Every family has to do a house clearance eventually. It’s nobody’s favourite chore, but it only happens once every few years so it’s one of those things you simply know that you must do, but you tend to postpone for as long as you can. One of the reasons for that is because the minute you start planning the clearance, you quickly realize how much clutter has been piling up in your home, basement, attic, garden and garage and how much work has to be done. The minute you begin the clearance you can’t just deal with a few areas and ignore the rest – there is no point in this exercise. A house clearance is easily done with professional assistance or with professional tips. Whichever you choose, it will be based on how much time you have, your budget and your willingness to do things on your own. A self-house clearance is not that difficult, as long as you follow some professional advice. Here are the top suggestions to consider:
- Be reasonable about what you will actually throw away. There is no point doing a house clearance just to realize that you can’t even part with all the clutter. If you don’t use an item, ask yourself whether you will ever use it again; if the answer’s no, junk it immediately. If the item is still in good condition – sell it or donate it.
- Sort out the items that need recycling and take them to the recycling point or call a professional company to assist you. By recycling old electronics and upholstery you can even earn some money.
- Make sure the members of your family are ready to help out throughout the entire process. A full house clearance is more than just shifting some old items. You will also have to do a full cleanup afterwards and even some disinfecting and repairs. It’s definitely not a one-person job.
- Think about the equipment you will need for the task – a dolly, some straps, cardboard boxes, detergents, etc.
- Check for all sorts of issues after the clearance – rodent infestations, mold, rust, grime, leaks, etc. In order to have a beautiful, healthy and safe home, you need to maintain it on a regular basis. If you haven’t done much in the past few years, the house clearance is a good opportunity to do something more for your house.
- Carefully carry the items, especially those that you want to sell at a garage or boot sale or online. It’s best to use a dolly for the heavier items and never lift with your back.
- There are lots of items that can be recycled, but you might not be aware of them. Do a little research before starting and then label these items with a sticker on the go.
- If there is a lot to do and you’ve chosen a weekend for the job, inform your neighbors as there will be noise and most probably a blocked hallway and front yard.
- Don’t throw away personal documents in the bin – this is how most identity thefts happen. Use a shredder to destroy such paperwork.
These simple rules for aprofessionally done house clearance are just enough for you to cope with the task and have a clean and clutter-free home for the next year or so.