic hoarder and between, you, Dana, and Cas, I see hope!
Hi Dawn! In 2019 - 2020, I majorly minimized our home with your help and I loved the peace and tranquility it provided and so did my family of four adults. Then, I had some health problems and the “inventory” increased. I am doing well now and I am ruthlessly donating and tossing the unwanted and unnecessary things I accumulated. It feels wonderful! Thank you for the support an encouragement you provide. God Bless You!
I've been in the same boat. I think gaining inventory when you are going through health issues is something that is often overlooked as a reason for why things can pile up. It doesn't take long for it to happen but it's good to be gentle on yourself. Best wishes
I was raised to not be so wasteful...also the landfills are full...DO NOT buy things you DO NOT want...DO NOT work for nothing...you haul it IN the front door and OUT the back...
As a Senior, I started Decluttering because I feel my children shouldn't inheret my messy home. I love your idea of memory bins for them!
This is also were i am after my mom moved to an aged care home. I am 1 of 4 children but it wàs my job to clean up and clear our her 1 bedroom unit, so much stuff for 1 person.
I'm doing this as well. They have they're own stuff to declutter. They don't need mine. I've siash rid them if there is anything I have that they want, tell me. They may 'inherit' it sooner than later. 😊
Thank you for the term “I give you permission.” Such a relief and helpful statement when throwing things that have been bought and spent money on. What a great mental relief ❤
I understand not donating broken or worn out items - that is definitely the right thing to do! We do need "permission" to let ourselves throw those things away.
I can't help but feel disheartened by the advice to throw other things away though...things that are still useful.
Partially used cleaners and toiletries, for instance, can be offered to friends or family. Given away for free on apps like fb marketplace, gumtree, olio, craigslist etc. They are sometimes also accepted by shelters or hostels.
A "please take" box outside of ones home, on a dry day, is also an option.
I know this takes extra work and mental bandwidth. Once we buy, or acquire, an item, it becomes our responsibility. It is ours to manage appropriately. I personally feel that we should take that extra time or energy to deal with these things, in a careful and responsible way. Not shirk the responsibility because it's easier.
Unwanted cords, if in good condition, can be donated or recycled at recycling centres.
It's also worth mentioning that (at least here in England) medicine shouldn't be disposed of in general rubbish/garbage. It should be taken to a local pharmacy, for them to dispose of safely 👍
Your slow and steady every day methods have been more helpful to me than konmari piles. I'm thankful there are so many different people and ideas out there to reach everyone. Thanks for doing what you do. 💙
In my neck of the woods we have donation bins for textiles, they are actually at each one of our schools. Shoes, clothing, bedding, pillows etc...can be donated and not for reuse but for recycle! I highly recommend anyone to check out if their community has these donation bins or if you don't maybe you can nudge city hall!! I cringe any time anything goes into the trash, and I 100% get Dawn's message and I agree decluttering is HUGE but I also believe we need to be mindful of our Great Mother Earth! I also must add that there are hazardous waste days for chemicals and medications can be dropped off at your local police stations (at least in my area) This is an extra step in decluttering, but it you just load it all into the car and create an hour of your day you can dispose of things properly!
In the UK you should take medications to your local pharmacy, especially antibiotics. I've given them to the pharmacy in supermarkets or Boots/Superdrug before. They're used to it.
Medication or cleaners can be mixed with cat litter, double bagged and then in the garbage. Sometimes the water treatment center will take mediation so it won’t end up in the drain.
Some pet shelters take bedding/sheets for their own use. Many of them depend on donations. I did that in Texas. Here in Arkansas, the ones I contacted didn't want anything but towels, so I gave the bedding to an actual veterinarian. Sure, they make good money, but at least it's re-used.
Police stations around where I live have bins where people can dispose of old medicine.
Channels like yours keeps me from going back to my old habits of being a hoarder. Growing up, I never noticed how a pack rat I was because my mom is a mild hoarder but once I got my own place, choosing a minimalist lifestyle has really changed my life. Clutter gives me anxiety and while I got rid of so many, I still have a long way to go.
One thing that helps me with fridge leftovers is a magnetic whiteboard with the days of the week. I reverse meal plan in that, I write down what we had only if there are leftovers, so that I can remember a couple days later how old the container in the fridge is. Once the container is gone, I erase it. Gives me and my family a reminder of what they should eat up for leftovers night and for hubby's lunches
This is brilliant! I think I will try my own version of this! Thank you!!
I do this, too, and it has been the best system for leftovers I've ever had!
I write the date in dry erase marker on the side of the leftover container 😊
I write the date and the contents on blue painter's tape and stick it to the top! Take it off before washing. 🙂
Dawn, you don’t know how much you have helped me. I love your enthusiasm. I love the fact that you you don’t make excuses but you also give us grace to make mistakes. You also give us permission which is so helpful. I also love you and Tom the way you are together. I laugh when you to do things. Keep up the good work and thank you.
Ditto, very helpfull and not patronising. Very down to earth
Your treasure bin is a good idea. I’ve learned with my grand kids, they like to see pictures of themselves on my phone. So I take a picture of them with their creation. When they are ready to let it go we still have the memory of them with their creation.
The last half is the best part.
The thing about a lot of these people that promote decluttering is that they have a storage area bigger than a lot of people have a living area.
Once again, your ability to be genuine in front of the internet is so encouraging to me! I really can’t imagine doing that myself but I really enjoy your being so real like we are actually just hanging out with you in your house.
Yes. I was doing it along with her today and pausing the video here and there. I got my quick throw garbage bags fill in a bit over and hour (was stuck at the wires) Pretty sure it will be much faster next week.
I want to thank you for giving me permission to not feel guilt and shame. Those things bog me down and you, over and over again in your videos, tell me that it is ok and that feeling good in my home is worth it. Also, I loved those Choose Your Own Adventure books but I think I remember getting to an ending I didn't like and going back to choose a different choice to get a different ending....but i could be remembering wrong because my memory is definitely not the best.
I love the graphics and illustrations you put in this video! Thanks for the way you add value to our lives through your content.
Worn out dog toys! Great idea! Christmas 🎄 is coming and I can buy him some new ones without adding inventory to his dog bin! 🐾
Your channel has been on my favorites list for YEARS but this video just may be your best comprehensive one yet. Thank you, Dawn
Funny I thought last weeks was the best yet 😆
I agree with you here. I have been watching for a while now and for some reason these last few videos have hit hard and made a light bulb go off in my head. Lol
I totally agree Best ever!
Garbage is garbage, whether it sits on your shelf or is recyled. The huge difference is that garbage that is out of your house, taught you a lesson and helps you to do better moving forward, which could have been its only purpose. Especially if it was from the Dollar store ;) I know the number one comment you are going to get with this is how wasteful it seems. I used to think that way too. But the more I get rid of and work to simplify my house, the more intentional I am about bringing things into my house in the first place. I waste so much less because I have felt the loss, the disappointment and shame about being wasteful, it hurt and I learned from it.
I totally agree with you ! People seem to shame us for tossing out stuff! Well I think those would shame us for having a messy home to. So I say the heck with them it’s our stuff to do with as we see fit 😅
Dawn, this is such a super, professional video. Thank you sooo much for making a boring task so exciting. My decluttering muscles are gaining strength and it is all thanks to you. I loved the visual aids, that really gets the points across to your viewers. Your enthusiasm is contagious.
I’m definitely finding that doing this daily and or weekly is easy.
In the book "The House that Cleans Itself" she suggests asking yourself the question, "How much of my time is this item worth?" when you are thinking about keeping an item "just in case"
Food storage containers are very useful in the garage or other parts of the house for non-food items 😊
Yep we keep the food storage containers on the way out in a box in the garage. Lids can be used for a gluing or painting surface, bottoms are used for mixing stuff, holding small things for the donate box, etc.
This makes so much sense! Establishing the decluttering habit would be a lot easier when pairing with a habit we already do. Great tip!
Thank you Dawn! You have been my hero for at least 2 years! You are my inspiration ! No other RUclipsr has such an impact on my life ❤
AGREED!!
I cannot throw things away that someone else could use. That would stress me out. We have a community site for our area where people post things for free. That’s how I get rid of most things.
The point is you are getting rid of things YOU can't use. And be very careful on what you bring in to your home now.
Hi there! You've a gorgeous picture on your profile! I just decided to stop by and say hi! I hope my compliment is appreciated ☺️😊
Garbage often just ends up in a landfill. I love the idea of a community give away location!
Instead of shaming people for throwing garbage away, let’s focus on overconsumption. The corporations that tell us what WE need to do to protect the environment are the ones that are selling us all this garbage that ends up in landfills!
Dawn I would love to see a video of you interviewing people who work at a donation and / or recycling center to show what they're overwhelmed with or what they just throw away anyways!
The graphic showing the thinking process after choosing to keep an item and come across it again then go through the whole guilt/shame/choosing process over and over again was helpful.
Hi there! You've a gorgeous picture on your profile! I just decided to stop by and say hi! I hope my compliment is appreciated ☺️😘
I am so glad that you mentioned your friend. I am that person that freaks out on this side of your videos when you’re throwing away things that could be recycled!
😂😂😂😂😂
I hear your heart and see that you get that there are those of us who simply cannot do that! What I have had to do is to make it a weekly stop to take all of our decluttered items to a Christian mission every week. No excuses. It took a few weeks to make it a habit, but now that I have, our children are on board, they know where the brown boxes are that are for donations, they know where to put things and they know how to get it to my car so that I can take it every week.
Totally LOVED this episode.
The charger cords was so real. My husband just happened to be watching when you talked about this. Hearing it from you was more effective than hearing it from me. So thank you for that!!
I made memory boxes this week for my 6 kids and they are amazing!!!! I have been finding random things all squirrelled away, now they have homes in each box❤ best idea ever
I get flyers in the mail, scattered throughout the year from organizations that will come pickup donations left on the porch. The nearby high school band collects things in January and then has a huge “garage” sale the first Saturday in February. I’ve been using each instance as an opportunity to declutter.
She's so pretty and funny I'd watch anything she posts. She radiates fun happy energies!! Love that she's making such helpful videos on top!!
Decluttering is getting quicker and easier for me. Thank you, Dawn!
Dawn, after following you for a few years, you continue to amaze me with how you come up with new content and insights on the topic of decluttering and minimizing! I always learn something new! As a former interior designer (turned SAHM) I LOVE all the psychology behind all of it.
I also have noticed lately as I am getting more confidence to get rid of something that's no longer useful to me, I still want to find "just the right place" to donate or gift it too. But in reality, that just takes so much more time that I don't have in this stage of life with 4 kids AND the longer it sits around in a box, waiting to until I can take it somewhere, I'm more likely to second guess myself and pull it back out! Thanks for the encouragement to just get rid of it NOW. You know me too well. 😉
I also have a son who likes to keep everything (like his pack rat recovering Mama) and has taken over multiple drawers around the house and claimed them for his stuff. I have been meaning to sit down with him and go through his things to see if he is ready to let go of some items. Thanks for the reminder. Next time we do, we will define a new LIMITED space where he can keep those things.
Thanks for all your constant encouragement and teaching. Blessings to you and the family.
Your container philosophy always comes to my mind when finding a place for things. Today you mentioned setting a deadline for taking items to be recycled and I thought 'deadlines are like containers'. If it doesn't fit the container you don't keep it. If you can't make the deadline to recycle then don't keep it. Let it go. I think we might be surprised/appalled at how many donated items go straight to the dumpster anyway because the donation 'container' is full.
I really like that sweatshirt you're wearing.
I decluttered the bathroom today, felt so good! Thanks Dawn for the inspiration 😊. Next is the linen cupboard. Yikes!
I put my dryer balls in the laundry bag I never use :) Love it...the balls don't end up in my sleeves or pant legs...so much better!
Great idea! I find my dryer balls in shirt sleeve & sheets. I love your solution & will put them in my mesh laundry bags from now on. Thank you!
I cannot fathom having laundry balls and not using them. I've worn out a few sets now, and you can send me your unused ones!
Brilliant idea! I love them but hate fishing them out of the clothes. Thank you!
I love watching you. I am a widow. I live alone. I have learned I don't need to keep everything I had 50 years ago. Thank you.
I didn't realize that fabric textile recycling excited. Thank you, there's one not to far from my home.
If you’re going through a process that makes it easier to not purchase things that aren’t necessary, you actually ARE doing something for the environment. Maybe today it looks wasteful and not good for the environment, but down the road you’ll be a person who doesn’t contribute to environmental waste because you honed that muscle. Also, things are produced based on demand. The minute something is produced it’s destined to be some form of waste no matter whose house it goes to. When we buy anything, it’s destiny is a waste bin. Even if you donate it. At some point that thing will be waste.
Hope this helps someone dealing with guilt over purging, donating, decluttering, and throwing away things ❤️
I so needed this today. I am running all over town donating stuff. I need the courage or permission to throw things away that nobody wants not even me. Thank you! Thank you! Thank You!
My local Goodwill and Compassion Center takes torn worn faded clothing - they sell it for rags. I bag separately. Easier and quicker to throw away, but helps until you develop your throw away muscles and mindset.
When you said donation centers are overwhelmed with all the stuff they have, it made me think about what can I just get rid of. Thanks Dawn❤
Hi there! You've a gorgeous picture on your profile! I just decided to stop by and say hi! I hope my compliment is appreciated ☺️😊
Hi. We've a large donation center not taking items now also. I had to drive further up the road to drop off. 6 bags full. Felt so good. Maybe everyone else is also decluttering? Suppose this is a good thing.
I actually wish I had more towels to donate--the animal shelter people are so grateful that it is very rewarding to make the extra trip. But yes, "the road to he'll is paved with good intentions" and so many of my intentions are just laying around the house as unfinished, useless projects.
After the all day declutter this past weekend, the garbage bin is Full. I wish I could get more out. Thanks Dawn.
Hi there! You've a gorgeous picture on your profile! I just decided to stop by and say hi! I hope my compliment is appreciated ☺️😊
When it comes to shampoos, conditioners, and body washes, a little water can be added to the bottle and shaken. You’ll be able to get 1-2 more uses depending on what’s left. I’ve even cut open tubes of makeup/sunscreen etc (keep tube in a ziplock and use a butter knife to get product out). Usually get an extra week out of the item. Things I don’t like get tossed.
Me too!
I found you, Dawn, almost exactly 3 years ago. I can add my own experience that having less in my home means that I make better decisions about what I buy! We moved into a new house and I know before than I would have spent/wasted so much money buying a ton of cute (and cheap and trendy) stuff to fill up my house with but instead, I picked a paint color I love for each space, picked a few special family pictures to hang and bought one large piece of art for our formal living room that I loved and the house is absolutely so calm and easy to maintain. I’ve been ignoring the boxes that got shoved into the storage room when we moved in, but trying to use my new year motivation to get rid of about half of it by the end of the month. 😂😂
To anyone wondering if it’s really worth it- it is!! I have 5 kids and still manage to feed them just as well with 5 pots/pans as I did when I had 11 and I feel more confident in my clothing choices now than I ever did before I simplified my wardrobe. Do it! You really won’t miss anything you get rid of!
Love this video! I have been getting rid of more things that aren’t used, worn out, don’t need etc Today I made another trip to the dumpster and loaded donations to drop off tomorrow Progress
I have realized that everything I detested when my parents became Ill and I had to deal with all stuff….is now my life. Your videos inspire me to let go. Tuesday is the day our trash is picked up. I have designated Tuesday as massive declutter day. My goal every Tuesday is to add to the trash pile and fill my Ford Expedition with donations. Your videos play in the background. Hearing you say “it’s ok to let it go” and “does it fit in the container” helps so very much! My house didn’t become this big mess overnight it took years. However, I have no intention of it taking years to get rid of it all. Thank you for your videos!
This was one of your best videos because it’s something we can do quickly and weekly.
We got a digital photo frame a few years ago and it’s freed me from photo guilt. When any one of us has a frame worthy pic, we add it. We all love seeing our pictures on a daily basis. Recently got one for the elders in our family and I hope they also enjoy it.
Yes, me too. Hubby got one years ago because he likes new electronics, but now I appreciate it!
I use my iPad slideshow feature that scrolls through the photos until I stop it.
A friend of mine got one of those frames that she can add to for the grandparents and aunts so everyone's frames get the same photos so all can enjoy them. Keeps the grands happy and less stuff. I remember when I got the box of photos back that we gave to the grands. She didn't want to throw them away so she gave them all back. It was neat to see them all in one spot!
YES! I was waiting for you to say it and you did! Better clarity and decision making about bringing things into our home and buying things! That’s IT when you have been doing this for awhile. Declutter is KEY when starting but at some point you realize to stop bringing things in and that is most important. I’m so much more intentional and mindful now. 2023 is a no-buy year for me! I have “enough” and working on being content.
Awesome!👍
I’m doing a no-buy except essentials for January and will add more months as I go along. Love hearing others do no-buy challenges too. Inspires me to keep going
A life hack for worn out socks… don’t throw them away cut them open and bring them to the garage or shop rags, also do the same thing for Worn out T-shirts
Absolutely 💯
Thank you for inspiring me to declutter. My house looks better and better every day❤️
One thing we did for the socks in our family - everyone has a set “colour” and we bought a dozen pairs each.
This way it’s very easy to tell whose sock is whose, especially since my kids & I are now wearing the same size lol! 🤣
But also, no worries about mismatches, because anytime one sock is thrown out, there’s only 1 other sock without a mate until another sock gets thrown :)
I want to do that but I can't find different coloured socks in one pack. I can do black or grey for my boy but buying 2 solid colours for my girls.... where do you buy them?
@@chelseahoagland4250 Walmart George brand - I found a pack that had a few pairs each of solid blue, solid pink, white with pink heels, and white with blue heels. This way, she can mix and match a little and it won't look too terrible, and she gets more than 1 colour so she is happy :)
Love these videos. They’ve changed our family’s life! Thank you! 🙏🎊🌷
I love how you just say let stuff go instead of put it in the trash or throw it away. Let it go sounds so nice and freeing
We're lucky enough to have trash picked up twice a week. Mondays & Thursdays. It's quite handy!
Use those old dryer balls and essential oils to freshen drawers, closets, or cars. We get two trash/recycle/lawn waste per week on Thursday and Monday.
Thanks for giving us permission when sometimes we can't give it to ourselves. Yay! The magical black bag!!!!
Ours is Monday! It's wonderful! We can declutter all weekend
Your videos just get better and better! Thank you for all you do! ❤️
I'll admit, I do save more food storage containers because I batch cook beans, rice, soups, etc. and portion and freeze.
We have always sewed up the holes in our socks with a needle and thread.
Thank you, Dawn, for permission to have no guilt, and letting go physically and mentally! I’m recently off from work and dedicated my morning before garbage day morning to the trash bag. One thing lead to another and hours later I’m still trashing, donating, getting rid of packaging, filling the empty glass pantry jars, and took a cooking break when dinner was inspired by the fridge clean-out💕decluttering bliss 🙏freedom,and inspo every garbage day!😘
Omg. The Choose Your Adventure visual is super helpful. I am very visual and also, out of sight, out of mind. So much clutter around my house right now, but this helps me see the less seen mental process that is involved with keeping these items. Thank you so much for this. 💛
Dawn, no matter how many times I watch your videos, I gain more quick ideas!! Thank you!!
Dawn! I'm just so grateful for you!! You are out here changing lives. You have freed me of so much guilt and helped me realize that my home can be a representation of my priorities and not a dumping ground for other people's (or my own past) ideas of who I am or should be. The psychology of our connection to our things is incredibly fascinating and I feel my relationship to not only things, but myself, shifting as I move through my home and let go of things. I'm currently working on my kids room and I'm most excited for this, out of the whole house. I'm excited for them to have a space that is truly relaxing and spacious and not a constant struggle to keep clean. We had a snow day yesterday so we all went through it together and I just kept reiterating so many of the things I've learned from you. I kept saying "It's ok to have loved that thing and for it not to serve you anymore" and "Value your space and make sure it only has things that actually fit who you are and what you love now", plus lots and lots of "I'm so proud of you!". My folks, bless them, are still very connected to "things" as a physical representation of love so my house has been FULL of things they put here. I'm excited to change the conversation generationally and hopefully foster a healthier connection to material items for my kids and their future. It sucks to throw things away but hopefully this mindfulness we're cultivating will mean more thoughtfulness about consumption and ultimately be a step towards a more sustainable relationship to our planet. THANK YOU times a million!
I’ve made so much progress just by watching this video every week before trash day 🎉
You are like a breath of fresh air honestly I’ve struggled most of last year struggling with clutter I found your Channel about a month ago and I am obsessed you’ve helped me so much thank you ❤️🤍
As a chronic over thinker....the stories I could tell. 🥴. This was so well-put & you covered all the possible scenarios & end results.😘🙏
Thanks for the great ideas/inspiration. Also FYI, partially used personal hygiene products could be easily donated to homeless and women’s shelters. As someone who has sensitive skin and accumulates way too many products that cannot be used this donation option has been a game changer. Not only will they take partially used shampoos and soaps but also perfume, body sprays, deodorant, hair products, etc. have a great week!!
My local women’s shelter will only take unopened toiletries. I called to check, and they thanked me for checking. They accept all donations, but had to throw away anything opened. Just an fyi
Most likely this depends on the shelter’s policies. We are fortunate to have a centralized shelter shop that accepts and distributes the items collected to the appropriate shelters in need. When in doubt it is probably best practice to call ahead and see what items are acceptable.
@@laurtheonly4980 I take all my used stuff to my local little food pantry cabinet (like the little libraries). All my opened stuff gets taken.
I don’t know how I missed this one 7 month ago! But I wanted to say I really like the formatting with the white background and notes written there.
These plastic massage sponges from bathroom can be washed with your regular laundry. I had one for many years and give it ocassional refreshment with my laundry and it's like new. It saves on your soaps so they are good but they need some love from time to time. I have literary one for all family and it's ok. We don't have any skin problems so there is no need to keep one for each member.
Throw my daughters scrubbie in with the towels...you can use it quite a long time.
I decluttered my music on my phone and laptop this week! Felt so good to delete music I don't listen to anymore so I have just songs I LOVE and am excited to hear!
I have Tuesday and Friday and every garden clean up. So no excuses for me.
This is a good idea to check-in regularly on a weekly basis, it's more doable and not so overwhelming.
Old perfume is used for bathroom spray to use it up in our home.
I do that too. A little goes a long way!
As a visual thinker person, there are so many joyful items that when I see it makes me smile and recall the precious moment or memory. I just could not have all open surfaces. Photos, great grandmothers hand mirror, 2nd great grandfather’s war medals. That special tea cup that reminds me of my Daughter in law in a different country and culture. If I didn’t have theses things in order and able to be viewed I would feel robbed.
I just again have to say thank you. We had to have our entire bathroom replumbed yesterday. So an expensive and stressful prospect. I have to say though in the past when our house wasn't simplified I would be very anxious about the house and do multiple days of manic cleaning which really was stressful and full of shame for me. And by cleaning I mean hiding. Not getting rid of things but hiding them so that I could actually clean (think Monica's crazy closet). I have been following you for a few years now so I have successfully simplified our home...and the night before the plumber came all I had to do was literally move toothbrushes and towels out of the way and move our dining table over so they could get to the pipes from the dining room. It took like 10 stress-free minuets. Thank you, I literally stopped and thought about how it used to be when trades people were in my home vs now. I remembered what that felt like and am so thankful that I don't have to feel like that now.
I heard this quote the other day:
"You Can Do Anything, But Not Everything."
this helps me forgive myself and not feel guilty if I couldn't do everything that I dreamed of/ wishlist/ or to-do list of doing it.