9 Things to Get Rid of for a Clutter Free Home Minimal Living

[@TheStoneCottageRhythm]

New subscriber. Very good points. I always buy a lot of craft stuff when it on sale, but find out I never got a chance to use it. Waste my money!

[@FarmhouseonBoone]

Yes, me too! I have totally been there. And I used to hold onto everything!

[@donnawyatt5871]

michelle zhao I

[@shayemozes1381]

michelle zhao qqqqq

[@annkeenan6453]

michelle zhao me too. Have drawers full.

[@ksrseller5]

michelle zhao i

[@peacefulmamato2]

I go to a beachy Amish church and when we give each other gifts, it's things like tissues, a favorite snack, hand soap, dish soap. Stuff we will use and pitch when finished!

[@emmaschauer5409]

That's a great idea! I tend to try to give food items for the same reason, I hadn't thought of other useful things, thank you!

[@chalktalkwithshari4173]

New subscriber. The older I get, the less stuff I want in my home. All six of my children are grown, so I CAN now have it my way. I am so proud of my youngest son, who is getting married next month. They are having a small wedding for closest family & friends (like 30 people): a candlelight church ceremony followed by a sit-down dinner. He spent more money on the honeymoon---a Caribbean cruise. They requested no gifts. They said the best gift was to have the people they love share time on the wedding day with them. I feel this is a great start to a blissful marriage. 💞🎂💍

[@docb8316]

I am an aunt but I give swim lessons, year passes to the zoo or children's museum and outings. What they get from these lasts so much longer than plastic toys

[@amandajimenez7500]

Such an awesome idea, gonna steal that for Aunty gifts

[@eshel1954]

That is a great idea!

[@annabarr1304]

I ask for similar gifts every year, like tickets to the aquarium, theater, zoo, etc, but my family just ignores it and buys toys that my kids play with for 5min and never touch again

[@GoodPersonTestWebsite]

Good aunt 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@bexyrexy]

To paraphrase your comment: 'Do not let the someday maybe effect the function of your daily life.' Such a profound principle! Thank you for sharing and creating this video.

[@FarmhouseonBoone]

Thank you!

[@toffthe]

I've de -cluttered your video 1. Chargers / cords etc (random) 2. Toys that are missing pieces 3. Clothes that haven't been worn for a year 4. Furniture that sucks. 5. Crockery you never use 6. Craft supplies 7. Extra blankets ( because folding blankets is costing you money!) 8. Books you want to get round to reading but won't 9. Unwanted gifts. You're welcome !

[@KathleenJean53]

I found that getting rid of containers has helped, no more tubs, no more matching baskets for paperwork and magazines, no more office organizers such as file holders, pencil cups and those little trays for your desk. If it doesn’t have a dedicated space in a drawer I got rid of it, push pins, so many extra pens and pencils, all the stuff on a desk and also filling two desk drawers, gone. So I had stacked tubs in the closet, organized and labeled; camping clothes and stuff, fabric for sewing projects, yarn and crafts, shoes-too many, off season clothes. But it was frustrating pulling them out, digging through to find something and then tidying and replacing. I got rid of craft supplies I have been holding on to for years. Got rid of extra linens. Now one set of sheets per bed, a couple of sets of towels. It is great to see mostly empty closets now, my friends are shocked. I like seeing the floors in my closets.

[@msl5131]

Kathleen Gustafson wow. That's awesome. Can you come to my house?!😁 what may i ask inspired you?

[@2L82Sk8Bye]

Kathleen Gustafson Oh my! I think you are my twin and we were separated at birth. I have everything you just described and have been trying to purge for two years now. My problem isn't getting rid of the stuff. I'm more than ready and willing to do that. My problem is living with someone who says, "You can't get rid of that. We might need it in a SHTF scenario! It's nuts and I want to cry because I'm finally ready to let go but stifled by a "Prepper." What to do?

[@mickyunit]

Kathleen Gustafson I hit that Milestone as well. I just brought boxes from work and started putting in supplies and other items so that I could donate them. In my area we get postcards for donation pickups. It's about two or three per month. So I just have to make sure I have boxes on hand. I love it. It's the best for when I'm ready to get rid of things.

[@1995Benzo]

I've started the same thing. I joined a group, doing a 40 bags in 40 days Declutter Challenge. I have so much more to do, but how refreshing it feels! I only use 2 sets of sheets, so why did I have 6 sets, 3 old shower curtains and several old towels/rags in my linen closets? I can't wait to clear out this ENTIRE house!

[@songbirdforjesus2381]

@@2L82Sk8Bye separate the Prepper stuff. Let it have its own space- garage spare bedroom Etc. Get it out of your everyday stuff and put it where it doesn't get used.

[@TaliseSnyder]

One thing as someone who loves crafts and as teenager is that I can't always guarantee I will have money for supplies to replace the old ones I threw out, nor can I guarantee someone will actually be able to bring me to the store. I don't like having to wait a week for my dad to be able to drive me to the store to spend $10 on something I already had.

[@ChildrenOfArabia]

I agree and it is true for low income people too. "It's just 5$ it's just 10$" Well, to some people it is a lot !

[@lizandryan1027]

I love my books!! Never getting rid of my books. If I can have a room filled with just books I would...just makes me happy! ☺ That's just me!

[@FarmhouseonBoone]

Hey, you do what makes you happy! Its all about finding joy and peace in your own home. :)

[@tahoe7779]

It might be fun to make a room your special library with one of those rolling ladders that moves along a floor-to-ceiling book shelf. Everyone needs a place to retire to at the end of the day to relax & unwind, even if it's just your special comfy chair in the corner of a room with a good book. 😊

[@joniallen6880]

Yes, there’s just something so comforting about books on shelves!

[@maureenp7082]

Just a thought...but my husband is going through chemo treatments so we donate books we're done with to the Oncology department at the hospital. It's like a mini library and people can take any book they'd like.

[@mimicoolwhip5991]

Maureen P GREAT idea! I had to do chemo for MS in 2004-2008 every 3-4weeks & they had one as well. Although I usually brought my own stuff to read/do during the many hours it took, I did find a few reads there💛 Best wishes & long health to your hubby! I know chemo is no joke & the side effects can last well past the duration of it.I had chronic throat infections for over 6yrs after, my hair,brows, lashes have never grown back in the same & have to take hair skin nails vitamins to make it grow.Never fully came back so to speak.Hoping your hubby is doing well!

[@carrieyeager952]

Great idea! Thanks for sharing!

[@Mrs.J.D.B]

@@mimicoolwhip5991 talk to your doctor about possibly taking a prenatal multi vitamin. It may help with the hair growth! It was suggested to my aunt who is in her 50's and definitely not taking it for the purpose it was originally created for! It seems to be helping her though! 🙂

[@michelesifuentes2804]

Pinksupergrl95 - I’ve recently been dx with MS. Can you tell me (or point me in the direction of) more info about chemo for MS? Thanks!

[@acajudi100]

I comment in my books, so once dead, anyone can see my comments.

[@whatzupLizzy]

Here’s an alternative idea. Don’t expect or ask for gifts. Don’t declutter. Just don’t clutter. Someone I love does not need to pay $20.00 to get a hug. I am not saying don’t buy stuff, just get what you need and save the money stress at the start of the process.

[@Irene-gq4jr]

My mum recently passed away. I'm not under pressure to clear her things out as my aunt still lives in their house, and I'm wary of stashing things just because they were hers. I like your ideas on gifts, as mum gave me many nice things that weren't to my taste. Before she got ill I asked if she would mind me donating some of those things to charity shops and she replied 'That's fine, if you don't want it then donate it'. Very glad I asked. Memories, letters and photos are far more imortant than anything else.

[@kaylajo1]

Myself and my family just had a big move across country, and in doing so had to fit what we wanted to take in a small trailer to tow behind our van. It really forced us to decide what things we owned were valuable to us. Since moving here and having to repurchase some things i've really made smart choices about what i'm buying and making sure i don't clutter the house and love everything we are bringing into the house. This has done a world of difference for my stress level. I will not go back to a cluttered home after experiencing life this way. It really is so freeing.

[@LiaMahony]

The only point I don’t agree with are the books. I see unread books as potential not stress. I love the inspiration I find in my books. Otherwise loved all this. New subscriber. Thank you. Looking forward to more from you. 😊

[@candicecat4474]

Same. When I look at my books I feel waves of pleasure, security, joy and discovery.

[@starlitstarlet]

Marie Kondo says that the optimal time to read a book is right when you purchase it as this is when the excitement to read it is at its greatest.

[@notalltheories]

I think the point was to get rid of things that stress you out. If your books don’t stress you out, then I think you can just ignore that tip 😋

[@suetolstad7199]

Lia I totally agree. I love my books n the 1 magazine I buy. JFK JR. Said at Jackie's death, she died surrounded by the books she loved. I never feel better than when I walk into a bookstore!

[@mimicoolwhip5991]

Lia Girl, me too! I love books & its one of the few things I collect. Reading has always been my jam lol I think if it brings you joy, keep it! A great book shelf is never a bad thing.BTW if I ever went to your house, I always check out what you have haha Also, am I the only one who checks out peoples books they are carrying? Some people people watch, me? I book watch haha Sometimes Ive wanted to ask what book it is or if they like it but end up feeling embarrassed📚📚📕📒📓 #bookwormstruggles lol

[@intentionallymade]

This is STILL one of my favorite decluttering videos. Had to revisit it and watch again since it’s the new year. We are building a metal home this year on our land and I want it to be farmhouse cottage. I have Pinterest on overdrive right now but excited to do this frugally and minimally as much as we can.

[@ashleej.3358]

Good common sense advice. I'm watching these types of videos to motivate me to get rid of stuff. My biggest problem is that I mostly have things I like, things I find to be unusual; Also, a huge thing with me is: I like to give to individuals I know needs and will use what I give them. I'm not a fan of good will. I used to be. (Locally, at least). Also, I love to recycle. I hate putting things in landfills that could be repurposed. These are a few of my obstacles. Also, I love books, the look, the smell, the touch. So thanks for this video. I have learned that decluttering is a change of mind and heart about "stuff!" I have several other videos I have picked by topic to watch. I'm taking from each what suits me best and running with it. I can't wait to feel free again! Thanks again!

[@theprimitiveblackhatsociet8274]

We moved into a 4 room farmhouse with a bathroom smaller than most people's walk in closet. Our kids are grown and on their own so it is just the two of us, but I did a complete declutter when we moved. We have an eat in kitchen, a living room, a bedroom and my studio. I know where everything is, everything we need and want fits, we love it. Live simple!!

[@FarmhouseonBoone]

Yes! It is especially important for small spaces. Our farmhouse is super small too!

[@theprimitiveblackhatsociet8274]

You find out fast what you really do not need. I am a collector and love to decorate, but I only purchase things I truly love. Our home is clutter free but is still very much a cozy home. Blessed Be my sister.

[@TheImperfectReader]

I regift. I am not ashamed.

[@kristymarshall7556]

Me, neither! I take the attitude I'd rather see someone else enjoy the thing if I don't!

[@thecutestofborg5604]

I turn right around and sell Christmas gifts I hate. Not sorry.

[@Ildie]

I just return everything, and luckily everybody know it, so they just buy gift card now

[@stacyhigginson170]

Ashley Burton I just need to be careful that I don't regift to the people who gave it to me in the first place 😂🙈

[@Jesuscoffeeandme]

Ashley Burton I agree! I just find that in my culture (Mexican) some people don’t understand this concept of regifting and I think is just being realistic! 🤷🏽‍♀️ I have had a few incidents were I can see people’s reactions when I tell them the true! If something doesn’t fit me or is not my style I just tell them 🙈☺️

[@sashacat0608]

The stuff in my junk drawer has come in very handy. And I don't have to stop what I'm doing, get dressed, go to Walmart and look for 20 minutes to find what I need and waste $10, my time and gas. And regret throwing away something I ended up needing.

[@nasirb3914]

Tansie a lot of these minimalists just purge and then rebuy everything again a few months later.

[@big.fan.of.justice5754]

All the cords I can’t identify went into a lidded box and are temporarily in the garage. If i find i am missing a cord i can rummage thru that box. After three years (it has a “throw by” date written on it) it will be gone for good.

[@supersqueak]

I thought people call Junk Drawers that because they are disorganized? I think you can have stuff you don't use very often like that without it being all disorganized. Like wrap up all the cords and put all the loose stuff in little plastic containers so it doesn't look terrible and you can find what you need.

[@Mrs.J.D.B]

Such a good point. And then you end up wasting money twice, first by throwing away the cord or item that you had already spent money on and second by having to spend the money on it again... maybe it's minimalism but it's not very frugal! By the time you're done throwing items away and re-buying them and running to the store (most likely more than once) it ends up "costing you money" that you had to work hard for. I like the idea a previous poster had commented of having a "throw by date" on items you're unsure of. Chuck it if you know it hasn't been used in three years! Some things just don't get used every year! That's just how life goes sometimes!

[@songbirdforjesus2381]

@@nasirb3914 it's great if you have an organized junk drawer with stuff you know you'll use. A trip to Walmart to get something that you got rid of a year ago is no big deal if you incorporate it with your shopping trip. But some people just don't have the space for the what ifs or I might need that later, because they've said that so many times with so many items it's overwhelming. In that case paring down or decluttering your stuff is wise

[@susan5048]

I don’t know how you do it with 6 children. I had one and struggled. You are such an inspiration to women . Thanks so much for your advice.

[@rachelm7525]

Well, the reason some of us hang onto stuff is that we CAN'T replace it! If I toss something, and need it again, I don't have the means to re-purchase. Don't get me wrong- I hate clutter! My solution is to repurpose. I might turn junk into art, or more useful storage.

[@jmdenison]

as long as it does now overflow the house, and you can find a neat storage for it, I'm with you. But every room has a purpose, and when you can't sit in a living room, can't sit and eat in your dining room, can't fix a meal in your kitchen, time to get out the bags for goodwill and/or ebay and declutter. that's the real key. you also have to do dishes every day, wash and vacuum every room once per week and dust every surface once per month and hunt down cobwebs. many hoarders just don't know how to clean

[@atrt4959]

Love it. Cherish it. Let it go and let someone else love it. When we leave this earth we cant take it.

[@mickyunit]

Great video! I'm currently going through everything in my house. I've enlisted a friend to help me be accountable. I've told her what my goal is and every Saturday morning we have a four hour session. Afterwards we make a run to Goodwill and local recycling and drop off things that someone else can use. Then we are off to lunch! I love your analogy of paying a fee for someone else to store your seldomly used items. It's amazing how many items you can collect over 30 years especially when de-cluttering was never employed. I'm enjoying the tail end of my minimizing project.

[@FarmhouseonBoone]

It is sooo crazy what can accumulate over time!

[@SonshineLady7]

@mickyunit - I enjoy listening to #Theminimalists podcast. They just began KZbin videos as well. To continue the analogy of paying a fee for someone else to store things I might need, one of the minimalist guys says his tool shed is Craig's List. When he needs a tool, he buys it from there and when finished sells it.

[@lindseyslifeNstyle]

I agree with you on clutter gives me stress. I’ve been decluttering and feel like I’ve gotten rid of so much and I’m still stressed with my surroundings. Lol

[@eleo_b]

I like shopping my stash and rediscover old clothes that I got tired of before. Old leather jackets that I start wearing again. Party dresses that I hadn’t worn in a long time. It’s like you bought new stuff!

[@MommaFromScratch]

I hate the toy kitchen, my boys play with my actual kitchen items and its just easier! I love your take on it, blunt and to the point!

[@FarmhouseonBoone]

Haha! Thank you!

[@berrypatch5583]

I am turning an understairs area into my kids secret play area....just with the stove and a itty bitty chair and table. My thoughts are that with our tiny hone...the tiniest kiddos would enjoy a hideaway spot....but...I agree never a kitchen set in a bedroom or public play area...kids just turn it into something for you to pick up. I have heavily limited our kiddos toys...and have a basket for the if I pick it up after pick up time it goes in this basket not to be seen for quite a while. They have learned to pick up what they care about and mama learns quickly what they do not care about...and eventually if the said item is left a lot...it isn't brought back out and then donated. I feel as an American we give our children too many toys and not enough down time.

[@gailsbookishthings5191]

Ive been a dejunker all my life and am in that mode right now because it is the new year. This video is keeping me inspired! Sometimes i think, too, that we can complain that our space is too small when what we really may need is a good purge of all the extra stuff in our homes.

[@Oyimtalkingtoyou]

what a beautiful home!! you are a nice quiet speaker. I am the same. I love getting rid of things. over the years ive gotten through all cycles of decluttering. my cords etc was a fave to get rid of but now I have more to get out of here.. we moved to a smaller home because i thought we weren't using our third room... but now we have little storage!! i hide toys in a bag and if not asked for in a few weeks i donate them. yes the kids scatter messy toys. I minimised our food play items drastically. the best thing I bought was a $30 wooden cake that all 3 kids loved so far. yes it was an expensive treat but nothing has given my kids more joy!! it is not too big and sita together with Velcro. it is a wonderful you. I hate all the tiny pieces from other things..

[@mimicoolwhip5991]

I recently learned that there are many people who make care packages for veterans, homeless & victims of domestix violence so please keep in mind when getting rid of bathroom, toiletry, makeup, household products. I foujd this out when I posted an ad for bunch of toiletry products (inc free samples, new and gently used stuff)I had to get rid of via a local FB give & take page.One of the women who contacted me about it makes care packages for veterans. What a great way to help & its getting rid of stuff you arent using!

[@tammieparrishmiller3669]

This is exactly what I needed to hear today! I was looking for something to light a fire in me. I've already packed up the china and silver that was an early inheritance that I didn't realize I wasn't going to need or want and it's being saved for one of my nieces IF any of them are interested. I am tired of dusting clutter and as you stated, taking my precious time folding things that I just don't want to deal with at this point in my life. Thank you!

[@willow1734]

Chaos around us leads to a chaotic mind. Eliminating leads to peace, calm creativity. I read a clutter home leads to a cluttered mind. My husband says when we get a "gift" from my parents it comes w/more strings than a parachute! Don't paint it, scratch it etc. Would we feel bad if someone gave, sold or threw away a gift we gave them??? I never think of it once gone. Thanks for sharing.

[@ithacacomments4811]

I acquired a beautiful cable knit sweater today for free !!!!! I am so happy ! My apt complex has a giveaway area....one persons junk is another persons treasure. We are senior citizens and this giveaway practice saves us all so much money !

[@jazmatik1]

THIS!!! 🙏 Thank you! My family moved to a bigger space last September. We got rid of plenty before the move but I feel like it still wasn't enough 🤦🏽‍♀️ I also don't do well with clutter, it literally affects my mood. The current school year ends in 2 days and I'm due with our 4th child in October so this is my mission. I've been quietly making plans and taking notes but this video has just helped put things into perspective and this time I'll be going into it with a clear goal and focus. Thank you!

[@candicecat4474]

So great to hear an American woman with a grounded voice! I am a clutter hog and really enjoy looking at how other people live, very refreshing and so different from me! What I really like is that I usually can implement one thing from most vlogs - or there is one thing someone says that resonates. Thanks for sharing your world (mine would freak you out, haha!). Candice from NZ.

[@FarmhouseonBoone]

I'm not as high strung as I look in this video.It was one of my first, so I was nervous. People tell me I look unhappy and stressed out. Not true. :) I'm sure your place wouldn't freak me out. LOL

[@candicecat4474]

ha ha, oh you darling, thanks for replying (wow, this international connectivity is amazing). I just think anyone willing to share their helpful tips and way of living with others is really brave, so thank you. xx

[@Kayla-md6kq]

You literally just changed my life. Thank you so much. I'm in tears because I'm so happy that I can finally breath. You're amazing, I can't wait to see what's next.

[@FarmhouseonBoone]

Aw! Thank you!

[@theprimitiveblackhatsociet8274]

As far as gifts go, I ask people to not give me gifts or if they insist, please make it a gift card. People seem more than happy to do that. I also only give gifts to my kids, (gift cards) and for my young grandchildren I get them something small and the rest of the money I would have spent goes to their college fund. They get a lot from others, they do not need more from us. That is it. I do not buy into the idea of you must buy everybody a gift at the holiday. This works so well for our family.

[@antiantipoda]

I got to end the Christmas BS in my family by telling my mom: "I am not a Christian, neither are you. When was the last time you went to church?" She answered with a cousin's marriage a couple of years before. So we stopped the whole thing, no traveling to "celebrate", no gifts, no stress. That was over 10 years ago. Every year since I rejoice on how I do not have a list of stuff to get done in December.

[@theprimitiveblackhatsociet8274]

Depending on what aspect of Christmas you are celebrating, it can have all or nothing to do with being Christian. I enjoy getting together with family, I enjoy the cooking and sitting down to a big dinner and the laughing and talking. I enjoy the faces on the kids when they come downstairs and see the tree and gifts Santa left. We focus on family and it is a magical time.

[@antiantipoda]

When your family has kids I see the point. But when you live in different cities and there are no kids in the family - like mine - the Holidays are the worst time to get together: it's more expensive, there are delays, it's crowded. I'd rather spend a week visiting in November or January (my country doesn't do Thanksgiving) than facing the Christmas rush. For me as an atheist it's a specially bad time of the year.

[@Mulderitssme]

Antiantipoda that is great if you enjoy that. I find it fun (not the spending money part of course). Also something to look forward to that you can do for free.

[@Poppy-]

I'm planning on moving back to my birthtown next year. Therefore I will get rid of stuff I WILL NOT pay long distance haul for. Even the appliances, which are due to be changed, and the piano. I read that clutter consist of 1- things people gave you (stop the gilt if you don't use it, give it to goodwill) 2- craft/hobbie/sport that you are not doing 3- things that no longer fit you or reflect who you are now... So much easier to let go then.

[@divamoses]

Interesting thought: Store=storage. House=only what I need this year/month/life season.

[@DSherman50]

I’ve avoided this video for a long while because letting go is hard for me. However, I’m now planning to move sometime in June. I got a lot of good advise about mindsets to use to help me let go without guilt. Thank you in particular for sharing how you were able to rid yourself of a bedroom set bought for you in order to buy furniture you really want. I wish to do the same in my living room. Over all, I just want a fresh start to suit me and you’ve been a big help, thanks!

[@MrsThollo]

This video is so timely and realistic! I read Marie Kondo last year but only took baby steps to decluttering. Something about the tips you provided, your realistic stance, and your way of thinking of things just made me spring into action this morning after working an overnight shift! Thank you.

[@riverfox5581]

As far as books go.... when you are interested in rare or interesting books, sometimes you get rid of them and find later that they are out of print and suddenly cost several hundreds of dollars to purchase again.. hang onto anything that isn't a "best seller" (which is code for 'we printed ten million of these)

[@sherryhudson930]

Books are a necessity for every home. To me. I could not live with hardbound classic books

[@awkwardmyrtle]

Sherry Hudson Not for every home. Everyone is different. I have a very small apartment with little room for tons of books. I love to read, but only keep a few very special books. I'm happy using my Kindle or saving money by going to the library.

[@irhonda31]

Marie Kondo says to only keep things that spark joy, and the books do that for you, so they aren’t stressing you as something you need to deal with. We all have those items, and they’re different for everyone.

[@lbluebird486]

I totally agree. A home is not a home without a few good quality books...read or not. Like Lia said above, they don't stress, me but give me something to look forward when I want to finally sit down and enjoy a quiet evening or day to read. I don't go shopping for books so I have few, but if I see one I know will keep my interest I will get it. Once read, it is donated to senior nursing home, library or a hospital.

[@tahoe7779]

If you are an avid reader & books that you have bring you comfort & relaxation, that is fine. I happen to like big, colorful, hardbound cookbooks. I love to look to them for weekly recipes. Pictures are a big thing for me, because I am an artist & visual. I also like art instruction books. But magazines make me frustrated. I think, just because I paid money for the subscriptions, I must keep them for years on a bookshelf & get my money's worth...silliness. I don't get a good feeling when I see them taking up space. I guess we should free ourselves of the things that make us feel bad. Folks in nursing homes would love those magazines. School art departments or Homeschool families & groups could use the pages for collages, etc. I can't throw good things away, but I can feel good about giving, selling, donating to those that can use what I have and no longer need. I have an older sister that gives gifts, then wants them back years later. Also, she "loaned me" her kids clothes & I was so stressed trying to keep them in perfect condition over the years, because she wanted to later sell them in a consigment shop. Don't let others control your life like I did. Guilt drains you. Other people controlling you, makes you feel powerless. Take charge, I'm learning to and it feels great! This video is terrific, thanks! Looking forward to your others...

[@SonshineLady7]

@Sherry Hudson - I was the same way and still love books but, after having had to move regularly over the last 15 years, I've given away probably 100's of books. Lugging them around for each move has made me less attached to them very quickly. The ones I've kept are very, very special.

[@faithrada]

The One thing I would never let go of are my emergency wool blankets and down comforters. If we ever lost power in winter (I am in a rural area), those blankets are there to save our lives. They are part of our survival gear. You never know when The Grid might go down.

[@laineygann7713]

I also read Marie Kondo's book. She makes so much sense. I keep old dark furniture (if I like the style) by painting it a light color.

[@JamiSwanBeauty]

The gift tip was my hands down fave!!! Biggest thing I struggle with forsure! Thanks for the vid!!!

[@mickimc2883]

My MIL was the ULTIMATE minimalist! And she didn't even know it! LOL And she always said, "Don't feel guilty getting rid of something I gave you!"

[@all34ulord]

I could not have taken a listen at a more apt time.. My husband and I ( married for 29 yrs) are moving from two homes and consolidating into a smaller one for retirement.. We moved from one home , then the following week the other.. I have been totally overwhelmed with the amt of possessions we have. For three weeks I have literally cried when confronted with the boxes.. the basement is full, the garage is full, a workshop is full. Just sorting my clothes ..I have gathered 15 -20 boxes of just extra winter stuff to give away.. I have changed decors x5 when we have moved.. and all that stuff each time has been stored.. I have a lot of money invested.. and while I love giving to people I know in need.. I am having difficulty parting with some of the high end items (furniture and stuff) that I will never use..What about your children's special things.. art, pictures, stuffed animals.. Okay ..this is how bad it is here( how bad my hoarding is?) Our son is 29.. and we have just realized we have been lugging around boxes of rocks..ROCKS he collected as a kid.., stuffed animals, first nap mat, you name it we have saved it...then there are the 30-40 picture albums.. what do you do with things that are sentimental? I guess I am going to end here and go buy the book..I will never do this again once I get it purged..:( Love your simple style...

[@FarmhouseonBoone]

I have a plastic tote that I keep special art work they have done. I also make one photo book per year. Other than that, I don't save anything. I'm not a super sentimental person with stuff though. If you are, I can see how this would be a little trickier though!

[@bobettebryan6589]

I'm going the same. We've been moving for a year now. Good luck.

[@mandak9423]

Favorite art pieces I have framed or will place into a scrapbook. Very small items I turn into Christmas ornaments, and when visiting tourist type places now I will only buy Christmas ornaments that we reminisce over the time we had when we decorate our tree each year. I’ve moved over forty times through my life so far (& I turn 40 this year) and we aren’t nearly done yet so I’ve become pickier and more creative with some items and tossed the rest. We also have five children from newborn to preteen so I’ve had to toss or otherwise get completely overwhelmed.

[@maedchenausmars]

Late to the game here, but I had a friend tell me one storage bin per child. The most meaningful pieces stay in there and then it’s manageable. If you have boxes and boxes, chances are you aren’t actually appreciating or even aware of all the stuff you’re keeping.

[@susanvelez6534]

Your channel is excellent love it darlin. I'm 56 and loved your pillows but just can not afford them. I'm a single stay at home mom for my girl and money is tight but I just love your channel!

[@FarmhouseonBoone]

Aww thanks so much! So glad you're enjoying my channel. :)

[@CynthiaStAmand]

I found you when I was looking for a slipcover pattern for my wing chair.... sooooo grateful! So glad I found you! Wishing you peace & happiness! 🌷

[@CetinaCountryCottage]

Hi Lisa! I totally needed to revisit this video!! Kind of ironic because I have a home decor (mainly😉) channel. However, I believe you can have a beautiful, functional, cozy home without being overwhelmed with stuff and items that are adding to stress and clutter. Purging my home AGAIN 😁 Blessings Rosalie❤

[@DoloresJRush]

As a thrifty wife, who doesn't always have the money to replace something from Walmart, I label it and keep the appliance papers in a filing box along with a receipt. When it's broken, I throw it away or if it is still serviceable, but we no longer need it, then it gets donated to the thrift store along with the papers that I might have saved taped to the item. I also taught my son from the time he could walk, to pick up after himself -- at least, his things from the living areas of the house. It became a power struggle when he got a little older about getting his room clean -- if he didn't do so, I did it at the deadline that I had given him and things disappeared. Later, his doctor told me to just shut the door to his room and let him live in the mess. About once a year, he spring cleans and would throw a bag of stuff into our living room for me to take to the thrift store, but as soon as he learned to drive, I told him to take it himself. smile! And then, my husband has an opinion about everything in the house too. He's a pack-rat, plain and simple, so I have to work with him. Right now, I'm in the decluttering mode and am working on filling my 5th trash=size bag to take to the thrift store. Inch by inch, things are getting accomplished. smile!

[@jennifernunez3179]

The gift giving principle applies to the things you inherit as well. I got all of my grandmother's Christmas decor when she passed away and a few years ago I decided I didn't really enjoy decorating for Christmas all that much. A lot of guilt came from that for not displaying her decorations. Then my three year old got into it and destroyed a lot of it and honestly I felt like she would have just been happy my daughter had fun playing with the stuff! I totally realized in that moment that it is the memories that count far more than the object. Since then I have started taking pictures of things that I want to use to stimulate a memory rather than keeping the object itself.

[@susannaholdren9625]

The blanket thing I totally get. I recently threw away two old bedspreads I was keeping folded in the basement for some reason, and I have a couple more blankets I need to chuck. Also, we have WAY too many pillows, so my idea is to let each person pick two pillows that will specifically be their two pillows, and all other pillows get thrown away. Also, the gift thing is true as well. I know people who only keep things because they think they should, because of who gave it to them. In my opinion, I don't think the person who gifted it to you would want you to have to suffer because a gift they gave you was cluttering up your life. They would WANT you to throw it away. Great tips!

[@mimi8352]

I actually started crying when you talked about craft storage. The what if i need it was paralyzing me. I am throwing it all out and paying walmart the small fee. Brilliant! Thank you

[@FarmhouseonBoone]

So glad that was helpful for you! :) I used to spend hours organizing, and then reorganizing, craft supplies. Crazy!

[@ItCameFromAVlog]

My house would stress you out - sometimes it even stresses me out. Thank you for sharing these tips.

[@sharongriffiths4796]

Bravo for your self-restraint - for waiting long periods of time and deliberately living with no furniture, or a mattress on the floor, or piles of clothes in the closet until you find the perfect thing. How many people make really bad buying decisions because there is an empty space in their house or something has left the house that they feel must be replaced immediately?

[@sunnydayz9032]

People that love to read aren’t stressed out by seeing a library of books 😂 and in fact are comforted by the site of a library in their own home. I feel that this point is not universally applicable. Good points on everything else though.

[@smoothsailingmp]

Our kids got in cuarteles from time to time. I didn't threaten then and not keep my promise. They were told if they couldn't get along and share their toys, some of them would be gone. Of course only I knew it would be for awhile. While they were at school , I put the toys fought over in the attic above the garage. There were tears, but they were told, When you can learn to play nicer together and share you may get them back. It took a few months but it worked for quite awhile. I think I only had to tell them once more things would disappear if they didn't get along and it worked....we no longer had that battle .... until friends came and then they were told, If you can't be nice and share with your brother first , and your friend too....then your friend will have to go home....All said in love....but firm. They learned quickly

[@lbwyland1712]

I just found this channel. I already bought 4 drop cloths and I'm currently bleaching some right now. I reeeeeally like this channel.

[@2352anne]

I have just started de-cluttering my home and I now have so much extra space and it's so much easier to clean.

[@elizabetharaujo1323]

This video feels like therapy for me. Hearing you talk about craft clutter is by far the most relatable for myself! I am really enjoying all your videos and just subscribed 😁

[@asparrow5505]

I agree with you on the craft supplies. One thing that helped me is figuring out my organizing style like clutterbug does. I'm a lady bug and I was trying to make this fancy micro organizational system that made me just wanna quit and leave messes out when all I needed to do was get a big basket and one big cute flip top storage solution to put everything in. I wasted so much money on all these containers that just got on my nerves. I need to go through my blankets and get rid of the synthetic ones I don't like since I only use my quilts anyway and yes unread books are stressful to me too. That's why I've done audiobooks. Not like I'll sit still to read a bunch. Good video.

[@normanmiller1331]

I could have written the same book as Marie Kondo! Ask my husband and he’d tell you that nothing is safe in our home. Way back in 1993 I was having a yardsale when my mother-in-law (whom we don’t associate with) brought our Christmas gift (in May) and as soon as she left I put it in the yardsale. Sandy.

[@mariadean6071]

I so enjoyed this video. Everything you said was so helpful to me , that I feel I can now purge stuff and not feel guilty. Thank you so much.

[@donnabutler3871]

maria dean murder charges for murders

[@yaraiglesias4406]

Hi Lisa, thank you so much for all your videos, I appreciate them so much because many times I listen to them while at work but not always I can read through the blogs.

[@RobinJohnsonDecor]

You gave us all some great tips. Thanks. Now I feel like I need to go declutter something

[@kateyare4708]

Great point about the clothes. Every time I downsize my wardrobe, without adding a thing, I start dressing better.

[@freetobeme6013]

I'm a new watcher and first-time commenter. I agree with some of your tips, but not so much on others. Like, you state to think of it as a fee to go and RE-BUY the item you throw out because you didn't have the patience to either label it or figure out what it's for. That's really wasteful on time and money. Also, when I purchase a gift for a person it is NEVER just to give them something. I take the time to find out what is meaningful and useful to a person before making a purchase. I'd rather give something home baked than something just for the sake of it. I do understand what you mean, though. I have an obscene amount of things I'd rather get rid of but keep so as not to offend my hubby or daughter. It's almost my birthday and they are panicking to try and buy me stuff. I tell them always, just give me a peaceful day, that is all I need. They never listen, lol.

[@yllek82]

Love your take on gifts. My husband was appalled when I threw away a gift that broke the night it was given to us. I said it’s broken. The kids enjoyed it. The gift giver got that experience of seeing them, it’s the experience. Not the actual stuff. ☺️

[@FarmhouseonBoone]

Yes!! :)

[@tanbiamills8293]

You are so spot on with everything!! Things I've been thinking too and it's just an extra encouragement 😊

[@FarmhouseonBoone]

Tanbia Mills thank you so much!

[@pkeele]

We are one in the same. I have a physical reaction to clutter. I can feel your passion because you would get louder and more animated as you went - lol. I love it. I've been sleeping on a mattress on the floor for years but the bed is coming this week. You would love to read Joshua Becker too.

[@jmdenison]

sleeping on a mattress on the floor is just as bad as being too cluttered. you need to sleep at night. if your bed is cluttered,get therapy. if you dumped your bedroom set because you felt cluttered, also get into therapy. both are signs you have gone too far either way.

[@jmdenison]

we all have triggers. but we need to overcome those. being balanced is very important. don't throw out other people's stuff. if someone gave you something, try to keep it and display it or wear it to honor them. that won't kill you. let the kids keep gifts from relatives and help them to cherish them.

[@songbirdforjesus2381]

@@jmdenison some people have settled or so much during their lives that they are tired of it and would rather sleep on the floor than settle for one more thing. There's nothing wrong with that. They would rather wait for something they really want. You have a different Viewpoint of how to live life obviously but try and understand the why's of other people's beliefs about how to live. Ask questions before making judgements and you will gain more understanding perhaps you may not agree but at least you won't feel so badly towards other people and their decisions.

[@songbirdforjesus2381]

@@jmdenison I have done what you say and keeping people's things to honor them and display them for a while but honestly some of it is crap and ugly leftovers of Their Own decluttering. And sometimes it is not given out of something you would desire but something they desire and felt obligated to buy you so in those situations I don't care if I get rid of it. Other things are precious to the person who gave it to you and those things I will keep or give to a family member

[@jmdenison]

@@songbirdforjesus2381 wow, you must have a lot of givers in your friends and family. best to start asking them to make donations to a charity instead. don't keep something ugly, repaint, restyle reuse. walls are great for shelves and hanging stuff up so house is decorated, but not cluttered and unusable. you can hang stuff from your knees to the ceiling. if you're older and have a lot of stuff, you can have "house cooling gifts". when people come over, wrap up stuff you no longer need and give it to them on the way out explaining that at one time you had a house warming party when you were young and needed stuff, now you have to get rid of stuff, so this is a house cooling gift. before you give away stuff to a trusted friend that won't throw it out or regift, take a pic of it and display it on your screen saver and photo walls of your computer. pixels don't take up space. don't leave ugly around, recreate it into beauty. get going to michael's and joann's and use those coupons. good luck

[@beam8250]

I totally agree with your perspective on not storing extras... I'm so over clutter and mess! Thank you Lisa. Great topic. 💛🌻

[@SimplyMel]

I love that analogy of loved ones purchasing the moment in time for you to enjoy receiving the gift, rather than the physical item itself! New sub 😊

[@FarmhouseonBoone]

Yes! That is my favorite take away from the Marie Kondo book!

[@diannad8933]

Love the part about gifts and serving its purpose! Thank you! My Goal is to have a homestead one day! I love the outdoors! Such an Inspiration!

[@charulatharavi8091]

Namaste from India. Am so glad that I found you out. Great content. Do make more videos to inspire all. Loads of love. Charu

[@olelenalundepluck3840]

I love the gift analogy anyway if that person truly loves you they should realize that that gift is yours now and you can do what you wish with it😉

[@lbluebird486]

I'm new to viewing. I love color, so all the neutral would get on my nerves. Yes, it's a pretty fresh clean look, but would still want a punch of something to brighten the room, looks too hospital clean...oops that was in your other video. But for this, I think I agree with maybe half??? I can organize my quilting items, labels work well, if I need to find a specific thing, I normal have a short list of what is in the decorative container on the inside of the lid. I type fast and use shorthand, so I make a quick list as I'm organizing, then type it up, then tape it to the inside of the lid. If I add anything, I write it in. I'm not quite as OCD as I was when younger, so now in older life, I'm actually purging. My friends, family know not to buy me anything, unless I'm crazy about it. I have to love something or I don't buy it. Took me 2 yrs after married to buy lamps, after 16 yrs of marriage, they ended up going with my stepdaughter when she got married. They were quality and not out of date. Just change shades. So let your kids play with the quilts, throws or blankets, it's what kids do for creativity. Make tents etc. It makes them feel warm and comforted, almost safe. Folding takes approx 30 seconds to 1 min on each blanket/throw. I don't think 5-7 min out of your day is too much to ask for their happiness. You just don't like doing it. I noticed you get louder in your vlog with each tip, you have some great points, but I hear ocd in there, only because I still have it, just not as badly. I hope you will work on that as you mature, if you choose to, or you can just trash everything someone gives you and only buy what you what. I'm sure it made your sweet grandmother feel great when you got rid of the bedrm set she bought you. Did you ask her if she minded exchanging it out for a new decor, or did you just do it? I would have had to at least had a sit down with her over lunch and explain your tastes have changed and still show appreciation for her generous and thoughtful gift. How long did you keep it? I agree get rid of clothes, dishes, things not used in a few years. Including what you have in storage you haven't seen for 1-3 yrs and don't even know what is there for sure. I did that once. Waste of money. Good luck. L :)

[@tdjnewsadmin3367]

I agree, the house looks like an old hospital.

[@saltandfaith]

Cry me a River

[@LynetteYoder]

So with you on things laying around! Clutter and mess drive me up the wall! 😄 thanks for the tips!

[@FarmhouseonBoone]

Your very welcome!

[@cjacques8063]

Great video! I just discovered your channel and have been binge watching all afternoon! You have great content and advice! I've been doing some decluttering lately and I'm so glad you said what you did about the gifts given, having already served there purpose! I now feel more free to get rid of all the blankets taking up our closet space and the oversized chairs in our livingroom that I dont like!

[@kellyjackson5043]

Your channel is beautiful! New viewer. In regards to clutter....yes, fill your homes with only beautiful, useful, and functional things. However, always decluttering can become just as stressful. Find what works for you. A home is meant to be the resting place that celebrates our uniqueness as a family....where we come from...where we are now, and in the future. A multi-layered story. I can't imagine a home without books. I'd rather have my library full of beautiful, meaningful books, that are like old friends, than a whole store's worth of "decor". A great book for you young moms...."Honey for a Child's Hunt" by Gladys Hunt. (From a mom of three, grandmother of two, and lifelong educator.)

[@anitasalpekar9729]

I just loved the honest video, filled with real tips and honesty right from your look to the words you’re talking. You are making me think. Make more videos girl. You’re v good.

[@barbaracarpenedo5314]

Loved the concept of basically paying the store to "store" my stuff till I need it!

[@TheLotusrising]

Thank you so much for stating that you had no back up plan !!! I got rid of our couch over the summer and my parents and friends always comments on it. I did it because it had gotten saggy and I wanted floor space and less TV watching. It has reduced the time it takes to clean my floors and I have all of the floor space for going through stuff this year.

[@sandylunden5782]

I have a hard time letting go of things that were gifts also, but your right, it served its purpose and it doesn't spark joy, so time to let it go. Thanks Lisa :)

[@bitrudder3792]

I got rid of 40-50 boxes of books. I miss them. But I don’t miss dusting them and their bookcases. I kept my beloved RE-reading books, favorite references, super sentimental ones.

[@TheImperfectReader]

Our church had a blanket drive. Did not have a lot but gave what I could.

[@cindygonsowski6294]

Ashley Burton, you can also donate to homeless shelters.

[@Shiryone]

Agree with you on everything. We use 20% of what we own 80% of the time. But I hate Walmart. It's where most of our clutter comes from.

[@SonshineLady7]

Great tips! I have a love seat that is practically brand new. I purchased it from another resident when I moved to my current apartment complex. The seller had it in her spare bedroom and wasn't using it; I thought I needed a sofa/love seat. To date (at least five years), I've never used it. Its sole purpose is for one of my cats to perch on and look outside the window. I will be donating it very soon and purchasing a cat condo for the area which will free up a great deal of space.

[@Myeverydaywifelife]

Yes! Less is more especially when it comes to kids toys. When they have too many toys they don't play with them purposefully. They just end up dumping and making a mess. Kudos!

[@grandmasewhappyhomestead187]

Very good points. I went through this several years ago thinking I had to hold on to things. I cleaned house I got rid of so much stuff that the donation trucks that would come we're asking if we were moving LOL I got rid of my grandmother's Hutch got rid of so much stuff. I have the memories I have some small items but I agree so many times with that stuff it is overwhelming when I got rid of stuff it made my house seem bigger and it's less to have to clean live more time to do other stuff. Plus right now my home is after 37 years getting to be lighter tones I am so excited little by little.

[@lormor460]

Wow, I’m watching this in 2024. I love your videos. Wish I had found you back in the beginning! But I have been binge watching a lot of your older videos. ❤ Absolutely love your videos!

[@FarmhouseonBoone]

Welcome aboard!

[@katiejon17]

I love this older style you had - it's more candid and less 'curated'. I like curated too though! Love going through your older content.

[@gigss3439]

I agree with everything you said. Great video. I need to replay this every six months or so! Thank you.

[@DSherman50]

This video is my very favorite decluttering video of all time because you give a reasonable perspective for release from the psychological traps that keep many of us hanging on to pretty much everything. I do have a question for you though. I get you on the blankets, but what if blankets are something you have a thing for and it’s you that keeps bringing them home, especially when on sale, because they bring you comfort and pleasure just being there for you? Also, I have a beautiful 100% cotton blanket which began to shed only months after I bought it. It’s such a pain that I won’t put it on my bed. Can I get rid of it due to it’s defect? It seems I’m just waiting for someone who may need it to give it to.

[@Practice_Kindness-1st]

I wonder how many people are honest enough to admit that they haven't read a large percentage of books they own that they have never read. The library is full of wonderful books that you can check out, read, return and get another one. What a concept!

[@kasaundracressley8809]

I loved this video. I totally agree with all these. I just purchased marie kondos book. She has some good points. The book that got me on the biggest minimalism kick was The more of less by Joshua Becker. Life changer!! I have been struggling with the random cords and your video gave me the extra push to get rid of them. A basket full of no purpose stresses me out.

[@amyrogers6218]

#9 is the bane of my existence. I feel so much guilt getting rid of gifted items but this mindset is so helpful! I'm going to implement it like right now, haha! If people would give a hug or a plate of cookies as a gift instead of clutter, I would LOVE that, lol.

[@FarmhouseonBoone]

Agreed!!

[@composthog4332]

As a woman of a certain age with joint troubles, I would say I love the sentiment and I LOVE baked goods but I struggle to not put on weight. So, for some of us, a home baked loaf of bread or some nice pecans you shelled might be better health wise. Or what I would like the MOST, is for someone to offer to help me with a task that I struggle with (assuming the gift-giver is younger and able-bodied, of course!). And in order to not be taken advantage of, the card could say one hour of yard work or whatever. The gift-giver could pick something they don't dislike doing... Anyway, hundred percent agree about the hug! 🥰

[@marthacollingsworth9626]

I keep a few odd plates so when I am cooking and family drops by I can give them some food to take home with them, I don't worry about my favorite dishes being returned or having to use paper plates that may fall apart.

[@starr6465]

Lisa you made me laugh when you spoke on the children toys and Christmas gifts. I can relate and what you’ve determined is true. TUFS

[@Ahomemakershonor]

Im the same way. My girl is only a year and im already throwing out or regifting toys. My husband caught me and refused to allow anymore to go though. "Incase we have another one" im 90% sure i DO NOT want another and i sure as hell dont want anymore damn toys in this house. If we recieve a toy we must get rid of one. Thats my new rule

[@shereejennings88]

I really need to hear this. It’s time to put in the work and get rid of all the stuff. Thank you : )

[@amandas4501]

yes, yes ...yes!! I went on a massive declutter last year and it felt incredible! I got rid of ANYTHING that hadn't been used (and being honest with myself....probably wouldn't be in the near future) in the past year. I honestly felt like my house was a new house.

[@FarmhouseonBoone]

Yes!! Feels so good. 🙌