Many individuals face the difficult task of reducing their possessions, whether for downsizing, moving, or managing a deceased estate. A survey commissioned by insurance company Choosi indicates that approximately one in three Australians are dissatisfied with the amount of belongings in their homes.
Julie Whiting, founder of The Decluttering Co., notes that acquiring items is easy in consumer society, but disposing of them is often difficult. Clutter frequently consists of items people have been avoiding, and decluttering requires making numerous decisions, handling logistics, and managing emotions related to letting go.
Jennifer Macklin, who researches waste systems at Monash University, advises aiming to rehome items first, then recycling and properly disposing of the rest. While donating to charity stores may seem straightforward, re-sale platforms and 'buy nothing' groups can ensure items go to someone who wants them. Understanding local council recycling options is also recommended.
Professional organiser Susanne Thiebe of Less Mess suggests starting with the most annoying area, often clothing, as wardrobes can significantly impact daily life. She highlights that textiles can be challenging to recycle, with some ending up in landfill. Ashley Eriksmoen, a designer, points out the abundance of unwanted furniture in Australia, often due to cheap alternatives and limited repair channels. Modifying existing furniture is considered the most sustainable choice.
Dr. Melissa Norberg, director of the Behavioural Science Laboratory at Macquarie University, suggests that the decluttering process can encourage reflection on consumption habits. She advises using the experience of discarding items as a lesson to prevent bringing similar things into the home again.