How are your New Year resolutions going? If you’re looking to get more organized this year, then start off with a good old-fashioned purge. Our Philadelphia and South Jersey experts at Closet & Storage Concepts are here to help with these four suggestions. 
The Tree
If you’ve kept your tree up well into March in previous years, this is the year you can change that. Get the ornaments packed away and the tree on the curb. It’s best to do this as soon as possible especially if you have a live (“real”) tree, as many recycling programs end mid-month. Check with your local Township or waste management agency to see where you can drop off your tree for free. If you’re in the Philadelphia, PA area, check out this website with some drop off times and locations. The last day is usually the second Saturday in January! Clearing the tree out will get your home back to normal and give you some added space.
Outdated Ornaments
Rather than just stuffing the ornaments you no longer love back into storage, consider donating them. If they have personal sentiments, ask if other family members would want them before sending them on their way. Saying goodbye to chipped ornaments can help make room for new ones this next holiday season. Be sure to use proper storage and wrap up delicate ornaments to protect them in your garage. If you find hauling your ornaments out each year a hassle, it may be time to rethink your garage storage units. Try re-arranging items or simply scaling things down. Utilize cabinets and other storage solutions to make the most of your space.
Last Year’s Calendar
Get last year’s calendar recycled and tack up the new one. Make sure you write down birthdays and other plans if you know them already. Getting as much of your schedule down now will only make planning your year more successful. Use your old calendar for reference when copying birthdays and anniversaries. While you’re saying hello to your new calendar, consider blocking out cleaning days and decluttering sessions. Doing this now will make it easier to stay organized this year.
Holiday Candy
We know, we know. How could suggest giving out chocolates that you just received? Well, if your pantry is already overloaded and you’re trying to be the best version of yourself, just cut out the temptation. It can be hard to just have one piece of chocolate, so eliminate it. Rather than throwing it out, try bringing it your work or a gathering to share, or send un-opened packages overseas to our troops. If you can’t do either of those, try incorporating the candy into a cookie recipe so you can share them in your workplace – it’s a good workaround if the person who gifted you the candy will be there.
At Closet & Storage Concepts, serving the greater Philadelphia and South Jersey areas, we’re looking forward to a great year! Give us a call if you’re ready to upgrade your storage systems to create more room for life. We always provide a free design consultation.
Photo © ShaunWilkinson.
Originally posted January 2016. Updated 2018.