As spring approaches, many individuals are gearing up for their annual cleaning rituals. Rhea Becker, a professional organizer based in Boston’s Jamaica Plain neighborhood, offers valuable insights on how to kickstart the process effectively. With over 25 years of experience, Becker has helped numerous clients declutter their homes, providing practical tips for those overwhelmed by the seasonal task.
Becker’s organization business caters to a diverse clientele, ranging from college students to seniors preparing to downsize. “We’ve got everyone from a college student who wants to fix up her dorm room to folks who are moving into assisted living,” she stated. This wide spectrum of clients illustrates the universal need for organization, regardless of life stage or circumstances.
Simple Steps to Begin Decluttering
One of Becker’s primary recommendations for spring cleaning is to tackle the accumulation of cardboard boxes from online shopping. “Many people have a house full of cardboard, creating what I call ‘visual chaos,’” she explained. A simple first step is to collapse those boxes and recycle them, clearing valuable space.
Additionally, Becker advises addressing excess shopping bags. “People often collect lots of reusable bags,” she noted. By reducing the number of bags, individuals can create a more organized environment with minimal effort.
For items that can no longer be donated—such as clothing with significant damage—Becker pointed out Boston’s fabric recycling system as a viable alternative. “If you have something that really isn’t in shape to donate, your next option is probably textile recycling,” she said. This approach not only declutters but also promotes sustainable practices.
Effective Strategies for Common Clutter Areas
Junk drawers are notorious for accumulating miscellaneous items that often go unused. Becker suggests a systematic approach for organizing these spaces. “When we do junk drawers, there’s often little packets of soy sauce, old takeout menus, and rubber bands,” she noted. Her advice is to remove everything and categorize the contents into groups, such as writing instruments and papers. This method simplifies the process and helps clients identify what to keep and what to discard.
Another often-overlooked area in homes is the top shelf of kitchen cabinets. Becker identified this as a frequently neglected spot where expired items tend to accumulate. “Most people never reach up to that top shelf, and the stuff in the back is almost inevitably going to be expired,” she explained.
For those hesitant to part with items they may need in the future, Becker emphasizes the importance of balance. “You have to strike a balance between what you really need and what you can let go of,” she advised. She encourages clients to reflect on their motivations for decluttering, such as feeling overwhelmed or wanting to create a welcoming space for family and friends.
In addition to common areas, Becker encourages addressing other often-ignored maintenance tasks during spring cleaning, such as cleaning fridge coils, air filters, and drains. She recommends consulting resources like NPR for comprehensive tips on maintaining a clean and healthy home environment.
By following Becker’s advice, individuals can transform their spaces and create a more organized atmosphere as they welcome the freshness of spring.