The big Summer clear-out: five top tips on how to de-clutter your home this Bank Holiday weekend
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Are you up for a weekend decluttering challenge? Summer is the perfect time to clear away those piles of unworn clothes, unread post and overflowing boxes.
It can be overwhelming to decide where to start at first, but if you start small it will give you the motivation to carry on.
It's best to tackle one room at a time otherwise it can become too much - don't de-clutter the whole house in one sitting.
1. Clear surfaces
Jam-packed surfaces can make rooms feel claustrophobic, especially if space is at a premium.
Having a tidy in your kitchen is one of the quickest - and cheapest - ways to create more room.
Bella Glenn, design expert at Benchmarx Kitchens, says: "Rearranging electrical appliances and items that have been left on the side in your kitchen and become part of the scenery is a great way to keep the room looking streamlined.
"If there are appliances that you haven’t used for a few months, then keep them out of sight by neatly packing them away in a cupboard."
"The same goes for chopping boards, cook books and any other items that have crept their way into view over time."
2. Tackle the attic or loft
If you're lucky enough to have an attic or loft space, it's likely you've forgotten what's even in it. The room in the roof is home to items you have no idea what to do with but don't want to throw out.
It's time to get serious with what you're hoarding up there.
"The attic and basement are often a dumping ground for Christmas decorations and general clutter, but taking time to clear out junk will free up space and help you prioritise which items are useful and worth keeping – you may even unearth some forgotten treasures", says Catherine Björkman, lifestyle expert at Contura.
3. Be abstract
Once you feel happy with your work, it's time to think about what you're going to do with all the valuable space which has suddenly appeared.
"Once you’ve de-cluttered, look at each room and try to and think differently about the space", explains Simon Glanville, de-cluttering expert and MD of aplaceforeverything.co.uk.
"Where space is limited, why not look at building wall or door storage – don’t be afraid to be bold: adding extra hooks, shelves and storage furniture to give all of your items a permanent home."
4. Use walls to your advantage
Make your walls work for you.
"Introducing a string system means your walls are a valuable resource when it comes to storage, says Peter Erlandsson co-owner and director of string.
"Shelves of various depths and colours can be quickly re-positioned so you can build your own personal system to fit any space."
5. Don't forget the garden
The work doesn't stop within your four walls, take a look at your outside space and get stuck in. Getting rid of tired plants and shrubs can make a world of difference.
"Prune out dead shoots and remove any plants that have not come back into leaf", suggests RHS chief horticulturist, Guy Barter.
"It's a good idea to replace bulbs and winter flowers in containers with summer flowers as soon as the risk of frost has passed."
Once you've tackled your belongings, scroll through our gallery above for the best storage solutions to keep your home clutter-free....