Sit Down with Simone Anderson

We were fortunate to receive valuable advice on decluttering techniques and discover a comprehensive checklist designed for monthly reference, ensuring that every aspect of home organisation is covered, from organisational powerhouse Simone Anderson.

Simone Anderson

Indeed, for many individuals, the mere sight of a pristine and well-organised home is a powerful tool for unwinding and alleviating stress, particularly after a taxing day. Maintaining a clean house and actively engaging in the cleaning process offers significant benefits. Research suggests that cleanliness or lack thereof directly influences mental well-being.

THE MONTHLY HOUSEWORK CHECKLIST

By following this comprehensive monthly checklist, you can ensure that every area of your home receives the attention it needs to stay clean, organised, and wellmaintained throughout the year. Adjust the checklist as necessary based on the specific needs of your household and the size of your living space.

KITCHEN

• Clean and sanitise sink and drains.

• Clean oven, microwave, and refrigerator.

• Clean stove top and range hood.

• Organise pantry and discard expired items.

• Wipe down kitchen cabinets and countertops.

BATHROOM

• Clean and organise bathroom cabinets and drawers

• Deep clean shower, bathtub, and toilet.

• Replace or refill toiletries as needed.

• Scrub tiles and grout.

• Wash shower curtains and bath mats.

BEDROOM

• Declutter and organise closets.

• Dust and clean furniture surfaces.

• Launder and change display bedding & cushions.

• Rotate seasonal clothing.

• Vacuum and mop floors.

GENERAL CLEANING

• Clean and sanitise rubbish bins.

• Clean ceiling fans and light fixtures.

• Clean windows and mirrors throughout the house.

• Dust all surfaces (furniture, shelves, light fixtures).

• Vacuum and mop floors in all rooms.

LIVING AREAS

• Dust and clean baseboards.

• Vacuum upholstery and curtains.

• Clean and sanitise remote controls and light switches.

• Wipe down electronics and entertainment centers.

• Declutter and organise entertainment or media area.

MAINTENANCE TASKS

• Check and clean behind and underneath large furniture

• Inspect and clean household appliances (washing machine, dishwasher, vacuum cleaner)

• Replace air filters in air-con systems

• Test and replace batteries in smoke detectors.

OUTDOOR & MISCELLANEOUS

• Clean gutters and downspouts.

• Clean outdoor furniture and BBQ.

• Organise and clean garage or storage space.

• Prune plants and bushes in the yard.

• Sweep and tidy up outdoor. areas (patio, deck, porch).

TIPS FOR DECLUTTERING

In today’s fast-paced society, it’s easy to accumulate clutter without even realising it. From overflowing closets to cluttered countertops, excess stuff can quickly overwhelm our living spaces and our minds. Decluttering your home can be a liberating and transformative experience with the right strategies and mindset. Here are some expert tips to help you streamline your space and create a more peaceful environment.

START SMALL

Tackling an entire house or apartment can feel daunting, so begin with one area at a time. Choose a manageable space to declutter first, whether it’s a cluttered drawer, a messy closet, or a disorganised pantry. Breaking the task into smaller, more manageable chunks makes it feel less overwhelming. It allows you to see progress more quickly.

THE KONMARI METHOD

Inspired by Marie Kondo’s bestselling book, “The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up,” the KonMari method encourages decluttering by category rather than by room. Start with clothing, then move on to books, papers, miscellaneous items, and sentimental belongings. Hold each item in your hands and ask yourself if it sparks joy. If not, thank it for its service and let it go.

SET CLEAR GOALS

Before you begin decluttering, define your goals and vision for your space. Do you want to create a more minimalist living environment? Are you looking to make room for a new hobby or activity? Having a clear purpose will motivate you to stay focused and make tough decisions about what to keep and discard.

THE ONE-IN, ONE-OUT RULE

To prevent clutter from creeping back into your home, adopt the one-in, one-out rule. Every time you bring a new item into your space, whether it’s clothing, decor, or kitchen gadgets, commit to donating, selling, or recycling an equivalent item. This simple rule helps maintain balance and prevents future clutter buildup.

EMBRACE MINIMALISM

Minimalism is about more than just getting rid of stuff—it’s a lifestyle centered around intentionality and mindfulness. Critically examine your possessions and ask yourself if they truly add value to your life. Let go of items that no longer serve a purpose or bring you joy, and focus on surrounding yourself with only the things that truly matter.

DONATE, SELL, RECYCLE

Once you’ve decluttered your space, don’t let the items you no longer need or want languish in bags or boxes. Instead, donate them to charity, sell them online or at a yard sale, or recycle them responsibly. Not only will you free up physical space in your home, but you’ll also feel good knowing that your unwanted items are finding new homes or being re-purposed.