Daily Declutter Challenge: 40 Bags in 40 Days
The 40 Bags in 40 Days Declutter Challenge is a great way to start clearing out your home. I’ve found it’s an effective method to tackle clutter without feeling overwhelmed.
The challenge involves removing one bag of unwanted items from your home each day for 40 days.
This approach breaks down the big task of decluttering into smaller, more manageable steps.
I like how this challenge gives a clear goal and timeline. It usually starts on Ash Wednesday and ends the day before Easter, but you can begin anytime.
The key is consistency – getting rid of one bag every day. It doesn’t have to be a huge trash bag either.
Any size works as long as you’re making progress.
Key Takeaways
- Remove one bag of clutter daily for 40 days
- Start small and stay consistent to see results
- Decluttering can improve your home and mindset
Preparing for Your Decluttering Journey
Getting ready for the 40 Bags in 40 Days challenge takes some planning. I’ll share tips to set you up for success as you tackle clutter in your home.
Understanding the 40 Bags in 40 Days Challenge
The 40 Bags in 40 Days challenge starts on Ash Wednesday and goes through the Lenten season. Each day, I fill one bag with items to get rid of. The goal is to declutter 40 areas in 40 days.
I can take Sundays off, which leaves exactly 40 days to declutter. This pacing helps me stay motivated without feeling overwhelmed.
The “bags” don’t have to be actual bags – they can be boxes or other containers. The key is removing one batch of clutter daily.
Setting Realistic Goals
I start by listing areas in my home that need decluttering. This helps me plan which spaces to tackle each day.
Some spots I include:
- Closets
- Kitchen drawers
- Bathroom cabinets
- Garage shelves
- Basement storage
I aim for a mix of easy wins and tougher areas. This keeps me from losing steam partway through.
It’s okay if I don’t finish an area in one day. I can come back to it later in the challenge.
Gathering Necessary Supplies
I stock up on these items before starting:
- Trash bags
- Storage containers
- Donation boxes
- Cleaning supplies
- Labels and marker
A printable checklist helps me track my progress. I can find free printables online or make my own simple chart.
I set up “keep,” “donate,” and “trash” zones in each room I declutter. This makes sorting items quick and easy as I complete the challenge.
Executing the Challenge
The 40 Bags in 40 Days challenge is a great way to declutter your home. I’ll share some tips to help you succeed in this decluttering journey.
Let’s look at daily tasks, dealing with paper and crafts, and organizing clothes.
Daily Decluttering Tasks and Tips
I start each day by picking an area to focus on. It could be a closet, junk drawer, or kitchen counter. I set a timer for 15-30 minutes to stay on track.
Here are some quick tips I use:
- Keep three boxes labeled Keep, Donate, Trash
- Be honest about what I need and use
- Make quick decisions to avoid getting stuck
- Focus on one space at a time
I try to fill at least one bag every day. Some days I might fill more, others less. That’s okay – progress is what counts.
Dealing with Paper Clutter and Craft Supplies
Paper clutter can be tough. I tackle it by sorting mail right away. Bills go in a “to pay” folder, and junk mail goes straight to recycling.
For important papers, I use this system:
- Scan and save digital copies
- Shred sensitive documents
- Recycle the rest
Craft supplies can get messy fast. I group similar items in clear bins. This makes it easy to see what I have. I also set limits on how much I keep.
If I buy new supplies, I get rid of old ones I don’t use.
Sorting and Organizing Clothing
Clothes often take up lots of space. I start by trying on items I’m unsure about. If it doesn’t fit or I haven’t worn it in a year, it goes.
I use a growth chart for kids’ clothes. I keep only current sizes plus the next size up. Everything else gets donated or passed on to friends.
I organize my closet by type and color, which makes it easy to find what I need. I use slim hangers to save space, and folded items go in drawers or on shelves.
Remember, the goal is to create a space that works for you. It’s okay to keep things you truly love and use. The key is to let go of the rest.
Beyond Decluttering: Maintaining a Clutter-Free Home
After completing the 40 Bags in 40 Days challenge, I’ve learned some key strategies for keeping my home tidy.
I’ll share my favorite organization ideas and tips for avoiding accumulating more stuff.
Organization Ideas to Keep Your Home Tidy
I use storage containers to keep similar items together. Clear boxes let me see what’s inside at a glance. I label everything for easy identification.
In my closet, I hang clothes by type and color. This system helps me find outfits quickly. I also use drawer dividers to separate socks, underwear, and accessories.
In the kitchen, I group cookware, bakeware, and utensils by function. I store less-used items on high shelves or in the back of cabinets, while frequently used items stay within easy reach.
I create designated spots near the entryway for items like keys, mail, and shoes, which prevents clutter from spreading throughout the house.
Strategies to Avoid Accumulating Excess Stuff
I follow a “one in, one out” rule. When I buy something new, I get rid of a similar item. This keeps my possessions in check.
Before making purchases, I ask myself if I need the item, consider whether I have space for it, and consider how often I’ll use it. This helps me avoid impulse buys.
I regularly go through my belongings and donate things I no longer need. I set reminders to do this every few months.
I unsubscribe from marketing emails to reduce temptation. I also avoid browsing online stores or visiting malls when I’m bored.
