40 Bags in 40 Days - The Clutter Challenge

Have you heard about the  "40 Bags in 40 Days Challenge?"  It's where you declutter and get rid of 40 bags of items in the 40 days of Lent.  If you have lots of items, i.e. clutter, then, this is the challenge for you!

I realize that this post is a little late, but, you can start the challenge at any time.  You can sign yup for the free emails through White House Black Shutters.  She also has a Facebook page.  Just search 40 Bags in 40 Days and it should pop up.

Here are some areas to consider:

Master Bath Cabinets
Master Closet
Master Bedroom
Night Stand(s)
Medicine Cabinet
Hall Linen Closet
Pantry
Kitchen Cabinets
Front Hall Closet
Basement Closet
Family Room
Craft Cabinet/Area
Office
File Cabinet
Desk
Laundry Room
Garage
Car
Attic
Papers to shred / file
Email
Purse
Work bag, back pack, gym bag, diaper bag
Kid's Closet(s)
Kid's Dresser(s)
Toys
Play Room
Living Room
Dining Room
Yard
Shed

Before you start, it's best to make a plan of attack.  List out the 40 areas that you plan on decluttering.    Then, it's time to start.  Start going through the room (area).  The point is to touch it once and make quick decisions.

Think about it.  Do you really need to keep this item?  Will you lose sleep over it if you get rid of it?  Have you used the item in the last year/5 years/ 10 years?  Do you think you will have a need in the future?

You can always go out and buy another one....chances are if you haven't used it in years, you probably won't need it in the future.

Keep a box and garbage bag by you.  Toss what you don't need or want to donate.  When you are done with that area, toss the bag of garbage (recycle if there are items to be recycled) and put your donations in the trunk to be dropped off the next time you are running errands.

Again, I know this is a little late for Lent (unless you are Greek Orthodox, like me).  It's still a great time to start.

If you miss a day, it's okay.  Just jump right back in and pick up where you left off.  This isn't a race.  There are no winners.  Just do your best and keep going.

This challenge is something that you can do a few times a week, once a week or, if your house is really cluttered, then every day for 40 days.

If you reach 40 bags, Great!  If you have less than 40 bags, That's great too!  The key is to keep going!

It's almost Spring!  What a way to start off your Spring cleaning!  If you bring along your cleaning supplies, you can clean the room right after you declutter!

No one should have to live with clutter.  This is just one of many free ideas to help you get a handle on your clutter.

Give it a try!  I would love to hear what you plan on tackling.