If you’re looking to save money, decluttering your space might be a simple yet effective way to do so. Not only can it make your home feel more organized and tidy, but it can also have a positive impact on your spending habits. Having a home that feels like a sanctuary or refuge from the outside world will stop you from mindless shopping because you don’t want to deal with clutter.
While the thought of decluttering every room in your home may seem overwhelming, even small tasks like cleaning out one drawer or area per day or spending five minutes decluttering your linen closet can make a difference. In this article, we’ll explore how decluttering your home can help you save money and provide tips for getting started.
Making Better Spending Choices
Decluttering your home and wardrobe can help you make better spending choices. When you establish a place for everything and put everything in its place, you will find what you want when you need it. This will prevent you from buying duplicates of items you already own but cannot find, which only leads to more clutter.
Decluttering can also help you identify your spending habits and stop impulse buying.
After decluttering, shopping becomes a new experience, and you will be more aware of what you are buying. You will find yourself asking whether you will actually use the item, how many times, and whether it will end up in the back of your closet again.
In the end, decluttering can save you money because you will buy less of what you do not need. By being mindful of your spending habits and making better choices, you can achieve financial freedom and live a clutter-free life.
Consider the following tips to help you make better spending choices:
- Create a budget and stick to it.
- Make a list before you go shopping and stick to it.
- Avoid impulse buying by waiting 24 hours before making a purchase.
- Shop with a friend who can keep you accountable.
- Consider buying secondhand or renting items instead of buying new.
- Sell or donate items you no longer need or use.
Earning Money on Items You Don’t Need
If you have items that have hardly been used or even brand new, you can consider selling them online to make some extra cash. There are various online platforms like Facebook Marketplace, eBay, Poshmark, and Offerup that you can use to sell these items. You can also sell furniture online if you have any. Alternatively, you can have a yard sale or network among your friends and family to see if they are interested in buying any of your items.
If you have items that you no longer use or need, you can also consider donating them. This could also be a tax write-off for your contributions, just ensure you get a receipt at the time of your donation.
Here are some tips to keep in mind when selling your items online:
- Take clear and high-quality photos of your items to attract potential buyers.
- Write a detailed description of your items, including any flaws or damages.
- Set a reasonable price for your items based on their condition and market value.
- Be responsive to messages and inquiries from potential buyers.
- Ship your items promptly and securely if you are selling them online.
By selling or donating items you no longer need, you can declutter your home and earn some extra money while doing so.
Finding Hidden Cash and Avoiding Late Fees
Decluttering your space can lead to some unexpected surprises, such as finding forgotten cash or gift cards. Take the time to thoroughly search your space, including drawers, closets, and other storage areas, for any hidden items that can be repurposed or used.
In addition to finding hidden cash, decluttering can also help you avoid late fees on bills. Create a designated area for bills, such as a folder or tray, to ensure they don’t get lost in the clutter. By staying organized and on top of your bills, you can avoid unnecessary fees and penalties.
To further avoid late fees, consider setting up automatic bill payments through your bank or credit card company. This way, you can ensure that your bills are paid on time without having to worry about remembering the due dates.
Saving Money on Storage Fees
If you are renting a storage unit, you may be paying a significant amount of money every month. However, there are ways to reduce or eliminate these fees. Here are some tips to help you save money on storage fees:
- Declutter your storage unit: Plan a visit to your storage unit to declutter and get rid of anything you no longer need. This will free up space and reduce the size of the unit you need to rent.
- Downsize your storage unit: If you still need a storage unit, consider downsizing to a smaller unit that better fits your needs. This will reduce the monthly fee you pay.
- Negotiate your monthly fee: If you have been renting a unit for a while, you may be able to negotiate a lower monthly fee. Contact your storage facility and ask if they are willing to lower your rate.
- Look for promotions and discounts: Many storage facilities offer promotions and discounts for new customers. Keep an eye out for these deals and take advantage of them to save money.
