Start now with this January organizing checklist to prepare for a successful new year. These tips include monthly organizing and cleaning chores for a clutter-free home.
If you don’t finish everything in January, transfer your projects to the next month. Start with a renewed mindset of goal-setting tasks.
First week
Take down your tree, decorations and holiday cards. Put the holiday decorations in a labelled bin. Dust and clean your kitchen to kick off your winter cleaning checklist.
Schedule doctor and dentist appointments for the year. Declutter and organize a pantry shelf. Check the expiration dates on the packages. Group similar items together to stay efficient.
Second week
Organize one file in your filing cabinet. Start fresh by removing outdated documents and papers. Buy a portable filing box you can carry from room to room. Donate gifts you won’t use and items you no longer need to a local charity.
Clean out your fridge and freezer. Toss expired items and plan to use up what’s left. Wash your winter gloves, scarves and hats to keep them fresh and ready for use.
Third week
Plan your meals for the week ahead to save time, reduce stress, and stay organized. Sweep or vacuum your entryway and ensure it’s clutter-free to make a good first impression.
Tackle your digital clutter by clearing out your email inbox. Archive old emails and unsubscribe from newsletters you don’t need.
Sort through your junk drawer. Toss expired coupons, broken items and anything that doesn’t belong.
Fourth week
Clean out your car. Remove trash, vacuum the floors and organize your trunk.
Start a donation box as part of your monthly decluttering plan. Add at least one item today.
Plan your winter self-care routine. Include skincare, warm baths or cozy reading time. Organize your nightstand by removing clutter and keeping only essentials within reach.
Organize one kitchen cabinet. Dispose of any old spices and gadgets that you no longer use. Set a timer for 10 minutes to tidy up a shelf or clear off a cluttered surface in your kitchen.
Next, declutter your digital photo collection by deleting duplicates, blurry shots and any old photos you don’t need. Vacuum under your sofa and loveseat, and check for dust bunnies hiding in hard-to-reach places. Organize receipts into a digital system or folder to prevent them from piling up.
Move on to your bathroom by scrubbing sinks, counters and mirrors to make them sparkle. Declutter your socks, shoes, jewellery and makeup. Review your magazines or catalogues and recycle or donate the ones you no longer need.
Take a moment to reflect on your accomplishments and reward yourself. Celebrate with family and friends, and start planning your goals for February.
Transformational life coach Ranka Burzan owns a professional organizing company in the qathet region and has written several books on reducing clutter. For more information, email [email protected].
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