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Cleaning out an old house can be an intimidating task, whether you’re downsizing, moving, or just trying to declutter. It can feel like there’s an endless supply of old possessions, memories, and random junk to sort through. But don’t worry! With these tips and tricks, you’ll be well on your way to making cleaning out that old house way easier than you ever imagined. Let’s get started!
Make a Plan
When it comes to cleaning out an old house, having a plan in place can make all the difference. It’s important to take the time to assess the situation and come up with a strategy that works for you. This could involve setting goals for each room or area of the house, creating a timeline for when you want certain tasks to be completed, or even enlisting the help of friends or family members. By having a plan in place, you’ll be able to approach the task with more focus and efficiency, making the process much easier in the long run.
Start Small
One of the biggest mistakes people make when cleaning is trying to tackle everything at once. This can quickly become overwhelming and lead to feelings of frustration and exhaustion. Instead, start small by focusing on one room or area at a time. This will not only help you stay organized, but it will also give you a sense of accomplishment as you complete each task. Plus, starting small will prevent you from getting burnt out too quickly and allow you to work at a steady pace.
Another important aspect of making the cleaning process easier is pacing yourself. It’s important to recognize that cleaning out an old house is a big task and it will take time. Don’t try to do everything in one day or even one weekend. Instead, set realistic goals for yourself and take breaks when needed. This will prevent you from getting overwhelmed and help you stay energized throughout the process.
Get Rid of the Easy Stuff First
As you begin the process, it can be helpful to start with the easy stuff first. This could include items that are broken, worn out, or no longer serve a purpose. By getting rid of these items, you’ll not only free up space in your home but also make it easier to sort through the remaining possessions. Plus, getting rid of the easy stuff first can help you build momentum and motivate you to continue with the task at hand.
Rent a Dumpster
Renting a dumpster can be a game-changer. Instead of having to make multiple trips to the dump or donation center, you can simply throw unwanted items into the dumpster and have them hauled away once you’re finished. This not only saves time and energy but also helps keep your home clean and organized throughout the process.
The cost of renting commercial roll off dumpsters can vary depending on the size and duration of the rental, as well as your location. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $800 for a one-week rental. However, this cost may be worth it in the long run if it saves you time and hassle during the cleaning out process. It’s important to research and compare different rental companies in your area to find the best deal for your specific needs.
Use Storage Bins and Labels
Another helpful tip when cleaning is to use storage bins and labels. As you sort through items, group similar things together and store them in labeled bins. This will not only keep your belongings organized but also make it easier to find specific items later on. You can even use different colored bins for different categories (e.g. blue for kitchen items, green for clothing, etc.) to make the process even more efficient.
Create a System for Sentimental Items
It’s inevitable that you’ll come across sentimental items that hold memories and emotions. These can be difficult to part with, so it’s important to create a system for dealing with them. One option is to designate a specific box or storage bin for all sentimental items and set it aside until the end of the cleaning process. This way, you can focus on the less emotional items first and then decide what to do with the sentimental ones later on.
Another option is to take photos of sentimental items before getting rid of them, so you still have a way to hold onto the memories without keeping physical objects. Whatever system works best for you, make sure to give yourself time and space to process any emotions that may come up during this process.
Take Breaks and Ask for Help
It’s important to remember that this is a big task and it’s okay to take breaks and ask for help when needed. This can prevent burnout and ensure that the quality of your work stays consistent throughout the entire process. Don’t be afraid to reach out to friends or family for assistance, whether it’s helping you physically clean or providing emotional support. And remember to take breaks as needed to recharge and refocus. This will help make the task of cleaning out an old house much more manageable and enjoyable.
Cleaning out an old house may seem like a tall order, but with a little bit of planning and organization, it doesn’t have to be. Start small, make a plan, and get rid of the easy stuff first. Use storage bins and labels to keep everything organized, create a system for sentimental items, and enlist help from family and friends if needed. Follow these tips and tricks, and you’ll have that old house cleaned out in no time!
By Dixie Somers
who is a freelance writer based in Arizona.
Member since October, 2022
View all the articles of Dixie Somers.
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