I hope you enjoy my video today. If you are visiting from Kat's channel, welcome! For more, including news and comment of the week, check out my corresponding blogpost dailyconnoisseur.blogspot.com/2018/08/3-clutter-clearing-tips-madame-chic.html
Love these tips, Jenn. I have realized that 90% of the battle with keeping a house clean is not actually cleaning it. It's keeping it free of clutter. We got rid of half our stuff a few years ago. Cleaning has gone from 4-6 hrs/week to 2-3 hrs/week. Of course, there are seasons when we are busy (I'm in one now). But, so easy to catch up when there's less stuff to deal with. In the busy days of 3 teens, a husband, a puppy, and work, everything goes really smoothly.👍
I came across Flylady when my kids were little and my house was out of control. I appreciated her authenticity that she too was a not-so-clean type. Her gentle and encouraging methods saved me. I've been flying, or more like fluttering, for over sixteen years. I'm a subscriber of Kat and she is amazing.
Good morning . I use labels and tags so that it is obvious where things go. For instance on the shelves in my closet boxes are labeled heavy scarves, gloves, handkerchiefs, etc. In the pantry, there are labeled bins for snack items, dried fruit and nuts, and other every day items. Although my Mr. Chic tends to be a clutterer (I came home yesterday to a sander on the dinning room table) , having visual reminders helps us both to stay organized.
These kind and gentle videos are so refreshing. Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts with us. One thing I have learned is to make my bed each and everyday. When the bed looks nice it is easier to stay out of it during the day and very pleasant to get back in at night.
My house is pretty clutter free for anyone stepping into it. I’ve always had the reputation of keeping a very orderly house. HOWEVER, if one was to open my closet doors, drawers, or hidden spaces, those spaces tell a very different story! My organizational skills are seriously lacking in those areas of our home! I’m so excited to have found all you efficient home professionals, as I’m learning how to better manage my hidden storage to look as good as my open home! Thank you for that!
Clutter, IMHO, is procrastination made visible. Set a timer for the smallest amount of time you are willing to tackle the clutter. Then get-to-getting until the timer goes off and pledge to deal with all new items immediately so the clutter is being reduced, not added to. Good luck! You can do this!
This is what I need to implement! I struggle in this area and so want to conquer it. As a part time working mom of 3 I just can't mentally visualize how to begin. I usually do these massive cleanups twice a week and the cleanliness may last for 2 1/2 days and then the clutter takes over again. I need to create a timed schedule that will work for me and teach my kids how they can participate. I have to be a better leader.
Love the tips! My favorite is to love keeping your home. I love the At Home with Madame Chic. From the tips, to the drink recipes, music suggestions, to the presentation, it is one of my favorite of the three books.
It is a constant effort, for sure! I love these tips for maintaining our homes. I have found that when I recognize that my efforts to care for my home are a tangible way of showing my love for my family, it motivates me to begin, even when I might not be in the mood to tidy up. Once I get started, I find that I feel energized and motivated to keep going. When I get to that point, the endorphins kick in, and I feel good about myself and the service I am giving. :-)
Cleaning the kitchen early in the AM as soon as breakfast is done. Arranging go bags of daily items for each member of household. shredding junk mail on arrival 💝
Great new tips! When I get frustrated feeling like I have to clear misplaced items, I change my mindset to “self-care”. By putting things away in their homes, it frees my mental space to relax. 😊
What a great collaborative! I love both of you ladies. You are each so calming and easy to listen to. I especially enjoy the background music that you choose for your videos. I listen to you and Kat every morning for inspiration. Your tips for clutter control are so spot on. I love your books, too! Thank you for referring back to Lessons from Madame Chic. I need to reread the chapter. I will say that with Kat's help I am making progress with clutter and enjoy caring for our home.
So fun to see a collaboration between you and Kat! You may have been the one who introduced me to Kat's channel - I can't quite remember. ;) She has been so helpful to me. YOUR tips for cultivating a mindset of delight in homemaking have been life-changing for me, and I'm grateful for periodic reminders like this to get me back on track. ;)
Lovelovelove this subject! My hotspot is my desk. I keep investing in different organizational tools for my desk, but they don’t work for me. A lightbulb has gone off in my head during this video-it’s my lack of discipline with my cluttered desk, not the tools.
I love your third tip, we have to spend so much time to keep our houses nice, you might as well enjoy it. Be a victor not a victim in your attitude! :)
Loved that you did this collaboration with Flylady Kat. It is because of her that I started following your channel and love it! Your tips are on point, I struggle with discipline and following through, although visible clutter is gone - the hidden areas weigh me down. I just registered for your 10 item wardrobe e-course - Flylady Kat has mentioned it often, looking forward to starting that. Thanks Jennifer ;)
Hello Jennifer! I love the refresh of all of your tips! I’m so happy to see that you and Kat did this collaboration! You did a wonderful job, it was so interesting and helpful! Clutter is a struggle at the moment and finding a place for everything, figuring out where everything should go, especially when storage space is less than what we previously had. I have to say, I’m closer than ever to having my own 10 item wardrobe since I have to fit everything in my standing wardrobe! Thank you for sharing! 🌹Nikki
Thank you, Nikki! We've had the opposite problem since we went from smaller spaces in the city to a larger space, but we've been doing good so far... My worry was that I would fill all of our extra storage in this house with clutter. Love that you are moving toward a ten-item wardrobe! Love, Jennifer
Good Morning from the UK Jennifer! Great to see you looking so radiant and I enjoyed your video on de-cluttering. I find your videos very relaxing and they always seem to ground me and reconnect me with my priorities in life, which are my family, my loved ones and my home. I've been a big fan of de-cluttering for 20 years now and it is SO worth being organised as it saves you so much time, energy and stress, not that I'm perfect! Enjoy you're day, my lovely. X
This is the third video f yours I have watched this morning. Such wisdom! It’s been a hectic summer. Your tips are wonderful reminders of how to get our homes back in order . Thank you!
I really enjoyed this. I like how you suggested you give grace to yourself when you're in a stage of life that you may not be able to manage everything. That is so important for us who tend to be hard ourselves if everything isn't perfect.
You have made me soooo aware of what I do! Haha. I’m improving my storage areas....storage IS my “hot spot”! I do love my home! Thank you for good advice!
Greetings from Kentucky! Thank you for the very insightful observations on clutter. I was led to your channel through A Better Life With Flylady Kat. I am enjoying your videos and look forward to reading the Madame Chic books.
Thank you Jennifer for these great tips/reminders! Clearing the clutter is the best way to establish a calm, peaceful atmosphere in our homes. It does take work though - and your video has given me some fresh motivation to see what I can clear out today!
I needed this. My sweet dog, who was my constant companion, had to be put to sleep on Monday, the same day I had to go back to work after summer break. Needless to say I've been in a funk all week. My plan is to make it through tomorrow, and then reset my home this weekend. I think I may even start rereading my Madame Chic books. :-)
I have a question! This video is great and it is part of my beliefs that everything should be in its place. I’ve worked hard to provide a place for everything. So, how do you get a family on board with following through and being disciplined? Talking doesn’t work. Showing doesn’t work. They just don’t care, including my husband sometimes. I feel like this is a total lack of respect and I prefer to not nag so I let it all fall on me. Any advice?
Natalie Lee maybe you’ve already done this, but I didn’t find that my family started cooperating until we had fewer things. We got rid of about 3/4 of our stuff over about three years (KonMari), and after that it was extremely noticeable if something was left out. Also, “tidy house” is a chore my kids have to do along with brushing teeth and getting in pjs. My chore is to do the dishes, and I can see their progress from where I’m at. I don’t know if this helps. Best wishes!
Hi! Yes, we have decluttered significantly and I am very deligent about keeping all incoming items under control. For the most part, my house is uncluttered. But my kids do play with toys, wear clothes, and make little drawings all of which ends up scattered throughout our home. Unless I’m standing over them giving direction, they would leave them. When we have “tidy up” time they routinely pout/cry/temper tantrum/stall I think because it just isn’t important to them. I wonder if anyone has had success “converting” their family. I might also add that I have always expected tidiness, it’s not something new for our family.
This may seem extreme but it has worked for a friend of mine with her son in some aspects. She gives three warnings for material things...toys clothing etc. on the third warning it is removed. And sometimes it is removed and donated 😐
I used to live such a clutter free life until about 5 years ago whe. I was diagnosed with a chronic illness. Nowadays, it's a struggle to make it through my work day and am exhausted when I get home... so things just get left where they dont belong and it's out of control. Thank you for this video inspiration to do better!
Rule of thumb here is "don't just put it down, put it away". Very rarely have clutter other than a random pair of my husband's sunglasses on the kitchen counter.
I do! I have implemented some of yours and Kat’s tips. It’s helped me so much! I live in a very tiny condo with very little closet space,pantry,etc. we have no garage or attic space,either. This is still a huge challenge. My biggest challenge is my coffee table. All of my writing,reading materials,tissues,hearing aide batteries,etc. are on my coffee table for convenience. Our home is so tiny that we have no room for end tables. Our challenge is finding functional furniture that has shelves or drawers in order to stay tidy. Any suggestions? Also, I work out in my living room(the only space that is large enough,at all). My hand weights are visible BC there is no where else to put them that I could easily access. It’s such an eyesore that I’m embarrassed ;I dread anyone ever coming to my home BC it’s so unsightly. I’m very grateful I have a home and it’s filled with love and coziness. I just wish we had more space. I’ve purged my closet and dresser drawers and they’re very neat. Still,just not enough space for basic storage. Help!!!Thanks for all that you do!j
Melissa Culpepper: I have a similar issue. I love my current home but most rooms are very tiny and overall the storage space is lacking. I’ve been continuing to part with things weekly and being very strict about it. Maybe there are items that can pull double duty or do you have any unnecessary duplicates?
LeMarais88 Hi! Yes,I could absolutely continue to purge. But for basic storage items and pantry space,it’s very limited. Hey, it’s a good problem to have. We have way more than just our basic needs. I’m so blessed! I’m trying to not be such a consumer.
Melissa Culpepper: The pantry space I have is a shelf leading down to the basement for canned stuff, a shallow built in for teas and cooking ingredients like bullion, and space on the top of the fridge for chips etc (kept in rectangular baskets). They do have over-the-door solutions too for people who really need it. I love looking at small space solutions either online or from magazines.
As a child I was always obsessively neat, without conditioning from my parents. Around my early 30s, the clutter started to get out of hand mostly because I was facing some family related challenges. Since 2011 I’ve been working towards culling everything- only of mine mostly. I’m married to someone who tends to hoard and who’s lazy about cleaning up. He’s only good about cleaning up when people come over. Anyway, I’m making a lot of progress but it’s a long and tough road. It helps to see more and more space open up and I do love cleaning but I still experience times when I feel disappointed that my progress isn’t a lot faster.
Once again, Jennifer, Madame Chic reminds me of my grandmother. I've written you before. I wondered if it was because she was from a different era, but maybe not. My grandparents would have been born around the turn of the century. BTW, they lived in La Varenne.
I'm only 2 minutes into your video as I am hanging our laundry...and I look up to see shoes cluttering the entryway, a pile of mail, and shopping receipts on the counter... Thanks for the serendipitous video! 🤣
Although I 'conmaried' my hole house, I still struggle with clutter. I will have to go through everything again, because my live has changed since the last round a couple of years ago and now I will be able to let go of even more things. Things I used to love but not anymore. The worst clutter in my home though is paper. I can have a clean desk in one minute and total paper chaos the next minute. But I won't give up. One day my home will be (almost) totally clutter free. Thank you for another very nice video. :-)
This is way above my skill level I think I need to start with your book. I have terrible habits of being disorganized and sloppy My house is a constant mess and source of stress for me because I don't wanna be like this
A couple of phrases that help me are: "Don't put it down; put it away." And, "Finish the job!" When I'm tempted to just put things down and get it later or to leave something undone, I remember it's always easier to deal with it now! My future self will thank me!
Great video! I love your vlogs!!! :) I did want to point out that I think "visionary" people struggle the most with this. I am one. (wink) We have six children and our home is not large. We have a large farm also. I love to sew, crafts, etc. and so a more "steady" personality will always do better with a clutter-free home than someone who naturally loves to create. I would feel so naked without a sewing nook, but I will admit, it does get cluttery. (sigh) I am looking at it now and have multiple posts up on Pinterest for sewing nook organization. Your vlogs are so encouraging. Thank you. In a world where class is lacking (greatly), there are still classy people encouraging others to do the same. Blessings!!!! :)
This is quite timely. We are contemplating moving, and I need to declutter in a BIG way. Chaos everywhere- I don't know where to begin. It's hard for me to let things go. :-(
Just think of the negative energy its gathered everytime you see them. Rather than thinking of what to get rid, think of what to keep? Maybe make a 60/40 rule. 60 is in the maybe and very best absolute need is in the 40. If you threw too many things away, guess what you get to get a new item that you will enjoy far more than the old item you had.
I've found, when our teenager started University, he wanted to leave quite a lot of his stuff with us. We have a bit of loft space, so we cheaply boarded it out and put it all up there, boxed up neatly. Definitely out of sight :)
I find paper clutter is my problem. I’ve got it under control now but it is so easy to let it get out of control if I don’t keep everything you mentioned in this video in mind. Great video! Do you have any tips to train your husband to put their things away?
Journey to Home Sweet Home KonMari says to give him one place to put all his stuff instead of stations all over the house. Maybe this would help? Best wishes!
I try to make sure on the way from the mail box I pull out all junk mail and put it in the garbage. I try to have a place for everything. When I moved from California my daughter was 8 months old and I had a painful scar from my emergency c-section. I was in business and literally had 60 suits and a ton of clothes. That was 16 years ago and if I could do it again I would declutter as I pack to move to Oregon. That was my mistake lol I was in pain with a baby and just put everything in boxes. I have donated, decluttered every summer since. I'm down to just my expensive suits kept in special boxes in the attic and an old antique Christmas Village( in the attic as well), and when I take off my pillows from my outdoor chairs for summer they go in the attic, that is also where I keep my HS year books in a box as well with old family photos. But sister it took me years to get rid of just things. Now one in one out rule. I'm much more in control of clothes now as well. Now that I'm almost 57 I don't need so much. Plus my income is in control and I'm on a budget. I feel much happier!
Loved this! I have always lived a very disciplined life and kept organised home, however, I'm finding it hard to get my husband on board (my 2 year old son seems to know where all the spaces are, but finds it hard to always put things away. Work in progress). Would love some tips for helping those not as organised as us to get on board with everything having a home.
My biggest clutter issue is with magazines. I am an artist and I subscribe to some beautiful British magazines that have beautiful pictures. I use many of these pictures to incorporate into my paintings. The pictures I use in paintings I keep in a file. I end up keeping too many of the magazines and then I will do a complete de-clutter and give many away or throw away. Do you have any tips on how to deal with the magazines? Thanks so much. I also enjoyed this video and hearing how you keep a tidy home.
I have cut all the distractions. I don't watch TV, I'm not involved with facebook, instagram, or any of those places (I did have my grandson install utube on my phone when covid hit) but I only watch 1 hr. a day. I don't own a computer and I'm very happy.
I don't really struggle with clutter. I like my things. I am running out of room to have a place for each. I did Fly Lady years ago. That is not possible now do to injuries that does not allow for a 15 minute blitz. I think some clutter is definitely chic! To each their own!
I struggle with my hubby’s clutter! I don’t see him being as proactive and involved as Mr. Chic! That is my biggest struggle, because I can’t change him, trust my I tried. He also guys so many deodorant, lightbulbs, gadgets! Lol He struggles with his mail/paperwork and then is left on the kitchen table, etc. We tried everything, nothing works. So, I just have to accept it and be responsible for my things.
What was the music in this video? My husband plays(and builds!) violins and he would love to learn this piece. I love your videos and the music you choose to accompany them. My clutter free tip: Wait for the children to leave home🤗
It's called home training and nowadays, people consider me old fashioned. I also do a clean sweep in the morning and once more at night. Nothing major, just 5 to 10 minutes to tidy up. Also, American homes are overflowing because we have access to so much. Think about how many bags of stuff you bring into your home, on a weekly basis. Stop shopping so much! Take a weekend, 2x a year, and go through everything. And be objective and true to what you really use, not just want.
Oh this video spoke to my soul! I was such a tidy person, but after the birth of my 18 month old somehow all my discipline and routines flew out the window. In my home we do have a hard time putting things back where they belong. This was the cause of many an argument between myself and my husband and a lot of yelling at my kids. It hit me one day that I needed to do as Flylady Kat says and inspect what I expect; I myself was not putting things away so how could I expect anyone else to? I’ve been much better about it and everyone seems to slowly follow. Gentle reminders work wonders when reinforced by observable actions lol. The only one I’m really struggling with is my husband! bless his heart, I don’t know why he’s gotten so far off the rail, he actually taught,me how to be tidy and organized when we were going out! My hotspots are the mail ALL OVER, and the big pile of shoes at the front door. I created a mini office in a drawer in the kitchen where the mail is placed after junk is put into recycling.it has my checkbook and planner in there so I know when to pay and I can write checks ASAP and get that mail taken care of. The shoe mountain is the tough part for me, we don’t have a coat closet and no system I’ve implemented has worked. We’ve decided to put in a coat closet with built in shoe racks over the winter, hopefully I’ll be able to take my front entrance back lol
OHIO- Only Handle It Once! Put it in it’s place while it is already in your hand. If you set something down where it does not belong, you will just have to deal with it again. That is double work and actually requires more time in the long run. My parents taught me this principle as a child. I still try to implement it as much as possible. I do have a major weak area though.....the mail. I have not developed good habits to take care of that as I should. But, still trying!
Id say Im pretty disciplined when it comes to putting things right away. Bit my husband isnt. He always leaves everything out, even candy papers. Its so easy to just grab them and throw them in the trash. During the day, so much stuff is left out by him, that it makes me not want to put MY stuff away. It feels so pointless whene everything else is already messy... How can I help my husband become more aware of clutter?
I always tell my husband, since he can be disorganized and therefore messy, that the only rule to organization is to put things back. Its simple if you think about it like that.
I put my everyday items it the same spot every day...however...I am the ONLY one in my family to do that (my husband included). It gets frustrating to daily tell my family to put away their things.
I was raised in a on the principle of everything has a place. My mom and dad both were very disciplined people. Nothing every went undone that when you are finished with something put it back where you found it. But then I got married boy life was different. Here I thought that everyone lived by this rule of putting things away in there place. Well needless to say this has been a struggle with my husband. After 48 years of marriage he is still losing things. Because I have stay true to my rule at hand of putting things away where they belong he just thinks he has lost it . So saying all this he always come and ask me where I put it. My reply is where it belongs. You would think right, that he would have learned by now where to find what he lost. Oh well such is life. I wonder where did I go wrong. Got any idea if so please tell me. Is that saying right you can't teach a old dog new tricks. Well in my husbands case it is true. Gives us something to talk about I guess lol at my age I need simple. Don't get me wrong I love him with all my heart he is just an old die hard. He calls what he does organized chaos. I think a lot of men live by that rule. Question is can you break bad habits at his age. Didn't mean to write a short book lol guess I am just at my wit's end. Thanks for letting me vent here. I do love your videos . You have such a great way of teaching basic principles of how to run and enjoy your home thank you for the time you put in here with all of us here on your channel
Ha ha, indeed, Kat mentioned You, and that’s how I ended up on your channel. For anyone looking to get started on FlyLady, I recommend beginning here, so as not to become overwhelmed: ua-cam.com/play/PLRqRun2NLvQld81Jo5t7riYFMJZIJ9CTh.html
I hope you enjoy my video today. If you are visiting from Kat's channel, welcome! For more, including news and comment of the week, check out my corresponding blogpost dailyconnoisseur.blogspot.com/2018/08/3-clutter-clearing-tips-madame-chic.html
Love these tips, Jenn. I have realized that 90% of the battle with keeping a house clean is not actually cleaning it. It's keeping it free of clutter. We got rid of half our stuff a few years ago. Cleaning has gone from 4-6 hrs/week to 2-3 hrs/week. Of course, there are seasons when we are busy (I'm in one now). But, so easy to catch up when there's less stuff to deal with. In the busy days of 3 teens, a husband, a puppy, and work, everything goes really smoothly.👍
I came across Flylady when my kids were little and my house was out of control. I appreciated her authenticity that she too was a not-so-clean type. Her gentle and encouraging methods saved me. I've been flying, or more like fluttering, for over sixteen years. I'm a subscriber of Kat and she is amazing.
Nice to see you here :)
Good morning . I use labels and tags so that it is obvious where things go. For instance on the shelves in my closet boxes are labeled heavy scarves, gloves, handkerchiefs, etc. In the pantry, there are labeled bins for snack items, dried fruit and nuts, and other every day items. Although my Mr. Chic tends to be a clutterer (I came home yesterday to a sander on the dinning room table) , having visual reminders helps us both to stay organized.
How do we get Simon & Schuster to have you narrate your books for audio?! Loved listening to you read from Lessons From Madame Chic!
These kind and gentle videos are so refreshing. Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts with us. One thing I have learned is to make my bed each and everyday. When the bed looks nice it is easier to stay out of it during the day and very pleasant to get back in at night.
My house is pretty clutter free for anyone stepping into it. I’ve always had the reputation of keeping a very orderly house. HOWEVER, if one was to open my closet doors, drawers, or hidden spaces, those spaces tell a very different story! My organizational skills are seriously lacking in those areas of our home! I’m so excited to have found all you efficient home professionals, as I’m learning how to better manage my hidden storage to look as good as my open home! Thank you for that!
Myrna Renoud That's me too! My home is neat and tidy, but the closets and drawers? That's another story. I'm working on it though.
Clutter, IMHO, is procrastination made visible. Set a timer for the smallest amount of time you are willing to tackle the clutter. Then get-to-getting until the timer goes off and pledge to deal with all new items immediately so the clutter is being reduced, not added to. Good luck! You can do this!
This is what I need to implement! I struggle in this area and so want to conquer it. As a part time working mom of 3 I just can't mentally visualize how to begin. I usually do these massive cleanups twice a week and the cleanliness may last for 2 1/2 days and then the clutter takes over again. I need to create a timed schedule that will work for me and teach my kids how they can participate. I have to be a better leader.
Love the tips! My favorite is to love keeping your home. I love the At Home with Madame Chic. From the tips, to the drink recipes, music suggestions, to the presentation, it is one of my favorite of the three books.
Tara Miller I was just reading your comment when she was saying this sentence. I really agree.
It is a constant effort, for sure! I love these tips for maintaining our homes.
I have found that when I recognize that my efforts to care for my home are a tangible way of showing my love for my family, it motivates me to begin, even when I might not be in the mood to tidy up. Once I get started, I find that I feel energized and motivated to keep going. When I get to that point, the endorphins kick in, and I feel good about myself and the service I am giving. :-)
I’m so excited about this collab! I love Fly Lady Kat!! Both of your channels are such a blessing to me ❤️
Cleaning the kitchen early in the AM as soon as breakfast is done.
Arranging go bags of daily items for each member of household.
shredding junk mail on arrival 💝
Great new tips! When I get frustrated feeling like I have to clear misplaced items, I change my mindset to “self-care”. By putting things away in their homes, it frees my mental space to relax. 😊
What a great collaborative! I love both of you ladies. You are each so calming and easy to listen to. I especially enjoy the background music that you choose for your videos. I listen to you and Kat every morning for inspiration. Your tips for clutter control are so spot on. I love your books, too! Thank you for referring back to Lessons from Madame Chic. I need to reread the chapter. I will say that with Kat's help I am making progress with clutter and enjoy caring for our home.
So fun to see a collaboration between you and Kat! You may have been the one who introduced me to Kat's channel - I can't quite remember. ;) She has been so helpful to me. YOUR tips for cultivating a mindset of delight in homemaking have been life-changing for me, and I'm grateful for periodic reminders like this to get me back on track. ;)
I have 3 kids in their 20's and everyone has a drawer in the kitchen. That's where they put their keys, mail ect.
Lovelovelove this subject! My hotspot is my desk. I keep investing in different organizational tools for my desk, but they don’t work for me. A lightbulb has gone off in my head during this video-it’s my lack of discipline with my cluttered desk, not the tools.
I love your third tip, we have to spend so much time to keep our houses nice, you might as well enjoy it. Be a victor not a victim in your attitude! :)
Loved that you did this collaboration with Flylady Kat. It is because of her that I started following your channel and love it! Your tips are on point, I struggle with discipline and following through, although visible clutter is gone - the hidden areas weigh me down. I just registered for your 10 item wardrobe e-course - Flylady Kat has mentioned it often, looking forward to starting that. Thanks Jennifer ;)
Hello Jennifer! I love the refresh of all of your tips! I’m so happy to see that you and Kat did this collaboration! You did a wonderful job, it was so interesting and helpful! Clutter is a struggle at the moment and finding a place for everything, figuring out where everything should go, especially when storage space is less than what we previously had. I have to say, I’m closer than ever to having my own 10 item wardrobe since I have to fit everything in my standing wardrobe! Thank you for sharing! 🌹Nikki
Thank you, Nikki! We've had the opposite problem since we went from smaller spaces in the city to a larger space, but we've been doing good so far... My worry was that I would fill all of our extra storage in this house with clutter. Love that you are moving toward a ten-item wardrobe! Love, Jennifer
Good Morning from the UK Jennifer! Great to see you looking so radiant and I enjoyed your video on de-cluttering. I find your videos very relaxing and they always seem to ground me and reconnect me with my priorities in life, which are my family, my loved ones and my home. I've been a big fan of de-cluttering for 20 years now and it is SO worth being organised as it saves you so much time, energy and stress, not that I'm perfect! Enjoy you're day, my lovely. X
Thank you for your kind words, Fiona!
This is the third video f yours I have watched this morning. Such wisdom! It’s been a hectic summer. Your tips are wonderful reminders of how to get our homes back in order . Thank you!
I really enjoyed this. I like how you suggested you give grace to yourself when you're in a stage of life that you may not be able to manage everything. That is so important for us who tend to be hard ourselves if everything isn't perfect.
You have made me soooo aware of what I do! Haha.
I’m improving my storage areas....storage IS my “hot spot”! I do love my home!
Thank you for good advice!
I love using an "upstairs/downstairs" basket! It helps us corral things that need to go up at the end of the day and down in th morning.
Greetings from Kentucky! Thank you for the very insightful observations on clutter. I was led to your channel through A Better Life With Flylady Kat. I am enjoying your videos and look forward to reading the Madame Chic books.
Thank you, Jennifer! Welcome!
During your intro I smiled thinking of Madame Chic meeting The Fly Lady!
Thank you Jennifer for these great tips/reminders! Clearing the clutter is the best way to establish a calm, peaceful atmosphere in our homes. It does take work though - and your video has given me some fresh motivation to see what I can clear out today!
Great video. Getting everyone else to put things where they go is the hard part for me.
I needed this. My sweet dog, who was my constant companion, had to be put to sleep on Monday, the same day I had to go back to work after summer break. Needless to say I've been in a funk all week. My plan is to make it through tomorrow, and then reset my home this weekend. I think I may even start rereading my Madame Chic books. :-)
I'm sorry for your loss! I remember when Gatsby died... it took me a long time to get over it.
I have a question! This video is great and it is part of my beliefs that everything should be in its place. I’ve worked hard to provide a place for everything. So, how do you get a family on board with following through and being disciplined? Talking doesn’t work. Showing doesn’t work. They just don’t care, including my husband sometimes. I feel like this is a total lack of respect and I prefer to not nag so I let it all fall on me. Any advice?
Natalie Lee maybe you’ve already done this, but I didn’t find that my family started cooperating until we had fewer things. We got rid of about 3/4 of our stuff over about three years (KonMari), and after that it was extremely noticeable if something was left out. Also, “tidy house” is a chore my kids have to do along with brushing teeth and getting in pjs. My chore is to do the dishes, and I can see their progress from where I’m at. I don’t know if this helps. Best wishes!
Hi! Yes, we have decluttered significantly and I am very deligent about keeping all incoming items under control. For the most part, my house is uncluttered. But my kids do play with toys, wear clothes, and make little drawings all of which ends up scattered throughout our home. Unless I’m standing over them giving direction, they would leave them. When we have “tidy up” time they routinely pout/cry/temper tantrum/stall I think because it just isn’t important to them. I wonder if anyone has had success “converting” their family. I might also add that I have always expected tidiness, it’s not something new for our family.
This may seem extreme but it has worked for a friend of mine with her son in some aspects. She gives three warnings for material things...toys clothing etc. on the third warning it is removed. And sometimes it is removed and donated 😐
Queenie Baggins I heard someone do something similar - she takes them and gives them back on Sunday.
I used to live such a clutter free life until about 5 years ago whe. I was diagnosed with a chronic illness. Nowadays, it's a struggle to make it through my work day and am exhausted when I get home... so things just get left where they dont belong and it's out of control. Thank you for this video inspiration to do better!
Rule of thumb here is "don't just put it down, put it away". Very rarely have clutter other than a random pair of my husband's sunglasses on the kitchen counter.
My friend Pearl taught me this. I sometimes have no place to put it away.😉
Yes ma'am I struggle with clutter, but your videos are inspiring me to change this and do batter. Thanks
I love it. Yes the first trimester exhaustion is no joke! Neighbors popping over while it's unusually messy is often how it goes. 😆
I love the tip of lining up Get Well cards on the mantel and leaving the vacuum out . ..
. . . now what was her name
.. .
My closets were the first places to declutter and deep clean! Its so easy to just throw things in there. Its really helped.
I do! I have implemented some of yours and Kat’s tips. It’s helped me so much! I live in a very tiny condo with very little closet space,pantry,etc. we have no garage or attic space,either. This is still a huge challenge. My biggest challenge is my coffee table. All of my writing,reading materials,tissues,hearing aide batteries,etc. are on my coffee table for convenience. Our home is so tiny that we have no room for end tables. Our challenge is finding functional furniture that has shelves or drawers in order to stay tidy. Any suggestions? Also, I work out in my living room(the only space that is large enough,at all). My hand weights are visible BC there is no where else to put them that I could easily access. It’s such an eyesore that I’m embarrassed ;I dread anyone ever coming to my home BC it’s so unsightly. I’m very grateful I have a home and it’s filled with love and coziness. I just wish we had more space. I’ve purged my closet and dresser drawers and they’re very neat. Still,just not enough space for basic storage. Help!!!Thanks for all that you do!j
Melissa Culpepper: I have a similar issue. I love my current home but most rooms are very tiny and overall the storage space is lacking. I’ve been continuing to part with things weekly and being very strict about it. Maybe there are items that can pull double duty or do you have any unnecessary duplicates?
LeMarais88 Hi! Yes,I could absolutely continue to purge. But for basic storage items and pantry space,it’s very limited. Hey, it’s a good problem to have. We have way more than just our basic needs. I’m so blessed! I’m trying to not be such a consumer.
Melissa Culpepper: The pantry space I have is a shelf leading down to the basement for canned stuff, a shallow built in for teas and cooking ingredients like bullion, and space on the top of the fridge for chips etc (kept in rectangular baskets). They do have over-the-door solutions too for people who really need it. I love looking at small space solutions either online or from magazines.
LeMarais88 Way to get creative! Thanks for sharing:)
As a child I was always obsessively neat, without conditioning from my parents. Around my early 30s, the clutter started to get out of hand mostly because I was facing some family related challenges. Since 2011 I’ve been working towards culling everything- only of mine mostly. I’m married to someone who tends to hoard and who’s lazy about cleaning up. He’s only good about cleaning up when people come over. Anyway, I’m making a lot of progress but it’s a long and tough road. It helps to see more and more space open up and I do love cleaning but I still experience times when I feel disappointed that my progress isn’t a lot faster.
Once again, Jennifer, Madame Chic reminds me of my grandmother. I've written you before. I wondered if it was because she was from a different era, but maybe not. My grandparents would have been born around the turn of the century. BTW, they lived in La Varenne.
I'm only 2 minutes into your video as I am hanging our laundry...and I look up to see shoes cluttering the entryway, a pile of mail, and shopping receipts on the counter... Thanks for the serendipitous video! 🤣
Although I 'conmaried' my hole house, I still struggle with clutter. I will have to go through everything again, because my live has changed since the last round a couple of years ago and now I will be able to let go of even more things. Things I used to love but not anymore. The worst clutter in my home though is paper. I can have a clean desk in one minute and total paper chaos the next minute. But I won't give up. One day my home will be (almost) totally clutter free. Thank you for another very nice video. :-)
Thanks for the great tips! I'm always working at keeping my apartment organized and stress free 😁
My new mantra - "Don't put it down, put it away." I'm surprised how often I've caught myself - makes for a more efficient clean up
Love your books Jennifer! I own them all. Great video!
So funny, I am actually re-reading Lessons from Madame Chic right now! Even got my husband reading with me 😉
Love this Jennifer. Do you have more videos of your home and the practical side of keeping it clear from clutter - I'm a visual person. Bless you
I do the 4 times 15 min a day decluttering and cleaning of Flylady and the other routines. Amazing! Nice video ❤️
This is way above my skill level I think I need to start with your book.
I have terrible habits of being disorganized and sloppy
My house is a constant mess and source of stress for me because I don't wanna be like this
A couple of phrases that help me are: "Don't put it down; put it away." And, "Finish the job!" When I'm tempted to just put things down and get it later or to leave something undone, I remember it's always easier to deal with it now! My future self will thank me!
Great video! I love your vlogs!!! :) I did want to point out that I think "visionary" people struggle the most with this. I am one. (wink) We have six children and our home is not large. We have a large farm also. I love to sew, crafts, etc. and so a more "steady" personality will always do better with a clutter-free home than someone who naturally loves to create. I would feel so naked without a sewing nook, but I will admit, it does get cluttery. (sigh) I am looking at it now and have multiple posts up on Pinterest for sewing nook organization. Your vlogs are so encouraging. Thank you. In a world where class is lacking (greatly), there are still classy people encouraging others to do the same. Blessings!!!! :)
This is quite timely. We are contemplating moving, and I need to declutter in a BIG way. Chaos everywhere- I don't know where to begin. It's hard for me to let things go. :-(
Just think of the negative energy its gathered everytime you see them. Rather than thinking of what to get rid, think of what to keep? Maybe make a 60/40 rule. 60 is in the maybe and very best absolute need is in the 40. If you threw too many things away, guess what you get to get a new item that you will enjoy far more than the old item you had.
I've found, when our teenager started University, he wanted to leave quite a lot of his stuff with us. We have a bit of loft space, so we cheaply boarded it out and put it all up there, boxed up neatly. Definitely out of sight :)
I find paper clutter is my problem. I’ve got it under control now but it is so easy to let it get out of control if I don’t keep everything you mentioned in this video in mind. Great video! Do you have any tips to train your husband to put their things away?
Journey to Home Sweet Home KonMari says to give him one place to put all his stuff instead of stations all over the house. Maybe this would help? Best wishes!
I try to make sure on the way from the mail box I pull out all junk mail and put it in the garbage. I try to have a place for everything. When I moved from California my daughter was 8 months old and I had a painful scar from my emergency c-section. I was in business and literally had 60 suits and a ton of clothes. That was 16 years ago and if I could do it again I would declutter as I pack to move to Oregon. That was my mistake lol I was in pain with a baby and just put everything in boxes. I have donated, decluttered every summer since. I'm down to just my expensive suits kept in special boxes in the attic and an old antique Christmas Village( in the attic as well), and when I take off my pillows from my outdoor chairs for summer they go in the attic, that is also where I keep my HS year books in a box as well with old family photos. But sister it took me years to get rid of just things. Now one in one out rule. I'm much more in control of clothes now as well. Now that I'm almost 57 I don't need so much. Plus my income is in control and I'm on a budget. I feel much happier!
Loved this! I have always lived a very disciplined life and kept organised home, however, I'm finding it hard to get my husband on board (my 2 year old son seems to know where all the spaces are, but finds it hard to always put things away. Work in progress). Would love some tips for helping those not as organised as us to get on board with everything having a home.
My biggest clutter issue is with magazines. I am an artist and I subscribe to some beautiful British magazines that have beautiful pictures. I use many of these pictures to incorporate into my paintings. The pictures I use in paintings I keep in a file. I end up keeping too many of the magazines and then I will do a complete de-clutter and give many away or throw away. Do you have any tips on how to deal with the magazines? Thanks so much. I also enjoyed this video and hearing how you keep a tidy home.
I love the topic you deals with....much love from NEPAL.:)
I have cut all the distractions. I don't watch TV, I'm not involved with facebook, instagram, or any of those places (I did have my grandson install utube on my phone when covid hit) but I only watch 1 hr. a day. I don't own a computer and I'm very happy.
Do you mind posting the name of the music you play on your videos?
Off the subject but what shampoo do you use?
Your hair is so healthy and beautiful.
Thanks for the tips.
I don't really struggle with clutter. I like my things. I am running out of room to have a place for each. I did Fly Lady years ago. That is not possible now do to injuries that does not allow for a 15 minute blitz. I think some clutter is definitely chic! To each their own!
Enjoyed it 👍🏻👍🏻💜
I struggle with my hubby’s clutter! I don’t see him being as proactive and involved as Mr. Chic! That is my biggest struggle, because I can’t change him, trust my I tried. He also guys so many deodorant, lightbulbs, gadgets! Lol He struggles with his mail/paperwork and then is left on the kitchen table, etc. We tried everything, nothing works. So, I just have to accept it and be responsible for my things.
Dang... I'm very organized with my house, but mail and papers tend to acumulate in: my desk and on my piano!!!! This video was clearly for my ears...
I love a clean, fresh, tidy home. Thank you!
Thanks for another great video {my hotspot is calling me!}!
What was the music in this video? My husband plays(and builds!) violins and he would love to learn this piece. I love your videos and the music you choose to accompany them. My clutter free tip: Wait for the children to leave home🤗
Thank you! Dvorak in F Major Op 96
I need so badly to develop a good system for mail and paperwork. Drives me nuts.
Does clutter mean stuff that doesnt belong, or too much stuff. Everything I own has a home but I fear I'm not minimalist so its automatically clutter
It's called home training and nowadays, people consider me old fashioned. I also do a clean sweep in the morning and once more at night. Nothing major, just 5 to 10 minutes to tidy up. Also, American homes are overflowing because we have access to so much. Think about how many bags of stuff you bring into your home, on a weekly basis. Stop shopping so much! Take a weekend, 2x a year, and go through everything. And be objective and true to what you really use, not just want.
I wish you were the voice reading your book on audible.
Oh this video spoke to my soul! I was such a tidy person, but after the birth of my 18 month old somehow all my discipline and routines flew out the window. In my home we do have a hard time putting things back where they belong. This was the cause of many an argument between myself and my husband and a lot of yelling at my kids. It hit me one day that I needed to do as Flylady Kat says and inspect what I expect; I myself was not putting things away so how could I expect anyone else to? I’ve been much better about it and everyone seems to slowly follow. Gentle reminders work wonders when reinforced by observable actions lol. The only one I’m really struggling with is my husband! bless his heart, I don’t know why he’s gotten so far off the rail, he actually taught,me how to be tidy and organized when we were going out!
My hotspots are the mail ALL OVER, and the big pile of shoes at the front door. I created a mini office in a drawer in the kitchen where the mail is placed after junk is put into recycling.it has my checkbook and planner in there so I know when to pay and I can write checks ASAP and get that mail taken care of. The shoe mountain is the tough part for me, we don’t have a coat closet and no system I’ve implemented has worked. We’ve decided to put in a coat closet with built in shoe racks over the winter, hopefully I’ll be able to take my front entrance back lol
ENJOY CLEANING my home??? Combating tiredness/exhaustion/laziness! I need ideas on enjoying it so much that it gets me out of bed. . .
OHIO- Only Handle It Once! Put it in it’s place while it is already in your hand. If you set something down where it does not belong, you will just have to deal with it again. That is double work and actually requires more time in the long run. My parents taught me this principle as a child. I still try to implement it as much as possible. I do have a major weak area though.....the mail. I have not developed good habits to take care of that as I should. But, still trying!
Id say Im pretty disciplined when it comes to putting things right away. Bit my husband isnt. He always leaves everything out, even candy papers. Its so easy to just grab them and throw them in the trash. During the day, so much stuff is left out by him, that it makes me not want to put MY stuff away. It feels so pointless whene everything else is already messy... How can I help my husband become more aware of clutter?
Hi Jennifer! I'm just wondering, don't you have a cleaning woman as you have a busy schedule?
I always tell my husband, since he can be disorganized and therefore messy, that the only rule to organization is to put things back. Its simple if you think about it like that.
We call it FD. put things in their final destination
I put my everyday items it the same spot every day...however...I am the ONLY one in my family to do that (my husband included). It gets frustrating to daily tell my family to put away their things.
Yes!!!!!!! My motto is: NEVER LEAVE A TRAIL!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 😁😁😁👍
Not so much clutter clearing as the title said but more about clutter avoidance.
kat sent me!
Welcome!
Slay the biggest dragon first; laundry, dishes and making your bed. Jennifer you are glowing with beauty. Your having a boy
👍🏻👌🏻
I was raised in a on the principle of everything has a place. My mom and dad both were very disciplined people. Nothing every went undone that when you are finished with something put it back where you found it. But then I got married boy life was different. Here I thought that everyone lived by this rule of putting things away in there place. Well needless to say this has been a struggle with my husband. After 48 years of marriage he is still losing things. Because I have stay true to my rule at hand of putting things away where they belong he just thinks he has lost it . So saying all this he always come and ask me where I put it. My reply is where it belongs. You would think right, that he would have learned by now where to find what he lost. Oh well such is life. I wonder where did I go wrong. Got any idea if so please tell me. Is that saying right you can't teach a old dog new tricks. Well in my husbands case it is true. Gives us something to talk about I guess lol at my age I need simple. Don't get me wrong I love him with all my heart he is just an old die hard. He calls what he does organized chaos. I think a lot of men live by that rule. Question is can you break bad habits at his age. Didn't mean to write a short book lol guess I am just at my wit's end. Thanks for letting me vent here. I do love your videos . You have such a great way of teaching basic principles of how to run and enjoy your home thank you for the time you put in here with all of us here on your channel
Ha ha, indeed, Kat mentioned You, and that’s how I ended up on your channel. For anyone looking to get started on FlyLady, I recommend beginning here, so as not to become overwhelmed:
ua-cam.com/play/PLRqRun2NLvQld81Jo5t7riYFMJZIJ9CTh.html
got up and put my purse away.
Aww. I feel bad that you felt bad about your house. You were exhausted with making that new baby. It’s ok.
I only watched the first 2 minutes and it was all cross-promotion and book promotion. Your channel is not for me.
Wanda Yonder you should have watched more. She has very good tips.
@@skywriter9359 I don't have the time to watch minutes of advertisements before a vid starts.