Start 2025 with a fresh, decluttered home

Are you feeling sun-tanned and fancy-free after a long summer holiday but that nagging clutter that has piled up over the last year is threatening to destroy your footloose fantasy?  

Decluttering in the new year is the best way to kickstart 2025 on a fresh note! It’s not just about tidying up your space, it’s about reclaiming your sanity and creating an environment that promotes a stress-free start.  

So where do we begin? In this blog, we will give you practical ways to declutter your home this January. No mess, no fuss.   

Decluttering 101  

The first step is to figure out how you are going to declutter. We recommend starting with the three rules of decluttering.  

3 rules of decluttering 

Here are the three rules of decluttering to guide you.  

Rule 1: One room at a time 

Decluttering your entire home in one go can feel overwhelming. Instead, focus on one room or even one small section at a time. This manageable approach helps you build momentum, stay motivated and give each area the attention it deserves. 

Rule 2: The "keep", "donate" and "toss" method 

For every item, make an intentional decision. Keep what you use and love, donate what could benefit someone else, and toss anything that is broken or no longer serves a purpose.  

This straightforward system removes uncertainty and ensures you only hold on to what truly adds value to your life. 

Rule 3: seasonal decluttering is key 

As seasons change so do your storage needs. Beach gear, sports equipment and camping gear don’t need to occupy your home during winter, just as heavy blankets can be stored away in summer. Regular seasonal decluttering keeps your home functional and prevents unused items from taking over. 

Decluttering tips for a fresh start in 2025

Decluttering doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Use these practical tips to simplify the process and set yourself up for success: 

• Start small and set a timer: Begin with one drawer, shelf or corner of a room. Set a timer for 30-minute sessions to stay focused and prevent burnout. You’ll be amazed at what you can accomplish in just half an hour. 
• Sort items into categories: Group similar items together, such as books, clothing or kitchen utensils. This makes it easier to see what you have too much of and helps identify duplicates. 
• Use clear storage containers: Store items in transparent bins to quickly identify the contents without having to rummage through them. Opt for stackable containers to save space. 
• Label everything: Invest in a label maker or use simple sticky labels and a marker pen to clearly tag containers, drawers, and boxes. Labelling helps everyone in the household know where things belong. 
• Apply the "one in, one out" rule: For every new item you bring into your home, commit to removing one you no longer use. This keeps clutter under control over time. 
• Create a donate or recycle box: Keep a box or bag handy for items you no longer need but that others might use. When it’s full, donate it to charity or recycle where possible. 
• Involve the whole family: Turn decluttering into a collaborative effort. Assign everyone a specific task or area to work on and reward yourselves once the job is done. 
• Declutter in zones: Work systematically through your home by dividing it into zones like the kitchen, living room or bedroom. This ensures no space gets overlooked. 
• Set clear goals: Decide in advance what you want to achieve, whether it’s making space for new items, simplifying daily routines or just reducing visual clutter. 
• Dispose of items responsibly: Recycle, donate or repurpose wherever possible to minimise waste. This is not only good for the environment but also for your peace of mind. 

By breaking the task into manageable steps and enlisting the help of your family, you can transform your home into an organised, stress-free haven as you head into 2025. 

Storage solutions for seasonal and outdoor clutter 

Many South African homes struggle with bulky seasonal items like holiday decorations, braai equipment, beach umbrellas, pool accessories and outdoor furniture. These items often take up valuable space and create unnecessary clutter.  

Instead of cramming them into cupboards or garages, consider external storage. Stor-Age offers secure storage facilities that allow you to keep your belongings safe and easily accessible, freeing up space in your home. 

Storage ideas for summer items 

Here are a few practical storage ideas for keeping summer items organised and protected: 

• Beach gear: Store items like umbrellas, chairs and coolers in clear plastic bins to keep them dust-free and easy to find. Use a dedicated shelving unit in your garage or storage unit to stack these bins neatly. 
• Camping equipment: Pack tents, sleeping bags and camping stoves in waterproof storage bags or bins. Label each bag to quickly see the contents when the camping season returns. 
• Pool accessories: Keep inflatables, pool noodles and water toys clean and dry by storing them in airtight containers. For larger items like pool loungers, use hooks or wall-mounted racks to save floor space. 
• Sports equipment: Bicycles, surfboards and paddleboards can be hung on specialised wall mounts or stored upright in a storage unit. Smaller items like balls or racquets can go into mesh bags or bins for easy access. 
• Outdoor furniture: Protect outdoor tables, chairs, and loungers with durable furniture covers. Stack lightweight pieces or fold them where possible to save space. Alternatively, consider a Keter storage box, which is a stylish and weather-resistant way to store your outdoor furniture and more.  
• Braai equipment: Pack portable braai stands, utensils and charcoal into a designated storage box. For a convenient outdoor choice, use a Keter storage box near your braai area to keep essentials within reach while protecting them from the elements. 

By using practical storage solutions like Keter storage boxes and specialised shelving, you can extend the lifespan of your summer gear while keeping your home clutter-free. And if you need more space, Stor-Age has units in different sizes you can choose from to store away your home clutter. 

Affordable storage solutions in South Africa 

Stor-Age provides affordable storage options across South Africa, with facilities in key cities like Cape Town, Durban, Pretoria and Bloemfontein.  

You can choose from units that come in various sizes to meet your needs, whether you’re storing a few boxes or larger items like furniture or outdoor gear.  

With 24/7 security Stor-Age ensures your items are protected and easily accessible. Our flexible rental terms and competitive pricing make Stor-Age the perfect partner for South Africans looking to declutter and organise their homes.