Having a proper clear out- how do you work out what to keep?

[CaptainHarville]

My attic is full to the point where I can't even get at stuff I need. Clearly it needs sorting.

I'm terrible for holding onto stuff. I've loads of school books (I'm 40). I've got notes from university. Loads of dvds and cds that we don't use as have Spotify.

How do you just get rid?

I moved internationally 15 years ago, that helped cut down on stuff and also I learned what I should not have brought!

The only things I wish I'd moved was some cookware, I was quite broke at first and couldn't afford new.

Gm all I did 2 preg test on clear blue rapid and the other a cheap test both have a faint second line could it b a positive

I do think that you can feel lighter when you get rid of old stuff. Often if things are stuffed away you can’t find the thing you’re looking for anyway! Often it’s quicker and easier to just buy the item new!

I find it hard to get rid of items of sentimental value too. So often, they have memories attached to them too. I look at them and it reminds me of a specific event or occurrence that I would not otherwise have thought of. One possible solution with items that are of no practical use but with sentimental attachment, is to take photos of them before getting rid. That way, you can still enjoy the memories.
I still regret giving away certain favourite baby toys, though.

Just called someone called Roger at Life-Pod. Lovely guy!

They are massively oversubscribed but good to look on their homepage/site to get some tips.

We emptied the loft a few years ago. It was full of really useful stuff that we never had a use for... We got rid of the whole lot - Christmas tree and decorations included. It didn’t all go to the tip; my daughter had the decorations and other stuff was Freecycled. We have never felt the lack of anything we ditched. Very liberating...

I moved 7 months pregnant with liver issues & that made me wise up rapidly about how much stuff I had.

Over next the year but it was more 6 months, I saw what I used & what I didn’t. I think I’m down to a third now of what I owned, 3 years later.

I’m still ruthless & I feel so much better for it.

I keep a capsule wardrobe & now only buy good quality clothing.
DC’s artwork goes in to a saved online album so I don’t have to keep it all.
Regularly declutter their toys & books, especially before Christmas.
Once or twice a year I go through my bookcase & see what books I haven’t read & charity shop them.

Just have to be really strict with yourself & you do feel a lot better once it is done.