Throw it All Out! Real Life Decluttering & Organizing

[@reallifewithali]

Let's get our lives in order and get some decluttering and organizing done in our homes! For more motivation, check out this video next: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eou5lXStYsh0jas

[@amycnb777]

This seems like the most real life decluttering video I've ever seen. This is why it's so hard for me to declutter. These are the questions I ask myself! Thank you.

[@reallifewithali]

@@amycnb777 You’re welcome!

[@busyboy7635]

I love it when you talk through your decisions

[@reallifewithali]

@@busyboy7635 Thanks!

[@kimberlytalbo1800]

Give yourself grace. Sometimes it's easy. Sometimes it's just not. ❤

[@reallifewithali]

Thanks for the reminder. ❤️

[@angelaarmstrong6405]

I absolutely love you! You’re a woman after my own struggles. We can do this. ❤

[@reallifewithali]

Thank you! ❤

[@Nancy-td9xh]

I actually like to hear your entire thought process because that is what is going through my mind when I am declutterring. You keep it real. 🤗

[@reallifewithali]

@@Nancy-td9xh I’m glad it’s helpful! Thanks!

[@susanrikimaru6630]

Send random colored pencils to school for the classroom use. As a teacher I am constantly buying colored pencils, markers, and regular pencils for kids to use.

[@reallifewithali]

Oh, good idea! I'll do that!

[@pampete8110]

Love the ballet flats and the other shoes that were brand new. Great organization.

[@reallifewithali]

@@pampete8110 Thanks!

[@elenaterzulli]

Love your videos because you examine each item, one by one and think about what to do with them. I can relate. Greetings from Italy 🇮🇹

[@reallifewithali]

@@elenaterzulli Thank you! ❤️

[@pdmrn]

Loved ALL the shoes, so cute for you, not excessive. Love the ballet flats. Now that I’m older & cannot wear cute shoes I want you to enjoy being cute all the way to the toes. I love how you process, it’s like I’m listening to myself & gives my brain a break 😅 Great job Ali!

[@reallifewithali]

@@pdmrn Thank you! ❤️

[@cherylkalsch5107]

I just discovered your site and enjoyed watching. You have a lot of jeans. I have 3 that I really like and that’s it. I did subscribe and look forward to seeing more videos.

[@reallifewithali]

Thanks! I know I have a lot of jeans. Haha. I usually don’t, but right now I do! It’s basically all I wear.

[@melaniefida1118]

Keep all of the shoes. They are all SO cute! This was a great video! I love how authentic you are!

[@reallifewithali]

@@melaniefida1118 Thank you! Many of you have convinced me to keep the shoes! 😊

[@claudiamandini]

Keep some colored pencils in a box, so any visitor with small children, may have some peace of mind, having their children kind of busy for a while. Also, place some Black Sharpies in the Laundry Room! It’s often useful to mark any type of clothing or even the gym "Quick Dry" Towel! A personal tip I can share is the following. For those kind of scrap things, such as an empty bottle of coke or glass mayonnaise bottle, it’s wise to keep just a numbered amount of those. Let’s say, I do keep four two liters plastic bottles of coke. Many times, when I invite for a dinner, or there’s a group to watch a football game, it’s wise to keep in the fridge “extra” water, so they don’t have to keep on walking to the kitchen. Specially if yours is a two floors home, or distant tv space from the kitchen, and many other cases! Need to bring some iced tea to the school x inst. The glass jars I use’em often to keep small amounts of food, which are wonderful as a midnight snack!

[@reallifewithali]

@@claudiamandini Great ideas! Thanks.

[@jennyjenkins877]

Wow, a lot of people telling you what to do in the comments on this one! I'll just chill and enjoy the video. I don't think people understand what a mountain you conquered with those cords alone!

[@reallifewithali]

@@jennyjenkins877 Haha. Thanks!

[@simply.clutterfree]

My husband has cords in our house from 2007 so I can second this. Love the cord organization 🤩

[@reallifewithali]

@@simply.clutterfree 😂

[@annknowles9069]

I love your commentary Ali, and I can empathise with your exasperation! Keep up the good work and thanks for sharing this

[@reallifewithali]

@@annknowles9069 Thanks!

[@queenmarynovelwriter5397]

You're doing great, just take your time and you'll be fine. The pens...I had to laugh, I'm a pen girl too.

[@reallifewithali]

Thank you! ❤

[@marihannah9406]

I really needed to see this video today lol thank you❤

[@reallifewithali]

@@marihannah9406 I’m so glad! ❤️

[@stephaniespear7053]

Yay! I love when you post a video!! I love your pen collection 💕

[@reallifewithali]

@@stephaniespear7053 Thank you! ❤️

[@LindaAllen-w8f]

Bread tabs for all cords!!😀

[@reallifewithali]

@@LindaAllen-w8f Do you mean the twist ties for bread packages? Thanks for the suggestion!

[@venidanafe599]

I totally can relate this

[@reallifewithali]

@@venidanafe599 ❤️

[@noemisolano4748]

Ali I love your videos!! Your tips have helped me to keep my home tidy and organized. Love all the tips you give Thanks!!

[@reallifewithali]

@@noemisolano4748 I’m so glad! Thank you!

[@carolebridges798]

Yes to all your shoes

[@reallifewithali]

@@carolebridges798 Thanks!

[@annw1395]

I definitely like those new shoes. They look really cute on you. If you still like and wear those older ones, keep them; just don't buy any more. Even though your closet shelf looks much the same, you've still made progress bc now you know what's in there, and you can make plans for returns. You seemed rather stressed today, esp with the cords. Don't be. Just take it in stride. Keep an eternal perspective. As one organizer has said for all of us who are decluttering, "be grateful for having more than enough". ❤

[@reallifewithali]

@@annw1395 Thanks for always helping me to feel better! I was stressed. Haha. I’ll be making the returns tomorrow and that will take a big load off my mind. And I’m keeping the shoes! ❤️

[@Julie-n9b]

Ali, love all your new shoes! 😍 Plus, enjoyed the decluttering content. - Julie

[@reallifewithali]

@@Julie-n9b Thanks, Julie!

[@angelaarmstrong6405]

Love Dawn also! ❤

[@reallifewithali]

Who doesn't? 😬

[@mackerelcat6677]

I had a bunch of pens that worked but were more than we would ever use. I bundled them in several labeled ziploc baggies and donated them to Goodwill along with bundles of freebie notepads.

[@reallifewithali]

@@mackerelcat6677 That’s great! I got rid of a ton of post it notes in one of my first videos! I may donate some of my pens down the road, but while my kids are still in school, I will keep them!

[@dinadrabyk8376]

Yes to all the new shoes, but be ruthless with the old ones!

[@reallifewithali]

Thank you! It is time for some new shoes. 😬

[@dianewilliams1403]

Hello Ali. I’ . Miss not seeing much during the summer. I’m on board with the way you declutter. Keep the videos coming please . I really enjoy them. Take care.

[@reallifewithali]

Thank you! ❤️

[@Mrs_B]

I love it!

[@reallifewithali]

@@Mrs_B Thanks!

[@zerocasualteas]

Ali, I love this!! I can’t thank you enough because as moms the tradition between summer & fall is rough! ❤I feel the need to get myself reorganized & declutter too. It really helps either way our mental health. 😊

[@reallifewithali]

@@zerocasualteas Thank you!

[@plynn136]

Great job-very satisfying.

[@reallifewithali]

@@plynn136 Thanks!

[@barbstormo7030]

Thanks for this motivation! I have been so busy and gone but now, I am home and have more time, I can start on my closet and dresser! I have way to many clothes I don't ever wear! I hope you have a great day!

[@reallifewithali]

Good luck, Barb! ❤️

[@HBSVMom]

Love all the adorable shoes❤ You did a great job🎉

[@reallifewithali]

@@HBSVMom Thanks!

[@MR-my5gy]

It is so tempting to buy shoes when they are on sale. I did buy a new shoes this summer and I kept them in my office room. I completely forgot about it until I clean that room.

[@reallifewithali]

Yes it is!

[@molee8863]

For the cables I recommend labeling them. I temporarily used bread tags until I bought ones specifically to label cables. I like the little boxes where you store your cables but it might be too much of a hassle to fit the cables into the boxes to put away. I recommend the velcro that stays on the cable that you can just quickly wrap around it. 😊

[@reallifewithali]

@@molee8863 I might have to try that someday. Thanks for the suggestion. ❤️

[@trishb6895]

I make a label for my actual cords and stick it on them the bases are good to grab quick but for putting away you need to know what wire is for what. It takes no time to do this and has saved me so much hassle. Also we use our echo dots to play music outside. We like backboards too incase tee ever loose one or the dog actually chewed one of mine.

[@reallifewithali]

@@trishb6895 Great idea! Thanks!

[@trishb6895]

oh goodness my last comment was supposed to say boxes* not bases. Once that cords out of the box how could you remember what it is once it’s set down somewhere by some one for any length of time. It’s also really handy to label the wires in the back of the tv for the kids Xbox wires and PlayStation wires etc as well. As they get older they take them with them on sleepovers or vacations or from room to room and they get mixed up (we have three boys and two girls). We also have random things like massage gun cords they all share the massage gun after the gym and never know where the charger is when it’s moved from room to room then some one goes looking once it’s dead, and chargers for water picks and things and some how you find them somewhere in drawer and it takes forever to realize what they go to. I also try to label router wires and modem wires etc. you’d think these things never get unplugged but you’d be surprised. And it helps putting it back where it goes. Our fax and home line wires got crossed once that was fun.

[@reallifewithali]

@@trishb6895 Yes! Such a great idea. I definitely want to do that. Thanks!

[@lindabourketempleton4040]

I’m so glad I tried on things when I purchased it and dealt with straight away it’s only decluttering as I go I have a bag for and I empty weekly when I shop and do washing

[@reallifewithali]

@@lindabourketempleton4040 I try to do that. Lol. Life just happens and I get behind. 🤪

[@leezasims9959]

Great job…. I often feel the same overwhelm trying to make decisions. Well done. I also feel the despair at sorting all the returns 😩

[@reallifewithali]

@@leezasims9959 I’m glad I’m not the only one!

[@lisav018]

I love the way you talk through your decisions. It’s so helpful to hear. I have similar struggles with clothes and shoes. And I accumulate shoes so easily. Speaking of, I caught a glimpse of your ankle height black boots with what looks like shearling lining. I can’t wear faux leather or lining because it makes me sweat and then I get cold easily. I have been looking for something like those. Can you share the brand and style?? Thanks!

[@reallifewithali]

Thanks! They are actually just really cheap ones from Costco a couple years ago.

[@katespurgeon5572]

Hello, im here due to a shoutout from Mack at Midwest Magic. :)

[@reallifewithali]

@@katespurgeon5572 Hi! I’m glad you’re here! ❤️

[@carriecobb8]

Just want to say, probably not helpful but I love all the shoes you bought 😄 And the Birkenstock clogs type ones, you can totally wear socks with in the Autumn!

[@reallifewithali]

Haha! That is helpful. 😬 Thanks!

[@claudiamandini]

The colored Sharpies can be used, to write regards notes, birthday cards, and alikes!

[@reallifewithali]

@@claudiamandini Thanks for the idea!

[@staceyedukes]

Yes to all the shoes! And wear socks if you want to!

[@reallifewithali]

@@staceyedukes Thanks!

[@lfuentes4098]

If the air pods work you could clean up with a quip and alcohol and donate. Good places to donate things like earphones would be your child’s school. Many students can’t afford replacing earphones.

[@reallifewithali]

@@lfuentes4098 Thanks for the idea!

[@lindabourketempleton4040]

Just done an audit on my clothes I have 90 items including underwear and shoes 🤣 I live in a motor home so have limited space and I find I wear the same things over and over, I have four drawers and a tub for my clothes

[@reallifewithali]

I hear we wear about 20% of the clothes we own!

[@lizziecooney8122]

Hi Ali ! I love your videos I think I've watched most of your decluttering ones! A tip that might help... Have you discovered your organisation type? Cass from Clutterbug offers a free quiz and discovering my type (ladybug) was extremely helpful, which basically means broad categories hidden away e.g. chuck it in a labelled box behind a closed door. For me it has to be easier to put away than to leave it out. I say this because I wonder if you are dumping electronic cords on your desk instead of putting them in the drawer is because its too many steps to fold, and put in the box system you've set up - as amazing as it looks. If it isn't the perfect match to your personality/lifestyle you won't maintain it. Try the quiz. It meant I stopped fighting my natural personality with intricate organising systems and created ones that truly work for me.

[@lizziecooney8122]

PS how I label my cords is I actually wrap the label around the cord itself, using really small text, so if its not in the right spot or container I still know what it is

[@reallifewithali]

@@lizziecooney8122 Thanks for the suggestion. Yes I have taken her quiz many times Haha. My results are sometimes cricket and sometimes ladybug. I do wonder if I should try more ladybug styles. The thought of having cords just dumped in the drawer sounds like a nightmare to me though. Haha. I don’t know. 🤷🏻‍♀️

[@lizziecooney8122]

@@reallifewithali perhaps another “ladybug” option would be an open container inside the drawer with lots of compartments that would separate the cords but you are still throwing them in as such… open the drawer shove in the compartment… almost as easy as dropping on desk Yeah I definitely don’t have boxes of cords I hear you on that 😉 Thanks for replying! It was my first KZbin comment and I’m happy to get a reply 😊

[@reallifewithali]

@@lizziecooney8122 Of course! Thank you for commenting. I love chatting with my viewers. It’s probably my favorite part. 😊

[@ShortStef]

Take the sticker off the white shirt while it is stored so it doesn’t discolor and go to waste. YES! You can wear socks with the “Birkenstock” clogs. The shirt inspired by Dawn w/ your light blue jeans and the clogs- ❤

[@reallifewithali]

Thank you! ❤️

[@sharonpennington439]

It would be interesting. If you posted the money you saved or got back when you put your returns through.

[@reallifewithali]

@@sharonpennington439 Haha. Good idea! This time it was a lot!

[@sunnymeowcat]

Could melt little pieces of crayons to make multi colored ones or different shapes in the future

[@reallifewithali]

@@sunnymeowcat Thanks for the suggestion! We just don’t really use crayons anymore.

[@lindamorrow9890]

I really love those containers you use for your chargers. And your organization system. Would you mind providing the name & link? I would really like to purchase some. I have about 10 chargers I need to label and contain in a better system. Great video...my desk is my catchall and it's always motivating to watch desk decluttering. 😊

[@reallifewithali]

@@lindamorrow9890 Yes! I did post the links in the description, but I know it can be hard to find that. Here they are: amzn.to/3XfwoTb amzn.to/3XexFdc

[@lindamorrow9890]

@@reallifewithali Thank you. Much Appreciated!! 💜

[@aradasky]

Grocery stores may have coin counters, too.

[@reallifewithali]

@@aradasky Thanks for the tip!

[@itsbittersweetest]

In our area, unused medications get disposed at a kiosk at the police station, so convenient.

[@reallifewithali]

That’s nice! I saw a drop box thing at CVS when I was there the other day.

[@MrsZoomgamer]

❤

[@reallifewithali]

Thanks!

[@ginnymiller5894]

Yes you can wear socks with your sandals, I've seen people do it. People don't worry about style anymore, they do what they want.

[@reallifewithali]

@@ginnymiller5894 Haha! True! Especially as you get older. 😆

[@trishb6895]

Return all that stuff and get all your money back. Just put it all in the car and return it!!

[@reallifewithali]

@@trishb6895 It’s going back tomorrow! 👏🏻

[@jennifercastillo9693]

Hello! I'm not finding the link for the sealed bags. Help?

[@reallifewithali]

@@jennifercastillo9693 Oh, I forgot those! Sorry. Here you go: amzn.to/3yA79BG

[@anniemaloney6090]

I tried taking old medications back to Costco Pharmacy, but they would not take them. Suggested I go online and try to find out who will take them.

[@reallifewithali]

@@anniemaloney6090 Thanks for the heads up!

[@luzking9487]

You can always put a box of shoes underneath the ones that are open in your cube ( 1 on each cube. So you don’t forget you have them and clear the floor. I would return the minimal mom shirt. Looks bland.

[@reallifewithali]

@@luzking9487 I’m not planning on keeping the shoes in boxes. I just hadn’t had a chance to really go through them and decide if I want to keep them. Thanks for the suggestion on the shirt!

[@kristi9475]

Ali, I have been where you are, buying stuff "just in case" or "it was such a good deal." I recently downsized and I had to be brutal about it. One suggestion I have for you is to not keep clothing that doesn't fit you because you might go up or down a size. Moving jeans from a drawer and shoving them into the closet isn't the solution. Get rid of them and the same with shoes. If a pair comes in a pair should go out. You'll never wear the shoes you have stored in boxes if you can't see them. Don't buy a package of 50 Sharpies; they'll most likely dry out before they get used. Get them as you or the kids need them. Having stuff stashed all over is stressful and most of the time we forget what we even have. I wish you the best in your decluttering journey!

[@reallifewithali]

Thanks for your suggestions! ❤️

[@patriciagalanakis4540]

Be cautious of returns - some retailers are planning on adding time limits and others are planning to charge restocking fees.

[@reallifewithali]

@@patriciagalanakis4540 Thanks for the heads up!

[@beverlysteiger6757]

Cords are awful. And, each electronic item seems to use different sizes. I pack them away and dispose of them if they aren’t used within a reasonable amount of time. Maybe your school could use extra pens, pencils, school supplies, etc. Teachers are usually appreciative of extras.

[@reallifewithali]

@@beverlysteiger6757 Great suggestion! Thanks!

[@leoren2685]

Advocating a throw-away culture is one of the things that's wrong about America and the American way of life. Use the things you have. Donate to people in need (dumping at Goodwill is just another way of trashing really). Be conscientious about how you "declutter" the stuff you bought and that takes a toll on the environment.

[@reallifewithali]

I actually cut out the part where I explained that when I say "throw away" that means either trash, donations, give away, recycle, etc. I didn't actually put much in the garbage. I don't donate to Goodwill. We have a church operated donation center that will ship much of their donations to people in need. Thanks for your concern!

[@MargoDyke]

I like your channel, but it gets weary hearing the detail about each and every item you touch while decluttering. Please just tell us your decision on the item without the extensive backstory on each item. Thanks.

[@reallifewithali]

@@MargoDyke Thanks for the suggestion! I appreciate your feedback. Some people love the thorough explanations and some don’t. 🤷🏻‍♀️

[@carriecobb8]

I love the explanations 😁

[@reallifewithali]

@@carriecobb8 Thanks! ❤️

[@reallifewithali]

@@M_B_44 Yup! I can’t please everyone, but I do try and make a variety of videos so people can pick and choose which ones they prefer to watch.

[@reallifewithali]

@@MichC14 Thanks for the feedback. ❤