Clutter-Busting Secrets of the Pros

Seven strategies for getting rid of all the things you don't want, need, or even like.

Act Like You're Moving

Say you had to uproot and relocate. What would you take with you? You don't actually have to pack up anything―just set aside the few things that you love and use and see what's left over. "Chances are, you use only 20 percent of your stuff regularly," says Sally Allen, owner of A Place for Everything, an organizing service in Golden, Colorado. 
 
 

Toss-It Tips

• Envision your home as a prospective buyer might: Uncluttered spaces make the best first impression. They're also a lot easier to keep clean and dust-free.
• Imagine the potential buyer (or, worse, a relative) going through your closets or drawers. What would you not want him or her to see?
• Buy containers and baskets only after you've decided what to keep. This way you'll have a much better sense of the kind of storage you need.
   

Why It Works

• You don't have to get rid of things you love or need―you just have to determine what those things are.
• If you've ever packed and paid for a move, the motivation for paring down your possessions will be all too clear.