Why Declutter and Clean Green?
In today’s consumer society, many of us accumulate more possessions than we really need. Excess stuff cluttering our homes can create feelings of stress and overwhelm. I have found that periodic decluttering sessions help me clear both physical and mental space.
Decluttering allows me to reevaluate what I truly need and want to keep in my life. It gives me a sense of control and renewal. The act of letting go of unused possessions is liberating. I feel lighter and more focused without clutter surrounding me.
I also aim to declutter and clean in an eco-friendly way. Many conventional cleaning products contain toxic chemicals that are bad for my health and the environment. I want to avoid exposing myself and my family to these harmful ingredients.
My goal is to create a clutter-free, healthy home in a sustainable way. Organizing with green cleaning methods allows me to achieve this vision.
How I Declutter My Home
Sort Through Each Area Systematically
I start by choosing one area, such as a drawer, closet or cabinet, to focus on. I take everything out and sort items into “keep”, “donate”, “recycle” and “trash” piles.
I ask myself these questions about each item:
- Do I use this regularly?
- Does it have sentimental value?
- Could someone else use this?
- Is it broken or worn out?
Let Go of Unneeded Items
I aim to be ruthless and honest about what I really need. If I have not used something in over a year, I likely do not need it. I gather up the “donate” and “recycle” piles and remove them from my home. Letting go of excess possessions feels very freeing.
Organize Remaining Items
For items I am keeping, I think about how best to organize them for easy access later. I group similar items together and store them conveniently near where they will be used.
Maintain Minimalism
Regular decluttering helps me resist accumulating new clutter. When I bring something new into my home, I ask myself if I really need it and if I am ready to let go of something else in its place. This keeps my space minimal and functional.
Eco-Friendly Cleaning Methods
Here are some of the green cleaning strategies I rely on to keep my home tidy after decluttering:
Baking Soda and Vinegar
I use baking soda on surfaces as a gentle abrasive cleaner. I also mix it with vinegar to make a fizzy cleaning paste. The natural acidity of vinegar disinfects effectively.
Lemon Juice
Lemon juice is another acidic cleaner that cuts through grease and disinfects surfaces. I slice a lemon in half and rub it directly on surfaces in the kitchen and bathroom.
Plant-Based Soaps
For laundry, dishes and other cleaning, I use plant-based soaps without artificial fragrances or colors. Common choices are castile soap or soaps made from coconut oil.
Microfiber Cloths
I clean with reusable microfiber cloths which grab onto dust and dirt effectively with just water. This eliminates the need for wasteful paper towels and chemical cleaners.
Essential Oils
To make my home smell fresh naturally, I diffuse essential oils like lemon, lavender and tea tree. I can also add a few drops of essential oil to a spray bottle with water and use as an air freshener.
Benefits I’ve Experienced
Here are some of the benefits I’ve noticed from regular decluttering sessions and green cleaning:
- My home feels more spacious, organized and peaceful without clutter overwhelming me.
- LETTING GO of possessions I don’t need has been liberating.
- I feel less stressed in a tidy and minimal home environment.
- Using non-toxic cleaning methods makes me feel better that I’m not exposing my family to harmful chemicals.
- I save money by reducing unnecessary purchases and making my own green cleaning supplies.
- I feel good that I’m making more eco-friendly choices in my home.
Tips for Staying Motivated
Here are some tips that have helped me stay motivated to maintain my decluttered, clean home:
- I start small – tackle one area at a time, don’t overwhelm myself.
- I get other family members involved – kids can declutter toy areas.
- I remind myself of the positive benefits I gain.
- I make decluttering a habit by scheduling time for it weekly or monthly.
- I visualize how good I will feel in a clutter-free, fresh-smelling home.
- I donate items to motivate myself to let go of clutter.
- I stock up on plant-based cleaners so they are easy to use.
- I post motivational quotes to inspire me to keep up the habits.
Taking the time to declutter and clean my home in an eco-friendly way has been a very positive experience for me. Though it takes some effort, I find it very rewarding. A tidy home provides me with mental clarity and a sanctuary from the busy outside world.
