Transcript
Index Boldface page references indicate illustrations. Underscored page references indicate boxed text. A Accumulation avoiding, tips for, 12–13 balancing decluttering with, 16 of collectibles, tips for, 50–53 fun of, 23 habits, determining, 6–9 hoarding and, 22–24 urges, 12–13 Acquisition. See Accumulation Adhesive-backed hooks, 157 Advertising disposal of items in newspaper, 300 Air pumps, electric, 286 Aliases, computer, 223 Allies of decluttering, 319–21 Ambience and decluttering, 34 American Lung Association Vehicle Donation Center, 307 Ammonia, 102–3, 158, 250 Anger Management, 21–22 Answering machines, 207–208 Appliances. See also specific types disposing of, 307 repairing, 114–115 Apron, 17, 100, 303 Armoires, 66, 68–71, 132, 171 Art supplies, 168 Attic, 247–60 cleaning, 249–51 clutter buildup in, 247–48 cooling, 248 decluttering map for, 248–49 electric fans in, 253 exhaust fans in, 253 finishing, 254 fire safety issues and, 257 forgotten treasures, 246 holiday decorations in, 256 insect control and, 255–56 insulation in, 253–54 items not to be stored in, 252–53 map of, 255 moisture issue and, 258–59 pests in, 271–72 reorganizing, 249–51 safety issues, 248, 250–51 storage in, 239–47 temperature issues and, 254–55 weight issue and, 251 wet/dry shop vacuum and, 250–51 Attic Folder, computer, 217 Auction, out of this world, 52 Auctions, 306–307, 313 Automobile decluttering, 272–74 disposing of, 307–309 donating, 307–309 emergency kit for, 273–74 B Backward filing system, 186 Bags black, for decluttering, 54 plastic grocery, 100, 115, 273 shoe, 134 vacuum storage, 257 Bank deposit slips, 192 Bar soap, 156 Basement 257–61 chemicals in, 261 cleaning, 260–61 clutter buildup in, 247–48 decluttering map for, 248–49 dehumidifier in, 258–59 desiccants in, 259 finishing, 261 flashlight in, easy access to, 259 food in, 259
items not to be stored in, 259–60 map of, 260–61 moisture issues in, 257–59 reorganizing, 260–61 storage in, 260–61 sump pump in, 258 water problems in, 258–59 Baskets in bedroom, 139 laundry, 164, 168, 241–42, 273 in living room, 77 mail, 40–42 pull-out, 139 Bathroom chests in, 156 cleaning, 156–60 cleansers, 152, 154, 158, 160 cosmetics in, 151, 153–54 counters, 155–56, 158, 160 electricity in, 151, 155 first-aid supplies in, 152 golden ducky, 161 hamper in, 155, 160 happy and tidy, 148 housekeeping routines daily, 159 monthly, 160 weekly, 160 magazine rack in, 156 medicine cabinet, 150–54 powder room, 158–59 prescription drugs in, 150, 153 shelf over window in, 156–157, 157 size increase in, trend toward, 149 soaps in, 156 storage in, 151, 154–57 towel racks in, 156 undersink area, 154–55, 157 wall hooks in, 156 wiring in, 155 Batteries, 274, 298, 301 Bedroom baskets in, 139 bed, making, 141 bookcases in, 144–145 children’s, 166–70 cleaning, 141–43 closet 131–39 adding, 131–32 alternatives to adding, 132 cleaning, 132–39 hamper in, 139 lighting in, 131, 139 options for, 138–39 organization, 128 reorganizing, 135–38 dressers, 130, 132–133, 138–44 evaluating clutter in, 130–35 folding screen in, 144, 147 housekeeping routines daily, 141 monthly, 142–43 seasonal, 143 weekly, 141–42 shelves, 138–39, 144–45, 144–45 shoe storage in, 134, 138 storage in 131–32, 143–47 Murphy bed, 146 outside room, 136 under bed, 145–47 Beds children’s, 169–70 making, 141 Murphy, 146 platform, 145–47 Beer and puffs, 39 Belt racks, 139 Bench, shoe, 59 Bicycle disposing of, 309–10 repairing, 173 storing, 269–70 Bill-paying software, 41 Bills, managing, 41–42 Bins, recycling, 288 Black bags for decluttering, 54
Black Beauty Ranch, 313 Blackboards, 170 Blanket chest, 143 Bleaches, 241, 244–45 Block walls, 285 Board games, 168, 171 Bolts, storing, 266–68 Bookcases, 77, 144–45, 168, 199 Books categories of, 45 children’s, 164 clutter temptations of, 46–48, as collectibles, 47 comic, 55 cookbooks, 110–111, 115 disposing of, 46, 299 donating, 47 as gifts, 48 in home office, 193, 194 managing, tips for, 47–48 selling, 47 storing, 47 Boot shelves and trays, 59. See also Shoe storage Boredom, fighting organizational, 16–17 Boxes bread, 112 charity, in home, 29, 173, 193 discard, 193 jewelry, 32 labels for, 143, 184–85, 251, 330 “penalty,†53–54 plastic, 29–30 storage, 29–30 Bread box, 112 Brick walls, 285 Brooms, 100 Bulletin board, 193–94, 194 Buying impulse, defeating, 12–13. See also Accumulation C Cabinets filing, 195, 198–201 kitchen, 91–92 living room, 68–71 medicine, 150–54 over toilet, avoiding, 157 painting inside of, 107 waxed paper on top of, 101 Cable Internet connections, 204–205 Cache files, 231–32 Caddy, kitchen, 116 Calendars, 211–213, 212 Canisters, organizing, 91–93 Car decluttering, 272–74 disposing of, 306–309 donating, 307–309 emergency kit for, 273–74 Cards. See Christmas and holiday cards Caring for items collectibles, 52–53 comics, 55 crystal, 121–22 Carpeting in entry area, 58 Car sharing, 311 Cast-aluminum lawn furniture, 284 Cast-iron lawn furniture, 284 Catalog clutter temptations, 47–48 Cat outhouse, 290—291 Cats, 289–91 Caulking, 272 CD/DVD burner, 197 CDs and DVDs children’s, 74, 174 disposing of, 74, 312 equipment, 68–69, 203–204 organizing, 72–75 renting versus buying, 72 selling, 73 Cedar blocks and closets, 140–41, 255–56 Cellar plan, 275 Cellulose sponge, 98 Central vacuum systems, 64 Chain-link “hurricane†fences, 284–85 Chamois cloths, 90, 99
Charitable donations. See Donations Charity box, 173 Chemicals in basement, 261 in garage, 263 storing, 241, 263 Chests bathroom, 156 blanket, 143 kitchen, 101 into ottoman, 75–76 storage, 75–78, 156, 167, 171 Children art supplies of, 168 bedroom of, 166–70 beds of, 169–70 blackboards for, 170 board games of, 168, 171 books of, 164 chores for, 164–66, 172 closets of, 168–69 clothing of, 168–69 clutter temptations of, 53 decluttering and CDs and DVDs, 74, 174 challenges of, 164 cooperation, fostering, 165–66 donations, 173 empty nest period, 175–76 entry area, 60 persistence in, maintaining, 171–72 playroom, 170–71 role models for, 172–73 teenagers, 174–75 toys, 170–71 donations and, 30, 173, 174 drawer labels for, 165 hamper in bedroom of, 169 kitchen caddy for, 116 “penalty boxes†and, 53–54 responsibility about possessions and, 169 safety issues chemicals, 241 drawers, 87 kitchen dangers, 86–87 recalled products, 174 storage chests, 167 swimming pool, 288 storage in bedroom of, 166–69 toys of, 164–71 work space for, 169 China dishware, 104–5, 120–21, 105, 123–24, 126 Chores for children, 164–66, 172 Christmas and holiday cards recycling, 42–43 storing, 256 Chutes, laundry, 242 Cinderella Project, 315 Cleaning. See also Housekeeping as anti-moth tactic, 95, 140–41, 255–56 apron for, 100 attic, 249–51 basement, 260–61 bathroom, 156–60 bedroom, 141–43 bedroom closet, 132–39 brooms for, 100 chamois cloths for, 90, 99 cleansers for bathroom, 152, 154, 158, 160 kitchen, 86–87, 98–100, 108 shower, 158–60 cloths, 90, 99 cooking splatters, 99, 103, 111 counters in kitchen, 30–31, 89–92, 99, 107–108 crystal items, 121–22 dust mask for, 99, 248, 250, 254 emergency, 33–35, 189–90 floors, 100 freezer, 101 garage, 261–62, 265–66, 270–71, 276–78 garage floors, 262–65 glass surfaces, 31–32 kit, 98–100 kitchen, 30–31, 90–91 living room, 68
mirrors, 31–32 mops for, 100 oven, 103–104 paintbrushes for, 100 paper towels for, 98–99, 112 programs, computer, 216–218 refrigerator, 98 rubber gloves for, 98–99 safety goggles for, 99, 250 service, 15 silver items, 122–23 sink stains, 158–59 sponges for, 98–100 squeegee for, 99, 158 supplies, 98–100, 108 swimming pool, 286–87 tiles, 159 toilet, 158 Cleansers bathroom, 154, 158, 160 kitchen, 86–87, 98–100, 108 shower, 158 Closets bedroom 131–39 adding, 131–32 alternatives to adding, 132 cleaning, 132–39 hamper in, 139 lighting in, 131, 139 options for, 138–39 reorganizing, 135–38 cedar, 141–142 children’s, 168–69 hall, 60–62 home office in, 209–10 Clotheslines, retractable, 241 Clothing antique, 255 children’s, 168–69 displaying, 147 disposing of, 136, 297 donations, 137, 214–15 dry-cleaning tip for, 48–49 drying snowy, 59 evaluating, 132–35 moths, 140 overstuffing in drawers, avoiding, 141 seasonal, 62, 143 storage service, 136 vacuum storage bags for, 257 Clutta, 4 Clutter. See also specific items in attic, buildup of, 247–48 in basement, buildup of, 247–48 comfort found in, 13–14, 23, 25 concealing obvious, 28 danger of, 10, 45, 86, 323 denial about, 20 in garage, buildup of, 261–63 hoarding and, 12–13, 23 killer, 328 lifestyle of, resolving, 322–26 motivation to reduce, 16–17, 18, 20–21 nagging about, avoiding, 325 sentiment and, 252 as survival mechanism, 22–23 taboo, 68 temptations books, 45–47 catalogs, 47–48 of children, 53–54 collectibles, 50–53 dishes, 49 laundry, 48 magazines, 44–45 mail, 40–43 newspapers, 43 tragic example of, 323–24 Clutter quotient, determining, 6–9 Clutterometer, 9 Coat hooks, 115, 143, 166 Coins, disposing of, 310 Collectibles accumulation tips, 50–53 books, 47 caring for, 52–53
clutter temptations, 50–54 comics, 55 magazines, 44–45 souvenirs, 52 Collector, sweet Selma, 55 College textbooks, disposing of, 311 Comfort found in clutter, 13–14, 22–23 Comics, 55 Composting, 95–96 Compression programs, computer, 225 Computer Recycling Center, 313 Computers aliases and, 223 Attic Folder and, 216 bill-paying software and, 41 cache files and, 231–32 CD burner and, 203 CD storage and, 203–204 checkup, 214 cleaning programs, 228–232 compression programs, 225 cookies and, 232–234 data storage devices, 229–30 decluttering, 228–31 disposing of, 311–313 document management, 217, 218–25 DVD burner and, 203 e-mail, 225–28 filenames and, 223–24, 221, 222, 224 in home office, 223 Internet connections and, 204–205 modems, 204–205 operating system, 201–202 overload, example of, 215 paperless office and, 233 printers, 202–203 proper posture, 226 recycling, 313 registry database, 229 scanners, 202–203 shopping lists and, 91 shortcuts and, 223 spam and, 225–28, 227 USB hard drive and, 203–204 Computers for Schools, 311–312 Conditioned reflexes, 38 Consignment shops, 305 Consumer Data Industry Association, 41 Container gardening, 278–81 Cookbooks, 110–111, 115 Cookies, computer, 232–34 Cooking cookbooks, 110–111, 115 pots and pans for, 105–107 recipes, 110–12 splatters, 103, 111 Cookware, 106–7 Cooling, attic, 253–54 Cooperation in decluttering, 17, 165–66, 174–75, 319–21 Copper pots and pans, 106 Counters bathroom, 155, 158, 160 kitchen, 86–87, 98–100 polishing, 30–31, 90 CPSC, 174, 305 Credenzas, 200 Credit cards, managing unwanted, 40–41 Crystal items, 121–22 Cupboards, corner, 124. See also Cabinets, kitchen Cups, storing, 121 Curbside disposal, 296 Cutlery, 105–105 Cutting board, 111 D Daily housekeeping routines bathroom, 159–60 bedroom, 141–43 kitchen, 88–90 Dancing and cleaning, 18 Data storage devices, 203–204 Deck, 283–84 Decluttering. See also Organization; specific areas of home allies of, 319–21 ambience and, 34 anger management and, 21–22
balancing accumulation with, 16 bathroom cleaning and, 156–60 black bags for, 54 car, 272–74 challenges of, 12–24 children and, fostering cooperation, 17, 165–66 174–75, 319–21 cleaning service and, 15 clutter taboo and, 68 computers, 228–31 cooperation in, 17, 165–66 174–75, 319–21 crash programs for, failure of, 28 disagreements about, 322–26 documents in home office, 182–92 donations and, 29, 51, 173 e-mail, 24, 185, 218 emergency cleanups and, 33–36, 189–90 enablers, 318–19 filing systems, 198–201 first impressions of house and, 57 hall closet, 60–62 hangers, 19, 31 jewelry boxes, 32, 144 kitchen counter cleaning and, 30–31, 90, 107–108 maps, 106, 248–49, 254–255, 260 mirror cleaning and, 31–32 motivation for, 19–20 nagging and, avoiding, 325 peace of mind and, 23 persistence in, 166 perspective in, 329–31 purses, 32–33 resolutions, 23, 142–43 role models, 172–73 saboteurs, 318–19 Santa! 296 secondary mess from, 19–20 self-image and, 15, 20 small spaces, designing tips and, 208–11, 243 storage and, 29–30 time for, 19–20 traps, 252 treasures and, finding, 106, 315 ultimate, 314 uncooperative companion and, 321–22 visualization and, 20–21 Decorations, holiday, 256 Defrosting freezer, 101 Dehumidifier, 258 Dell computer, 313 Demolishing, house, 314 Denial about clutter, 20 Deodorizing laundry room, 244–45 Desktop home office, 203, 209 Desiccants, 259 Detergents dishwasher, 99, 102, 102, 263 laundry, 238, 244 Dial-up Internet connections, 204–205 Digital photographs, 211, 214, 217 Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) Internet connections, 198–99 Dining, 118 Dining room bedroom dresser in, 124 butler, 127 china dishes, 104–105, 120–21, 123, 124, 126 corner cupboard in, 124 crystal items, 121–22 furniture, 125–26 linens, 123–124 sideboard, 124, 126 silver items, 122–23 storage in, 124 Welsh plate rack in, 124, 125 Direct Marketing Association, 41, 48 Disabled American Veterans, 298 Disagreements about decluttering, 321–326 Discard box, 196 Dishes air-drying, 50 china, 104–105, 120–21, 123, 124, 126 clutter temptations, 49 kitchen, 89 plastic ware, 104 renting, 125 replacing, 106 separators for packing, 120–21
washing, 89 Dishwasher, 89, 99, 101–102 Disposal appliances, 307 auctions, 306–307, 313 bicycles, 309–310 books, 46, 299 cars, 306–309 CDs and DVDs, 74, 312 clothing, 136, 297 coins, 310 college textbooks, 311 computers, 311–313 consignment shops, 305 curbside, 296 dangerous items, 298, 305 donations, 298, 299, 305, 307–315, 310 estate buyers, 304–305 flea markets, 304–305 furs, 313 habits, determining, 8 hotel toiletries, 313 magazines, 44–45 newspaper advertisements for, 298–99 prom dresses, 315 recycling, 297–98 regifting, 297 safety issues, 305 yard sales, 299–305 Document management, computer, 179–82, 184–92, 210–15 Documents in home office decluttering, 182–85, 218–25 discard box for, 196 e-mail, 185, 218–24 financial records, 184 folders for, 188 holding onto old records, 190–92 phone directory, personal, 183 staples for, 189 Dogs, 288, 289 Donations books, 47 car, 307–309 charity and, setting up own, 299 charity box for, in home, 29, 193 children and, 30, 173–174 clothing, 137, 314–15 computer, 311–13 condition of items for, 173 decluttering and, 27, 51, 173 as disposal method, 298 household items, 298 scheduling pickup for, 298 tax issues and, 298, 307–10 toys, 301, 305 Door hooks, 81, 143–44, 146 Door mats, 58 Drawers adding, 78 full-extension runners for, 138 junk, 108–10, 294 kitchen, 110 labeling, 165 organizing, 109–10 safety catches on, 87 Dressers, bedroom, 124, 130–31, 132 Dress for Success (New York City charity), 137 Dry-cleaning tip, 48–49, 136 Dryer, 61, 238–239, 243 Dry ice for moth infestations, 140 Drying rack in entry area, 59 in laundry room, 240–41 Dry shop vacuum, 250–51 Dry sponge, 99 DSL Internet connections, 204–205 Dumbwaiters, 242–43 Dust mask, 99, 248, 250 DVD burner, 73 DVDs. See CDs and DVDs E eBay, 51, 300, 306, 306–307 Electric fans, 253 Electricity in bathroom, 151, 155
in garage, 263, 267 ground fault interrupter outlets and, 88, 155, 264, 301 in home office, 210, 210 in kitchen, 88 Electronic Industries Alliance, 312–13 Elegant home, 332 E-mail, 24, 185, 218 Emergency cleanups, 33–36, 189–90 Emergency kit for car, 273–74 Empty nest period and decluttering, 175–76 Enablers of decluttering, 318–19 Entertainment center, 68–75 children’s videos, 74 devices in, 69 organization of records, 72–75 storage cabinets, 69–71 television remote, 74 Entry area carpeting in, 58 children’s items in, 60 door mats in, 58 drying rack in, 59 “guard†cat, 56 hall closet and, 60–62 importance of, 57–59 mudroom and, 58, 61 plastic runners in, 58 protecting, 58 shoes and boots in, 58–60, 59 wall pegs and hooks in, 59 Estate buyers, 304–305 Exhaust fans, 253 Expansion anchor, 80–81 Expiration dates for common foods, 94–95 F Fans, 249, 253 Fax machines, 195, 203, 206 Fences, yard, 284–86 Filenames, computer, 221, 222, 223–224 Filing cabinets, 195, 198–201 Filing systems backward, 186 cabinets, 195, 198–201 decluttering, 198–201 labels in, 188 rational, 186–90 Financial records, 184 Finishing attic, 254 basement, 261 Fire extinguisher, 87 Fire safety issues attic, 257 kitchen, 87 Firewood, storing, 283 First-aid supplies, 150–51, 152 First impressions of house, 57 Flammable objects, caution about, 87 Flashlight in basement, easy access to, 259 Flea markets, 304 Floors cleaning, 100 garage, 262–63 hair removal from bathroom, 158 kitchen, 89 linoleum tiles, 93 steam cleaning, 89 Flower beds, 278–81 Folders for documents, 188 Folding ironing boards, 239–40, 243 Folding screens, 76, 144, 147 Folding tables, 239 Food in basement, 259 composting and, 95–96 cooking splatters, 103, 111 expiration dates for common, 94–95 inventory of, 89–90 leftovers, 89, 96–97 pantry moths and, 95 refrigerating, 96 restocking and reordering, 93–94 safety issues, 97 shopping list, computerized, 91 sorting through, 91–94
spoiled, 94 throwing out, 94 Forks, 104–105 Freezer, 96, 101, 267 Friends clothing evaluation and, 132–35 housekeeping with, 17 Full-extension drawer runners, 138 Furniture dining room, 125–26 home office, 194–95, 198–201 lawn, 282–84 living room, 69–71 plastic, 76 plastic blow-up, 76 polishing, 125-26 rocking chair, 75 storage chests in, 75–76, 76, 77 wheeled, 77, 200 Furs, disposing of, 313 G Garage bicycle storage in, 260 chemicals in, 263 cleaning, 261–62, 265–66, 270–71, 276–78 clutter buildup in, 261–63 decluttering map for, 262 dry shop vacuum and, 250–51 electricity in, 263, 267 floors of, 262–63 freezer in, 267 loft in, 270–71 lumber in, 265–266 map of, 262 mice in, 271–72 pests in, 271–72 reorganizing, 249–50 safety issues, 262–63 shelves in, 266–69 storage in, 263–71 tools in, 263–69 Garage sales. See Yard Sales Garden bench, 282 Garden fabric, 281 Garden hose, 281–82 Gateway (computer company), 313 Gift giving, 297. See also Donations Glasses, 114, 121–22 Glass surfaces, cleaning, 31–32 Gloves, rubber, 99–100, 103, 159, 250 Goodwill, 298 Ground fault interrupter (GFI) outlets, 88, 155, 264, 301 H Hair removal from bathroom floor, 158 Hall closet, 60–62 Hamper in bathroom, 155, 160 in bedroom closet, 139 in children’s bedroom, 169, 172 in laundry room, 243 selecting, 48, 155, 139 Hangers, 31 Hanging photographs, 78–81, 80 Happy kids, 177 Heirlooms, 51. See also Collectibles Hewlett-Packard, 313 High-efficiency particle arrestance (HEPA) filters, 64, 65 Hoarding, 23–24 Holiday cards. See Christmas and holiday cards Holiday decorations, 256 Home office blending, with home, 213 books in, 193, 194 bulletin board in, 193–194 calendar in, 211–213, 212 challenge of clutter in, 180–82 clients’ attitude toward clutter and, 198 in closet, 209–10 communication going out of, 192–93 credenzas in, 200 desktop, 203, 209 smothered, 178 documents in decluttering, 182–85, 218–25
discard box for, 196 e-mail, 185, 218–24 financial records, 184 folders for, 188 holding onto old records, 190–92 phone directory, personal, 183 staples for, 189 electricity in, 210, 210 equipment answering machines, 207–208 computers, 201–202 data storage devices, 203–204 fax machines, 195 Internet connections, 204–205 paper shredder, 206 printers, 202–203 scanners, 202–203 telephones, 205–207 voice mail, 207–208 filing systems backward, 186 cabinets, 195, 198–201 decluttering, 198–201 labels in, 188 rational, 186–90 financial records in, 184 furniture, 194–95, 198–201 information flowing out of in kitchen, 208–209 magazines, 185–86 makeover of, 194–96 messy example of, 198 new, planning, 196–98 non-ideal, 182 office supplies in, 192–93 phone directory in, personal, 183 renting office versus, 207 schedules and, 211–213 small space, fitting into, 208–11 sticky notes and, 187 storage ideas, 117 supplies for, 192–93 Home security issues, 278 Hooks adhesive-backed, 157 coat, 115, 143, 166 door, 81, 143–44 ring, 115 wall in bathroom, 156 in entry area, 59 Hornets, 248, 250 Hoses garden, 281–82 vacuum, 64–65 Hotel toiletries, disposing of, 313 Household items. See also specific types donating, 298 responsibility about, learning, 175 storing versus using, 126 using or losing, 20 Housekeeping. See also Cleaning cleaning service and, 15 planning and, 79 principles, determining, 6 routines bathroom, 159–60 bedroom, 141–43 kitchen, 88–90 with friends, 17 HVD disc, 203 I IBM, 313 Insects, 53–54, 96, 143, 248, 250, 255–56, 259–60, 283 Insulation in attic, 253–54 Internal Revenue Service (IRS), 290–92 Internet auctions on, 51, 306, 306 connections, 204–205 Investment statements, 192 Ironing board, folding, 239–40, 243 J Jars, plastic, 267, 267 Jewelry boxes, 32
Junk drawer, 108–10, 294 Junk mail, managing, 40–41, 182 K Keys, 112 Kitchen cabinets, 91–92 caddy, 116, 117 challenge of clutter in, 86 chests, 101 cleaning, 30–31, 90 cleaning supplies, 108, 150–51 cookbooks in, 110–111 cooking splatters and, 111 counters, 86–87, 98–100 cutting board, 111 dishes, 89 dishwasher, 101–102 drawers, 110 electricity in, 88 fire extinguisher in, 87 fire safety issues, 87 floor, 89 food composting and, 95–96 computerized shopping list of, 91 cooking splatters, 103, 111 expiration dates for common, 94–95 inventory of, 89–90 leftovers, 89, 92, 96–97 refrigerating, 96 restocking and reordering, 96–94 sorting through, 91–94 spoiled, 94 throwing out, 94 freezer, 101 home office in, 208–209 hook in, for rings, 115 housekeeping routines, daily, 88–89 monthly, 90 weekly, 89 junk drawer in, 108–10 oven, 103–104 pantry, 91–93, 95, 113 plastic ware, 104 pots and pans, 105–107 principles of decluttering, 116 recipes, 111–12 recycling bins, 115 refrigerator, 96, 98, 101 safety issues in, 86–87 shelves, 93, 93–94, 112–15 spice rack, 113 sponges in, 97, 98–100 storage in, 108, 112–15, 117–21 stove, 102–103 undersink storage, 108 uses of, 86 utensils, 104, 107 wine glasses, 114 wine rack, 113 writing in, 208–209 Knives, 87, 107 L Labels box, 143, 184–85, 251 filing systems, 188 shelves, 94 Laundry and laundry room, 6–7, 49, 237–45 clothesline in, retractable, 241 deodorizing, 244–45 detergents, 244 dryer, 238–39 drying rack in, 240–41 dumbwaiters and, 242–43 folding ironing board in, 239–40, 243 folding table in, 239 habits, determining, 6–7 hampers in bathroom, 155, 160 in bedroom closet, 139 in children’s bedroom, 169, 172 in laundry room, 243 selecting, 48, 139, 155
laundry baskets and, 164, 168, 241 laundry chutes and, 242 lint and, 239 safety issue in, 241 small space for, 243 socks, 244 unpleasantness of, 244–45 washer, 239–39 Laundry baskets, 164, 168, 241 Laundry chutes, 242 Laundry hamper in bathroom, 155, 160 in bedroom closet, 139 in children’s bedroom, 169, 172 selecting, 48, 139, 155 Lawn furniture, 282–84 L-bracket, 168 Leftover food, managing, 89, 96–97 Legal documents, 191–92 Lifestyle of clutter, managing, 322–26 Life vests, 288 Lighting in bedroom closets, 131, 139 flashlight in basement, easy access to, 259 pool, 288 Linens, dining room, 123–24 Linoleum tiles, 93 Lint, laundry, 239 Liquid polish, 126 Liquid soap, 159 Live-capture traps, 271 Living room, 35, 67–83, 171 baskets in, 77 cabinets, 68–71 chests in, 76, 78 cleaning, 68 door hooks and racks in, 81 drawers and, adding, 78 entertainment center children’s videos, 74 devices in, 69 organization of recordings, 72–75 storage cabinets, 69–71 television remote, 74 folding screen in, 76 furniture, 69–71 photograph decluttering and, 78–83 shelves, 71 storage, 75–78, 77 tables, 77–78 Loft in garage, 270–71 Lone Ranger and Tonto, 316 Lumber storage, 265–266 M Magazines collectibles, 44–45 decluttering temptations, 44 disposing of, 44–45 in home office, 185–86 rack for, 157 Mail clutter temptations, 40 Maps of attic, 255 of basement, 260–61 decluttering, 106, 248–49, 254–255, 260 of garage, 262 storage, 106 Medical records, 192 Medical supplies, 153 Medicine cabinet, 150–54 Mending plates, 146 Mice, 259–60, 271–72, 248 Mirrors, cleaning, 31–32 Mirror, Mirror, 32 Modems, 197, 204–205 Moisture issues and storage, 252, 258–59 Molly bolts, 79–80 Monthly housekeeping routines bathroom, 160 bedroom, 142–43 kitchen, 90 Mops, 100, 250 Mothballs, 140–41, 255–56 Moths clothing, 140
pantry, 95 Movers of the frozen north, 195 Motivation for decluttering, 19–20 Mudroom, 58, 61 Mulch, 281 Murphy bed, 146 Mylar sleeves for storage, 55 N Nagging about clutter, avoiding, 325 National Cristina Foundation, 312 Negatives, organizing photograph, 82–83 Newspaper, Extra! Extra! 45 Newspaper ads for disposal of items, 298–99 Newspaper clutter temptations, 43 Nondrying polishing oils, 126 O Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), 23–24 OCR scanners, 202 Odor-based pest repellants, 272 Office supplies, 193–94. See also Home office Oil polish, 126 Online auctions, 306, 306, 51 Operating systems, computer, 201–202 Optical character recognition (OCR) scanners, 202 Organization. See also Decluttering; specific areas of home bathroom sink, area under, 154–55, 157 boredom of, fighting, 16–17 canisters, 93 CDs and DVDs, 72–75 cleaning supplies, 98–100, 108 cookbooks, 110–111, 115 drawers, 109–10 freezer, 101 junk drawer, 108–10 kitchen cabinets, 91–92 pantry, 112–16 photograph negatives, 82–83 recipes, 111–12 time for, 19–20 Ottoman, chest in, 74–76 Outhouse, cat, 290 Oven, 103–104 Overloaded computer, example of, 215 Overstuffing clothing in drawers, avoiding, 141 Overweight home, facing page 1 P Packing newspaper for, avoiding, 43 separators for, 120–21 Paintbrushes, 100 Painting cabinet’s inside, 107 with waterproofing product, 258 Pans, 102–03, 105–107 Pantry, organizing, 112–16. See also Food; Kitchen Pantry moths, 95 Paperless office, 233 Paper shredders, 206 Paper towels, 98–99, 112 Paperwork. See also Documents in home office bank deposit slips, 192 bills, 41–42 credit cards, 40–41 financial records, 184 holding onto old, 182–85 investments statements, 185 legal documents, 191–92 mail, 40–43 medical records, 192 real estate documents, 191 tax documents, 184, 190–92 Paste waxes, 126 Patio, 283–84 PCDisposal, 312 Pedals for Progress, 309–10 Peg-Board, 264–65 “Penalty boxes,†53–54 Periodicals. See Magazines Persistence in decluttering, 166 Perspective in decluttering, 329–31 Pests in attic, 271–72 firewood storage and, 283 in garage, 271–72
hornets, 248, 250 insects, 53–54, 96, 143, 143, 284, 250, 255–56, 259–60, 283 live-capture traps for, 271 mice, 259–60, 271–72, 248 moths clothing, 140 pantry, 95 odor-based products for repelling, 272 pheromone traps for, 140 poison for, 271 snap traps for, 271 spiders, 248, 283 squirrels, 271–72 ultrasonic devices for repelling, 271 Pets, 97, 289–91 Pheromone traps, 140 Phone directory, personal, 183 Phones, 61, 205, 207 Photographs decluttering, 81–83 decluttering trap, as, 252 digital, 218 editing, 81–83 hanging, 78–81, 80 leveling, 80 organizing negatives and, 82–83 scanning old, 83 storing, 83 Picket fences, 285 Plantings for camouflage, 281–82 permanent, 280–81 potted, 278–80 selecting, 280 Plastic blow-up furniture, 76 Plastic boxes, 29–30 Plastic furniture, 76 Plastic grocery bags, 100, 115, 273 Plastic jars, 265, 267 Plastic resin shelves, 268 Plastic runners, 58 Plastic tubs, 167–68, 291 Plastic ware, 104 Plate rack, 124, 125 Platform bed, 145–47 Playrooms, 170–71 Poison Control Center, 151, 151 Poison for pests, 271 Polishing counters, 30–31, 90 furniture, 125–26 silver items, 123 Pool, swimming, 286–88, 287 Possessions, learning responsibility about, 171–72 Pots, 279–80 Potted plantings, 278–80 Powder room, 158–59. See also Bathroom Prescription drugs, 150, 153 Printers, computer, 202–203 Prom dresses, disposing of, 315 Pull-out baskets, 139 Purchases. See Accumulation Purses, 32–33 Putty knife, plastic, 99, 102–03, 264 Q Quicken software program, 41, 184 R Racks belt, 139 drying in entry area, 59 in laundry room, 240–41 lumber, 266 magazine, 157 plate, 124, 125 scarf, 139 spice, 113 tie, 139 tool, 264–65, 269 towel, 156 wine, 114 Raised flower beds, 281 Rational filing systems, 186–90 Real estate documents, 191
Recipes, 111–12 Recycling bins, 288 Christmas and holiday cards, 40–42 computers, 313 as disposal method, 297–98 Refrigerator attack, 84 cleaning, 98 food safety issues and, 97 habits, determining, 7 overstuffed, 86 Regifting, 297 Registry database, 229 Renting CDs and DVDs, 72 dishes, 125 office space, 207 tools, 264 Repairs appliances, 114–15 bicycles, 173 donated items and, 173 Responsibility about possessions, learning, 171–73 Ring hooks, 115 Rocking chair, 75 Role models for decluttering, 172–73 Route 127 Corridor sale, 303–304 Rubber gloves, 99–100, 103, 159, 250 Rugs. See Carpeting Runners, plastic, 58 S Saboteurs of decluttering, 318–19 Safety catches, 87 Safety cover for swimming pool, 289 Safety goggles, 99, 250 Safety issues ammonia, 102–104, 158 attic, 248, 250–51 bleach, 158, 241, 244–45 chemicals, 241, 263 children and chemicals, 241 drawers, 87 kitchen, 86–87 recalled products, 174 storage chests, 167 swimming pools, 298 disposal, 305 electric fans, 253 electricity, 114, 210, 240, 258, 260 fire attic, 257 kitchen, 87 food, 97 garage, 262–63 kitchen, 86–87 knives, 86, 107 laundry room, 241 prescriptions, leftover, 150–51, 153 refrigeration, 97 security, 278, 292 spray cleansers, 100 storage, 143–45 swimming pool, 288 wiring, 210, 240, 254, 260 St. Jude’s Ranch for Children, 42 Salvation Army, 298 Scanners, 202–203 Scanning old photographs, 83 Scarf racks, 139 Schedules, 159, 211–213 Scouring sponge, 98–99 Seasonal clothing, 62, 143 Seasonal housekeeping routines for bedroom, 143 Secondary mess from decluttering, 19–20 Securing a bookcase, 168 Security issues, 278, 286, 292 Self-discipline tips, 12–13, 22 Self-esteem, 21 Self-image and decluttering, 15, 21 Self-storage facilities, 291–93 Selling auctions, 305–306 books, 47
CDs and DVDs, 73 Sentiment and clutter, 32, 74, 147, 252 Separators for packing plates, 120–21 Sheds, storage, 282–83 Shelves over bathroom window, 156–57, 157 bedroom, 138–39, 144–45, 144–45 boot, 59 covering, 93, 93 freestanding, 139 in garage, 266–69 in home office, 198–201 in kitchen, 93–94, 112–15 labeling, 94 lining, 43 living room, 71 metal, 113 open, 167 plastic resin, 258 slide-out, 138–39 steel utility, 144–45, 266–67 over toilet, avoiding, 157 under-sink, 157 window, 156–157 wooden, 268 Shoe storage bags for, 134 bench, 59 in bedroom, 134, 138 in entry area, 58–60 Shopping list, computerized, 91 Shop vacuum, 250–51, 260–61, 265 Shortcuts, computer, 233 Shower spray cleansers, 158 Sideboard, 110, 124, 126 Silver items, 122–23 Sink stains, 158 Small spaces home office in, 208–11 laundry room in, 243 Smells in laundry room, deodorizing, 244–45 Snap traps, 271 Soaps, 156, 313 Socks, managing laundering of, 244 Souvenirs, 50–53, 52. See also Collectibles Spackle, 272 Spam, computer, 227, 225–28 Spice rack, 113 Spiders, 248, 283 Spoiled food, throwing away, 97 Sponges, 97, 98–100 Spoons, 104–105 Sports equipment, 62, 145 Spray cleansers, 99, 100, 158 Squeegee, 99, 158, 160 Squirrels, 271–72 Stains in sink, 158 Stairway to success, 26 Staples for documents, 189 Steel utility shelves, 144–45, 266–67 Sticky notes, 187 Storage armoire, 68–71 in attic, 239–47 in basement, 260–61 in bathroom, 151, 154–57 batteries, 113 in bedroom, 131–32, 143–47 Murphy bed, 146 outside room, 136 under bed, 145–47 bicycle, 269–70 bolts, 266–68 books, 47 boxes, 29–30 cabinets, 68–71 carts, wheeled, 138, 282 chemicals, 241, 263 chests, 75–78, 156, 167, 171 in children’s bedrooms, 166–69 china dishware, 120–21 Christmas and holiday cards, 256 cleansers, powered, 108 clothing service, 136 comics, 55 computer CDs, 203–204
cookbooks, 111 crystal items, 121–22 cups, 121 decluttering and, 29–30 in dining room, 124 entry area, 59 firewood, 283 in garage, 263–71 heavy items, 252 holiday decorations, 256 ideas, 77, 112–16, 131–32, 166–70 keys, 112 in kitchen, 108, 112–15, 117–21 labels and, 143 in living room, 69–71 lumber, 265–266 maps, 106 moisture issues and, 252, 258–59 Mylar sleeves, 55 in ottoman, 74–76 photographs, 83 plastic boxes, 29–30 plastic jars, 265, 267 plastic tubs, 167–68, 291 recycling bins, 288 safety issues, 143–45 self-storage facilities, 291–93 sheds, 282–83 shoes, bags for, 134 in bedroom, 134, 138 in entry area, 58–60 silver items, 122–23 steel utility shelves, 144–45, 266–67 temperature issues and, 96, 253–54, 262, 292 tool, 168, 263–69 underbed, 145–47 undersink, 154–55 vacuum cleaner, 62 valuable items, 106 water problems and, 258, 261 weight issues and, 198, 251, 256 wrapping paper, 256 in yard, 282–283 Stove, 87, 102–103 Studs and stud finder, 60, 80, 113, 138, 156–57, 167, 170, 240 Sump pump, 248, 258 Surprised mother, 162 Swimming pool, 286–88, 289 T Tables drawers, adding, 78 folding, 239 living room, 77–78 wheeled, 77, 200 Tax documents, 184, 190–92 Tax issues, 184, 190–92, 307 Teenagers’ clutter, 174–75 Telephones, 205–207 Television remote, 74 Temperature issues attic and, 254–55 container gardening and, 278–87 storage and, 96, 253–54, 262, 292 Textiles. See Clothing Tie racks, 139 Tile cleaner, 159 Time management, 19–20 Toggle bolts, 79–80 Toilet cabinet over, avoiding, 157 cleaning, 158 Toilet bowl brush, 158 Toiletries, disposing of hotel, 313 Tonto and the Lone Ranger, 316 Tools rack for, 264–65, 269 renting, 264 storing in garage, 263–69 Toothbrush hygiene, 151 Toothpaste habits, determining, 6 Towel racks, 156 Toys decluttering, 170–71 donating, 301, 305
in swimming pool area, 279 Traps, animal and insect, 271 Trash cans, outdoor, 288–89 Treasures finding, 315 forgotten in attic, 246 Tubs, plastic, 167–68, 291 U Ultrasonic devices for repelling pests, 271 Uncooperative companion and decluttering, 37, 321–22 Underbed storage, 145–47 Undersink area bathroom, 154–55, 157 shelves, 157 storage, 154–55 Universal Serial Bus (USB) hard drive, 203–204 Used-books store, 46 Utensils, kitchen, 104, 107 V Vacuum cleaner central system, 64 handheld, 63 hoses, 64–65 selecting, 62–65, 250–51 storing, 62 Vacuum storage bags, 257 Valuable items, storing, 106 Vents, 249, 253 Vinyl fences, 285–86 Visualization and decluttering, 20 Voice mail, 207–208 W Wall hooks and pegs in bathroom, 156 in entry area, 59 Walls in yard, 284–86 Wall studs, 80 Wardrobe lift, 139 Warehouses, storage, 291–93 Washer, 238–39, 236 Water problems and storage, 258, 261 Wax paper on cabinet tops and as shelf liner, 101 Weekly housekeeping routines bathroom, 160 bedroom, 141–42 kitchen, 89 Weight issues and storage, 198, 251, 256 Welsh plate rack, 124, 125 Wheeled furniture, 138, 145, 171, 193, 200, 208–209 Windows, oven, 104 shelf, 157 Wine glasses, 114, 121–22 Wine rack, 114 Wipes, dust-attracting, 100 Wiring in bathroom, 155 ground fault interrupter outlets and, 155, 264 in home office, 210 in kitchen, 88 Wooden furniture, 284 Wooden picket fences, 278 Work space. See also Home office for children, 169 habits in, determining, 5 Wrapping paper, storing, 256 Y Yard container gardening in, 278–89 deck, 283–84 fantasy versus reality, 287 fences, 284–86 firewood in, 283 flower beds in, 278–81 garden bench in, 282 garden fabric in, 281 garden hose in, 281–82 lawn furniture in, 282–85 mulch in, 281 neglected, 276 patio, 283–84 pets and, 289–91 plantings in
for camouflage, 281–82 permanent, 280–81 potted, 278–80 selecting, 280 pool, 286–88 security issues and, 278, 286, 292 simplifying, 278 storage in, 282–83 storage sheds in, 282–83 trash cans, 288–89 walls, 284–86 wheeled storage carts in, 282 Yard sales, 299–303
