Shhh, don’t tell my children. I keep my biggest clutter-busting tip a secret from them. I’m sure it’s nothing new. In fact, my mom has told me she used to do it when I was younger. My biggest tip is to simply keep children out of most of the decluttering process.
Recently, when my two older children were at school, I rushed around the house with bags and boxes collecting anything and everything my children hadn’t played with in the past few months. Within thirty minutes, I’d gathered nearly four trash bags and two small boxes full of toys and other miscellaneous items to donate. I loaded the bags and boxes into our van and then buckled in my youngest daughter and headed out to drop off our donations. In less than two hours, I had a much tidier house. My kiddos were able to easily find their toys without digging through the excess. In addition, clean up time was easier.
I can honestly say that in all the times I’ve done this, my children have rarely noticed a missing possession. Yes, I feel bad when they do, but they’ve never been truly upset. Of course, I never get rid of their favorite toys, even if they do drive me a little crazy with all their parts and noises.
So, am I alone in sneaking toys out of the house? Do you have other clutter-busting ideas you’d like to share? I hope you do!