Step aside, Marie Kondo. There is a new decluttering method called the “Core 4.” Living amongst clutter is not only frustrating but draining to the psyche. If you’re surrounded by piles of clothing, shoes, unused gadgets, and other stuff, it can make you feel anxious and restless. By decluttering, you will soon feel much calmer and more serene. The hidden benefit of the “Core 4” decluttering method is that you will not only unload “stuff,” but you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment.
Let’s take a deeper dive into “Core 4”:
C1: Clear out
Whether it’s a drawer, closet, or entire room, empty it. Arrange everything on the floor or in a different room. That way, you have a blank slate to work with.
C2: Categorize
Sort like items into piles or boxes. For example, if you’re cleaning out a junk drawer, separate kitchen gadgets into one pile and office supplies into another.
C3: Cut out. OK
Marie’s method comes in handy here. If an item doesn’t bring you joy or you never use it, get rid of it. If you think you can sell it, do so. Otherwise, donate it or trash it.
C4: Contain
For those items you decide to keep, find an appropriate home for them. Put them in boxes or use a drawer divider — whatever you need to keep your clear space organized. If you have an item within easy reach, you are more likely to use it.
Some tips for using the 4Cs in specific areas of your apartment:
Entryway/Closet
This is a good time to donate old coats, scarves, hats, and gloves you rarely wear. Many cities have organized coat drives during the winter to benefit those in need of gently used outerwear. The same goes for umbrellas, unused sports equipment, and pool/patio items.
Kitchen
If you are overwhelmed by gadgets you purchased and used only once, get rid of them. How often do you use the mandoline slicer or pasta-making attachments for your stand mixer? The same goes for kitchen utensils. (Unless you’re a pastry chef, one offset spatula should suffice.) Go through old jars of herbs and spices and throw out the ones that you rarely use or are well past their useful life.
Closet
Categorize clothing by type — jeans, sweaters, professional wardrobe, etc. Don’t hang onto that pair of jeans that you can wear once you lose 20 pounds. When you reach your goal, treat yourself to a new pair. Discard clothing and shoes that are frayed, stained, or scuffed beyond recognition. For professional attire, some cities have organizations that collect used work clothes so people seeking a new lease on life have appropriate clothes for a job interview. The same principle applies to shoes, handbags, and jewelry. If you don’t wear or use it, donate it, or if the piece has monetary value, list it on a resale website.
Once you’ve followed the 4Cs rules for decluttering, you will feel an immense sense of satisfaction and control. Your environment will be more harmonious, conveying a sense of balance and peace. If you’re overwhelmed, start small. Once you realize the benefits, you’ll be inspired to tackle the rest of your living space.
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