[johnny]

My house seems to be getting smaller and was wondering what the best way to optimize space would be. The shelves seem to take up more room than helping.

[Brenda_Lee]

I was struggling for space a few years back. I started taking notes from Clean House and I am now a changed woman. I think space savers are great but getting rid of the clutter is essential. Try going to all the stuff and asking yourself... do I really use this? could it benefit someone else? do I want it just for sentimental reasons?

[Necktie]

I had to rethink the way I look at shelves. I now no longer used the full sized shelves book cases. Instead I have installed higher shelves and corner shelves. Here is a good example of corner shelves that would work well. Here are some examples of other creative shelves. The point is to find the right ones and to keep them organized.

[StoneH]

That's it. Getting rid of the clutter and throwing things I don't need anymore is my biggest challenge. I spent a lot of money to get them so why do I have to lose them for free?

Originally Posted by StoneH

That's it. Getting rid of the clutter and throwing things I don't need anymore is my biggest challenge. I spent a lot of money to get them so why do I have to lose them for free?

Why throw it out if it's of value? Sell it in a yard or garage sale. Make some money from your clutter.

[iMav]

If it is of value, consider donating it to a thrift store (GoodWill, for example).

[Sammy]

I am going through the same thing right now! I am asking my self if I will ever use stuff or why I even have it. I am a pack rat and trying to change my ways. If anyone has other suggestions I would also like to know! My wife says I am getting a little better, but still need work.

My buddy has a rule: "If I haven't used it or thought about using it in a year.... It goes!"

Needless to say, he has no clutter or accumulated treasure...LOL

[iMav]

A friend of mine, when they move, throws away boxes which haven't been opened 6 months after the move has been completed.

No way my wife could do that. . (and no way am I ever moving again. I tell my wife all the time that the coronor is going to be hauling my dead body out of this house)

[Ashlar2006]

Originally Posted by iMav

If it is of value, consider donating it to a thrift store (GoodWill, for example).

I will donate to the Salvation Army , but never to Goodwill . Our local Goodwill's employees keep everything of value for themselves and only puts out the junk .