Recycle Those Empty Boxes

Do you have empty boxes lurking in your home?

One item I frequently see taking up unnecessary space in clients' homes are empty boxes.

Take a look around your home—

• Are you saving boxes from large purchases, perhaps from a computer or TV?

• Or luxury boxes from a fancy brand name? 

• What about shoe boxes, jewelry boxes, or the ubiquitous Amazon boxes?

So many boxes! Are they empty?

Few things clutter a room faster than empty boxes in your attic, basement, cabinet, or floor

If you have plans to repurpose the boxes, good for you! My kids used to love to make forts out of large boxes, we'd use shoe boxes for school projects, or I sometimes keep a few smaller boxes to wrap gifts in. Other than that, your empty boxes belong in the recycling bin.

Does that strike fear in your heart?

I challenge you to evaluate those empty boxes.

Why are you holding on to them?

• Are you afraid you may need to return the item?

• Do you think you'll use the box if you move?

• Do you feel that luxury box gives you a sense of status, validation, importance?

Here's the truth about cardboard boxes (luxury and otherwise)—they do not last. They are clutter bombs that become mildewy and attract bugs.

Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

Here’s a challenge for you

Take a look around your home and evaluate the empty boxes you have on hand.

What thoughts come into your head? Are they true?

I am giving you permission to let go of the empty boxes because the reality is, more often than not, you rarely need them...If you're not quite ready to rid yourself of the empty boxes, set a time limit to let them go, 60-90 days is a fair amount, not multiple months and certainly not years. 

Of course if you'd like some help evaluating your boxes or space, I'm here for you. I would love to help with any and all of your decluttering and organizing challenges.

—Tracy