I did the 30 day minimalism game over my 3 day weekend and i was worried I wouldn’t be able to do it bc I’ve been a minimalist for 8yrs and I did struggle but I included things that were trash and split up socks to make 2 items but I found a bin of “important papers” and realized I had w2s from 2014 and resumes from 5 years ago like why. I went through gardening items on my patio and found quite a few items as well.
Extra school supplies! We had three whole hutch drawers full of used crayons, colored pencils, many glue sticks, Elmer’s glue bottles, dry erase board markers, super glue, folders, half used notebooks etc. I bought new every year, but kept accumulating the old one from the year before. I cleaned it all out and donated them to my sister who is a teacher in a poor district. She was thrilled.
I can’t remember if any/all of these are on the list but I’ve recently got rid of: extra perfumes, unused kitchen gadgets (soda stream, rice cooker, vegetable cutting tools), unused sports shoes (my husband use to play squash and my son played soccer), picture frames, containers with missing lids (and lids with missing containers). Also digital clutter: deleted my Instagram account, unsubscribed from loads of junk emails. It’s also good to change your bills/bank statements etc to email rather than paper form.
I have to respectfully disagree on the idea that your pets don't need toys, because wild animals don't need toys. Pets stay mostly/entirely in the house or the immediate space around the house. It's a similar principle to zoo animals, who also stay within a confined space- their lives are made more meaningful when they have enrichment. Which doesn't necessarily HAVE to be toys, but toys are a convenient way to make that happen. Love the video!
Wild animals do have toys, just not ones from the store. They play tug of war with bones and sticks, they chase and chew small prey animals, they play with each other. Stimulation and enrichment is an absolute need for animals that are being kept outside of their natural "toy" filled environment.
My dogs have 1 toy- a horse ball (they destroy everything else) and they have natural bones. Other than that they find sticks and branches in the yard and spend hours playing with them. Crappy dog toys are definitely not a necessity and some of them are so dangerous to dogs.
I think that one is honestly dependent on your pet, my dog personally doesn’t play with toys as much as I wish he did especially because I have a because I live far from work so an 8 hour work day turns out to be longer, and there’s been times where he’s gotten bored and well a pitty who gets bored is a pitty who will find something other than his own things to chew on. I’ve pretty much stopped buying him toys, don’t get me wrong I spend hundreds on other things for him but I find getting him out on walks and socializing with people makes him the most happy and gets the restlessness out that built up from the week. When I can I get him on the trails with me or take him to social outings where he’s invited he enjoys that much more than toys. On the other hand my dad’s dog will go through toys within a week. So I think that one is just about knowing your fur baby and doing your best with their personality.
When I watch videos like these, I look at it as a review in life. I ask my self do these tips fit my stage of life right now. In truth my 12 year old dog has six balls to play fetch, five stuff animals and three deer antlers. She plays with two balls, one stuff animal and all three antlers. Her current stage of life is sadly getting close to the end, this video has me thinking about am I helping her in this stage.... This is how I watch or listen to these videos not at a must too. I don't know if this might help to see this from a different way if not no worries. You do you. I am glad you comment cause it started getting people to think and for me I love that. I like the thinking comments not the fighting comments if you understand what I mean. Have a peaceful day and space.
Have to disagree strongly on one point- you should NOT throw away old photos! You should make copies and archive them for backup and safely store them somewhere. Computers, flash drives, CDs and so on can be stolen, damaged, or lost. If you really don't want the photos then find a family member that may because those photos may one day be a part of your family's history.
A photo can be damaged or lost as easily as a computer, flash drive or dvd. Actually, if it’s on your computer you could back it up to google photos or a cloud. That is safer than all of the above
It just helps as a reminder that we ain't gonna take anything with us upon leaving this world, minimalism makes the process of leaving this world (whenever destined) easier 🤞
@@seaofroses8888 thats true,i have lots of old.picture that slowly damage overtime.i saw my father in law ,throw away lots of picture.a big box of old picture.he only keep one photo album
I agree--I'm 70 and hoping to make a scrap book for each of my 5 grandchildren. They will all live out their lives in their own families and homes and probably in different cities and provinces--so each grandchild needs a book of memories of their dad and grandparents and memories of who they came from. This will be a big job--but that is what I hope to do soon.
Love most of your pointers but from experience, I strongly recommend NOT taking the hard copy manual out of your car! We took my car on a road trip and ended up in a situation that we needed to change an obscure setting to navigate, I only had a digital manual that wasn't saved for offline access, and there was zero cell signal. It made what should have been an okay situation incredibly tricky and stressful. Once we got home from the trip a manual book was the first thing I bought. It's worth it to keep. Someday you might be reeeeeeally glad you had it lol
I agree! I also keep a roll of quarters in the glovebox, because so many times they’ve come in handy, like paying for air for tires or the car vacuum machines or old fashioned car wash places. There was one I went to for years that only cost 50 cents.
I did a mix of these two options & downloaded my car manual! It saved space & on the off chance that I do end up needing it on the side of the road I don't need service : )
I have a flip phone because I feel like not using social media all day everyday declutters my mind. I actually needed my car manual today because I was doing my own repairs. I find the car manual can also be a lot faster to find very specific information than having to google or watching UA-cam videos anyway. It’s just one book out of the way that makes life a lot easier if you anticipate doing any auto care yourself. If you don’t travel, are fine potentially forking over hundreds to thousands for towing and mechanics instead of at least trying it yourself…. Then sure, throw it away. But mine has helped me save soooo much money.
Here u go 1. Expired food 2. Extra silverware 3. Extra pots + pans 4. Spices you don't use 5. Kitchen gadgets + Appliances 6. Random fridge stuff 7. Toxic cleaning products 8. Expired supplements 9. Reusable bags 10. Extra baking sheets 11. Clothes you haven't used in 6months 12. High Heels 13. Trendy Impulses 14. Sunglasses 15. Uncomfortable clothes 16. Freebies 17. Extra cars sitting around 18. Non-essential in the glove box 19. DIY Leftovers 20. Paper Clutter 21. Unused Holiday Decor 22. Stuff from old hobbies "We do no do ourselves favor hanging on to past seasons of our life when we have entered into new ones" 23. Exercise Equipment 24. Duplicate or Unused tools 25. Collections 26. Old Photos 27. Empty Cleaning Products 28. Empty Hair Products 29. Empty Makeup Products 30. Giveaway Chapsticks 31. Anything thats broken 32. Anything spoiled or otherwise ruined 33. Extra towels 34. Medicines that expired or served their purpose 35. Toxic Makeup Products 36. Skincare products containing chemicals 37. Toxic or unused haircare products 38. Puzzles missing pieces 39. Board games that aren't being played too often 40. Plastic toys (Unless they're your child's fave) 41. Noise making toys 42. Craft kits 43. Baby items 44. Throw Pillows 45. Lingering Holiday Items 46. Knick Knack decor items 47. Furniture that's in the way 48. Dead plants 49. Extra plant pots 50. Extra/Ripped/Worn/Old Pet Supplies 51. Books you won't read again 52. Gifts you don't like 53. Birthday Cards 54. Invitations + Holiday Cards 55. Letters 56. Ticket Stubs 57. Random Cords 58. Old headphones 59. Punch Cards 60. Coupons 61. Unused Gift Cards 62. Old Phones 63. Pens 64. Bulk packs of office supplies like post-its 65. Just in case items 66. Things that require you to buy more things 67. Anything you don't like maintining 68. Anything you wish would walk itself out the door 69. Anything you could rent or borrow 70. Anything that already served it's purpose
My biggest issue with most minimalism is when we hear on repeat , I will just borrow it from someone else. This can work sometimes but shouldn't be rel led on when getting rid of your own. It comes across very entitled to depend on being allowed to use others stuff so our houses can be simplified.
She's referring to items that you don't use often or at all but keep just in case you might need it's someday. "I might need it some day" is what gets many people stuck when they had been making progress on their decluttering journey. In the past, I would purchase a large tool or item if I was going to work on a remodel job in our home only to find that I haven't used this large item since that remodeling project 5 years ago and now it's sitting there just taking up valuable real estate. Had I decided to rent it from a tool rental place or borrow it from a friend, I would not have to make the difficult yet necessary decision to finally get rid of this item.
To anyone who is entering minimalism with young kids! I would just like to say, as a minimalist myself, remember to allow growth and change as your kids get older/bigger. They are going to have their own idea of how they want to live and navigate their space. We were able to build two extra rooms for my teenagers and my 3 kids have their own rooms for the first time. I feel strongly that since I am so adamant that my house is simplified, I don't make them simplify their own rooms. They grew up minimalist but my 16 and 18 year olds are going through the phase of loving stuff. I don't want them to feel guilty about this. They will come to how they want to live on their own.
definitely KEEP the car manual in the car… broke down a couple times at night with either low phone battery or no data connection…. a lil paper manual isn’t taking up much space :)
I second keeping the car manual. If you travel around the us you might discover that there are still places that don’t have cell coverage. You don’t want to break down without your manual and find out you can’t access the internet.
I agree, completely! In fact, I believe if ANYTHING is in the glove compartment of my car at all, it should be the car manual and important paperwork like my insurance card. I believe the other stuff in there is what may need to be decluttered. 💯
Hard agree! I think a lot of people who almost exclusively drive locally or in metropolitan areas *could* get away with getting rid of it, but it's not like it takes up all that much room, and it's potential to get you off the side of the road and back to somewhere where you can call for help is well worth every square inch. My last car didn't come with a manual, as it was used, and I never once regretted printing out the maintenance and engine layout sections from the internet. Even for just basic maintenance, it's way easier to grab the manual than look it up every time you need to buy new wipers or check when you'll need your next tire rotation.
I would recommend keeping a pair of good quality sunglasses. UV radiation is quite harmful for eyesight, despite the benefits of getting a bit of sunlight.
Your eyes do not need sunglasses- You only get addicted to them because your eyes get more sensitive because they get used to them. 10 years before I believed that too. After years I know better.
I love “anything you wish would just spontaneously combust so you didn’t have to feel bad getting rid of it” 😅😅 i definitely needed to hear that today, I’m trying to decluttering
TIP: declutter holiday decor when you first put it up at the beginning of the season. Most thrift stores don't accept holiday decor donations in January...I found that out the hard way this last January and have been waiting to donate those items until the new season.
It’s because we have to store things all year round and a lot of charity shops will just bin things unless they are in real good condition for resale. If your stuff is unsaleable just bin it yourself it costs the shops more money in bin bags that are nearly too pounds a bag. Only clothes we get money for in rag money for the charity shop. Plus shoes and linens.
Yes, this is a great tip! Also, before you donate, find a consignment store to work with! They display a month before the holiday, so hopefully, you'll get some money back!
Don’t trust the cloud.. it lost all my first child’s baby pictures.. had no physical copies.. gut wrenching. Thankfully Shutterfly had them backed up 🙏🏼 Maybe a monthly photo book.. kids love looking back on pictures of themselves
I have blue eyes and I am completely blinded by the sun without sunglasses. I’ve tried not wearing them and my eyes hurt so bad. For me it’s a necessity! 😎
same, the squinting gives me really bad headaches too. i've tried to go without sunglasses for several weeks and i was getting headaches nearly every day
Same. I also think it's relative to your lifestyle. Most people will be totally fine without sunglasses, even if they spend most of their free time outside, but if you're someone who works outdoors, it can be really important for preventing sun damage to your retinas.
All I've ever read and heard from eye doctors, is that direct sunlight is not good for your eyes and that your eyes will age faster from direct sunlight. Your eyes can develop stare quicker etc. So I wouldn't give the advice to everyone to not wear sunglasses.. But I do like the advice to declutter the sunglasses to 2 pp.
Don't tell people to throw out their car manual. It's very easy to end up stranded in a place without reception or enough data to download a pdf. The internet is not everywhere.
Your organic spices, tips about healthy footwear, and studies about no sunglasses - AND, your struggle with staying organized naturally - you must be my soul sister ♥️💫 - most impressive minimalist / declutter video I’ve ever watched (and I’ve watched a LOT!) Your healthy inspirational twist is a nice change from the rest!
"Anything you wish would spontaneously combust so you wouldn't have to feel so bad about getting rid of it" 😂 I needed to hear that one. I'm definitely holding on to things because I feel bad about having to get rid of it.
Thank you for another great video. We are a family of six and I cook 99% of our meals. I have loved having a minimized kitchen. I have one large pot, one small sauce pot, a Dutch oven for baking bread, and a large cast iron skillet. I haven’t needed anything more in over three years. The less clutter in my kitchen the more I enjoy being in there!
That sounds amazing! My partner won't let me down size pots and pans. But maybe one day! The rest of our house is so nicely downsized. But the kitchen 😱
@@Meg-eq2md could you propose an experiment… you could put the pots and pans you would declutter away somewhere else and only bring them out if need be? An easy way to see if you actually need something. After a month, or a couple, of not using it you could agree to declutter it.
We cook most of our meals at home as well with our family of five. I find it very difficult to get rid of kitchen items. I wish I could downsize some things but I feel like we cook such a variety of items that I need everything that I use.
You are way younger than me, but oddly I feel like we are friends. I just moved to a fancy area outside Boston, and I got rid of everything. It feels so good. People think I am nuts. I have never felt so happy :) Thank you thank you thank you. Today, a friend called me because she was worried that my life was so boring and that maybe I was depressed. lol I told her I am living a simple, slow life and living my best live EVER. Thank you Madisun.
About the car manual being on the internet… I like to travel to remote areas a lot, and many of the places I’ve been don’t have any cell service or internet. So ditching the car manual is only for people who stay in more populated areas. Plus I always keep a first aid kit, a small tool kit, and an emergency overnight bag in each of my cars (which are all used frequently in my family). I also live in area where stranded people have died overnight during storms from being ill-prepared. When I was a kid and entire family froze to death overnight just outside the town. That’s less likely to happen now that most of my area has cell service, but it’s still better to be safe.
Loving the video. The 90 day rule on clothes (because 90 days covers all the seasons) doesn't hold up in our country. I actually laughed out loud when you said it. We also don't live somewhere where you can just not bother to wear shoes but awesome that you do - sounds very free. Otherwise, I like your matter of fact approach to minimalism and will definitely use some of your tips in my home.
This video is life changing...You have made me look at everything so differently. Your way of explaining has gotten through in 20 min what no one else has in twenty years, and the first thing to go is the heels! I'm going to get the wheel barrow you are amazing thank you so much for this. I literally went from overwhelmed holding back tears to over joyed and with a smile.
Reusable bags are necessary - but you must be in the habit to use them. I used to have the problem of always forgetting, but finally got into the habit of bringing them back to my car so they will be there for the next shopping trip 😊
I always have to have plastic (walmart, etc.) bags on hand, because i us them several times a week for some medical issues i deal with. it's nice to have them so i can just pitch them when i throw away my disgusting "trash". 😏
As an older mom, who lives in a very rural area… I have agreed with your list until the car manual. The reason those are in your car is so when you are in an area where there is not an cell signal (so much of the state I live in) and you have an emergency light come on, you have the ability to see how urgent it is… or if you break down etc. many places in the south still do not have a Signal where you can pull up a web page, much less a whole manual. In saying all of that, if you travel a lot, keep the manual. It does not take up much space and could really benefit a situation. 💕
This was a great one, Madisun! Decluttering is my hobby, and I realized through this that I’m still holding onto past hobbies that are taking up space in my home. Time to let them go 💕
I will say, some of these tips are quite helpful, but I do not agree with discarding family photos. This predicates on the fact that you will always have access to the internet, to a hard drive, etc. My family lost almost everything in Hurricane Camille with the exception of a few select things--including family photo albums. Those would have been lost forever, and I never would have had pictures of my loved ones who passed on, if we didn't have those albums. You may not think those things can happen to you until they do. Keep momentos. Keep printed copies. You never know what will happen, and you'll be grateful to have those to reflect on.
You absolutely should not get rid of owner manuals for items you still own. Insurance companies often ask for proof of ownership when you make a claim and thermal printed receipts just don't last. The manual is easier to store than the box it came in.
@@kowalchukm computer files can become lost or corrupted; your devices can break; "the cloud" is not foolproof. Digital file are great for a backup but you shouldn't solely rely on them. A folder with a paper copy of all your warranties/manuals is always good to have around.
Great ideas! My little doggie plays with toys every day, so I know she would not appreciate her stuff getting removed. Things I think could be added: 1: dvd/cds if you don’t use them and have streaming platforms instead. If you like the actual product, you can throw away the cases and put them all in a cd case. It has saved me so much room. 2. Magazines 3. Subscriptions you aren’t using
Reusable grocery bags work really well as book bags. You can ask your local library if they could use them. We always keep a couple for patrons who dislike using plastic and forgot their own bag.
I came across your channel a few weeks ago. I was already familiar with minimalism and was in the process of getting our home where I wanted it to be. But, when I listen to you, it inspires me to do more and do it now. I have donated 50% of the kids toys, kitchen, books, clothes, you name it (and this is not the first time). Watching your videos has truly inspired me. I've pretty much bing watched all your videos to this point. That's probably not cool to say, but it's true. And it's made me realize that I'm not weird for wanting to live with less. Or to live a less rushed and hurried lifestyle. I had never heard of the term slow living before, but it sums up what my heart has been searching for. We have 4 children and I'm so excited to stop spending my time managing my stuff, and more time enjoying my time with my family. I don't know why we feel like we need 'permission' to do the things we know are right, but I just had to tell you that I'm truly inspired by you, our shared faith, minimalism, and slow living. Thank you for making these videos. I am praying for you and your family.
Oh my goodness. This is the kindest most thoughtful comment ever. THANK YOU. I am a bit teary eyed and feeling so grateful that my sharing this experience is resonating and that it's changing your life. Love to you and your family!
My husband and I are recovering maximalists. We took 1000 lbs of trash to the dump yesterday and we are having our 3rd yard sale this year. We are 30 years old.
I was just decluttering my daughters room and took a break. Came to UA-cam and on my suggested! Look at that confirmation. This is extremely encouraging and I love your ideas! I have been. Heading toward minimalismish for a like 4-5 years and with the ebs and flows of life. I do it then it gets a big clogged in our home. The 24th is a community garage sale. We have an entire space just filled with donate and sell my goal is to be done by then 🤞🤞
I decluttered the fridge straight away as you said it 😂 and i loved the 10 second rule on declutter decision making, and threw out a couple of items whilst watching X thanks!
Really enjoyed your video! Tying to simplify my life, 2 teenagers, 2 dogs and 2 cats (and a husband lol) Realizing we have way too much stuff, I'm really understanding that the clutter I once thought was "decor' or "memorabilia" is causing me stress to manage! Looking forward to doing a huge purge!
I absolutely love you and your ideas! Currently decluttering and have been using your videos as a reference. Honestly- every single thing that leaves our home feels like taking a deep breath. It feels light. Feels like I can focus now. Thank you sister in Christ!
When you said “it’s okay, just let it go” you have no idea how healing that was hahahaha I am trying hard to go back to my minimal lifestyle after buying our first home and filling it up with things we don’t need! It’s a process… thank you this video is so helpful!
Thank you for your video & experience. I’ve been on a decluttering journey this year & at the age of 54, it’s been hard but very rewarding. I’ve always been fairly organised but it’s so much better with less.
This is great! I keep my home pretty minimal, but there’s always something else you can declutter, and videos like this one always motivate me to get rid of more stuff. :)
Digital photo albums make sitting on anyone’s couch exciting. It’s cool to see what pops up and you also can get rid of all of the photo albums. It’s amazing!
This was amazing thank you! Given me such a boost to go further with our minimalism before baby number 4 arrives! We actually removed our tv in the last couple of weeks. It’s on top of a wardrobe for now but it needed to have some timeout as during some heatwaves in the U.K. our kids were just sat indoors glued to it. Their creativity (with a simplified toy supply) has been incredible and they are learning so much more as we have started our term of home education this autumn. Keep the content coming! X
Add the photos to the cloud; but I would recommend putting them in an accessible photo album; maybe as a coffee book replacement that way you actually look through them & they are special
if you do have reusable bags; try keeping some in your car to see if you use them more like that before tossing them all! it’s cost-annoying to have to keep buying new bags when grocery-shopping etc :) edit: or if you have a cute picnic basket you don’t use for decor, maybe use that for grocery shopping? just a random idea, very cottagecore haha!
We kept as many as we need for a weekly shop which is around 6. For a family if six. And a picnic basket for the eggs and delicate produce. Has been great. They are always in the car. After putting the groceries away we put them right back.
This video helped so much. I was re-inspired and this helped give me direction about what to declutter next in my home…. And gave me peace about throwing things away!! We’ve been dealing with rats in our apartment garage so I can’t make a separate space for donation items and stuff was piling up because I can’t get to a donation center…. So today I threw a lot of things away and posted a few of the good things for free on marketplace and it’s all disappearing and I feel so good about it! I hate trashing items that could be donated but I just haven’t been able to make it happen…. And my health and peace is more important!
I’ve tried cutting down the silverware and dishes just to keep the dishes down and packed them away, but I swear the kids eat them with their meals because they’re constantly coming up missing. I honestly couldn’t part with my kitchen aid even if I don’t use it every day. I saved up for one for so long after my ex moved out and took it with him because it was one of the kitchen things I could always use when I did need one and no one else I know has one. It makes baking more convenient to toss everything in the bowl and turn it on over hand mixing everything myself as my hands aren’t made for doing so even over a short period of time. I totally understand the cookie sheets in the oven thing! We only own two now and do use them both! I don’t have a whole bunch of sunglasses, only one pair, BUT I do use them on days I get migraines so even if I don’t use them everyday, the do come in handy when I need them. Many of the things you mentioned I don’t even buy!
I love these videos 💛 I’m 13 years old and love minimalism! Because I don’t have controll over the items in my house (other than mine) because my parents own it, these videos make me excited to have a house of my own that I can keep clean and clutter-free!
Great quick summary list of all essential things to declutter. I have one big clear plastic bin with hobby stuff.. sometimes I go 6 mths or over a year without doing it, because some things are winter some summer hobbies...and I have to be in the creative mood.. but i love it. Eg all collected rocks, shells etc from my world travels, which i am turning into wall art..it takes time.. but I love it, and my one box doesn't stress me. I have photo/scap books..with all photos and paper memory stuff in..I love my physical photo albums..and love to look at them with a coffee. My kids have 2 memory boxes..1 with hang files. One for each year from baby to 18 yrs old. The kids choose the best things to put in them. The second box is bulky stuff. When they leave home..they can take the 2 boxes with them. Photograph the stuff and bin it and use the boxes for adult paperwork that must be kept or they can use the boxes just as storage boxes..that is their decision. My oldest son (now 17) is much more sentiment than my younger son (now 9). I have always been more minimalist. I didn't buy furniture until I was 30...in my 20s i made or got hand me down furniture. I moved to much (17x), including abroad with just a rucksack. I spent my free time and money on travelling/backpacking all over the world. With kids and settling, came stuff, but when I got divorced, i realized that huge amounts of clutter which had built up and stressed me during out 18 yrs together, was my ex husbands stuff (i filled 90 boxes with his stuff). I am still reducing/refining my and my kids stuff but i have found that as long as 1 everything has a home 2 you don't need to spend hours tidying first before you can clean 3 your stuff doesn't stress or overwhelm you..but makes you happy 4 you keep decluttering regularly, which is necessary because life and kids change and develop ...then you have found your level of minimalism that works for you and your family (because your stuff doesn't "own you"). I bought a house without a garage or a basement because I knew if we had those. It allows stuff to accumulate and I knew my (now ex) husband would fill these spaces. I only have a small garden shed for bikes, garden games and gardening tools. And an attic for suitcases, seasonal stuff eg skiing stuff, camping stuff and a few boxes of seasonal decor. But I still love my 1/4 year "declutter weekend" when the kids are at their dads and I go through the whole house to see what I can declutter...these are such fun weekendand it resets thr whole house.
I just happened upon your channel. It is just what I needed! I have been downsizing and decluttering for years, and still have way too much stuff. You have just defined how to approach what is left and not needed. I am making a donation run this week, and can probably double or triple the stuff I am going to take. Thank you…. I will be rewatching this video a few times just so I don’t miss anything! 😊
My husband and I have been talking about buying a new (smaller) home and moving and drastically downsizing our stuff and have talked about what we’re getting rid of and don’t need any more. You talked about taking photos of your pictures and what I’ve been doing lately is painting in my sketch book, my most loved areas of the home. These are art pieces that I don’t necessarily have an attachment to or plan on keeping over time. I just feel like it’s a part of my way of letting go of the space we have loved over the years because you are right, the memories are not in the stuff, it’s within us.
I'm pretty minimalist but I absolutely COVER my fridge with magnets and pictures 😂 I love how it looks, it's like a big piece of art. Plus it's not like it's taking up room
I recently did Swedish Death Cleaning and got rid of half the stuff I own... Haven't regretted anything yet. I know some of these comments disagree with some of your list, but as someone who lived with hoarding parents, and anxiety and depression from waking up to clutter, I NEED to get rid of most of the stuff you've mentioned. To each their own. And you don't even have to go all out either, just starting small changes will help. For me, i went 50% and it was the best decision ever. It's videos like these that keep me motivated to keep a minimal, clutter free life. That's what works best for my mental health. Thanks so much for being bold and sharing this video especially in a consumerism society. We don't really need nor use everything we own and it's okay to part ways with them and create your own safe space and happiness ✨️
This video was helpful for me! I've been decluttering and having the inner battle with certain items whether I should keep or not when I know I no longer use- your video reminded me that its okay to part ways with what is not serving me, my family or our home anymore. Thank you!
This will be the best thing for my family. I get so inspired bu then get overwhelmed and give up. I have three small kids but this is beautiful and I hope to do this someday.
Some great points and some not as great points. As a Floridian and light sensitive person, I vehemently disagree with the sunglasses making the list 😂🪦
I weeded out my silverware yesterday and donated my one pan. I go through my spices regularly. I bought one appliance which replaced several...instant pot. I keep my reusable bags in my car. Your bottom drawer in your stove is a warmer. I have a cabinet for tall pans. I watch these videos for ideas.
HAPPENED to listen to this tonight while I was reorganizing my bathroom storage... Can't say I got rid of everything on this list, but it gave me an extra push to get rid of a lot of things I don't/won't use 🎉
great video, thanks! i started my decluttering journey about two years ago, and i began by binge watching decluttering videos (haha), and it hit me when one of them said "ur house aint gona get tidy by just watching us" so I started taking action and doing it. it feels very therapeutic and not-alone when i play decluttering videos in the background, it feels like someone is doing it beside me so it gets easier! having watched hundreds (maybe thousands) of decluttering videos, i still found yours refreshing! i even paid a konmari certified professional few months back and really did a full purge, but somehow, the clutter is creeping back and i hit a decluttering-bottleneck... just started the engine again today by sorting out the pantry, and your tips definitely help like a good push in my lazy bum 😅 i need to speed up decluttering to a more minimal state to welcome my baby
Great line! Consider "refusing" free items and things you may buy before bringing them home. Consider for a moment, "Where will this end up when I am done with it? If it is plastic and in a landfill, you may reconsider bringing the item home."
The gift thing. I have well meaning relatives who love to give gifts so I have a basket in a cupboard where I put well meaning gifts that I dont really want and i hold them for a short time and either regift them or donate them. I recently acquired a really pretty paraffin oil burner, which I have no idea what to do with.
Excellent. One that you might rethink. Putting every photo on the cloud andxthen recycling them. We older folks have gone throufh different techs through the years. Let me just say vhs tapes. Nothing is forever. I suggest keeping precious copies separate.
When you said you put your baking sheets in the oven and then preheat your oven now all of them are hot… I felt that! 😂 I do this almost every time and I still do it. You would think after years it would just be in my subconscious to always pull everything out but no. 😂
Excellent! Five Starts! I’ve been decluttering for 5 years. I’m now ready for the next level. It is an emotional process of letting go. I rented out my flat, furnished, packed up everything (except toothbrush, few pairs of clean undies, a change of clothes, a mug and pot…..and then the deal fell through and now I’m happy living with almost nothing. It is so freeing. I’m going to keep everything in the boxes. I might pull out a towel, extra pot and pair of scissors. I don’t think I need much more.
Loved this! The only one I can't do is get rid of the dog toys.I have 2 dogs and they play tug a lot or run around and chase each other in the backyard with them. I do however throw toys out once they are shredded or become dangerous to play with. Also, Yes get rid of stuff if you can rent it or borrow, but if it's something you use often, don't constantly ask to borrow people's stuff lol (not you directly) I know a lot of people that have asked to borrow things they just need to buy their own of.
Wow! This was GOOD. You have been inspiring my most recent declutter. Most people think my house is already “minimal” but it’s not! All those drawers and cabinets are hiding things. I can’t wait to declutter all my sweet cards and photos. I don’t know why I never thought to take a photo and move on. My home is more peaceful because of your videos! Thank you 💕
One thing- you’ll really miss that paper car manual when you’re out in the middle of nowhere with no cell service or internet 😅 trust me, I’ve been there.
Just decluttered my office while I listened to this video. Two bags full of junk and I feel great getting rid of it all! It helps to tackle one space at a time. Thank you for this video!
I do have a concern on totally relying on technology to store family history. Technology can fail, even with back up. Instead, reduce your photos to vintage that can't be replaced and have importance, a couple of an event you want to capture, ones that you could share with other family members. You still reduce, but a tangible, hold it in your hand, precious photo is hard to replace with a smart phone version. Store extras on the cloud.
Love this and agree with most of these, though I do keep extras and just in case items for craft things, especially for repairs since they do come in handy frequently enough. If I won’t use them, I’ll give them away. However, I do not understand people who only have 1 washcloth per person (even 1 towel is pushing it for me…), as I use at least 1 washcloth per day for washing my face. I will sometimes use one twice, but I’m not washing my towels every other day so I need at least 4 washcloths to let a week, and even then I find it more economical and efficient to wash a larger load of towels every two weeks. I want to be minimalist with my time too, which involves only washing laundry when I have a full load of clothing or a full load of kitchen/bath towels which I separate since they are different fabrics to keep them in good shape and wash on different, specific washer and dryer settings
@@MadisunGray thanks for making it! I love seeing what your family does and challenging myself to pare down even more. You’ve inspired me to throw out older medicines and toiletries. Many of them have a few drops left and are expired, so no need to hold onto them.
So happy and grateful I cane across your channel a couple weeks ago. Really has made me look at life in a different light after going through some struggles mentally. Currently been decluttering and less time on social media and it’s made a huge positive difference for me? Thank you for your beautiful videos ❤
I finally unloaded 75% of my chargers & it felt great! Did my jewelry & sunglass collection too.Working on dishware & cookware this week. Feels great! Despite decluttering for years these categories were what I never decluttered bc I had that " just in case " rational. Thx, you fully influenced me😁
I agree with the sentimental items, because if you have too many of anything you can't take care of the stuff or your less likely to be able to take care of the stuff or you can't find it to enjoy it and see the items photos included. So if you can't even find the stuff it might as well not even be there. So having the just the right amount is a great idea
I would definitely keep the car manual, though maybe toss it into a little reusable bag in your trunk... another way to get use out of an extra bag! You never know when you're going to get stuck somewhere without service and need to know important information about your car. Though it is great and convenient that it is online, you could also have a dead phone/no service and have no way of finding that info out!
Great video, definitely got a lot Of ideas on how to declutter. Especially in the kitchen! I do disagree on the photos/ letter parts though. I don’t like to be on the phone too much and I like to have some things physical. I tend to delete photos on my phone and lose them forever, never looking at my phone library etx. Especially my childhood photos I love having them in little boxes or albums. I do think it’s good having small photo albums with plastic pages where you can put them in, so they don’t need much space. II also like keeping personal letters, I think it’s a massive difference to have the real one. A photo isn’t the same. Definitely good to get rid of postcards/birthday cards but for example I kept a letter of my granddad and now it’s really nice for me to have because he’s not here any longer. So i‘m glad I kept it back then.
Your list is thought provoking. I wrote them down and numbered them, and as you gave details, clutter items specific to my space waved at me and laughed at me, sticking out their tongues. They aggravated me. I'm going to take care of them but good, I'll tell you! Thanks for the video ☺️
I once decided to heavily downsize our towels and extra sheets. Then experienced a stomach flu with multiple little kids and no dryer. I'll keep every towell and sheet I have 🤢🙈😂
I only just realised how far I have come, and that some years ago every category would have overwhelmed me, while now, there is barely anything left I could declutter
One of my goals is to get to a point where I need to declutter less. That being said, kids grow and outgrow toys and clothing... Interests change and things accumulate.... Thanks for another great video, Madi!
You inspired me this morning at 5am. Finally cleaned out my hall closet of coats, hats, gloves I dont use and clothes in my closet and junk in my nightstands. Wow so much better! Thanks!
We use reusable bags all the time! After a grocery run we put them in the car so that they’re always there when we need them next time. We also have smaller cloth bags for when we go to church for diapers and a few toys for the kids. The grocery situation took a little bit to get into the habit but now we reuse them. It’s a bit different in Sweden where you have to pay for the bags, which maybe is coming to some places in the US too
What else should we add to the list?
Refills?? Like soap refills… oh my
I did the 30 day minimalism game over my 3 day weekend and i was worried I wouldn’t be able to do it bc I’ve been a minimalist for 8yrs and I did struggle but I included things that were trash and split up socks to make 2 items but I found a bin of “important papers” and realized I had w2s from 2014 and resumes from 5 years ago like why. I went through gardening items on my patio and found quite a few items as well.
Extra school supplies!
We had three whole hutch drawers full of used crayons, colored pencils, many glue sticks, Elmer’s glue bottles, dry erase board markers, super glue, folders, half used notebooks etc. I bought new every year, but kept accumulating the old one from the year before. I cleaned it all out and donated them to my sister who is a teacher in a poor district. She was thrilled.
I can’t remember if any/all of these are on the list but I’ve recently got rid of: extra perfumes, unused kitchen gadgets (soda stream, rice cooker, vegetable cutting tools), unused sports shoes (my husband use to play squash and my son played soccer), picture frames, containers with missing lids (and lids with missing containers). Also digital clutter: deleted my Instagram account, unsubscribed from loads of junk emails. It’s also good to change your bills/bank statements etc to email rather than paper form.
Candles you don't like or use, party supplies, extra napkins and table cloths.
I have to respectfully disagree on the idea that your pets don't need toys, because wild animals don't need toys. Pets stay mostly/entirely in the house or the immediate space around the house. It's a similar principle to zoo animals, who also stay within a confined space- their lives are made more meaningful when they have enrichment. Which doesn't necessarily HAVE to be toys, but toys are a convenient way to make that happen. Love the video!
Definitely do what you feel comfortable with. These are suggestions to get you thinking ❤️
Wild animals do have toys, just not ones from the store. They play tug of war with bones and sticks, they chase and chew small prey animals, they play with each other.
Stimulation and enrichment is an absolute need for animals that are being kept outside of their natural "toy" filled environment.
My dogs have 1 toy- a horse ball (they destroy everything else) and they have natural bones. Other than that they find sticks and branches in the yard and spend hours playing with them.
Crappy dog toys are definitely not a necessity and some of them are so dangerous to dogs.
I think that one is honestly dependent on your pet, my dog personally doesn’t play with toys as much as I wish he did especially because I have a because I live far from work so an 8 hour work day turns out to be longer, and there’s been times where he’s gotten bored and well a pitty who gets bored is a pitty who will find something other than his own things to chew on. I’ve pretty much stopped buying him toys, don’t get me wrong I spend hundreds on other things for him but I find getting him out on walks and socializing with people makes him the most happy and gets the restlessness out that built up from the week. When I can I get him on the trails with me or take him to social outings where he’s invited he enjoys that much more than toys.
On the other hand my dad’s dog will go through toys within a week. So I think that one is just about knowing your fur baby and doing your best with their personality.
When I watch videos like these, I look at it as a review in life. I ask my self do these tips fit my stage of life right now. In truth my 12 year old dog has six balls to play fetch, five stuff animals and three deer antlers. She plays with two balls, one stuff animal and all three antlers. Her current stage of life is sadly getting close to the end, this video has me thinking about am I helping her in this stage.... This is how I watch or listen to these videos not at a must too. I don't know if this might help to see this from a different way if not no worries. You do you. I am glad you comment cause it started getting people to think and for me I love that. I like the thinking comments not the fighting comments if you understand what I mean. Have a peaceful day and space.
Have to disagree strongly on one point- you should NOT throw away old photos! You should make copies and archive them for backup and safely store them somewhere. Computers, flash drives, CDs and so on can be stolen, damaged, or lost. If you really don't want the photos then find a family member that may because those photos may one day be a part of your family's history.
Always do what feels right to you! These are just suggestions to get you thinking ❤️
A photo can be damaged or lost as easily as a computer, flash drive or dvd. Actually, if it’s on your computer you could back it up to google photos or a cloud. That is safer than all of the above
It just helps as a reminder that we ain't gonna take anything with us upon leaving this world, minimalism makes the process of leaving this world (whenever destined) easier 🤞
@@seaofroses8888 thats true,i have lots of old.picture that slowly damage overtime.i saw my father in law ,throw away lots of picture.a big box of old picture.he only keep one photo album
I agree--I'm 70 and hoping to make a scrap book for each of my 5 grandchildren. They will all live out their lives in their own families and homes and probably in different cities and provinces--so each grandchild needs a book of memories of their dad and grandparents and memories of who they came from. This will be a big job--but that is what I hope to do soon.
Love most of your pointers but from experience, I strongly recommend NOT taking the hard copy manual out of your car! We took my car on a road trip and ended up in a situation that we needed to change an obscure setting to navigate, I only had a digital manual that wasn't saved for offline access, and there was zero cell signal. It made what should have been an okay situation incredibly tricky and stressful. Once we got home from the trip a manual book was the first thing I bought. It's worth it to keep. Someday you might be reeeeeeally glad you had it lol
Definitely do what you feel comfortable with ❤️
I agree! I’m keeping mine lmao. Data isn’t always accessible.
I agree! I also keep a roll of quarters in the glovebox, because so many times they’ve come in handy, like paying for air for tires or the car vacuum machines or old fashioned car wash places. There was one I went to for years that only cost 50 cents.
I did a mix of these two options & downloaded my car manual! It saved space & on the off chance that I do end up needing it on the side of the road I don't need service : )
I have a flip phone because I feel like not using social media all day everyday declutters my mind. I actually needed my car manual today because I was doing my own repairs. I find the car manual can also be a lot faster to find very specific information than having to google or watching UA-cam videos anyway. It’s just one book out of the way that makes life a lot easier if you anticipate doing any auto care yourself. If you don’t travel, are fine potentially forking over hundreds to thousands for towing and mechanics instead of at least trying it yourself…. Then sure, throw it away. But mine has helped me save soooo much money.
Here u go
1. Expired food
2. Extra silverware
3. Extra pots + pans
4. Spices you don't use
5. Kitchen gadgets + Appliances
6. Random fridge stuff
7. Toxic cleaning products
8. Expired supplements
9. Reusable bags
10. Extra baking sheets
11. Clothes you haven't used in 6months
12. High Heels
13. Trendy Impulses
14. Sunglasses
15. Uncomfortable clothes
16. Freebies
17. Extra cars sitting around
18. Non-essential in the glove box
19. DIY Leftovers
20. Paper Clutter
21. Unused Holiday Decor
22. Stuff from old hobbies
"We do no do ourselves favor hanging on to past seasons of our life when we have entered into new ones"
23. Exercise Equipment
24. Duplicate or Unused tools
25. Collections
26. Old Photos
27. Empty Cleaning Products
28. Empty Hair Products
29. Empty Makeup Products
30. Giveaway Chapsticks
31. Anything thats broken
32. Anything spoiled or otherwise ruined
33. Extra towels
34. Medicines that expired or served their purpose
35. Toxic Makeup Products
36. Skincare products containing chemicals
37. Toxic or unused haircare products
38. Puzzles missing pieces
39. Board games that aren't being played too often
40. Plastic toys (Unless they're your child's fave)
41. Noise making toys
42. Craft kits
43. Baby items
44. Throw Pillows
45. Lingering Holiday Items
46. Knick Knack decor items
47. Furniture that's in the way
48. Dead plants
49. Extra plant pots
50. Extra/Ripped/Worn/Old Pet Supplies
51. Books you won't read again
52. Gifts you don't like
53. Birthday Cards
54. Invitations + Holiday Cards
55. Letters
56. Ticket Stubs
57. Random Cords
58. Old headphones
59. Punch Cards
60. Coupons
61. Unused Gift Cards
62. Old Phones
63. Pens
64. Bulk packs of office supplies like post-its
65. Just in case items
66. Things that require you to buy more things
67. Anything you don't like maintining
68. Anything you wish would walk itself out the door
69. Anything you could rent or borrow
70. Anything that already served it's purpose
Thanks for this!
Yes!! Thankyou❤
Thanks bro I came to the comment section just hoping that somebody did this thanks again
❤ thank you so much!!!
I think my whole house could do with emptying
My biggest issue with most minimalism is when we hear on repeat , I will just borrow it from someone else. This can work sometimes but shouldn't be rel led on when getting rid of your own. It comes across very entitled to depend on being allowed to use others stuff so our houses can be simplified.
If you need a kitchenaid, keep the kitchenaid. I agree, having to run over to Mom’s to borrow one is dumb.
@@sct4040 I love the excuse to see people I love and depend on them more. Always do what feels right to you. What works for me may not for you.
She's referring to items that you don't use often or at all but keep just in case you might need it's someday. "I might need it some day" is what gets many people stuck when they had been making progress on their decluttering journey. In the past, I would purchase a large tool or item if I was going to work on a remodel job in our home only to find that I haven't used this large item since that remodeling project 5 years ago and now it's sitting there just taking up valuable real estate. Had I decided to rent it from a tool rental place or borrow it from a friend, I would not have to make the difficult yet necessary decision to finally get rid of this item.
Yes! Neither a borrower or a lender be!
Right! And then they can't usually come to you because you have nothing to lend in return
To anyone who is entering minimalism with young kids! I would just like to say, as a minimalist myself, remember to allow growth and change as your kids get older/bigger. They are going to have their own idea of how they want to live and navigate their space. We were able to build two extra rooms for my teenagers and my 3 kids have their own rooms for the first time. I feel strongly that since I am so adamant that my house is simplified, I don't make them simplify their own rooms. They grew up minimalist but my 16 and 18 year olds are going through the phase of loving stuff. I don't want them to feel guilty about this. They will come to how they want to live on their own.
Well said...
definitely KEEP the car manual in the car… broke down a couple times at night with either low phone battery or no data connection….
a lil paper manual isn’t taking up much space :)
Different for everyone. But valid point.
I second keeping the car manual. If you travel around the us you might discover that there are still places that don’t have cell coverage. You don’t want to break down without your manual and find out you can’t access the internet.
Yep. Eliminate the junk instead. The glove compartment is meant for necessities: manual, car registration and insurance card, and tire pressure gauge.
I agree, completely! In fact, I believe if ANYTHING is in the glove compartment of my car at all, it should be the car manual and important paperwork like my insurance card. I believe the other stuff in there is what may need to be decluttered. 💯
Hard agree! I think a lot of people who almost exclusively drive locally or in metropolitan areas *could* get away with getting rid of it, but it's not like it takes up all that much room, and it's potential to get you off the side of the road and back to somewhere where you can call for help is well worth every square inch.
My last car didn't come with a manual, as it was used, and I never once regretted printing out the maintenance and engine layout sections from the internet. Even for just basic maintenance, it's way easier to grab the manual than look it up every time you need to buy new wipers or check when you'll need your next tire rotation.
I always decluttering my things but watching declutter video like this motivates me to declutter more and more.
Thanks for watching
100%
Same here ❤
me too!!'
I would recommend keeping a pair of good quality sunglasses. UV radiation is quite harmful for eyesight, despite the benefits of getting a bit of sunlight.
Your eyes do not need sunglasses-
You only get addicted to them because your eyes get more sensitive because they get used to them.
10 years before I believed that too.
After years I know better.
Agree! UV Rays can cause early onset cataracts. I know this from experience.
@@inasrainbowland8819 you must know better than the eye doctors I've visited my entire life lol You absolutely need sunglasses.
I literally ran to my closet and got rid of 2 garbage bags full of clothes while watching this video. I am so grateful I found your channel. 💛
I'm so glad you are here! Thanks for watching ❤️
I too got rid of synthetic clothes and kept all cotton, linen and silk.
I love “anything you wish would just spontaneously combust so you didn’t have to feel bad getting rid of it” 😅😅 i definitely needed to hear that today, I’m trying to decluttering
😂
Yeah...why is arson against the law?? 🤣 in "maximalist" bordering on hoarding, arson should totally be allowed!
TIP: declutter holiday decor when you first put it up at the beginning of the season. Most thrift stores don't accept holiday decor donations in January...I found that out the hard way this last January and have been waiting to donate those items until the new season.
Good tip! Thanks!
I'm pretty sure goodwill takes holiday decor all year, every time I go there seems to be new things in the holiday sections
It’s because we have to store things all year round and a lot of charity shops will just bin things unless they are in real good condition for resale. If your stuff is unsaleable just bin it yourself it costs the shops more money in bin bags that are nearly too pounds a bag. Only clothes we get money for in rag money for the charity shop. Plus shoes and linens.
Yes, this is a great tip! Also, before you donate, find a consignment store to work with! They display a month before the holiday, so hopefully, you'll get some money back!
I’ve watched loads of declutter videos on UA-cam but yours is fantastic. You have inspired me to get rid of my stuff that’s suffocating me. Thank you
Don’t trust the cloud.. it lost all my first child’s baby pictures.. had no physical copies.. gut wrenching. Thankfully Shutterfly had them backed up 🙏🏼
Maybe a monthly photo book.. kids love looking back on pictures of themselves
I have blue eyes and I am completely blinded by the sun without sunglasses. I’ve tried not wearing them and my eyes hurt so bad. For me it’s a necessity! 😎
Yeah sunlight cooks the eyeballs and causes cataracts. Please wear sunglasses.
same, the squinting gives me really bad headaches too. i've tried to go without sunglasses for several weeks and i was getting headaches nearly every day
Same. I also think it's relative to your lifestyle. Most people will be totally fine without sunglasses, even if they spend most of their free time outside, but if you're someone who works outdoors, it can be really important for preventing sun damage to your retinas.
All I've ever read and heard from eye doctors, is that direct sunlight is not good for your eyes and that your eyes will age faster from direct sunlight. Your eyes can develop stare quicker etc. So I wouldn't give the advice to everyone to not wear sunglasses.. But I do like the advice to declutter the sunglasses to 2 pp.
Yup. I used to have 15/15 vision, now I wear glasses, due primarily to aging caused by light damage. Wear sunglasses.
Don't tell people to throw out their car manual. It's very easy to end up stranded in a place without reception or enough data to download a pdf. The internet is not everywhere.
Bran. Thank you because some of us like hard copies of car manuals etc!!!!!!
Your organic spices, tips about healthy footwear, and studies about no sunglasses - AND, your struggle with staying organized naturally - you must be my soul sister ♥️💫 - most impressive minimalist / declutter video I’ve ever watched (and I’ve watched a LOT!) Your healthy inspirational twist is a nice change from the rest!
This is so sweet. Thank you Tina!
"Anything you wish would spontaneously combust so you wouldn't have to feel so bad about getting rid of it" 😂 I needed to hear that one. I'm definitely holding on to things because I feel bad about having to get rid of it.
😂😂
Thank you for another great video. We are a family of six and I cook 99% of our meals. I have loved having a minimized kitchen. I have one large pot, one small sauce pot, a Dutch oven for baking bread, and a large cast iron skillet. I haven’t needed anything more in over three years. The less clutter in my kitchen the more I enjoy being in there!
its so true! thanks for watching Lindsey! ❤️
That sounds amazing! My partner won't let me down size pots and pans. But maybe one day! The rest of our house is so nicely downsized. But the kitchen 😱
@@Meg-eq2md could you propose an experiment… you could put the pots and pans you would declutter away somewhere else and only bring them out if need be? An easy way to see if you actually need something. After a month, or a couple, of not using it you could agree to declutter it.
@@lindseydragstrem2160 I am going to give this a try! Might actually work! Thank you ☺️
We cook most of our meals at home as well with our family of five. I find it very difficult to get rid of kitchen items. I wish I could downsize some things but I feel like we cook such a variety of items that I need everything that I use.
You are way younger than me, but oddly I feel like we are friends. I just moved to a fancy area outside Boston, and I got rid of everything. It feels so good. People think I am nuts. I have never felt so happy :) Thank you thank you thank you. Today, a friend called me because she was worried that my life was so boring and that maybe I was depressed. lol I told her I am living a simple, slow life and living my best live EVER. Thank you Madisun.
So great Lisa! Thanks for watching ❤️
About the car manual being on the internet… I like to travel to remote areas a lot, and many of the places I’ve been don’t have any cell service or internet. So ditching the car manual is only for people who stay in more populated areas. Plus I always keep a first aid kit, a small tool kit, and an emergency overnight bag in each of my cars (which are all used frequently in my family). I also live in area where stranded people have died overnight during storms from being ill-prepared. When I was a kid and entire family froze to death overnight just outside the town. That’s less likely to happen now that most of my area has cell service, but it’s still better to be safe.
Do whatever you feel comfortable with ❤️ these are suggestions to get you thinking
Loving the video. The 90 day rule on clothes (because 90 days covers all the seasons) doesn't hold up in our country. I actually laughed out loud when you said it. We also don't live somewhere where you can just not bother to wear shoes but awesome that you do - sounds very free. Otherwise, I like your matter of fact approach to minimalism and will definitely use some of your tips in my home.
Thanks Kim!
Yes it definitely depends on your country. Here in the Netherlands you definitely need a winter and summer wardrobe and everything in between haha
i agree on that the 90 day rule doesn't apply to all temperatures everywhere. I have to go with the 1 year rule.
This video is life changing...You have made me look at everything so differently. Your way of explaining has gotten through in 20 min what no one else has in twenty years, and the first thing to go is the heels! I'm going to get the wheel barrow you are amazing thank you so much for this. I literally went from overwhelmed holding back tears to over joyed and with a smile.
Angela you are who I make these videos for. I’m so glad you are here ❤️
Reusable bags are necessary - but you must be in the habit to use them. I used to have the problem of always forgetting, but finally got into the habit of bringing them back to my car so they will be there for the next shopping trip 😊
I always have to have plastic (walmart, etc.) bags on hand, because i us them several times a week for some medical issues i deal with. it's nice to have them so i can just pitch them when i throw away my disgusting "trash". 😏
As an older mom, who lives in a very rural area… I have agreed with your list until the car manual. The reason those are in your car is so when you are in an area where there is not an cell signal (so much of the state I live in) and you have an emergency light come on, you have the ability to see how urgent it is… or if you break down etc. many places in the south still do not have a Signal where you can pull up a web page, much less a whole manual.
In saying all of that, if you travel a lot, keep the manual. It does not take up much space and could really benefit a situation. 💕
This was a great one, Madisun! Decluttering is my hobby, and I realized through this that I’m still holding onto past hobbies that are taking up space in my home. Time to let them go 💕
So true! Thanks for watching Sammie ❤️
I will say, some of these tips are quite helpful, but I do not agree with discarding family photos. This predicates on the fact that you will always have access to the internet, to a hard drive, etc. My family lost almost everything in Hurricane Camille with the exception of a few select things--including family photo albums. Those would have been lost forever, and I never would have had pictures of my loved ones who passed on, if we didn't have those albums. You may not think those things can happen to you until they do. Keep momentos. Keep printed copies. You never know what will happen, and you'll be grateful to have those to reflect on.
Do what feels right to you!
You absolutely should not get rid of owner manuals for items you still own. Insurance companies often ask for proof of ownership when you make a claim and thermal printed receipts just don't last. The manual is easier to store than the box it came in.
take a picture of the receipt or scan it into your computer and keep a digital version of the receipt. :)
@@kowalchukm computer files can become lost or corrupted; your devices can break; "the cloud" is not foolproof. Digital file are great for a backup but you shouldn't solely rely on them. A folder with a paper copy of all your warranties/manuals is always good to have around.
Great ideas! My little doggie plays with toys every day, so I know she would not appreciate her stuff getting removed. Things I think could be added:
1: dvd/cds if you don’t use them and have streaming platforms instead. If you like the actual product, you can throw away the cases and put them all in a cd case. It has saved me so much room.
2. Magazines
3. Subscriptions you aren’t using
Reusable grocery bags work really well as book bags. You can ask your local library if they could use them. We always keep a couple for patrons who dislike using plastic and forgot their own bag.
I came across your channel a few weeks ago. I was already familiar with minimalism and was in the process of getting our home where I wanted it to be. But, when I listen to you, it inspires me to do more and do it now. I have donated 50% of the kids toys, kitchen, books, clothes, you name it (and this is not the first time). Watching your videos has truly inspired me. I've pretty much bing watched all your videos to this point. That's probably not cool to say, but it's true. And it's made me realize that I'm not weird for wanting to live with less. Or to live a less rushed and hurried lifestyle. I had never heard of the term slow living before, but it sums up what my heart has been searching for. We have 4 children and I'm so excited to stop spending my time managing my stuff, and more time enjoying my time with my family. I don't know why we feel like we need 'permission' to do the things we know are right, but I just had to tell you that I'm truly inspired by you, our shared faith, minimalism, and slow living. Thank you for making these videos. I am praying for you and your family.
Oh my goodness. This is the kindest most thoughtful comment ever. THANK YOU. I am a bit teary eyed and feeling so grateful that my sharing this experience is resonating and that it's changing your life. Love to you and your family!
@@MadisunGray 💓
My husband and I are recovering maximalists. We took 1000 lbs of trash to the dump yesterday and we are having our 3rd yard sale this year. We are 30 years old.
That’s amazing!
Glad you are decluttering. Fresh and new beginnings are ahead!
I was just decluttering my daughters room and took a break. Came to UA-cam and on my suggested! Look at that confirmation. This is extremely encouraging and I love your ideas!
I have been. Heading toward minimalismish for a like 4-5 years and with the ebs and flows of life. I do it then it gets a big clogged in our home.
The 24th is a community garage sale. We have an entire space just filled with donate and sell my goal is to be done by then 🤞🤞
So glad you are here ❤️
I decluttered the fridge straight away as you said it 😂 and i loved the 10 second rule on declutter decision making, and threw out a couple of items whilst watching X thanks!
Once a year I do a big decluttering and it's so refreshing! It's amazing how much stuff we accumulate! Your list is so on point! Covers everything!
So true! It always creeps back in!
Some places still don’t have good phone coverage so internet always available for manuals
Really enjoyed your video! Tying to simplify my life, 2 teenagers, 2 dogs and 2 cats (and a husband lol) Realizing we have way too much stuff, I'm really understanding that the clutter I once thought was "decor' or "memorabilia" is causing me stress to manage! Looking forward to doing a huge purge!
Thanks Karin!
Just keep the stuff that breathes 😉
I really loved what you said about letting go of things that related to past versions of your self. That really hit home for me
It’s so true!
I absolutely love you and your ideas! Currently decluttering and have been using your videos as a reference. Honestly- every single thing that leaves our home feels like taking a deep breath. It feels light. Feels like I can focus now. Thank you sister in Christ!
So true! Thank you Cathie!
When you said “it’s okay, just let it go” you have no idea how healing that was hahahaha I am trying hard to go back to my minimal lifestyle after buying our first home and filling it up with things we don’t need! It’s a process… thank you this video is so helpful!
Thanks for watching ❤️
Thank you for your video & experience. I’ve been on a decluttering journey this year & at the age of 54, it’s been hard but very rewarding. I’ve always been fairly organised but it’s so much better with less.
So true! Thanks for watching Lisa!
If your car and phone are dead I like having the manual in the car.
This is great! I keep my home pretty minimal, but there’s always something else you can declutter, and videos like this one always motivate me to get rid of more stuff. :)
Love it! Thanks for watching ❤️
Digital photo albums make sitting on anyone’s couch exciting. It’s cool to see what pops up and you also can get rid of all of the photo albums. It’s amazing!
This was amazing thank you! Given me such a boost to go further with our minimalism before baby number 4 arrives! We actually removed our tv in the last couple of weeks. It’s on top of a wardrobe for now but it needed to have some timeout as during some heatwaves in the U.K. our kids were just sat indoors glued to it. Their creativity (with a simplified toy supply) has been incredible and they are learning so much more as we have started our term of home education this autumn. Keep the content coming! X
Thank you Sarah!
Add the photos to the cloud; but I would recommend putting them in an accessible photo album; maybe as a coffee book replacement that way you actually look through them & they are special
if you do have reusable bags; try keeping some in your car to see if you use them more like that before tossing them all! it’s cost-annoying to have to keep buying new bags when grocery-shopping etc :)
edit: or if you have a cute picnic basket you don’t use for decor, maybe use that for grocery shopping? just a random idea, very cottagecore haha!
I've tried but I still forget them and remember at the checkout! 😂
We kept as many as we need for a weekly shop which is around 6. For a family if six. And a picnic basket for the eggs and delicate produce. Has been great. They are always in the car. After putting the groceries away we put them right back.
This video helped so much.
I was re-inspired and this helped give me direction about what to declutter next in my home…. And gave me peace about throwing things away!!
We’ve been dealing with rats in our apartment garage so I can’t make a separate space for donation items and stuff was piling up because I can’t get to a donation center…. So today I threw a lot of things away and posted a few of the good things for free on marketplace and it’s all disappearing and I feel so good about it! I hate trashing items that could be donated but I just haven’t been able to make it happen…. And my health and peace is more important!
I’ve tried cutting down the silverware and dishes just to keep the dishes down and packed them away, but I swear the kids eat them with their meals because they’re constantly coming up missing.
I honestly couldn’t part with my kitchen aid even if I don’t use it every day. I saved up for one for so long after my ex moved out and took it with him because it was one of the kitchen things I could always use when I did need one and no one else I know has one. It makes baking more convenient to toss everything in the bowl and turn it on over hand mixing everything myself as my hands aren’t made for doing so even over a short period of time.
I totally understand the cookie sheets in the oven thing! We only own two now and do use them both!
I don’t have a whole bunch of sunglasses, only one pair, BUT I do use them on days I get migraines so even if I don’t use them everyday, the do come in handy when I need them.
Many of the things you mentioned I don’t even buy!
Look forward to spring as a time when you can start to see what nature has to offer once again.
I love these videos 💛
I’m 13 years old and love minimalism! Because I don’t have controll over the items in my house (other than mine) because my parents own it, these videos make me excited to have a house of my own that I can keep clean and clutter-free!
Great quick summary list of all essential things to declutter.
I have one big clear plastic bin with hobby stuff.. sometimes I go 6 mths or over a year without doing it, because some things are winter some summer hobbies...and I have to be in the creative mood.. but i love it. Eg all collected rocks, shells etc from my world travels, which i am turning into wall art..it takes time.. but I love it, and my one box doesn't stress me.
I have photo/scap books..with all photos and paper memory stuff in..I love my physical photo albums..and love to look at them with a coffee.
My kids have 2 memory boxes..1 with hang files. One for each year from baby to 18 yrs old. The kids choose the best things to put in them. The second box is bulky stuff. When they leave home..they can take the 2 boxes with them. Photograph the stuff and bin it and use the boxes for adult paperwork that must be kept or they can use the boxes just as storage boxes..that is their decision. My oldest son (now 17) is much more sentiment than my younger son (now 9).
I have always been more minimalist. I didn't buy furniture until I was 30...in my 20s i made or got hand me down furniture. I moved to much (17x), including abroad with just a rucksack. I spent my free time and money on travelling/backpacking all over the world.
With kids and settling, came stuff, but when I got divorced, i realized that huge amounts of clutter which had built up and stressed me during out 18 yrs together, was my ex husbands stuff (i filled 90 boxes with his stuff). I am still reducing/refining my and my kids stuff but i have found that as long as
1 everything has a home
2 you don't need to spend hours tidying first before you can clean
3 your stuff doesn't stress or overwhelm you..but makes you happy
4 you keep decluttering regularly, which is necessary because life and kids change and develop
...then you have found your level of minimalism that works for you and your family (because your stuff doesn't "own you").
I bought a house without a garage or a basement because I knew if we had those. It allows stuff to accumulate and I knew my (now ex) husband would fill these spaces.
I only have a small garden shed for bikes, garden games and gardening tools. And an attic for suitcases, seasonal stuff eg skiing stuff, camping stuff and a few boxes of seasonal decor.
But I still love my 1/4 year "declutter weekend" when the kids are at their dads and I go through the whole house to see what I can declutter...these are such fun weekendand it resets thr whole house.
I just happened upon your channel. It is just what I needed! I have been downsizing and decluttering for years, and still have way too much stuff. You have just defined how to approach what is left and not needed. I am making a donation run this week, and can probably double or triple the stuff I am going to take. Thank you…. I will be rewatching this video a few times just so I don’t miss anything! 😊
Wow! Thanks so much Linda!
My husband and I have been talking about buying a new (smaller) home and moving and drastically downsizing our stuff and have talked about what we’re getting rid of and don’t need any more. You talked about taking photos of your pictures and what I’ve been doing lately is painting in my sketch book, my most loved areas of the home. These are art pieces that I don’t necessarily have an attachment to or plan on keeping over time. I just feel like it’s a part of my way of letting go of the space we have loved over the years because you are right, the memories are not in the stuff, it’s within us.
Love this! Thank you for sharing this! ❤❤❤
I'm pretty minimalist but I absolutely COVER my fridge with magnets and pictures 😂 I love how it looks, it's like a big piece of art. Plus it's not like it's taking up room
Love that. Definitely do what you feel comfortable with ❤️
@@MadisunGray ♥️🖼️
I recently did Swedish Death Cleaning and got rid of half the stuff I own... Haven't regretted anything yet. I know some of these comments disagree with some of your list, but as someone who lived with hoarding parents, and anxiety and depression from waking up to clutter, I NEED to get rid of most of the stuff you've mentioned. To each their own. And you don't even have to go all out either, just starting small changes will help. For me, i went 50% and it was the best decision ever. It's videos like these that keep me motivated to keep a minimal, clutter free life. That's what works best for my mental health. Thanks so much for being bold and sharing this video especially in a consumerism society. We don't really need nor use everything we own and it's okay to part ways with them and create your own safe space and happiness ✨️
This video was helpful for me! I've been decluttering and having the inner battle with certain items whether I should keep or not when I know I no longer use- your video reminded me that its okay to part ways with what is not serving me, my family or our home anymore. Thank you!
So glad to hear Anna! Thanks for watching ❤️
This will be the best thing for my family. I get so inspired bu then get overwhelmed and give up. I have three small kids but this is beautiful and I hope to do this someday.
Do one small bag a day, you can do it NOW mamma!
Some great points and some not as great points. As a Floridian and light sensitive person, I vehemently disagree with the sunglasses making the list 😂🪦
bad for redheads (light sensitive) not to have sunglasses, too.
I weeded out my silverware yesterday and donated my one pan. I go through my spices regularly. I bought one appliance which replaced several...instant pot. I keep my reusable bags in my car. Your bottom drawer in your stove is a warmer. I have a cabinet for tall pans. I watch these videos for ideas.
I just de-cluttered the last 2 days(!) and it feels so good 🤩
I'm so glad! ❤️
HAPPENED to listen to this tonight while I was reorganizing my bathroom storage... Can't say I got rid of everything on this list, but it gave me an extra push to get rid of a lot of things I don't/won't use 🎉
Love it ❤️
Your ideas make me want to run through my house and minimize more! Loved this video ❤
Yes! I’m so glad!
great video, thanks! i started my decluttering journey about two years ago, and i began by binge watching decluttering videos (haha), and it hit me when one of them said "ur house aint gona get tidy by just watching us" so I started taking action and doing it. it feels very therapeutic and not-alone when i play decluttering videos in the background, it feels like someone is doing it beside me so it gets easier! having watched hundreds (maybe thousands) of decluttering videos, i still found yours refreshing! i even paid a konmari certified professional few months back and really did a full purge, but somehow, the clutter is creeping back and i hit a decluttering-bottleneck... just started the engine again today by sorting out the pantry, and your tips definitely help like a good push in my lazy bum 😅 i need to speed up decluttering to a more minimal state to welcome my baby
You got this! Thank you for your support!
Great line! Consider "refusing" free items and things you may buy before bringing them home. Consider for a moment, "Where will this end up when I am done with it? If it is plastic and in a landfill, you may reconsider bringing the item home."
The gift thing. I have well meaning relatives who love to give gifts so I have a basket in a cupboard where I put well meaning gifts that I dont really want and i hold them for a short time and either regift them or donate them. I recently acquired a really pretty paraffin oil burner, which I have no idea what to do with.
It served its purpose.
Excellent. One that you might rethink. Putting every photo on the cloud andxthen recycling them. We older folks have gone throufh different techs through the years. Let me just say vhs tapes. Nothing is forever. I suggest keeping precious copies separate.
Just FYI: Animal shelters happily accept old towels and bedding. 💜
Not all of them
When you said you put your baking sheets in the oven and then preheat your oven now all of them are hot… I felt that! 😂 I do this almost every time and I still do it. You would think after years it would just be in my subconscious to always pull everything out but no. 😂
I did it again today 😂
Excellent! Five Starts! I’ve been decluttering for 5 years. I’m now ready for the next level. It is an emotional process of letting go. I rented out my flat, furnished, packed up everything (except toothbrush, few pairs of clean undies, a change of clothes, a mug and pot…..and then the deal fell through and now I’m happy living with almost nothing. It is so freeing. I’m going to keep everything in the boxes. I might pull out a towel, extra pot and pair of scissors. I don’t think I need much more.
Thank you Sandra ❤️ sounds like you are in a really good spot.
Loved this! The only one I can't do is get rid of the dog toys.I have 2 dogs and they play tug a lot or run around and chase each other in the backyard with them. I do however throw toys out once they are shredded or become dangerous to play with.
Also, Yes get rid of stuff if you can rent it or borrow, but if it's something you use often, don't constantly ask to borrow people's stuff lol (not you directly) I know a lot of people that have asked to borrow things they just need to buy their own of.
Thanks for watching 🤎
Wow! This was GOOD. You have been inspiring my most recent declutter. Most people think my house is already “minimal” but it’s not! All those drawers and cabinets are hiding things. I can’t wait to declutter all my sweet cards and photos. I don’t know why I never thought to take a photo and move on. My home is more peaceful because of your videos! Thank you 💕
This gives me so much life! YES
One thing- you’ll really miss that paper car manual when you’re out in the middle of nowhere with no cell service or internet 😅 trust me, I’ve been there.
Do whatever you feel comfortable with. These are just suggestions to get you thinking ❤️
Just decluttered my office while I listened to this video. Two bags full of junk and I feel great getting rid of it all! It helps to tackle one space at a time. Thank you for this video!
I’m so glad! Thanks Veronica!
Great video. I’m going to declutter my tiny kitchen today bc sooo many spices and pans and it’s been causing me stress. Thank you for the inspo!
Thank you!
I suggest making a book … my daughter does one for me every so often. So, digital, and make a book. So cool!
I do have a concern on totally relying on technology to store family history. Technology can fail, even with back up. Instead, reduce your photos to vintage that can't be replaced and have importance, a couple of an event you want to capture, ones that you could share with other family members. You still reduce, but a tangible, hold it in your hand, precious photo is hard to replace with a smart phone version. Store extras on the cloud.
Definitely do what you feel comfortable with! Thanks for watching Donna!
Good job now it's my turn to declutter my house thank you so much for all the tips and tricks to get rid of all my declutterness have a very good day
Thanks Karen!
Love this and agree with most of these, though I do keep extras and just in case items for craft things, especially for repairs since they do come in handy frequently enough. If I won’t use them, I’ll give them away.
However, I do not understand people who only have 1 washcloth per person (even 1 towel is pushing it for me…), as I use at least 1 washcloth per day for washing my face. I will sometimes use one twice, but I’m not washing my towels every other day so I need at least 4 washcloths to let a week, and even then I find it more economical and efficient to wash a larger load of towels every two weeks. I want to be minimalist with my time too, which involves only washing laundry when I have a full load of clothing or a full load of kitchen/bath towels which I separate since they are different fabrics to keep them in good shape and wash on different, specific washer and dryer settings
Definitely do what you feel comfortable with. Thanks for watching Molly ❤️
@@MadisunGray thanks for making it! I love seeing what your family does and challenging myself to pare down even more. You’ve inspired me to throw out older medicines and toiletries. Many of them have a few drops left and are expired, so no need to hold onto them.
Great ideas. I need to have a massive clear out from kids toys and clothes. Cannot wait for the weekend.
So happy and grateful I cane across your channel a couple weeks ago. Really has made me look at life in a different light after going through some struggles mentally. Currently been decluttering and less time on social media and it’s made a huge positive difference for me? Thank you for your beautiful videos ❤
Same for me ❤️ I’m glad you are feeling better.
I’m so glad you are here Georgina! ❤️
I finally unloaded 75% of my chargers & it felt great! Did my jewelry & sunglass collection too.Working on dishware & cookware this week. Feels great! Despite decluttering for years these categories were what I never decluttered bc I had that " just in case " rational. Thx, you fully influenced me😁
I’m so glad. Thanks for watching ❤️
I have a lot of pans and lids and I use ALL of them on a regular basis… idk how you get by with 3!
Definitely do what feels right to you. These are just suggestions ❤️
I agree with the sentimental items, because if you have too many of anything you can't take care of the stuff or your less likely to be able to take care of the stuff or you can't find it to enjoy it and see the items photos included. So if you can't even find the stuff it might as well not even be there. So having the just the right amount is a great idea
Sunglasses are really important because its is like wearing sunscreen in your eyes,if I don’t wear them my eye will get red
also great for ppl who are light sensitive.
I would definitely keep the car manual, though maybe toss it into a little reusable bag in your trunk... another way to get use out of an extra bag! You never know when you're going to get stuck somewhere without service and need to know important information about your car. Though it is great and convenient that it is online, you could also have a dead phone/no service and have no way of finding that info out!
great video! just a friendly reminder that you can donate towels and blackets to animal shelters 💜
I’m so glad you’re back! You’re my favorite minimalist. Smile
Great video, definitely got a lot
Of ideas on how to declutter. Especially in the kitchen! I do disagree on the photos/ letter parts though. I don’t like to be on the phone too much and I like to have some things physical. I tend to delete photos on my phone and lose them forever, never looking at my phone library etx. Especially my childhood photos I love having them in little boxes or albums. I do think it’s good having small photo albums with plastic pages where you can put them in, so they don’t need much space. II also like keeping personal letters, I think it’s a massive difference to have the real one. A photo isn’t the same. Definitely good to get rid of postcards/birthday cards but for example I kept a letter of my granddad and now it’s really nice for me to have because he’s not here any longer. So i‘m glad I kept it back then.
Definitely. Do what feels right for you. Thanks for watching ❤️
I agree♡♡
I hope this inspires me to let go because I really believe in minimalism, it’s the clearing out I struggle with x
I hope so too ❤️
I wish you had this as a checklist PDF! I might try to take notes 🙌
Definitely in the works. Stay tuned and thank you for your support ❤️
Your list is thought provoking. I wrote them down and numbered them, and as you gave details, clutter items specific to my space waved at me and laughed at me, sticking out their tongues. They aggravated me. I'm going to take care of them but good, I'll tell you! Thanks for the video ☺️
😂
I once decided to heavily downsize our towels and extra sheets. Then experienced a stomach flu with multiple little kids and no dryer. I'll keep every towell and sheet I have 🤢🙈😂
I only just realised how far I have come, and that some years ago every category would have overwhelmed me, while now, there is barely anything left I could declutter
At the small packing store I work at there’s a huge free library. Another option is to drop off your books at a free library!
Great idea!
I own 4 books! 🙂
1. Food Activist Handbook
2. The Good Body
3. Spanish/English Visual Dictionary
4. 50 Tricks to Teach Your Dog
We have one large frying pan, one large pot, one medium pot and one small pot. I do want a medium size frying pan then we’ll be set.
Love it!
One of my goals is to get to a point where I need to declutter less. That being said, kids grow and outgrow toys and clothing... Interests change and things accumulate....
Thanks for another great video, Madi!
Thanks for watching Amanda!
You inspired me this morning at 5am. Finally cleaned out my hall closet of coats, hats, gloves I dont use and clothes in my closet and junk in my nightstands. Wow so much better! Thanks!
I’m so glad. Thanks for your support ❤️
We use reusable bags all the time! After a grocery run we put them in the car so that they’re always there when we need them next time. We also have smaller cloth bags for when we go to church for diapers and a few toys for the kids. The grocery situation took a little bit to get into the habit but now we reuse them. It’s a bit different in Sweden where you have to pay for the bags, which maybe is coming to some places in the US too