As 2019 comes to a close, we begin to set our sights on a new horizon, a new chapter, and, most importantly, the opportunity to set new goals. This 2020, perhaps you’ve pledged to focus on self-improvement, mindfulness, and a more stress-free existence. Having a clean and organized home is the first step on the path to increased productivity and an uncluttered mind. Here are some simple and straightforward resolutions to help keep your space free and clear.
Harsh blue light can dampen spirits and mess with our circadian rhythms, preventing a good night’s sleep. Swap out intense, bright lights for soft LED bulbs that mirror natural daylight. Dimmable bulbs allow homeowners to program softer, lower lighting at night and brighter settings in the morning with the sunrise.
Create recycling and composting stations to reduce trash throughout the home. A composting system can be as simple as a sealed bin stashed in the closet or pantry. In the spring, plant a container garden and use the compost bin to create nutrient rich soil that will no doubt facilitate fresh, lush vegetables and herbs. Place a recycling container next to the trash can so you’ll be reminded to check each item for proper disposal methods.
As the year goes by, our closets, cabinets, and garages seem to take on unnecessary clutter. When the holiday season rolls around, our spaces are overflowing with random stuff whose origins we can’t seem to recall. We are often motivated periodically to clean out and organize, but motivation comes in spurts. In an attempt to get organized and stay organized, we need to implement the proper tools in fostering a clutter-free space.
First, get rid of everything you don’t need by donating gently used attire, unneeded household supplies, and other unused electronics to your local secondhand store. Next, analyze the items you have. Is your partner a Home Depot fan who can never seem to have enough power tools? Invest in a pegboard with ample hooks and hang it in the closet, pantry, or garage. Perhaps you enjoy having a fully stocked pantry but can never seem to find that one special ingredient. Buy shelves, hooks, and pantry organizers to keep your dry goods accessible and visible.
Keeping your home clean can be a huge burden if taken on by only one person. Construct a chore list and invite roommates or family members to participate. Come up with a reward system that benefits all participants but doesn’t break the bank, like a pizza night at the end of each week if all chores were completed. Identify the areas of your home that seem to get the messiest and schedule a daily or weekly cleaning of them. Rotate assignments each week and modify the list accordingly.
Having a stress-free, decluttered home allows us to enter into the New Year with a clean slate. Resolving to maintain a clean house is much easier to do when a proper system is in place to help keep items organized, floors clean, and bills lower. VerraWest’s Longmont apartments are designed with our residents in mind. Each home offers ample storage space, plenty of natural light, and spacious floor plans. Contact us today to learn more!