Spring cleaning fever hits the DMV
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Washingtonians have spring (cleaning) fever, according to local professional organizers.
Why it matters: A clear home can lead to a clear mind!
The big picture: The psychological benefits of a tidy environment became clear in 2020, when we all spent more time at home, Eryn Donaldson, owner of The Model Home, tells Axios.
- Demand for home organization services hasn't slowed since, she says,
- "[Home is] a place that's within your control, in a world that sometimes feels out of control," Lauren Greenwood, founder of home organization brand YouCopia, tells us.
The intrigue: Many aspects of our lives, from underlying health issues to attachment styles, affect how we respond to clutter, Jenny Albertini, KonMari consultant and author of Decluttered, tells Axios.
- Albertini, who long worked in public health, says the similarities between her two careers are surprising, she says.
Zoom in: Here's how to get your house in tip-top shape this spring, according to the pros.
💳 Put the credit card down. You don't need to rush to buy new containers or worry about aesthetics. Instead, think about how you want that space to function, Albertini says.
⬆️ Use vertical space. Maximize storage by utilizing shelves, hooks and vertical organizers to keep items off the floor and surfaces, Donaldson says.
🗓 Schedule regular maintenance. Donaldson recommends tidying weekly..
😌 Take it slow. Albertini suggests knocking out one category at a time. It's less overwhelming — plus you'll feel motivated as you check off each category on your list.
Pro tip: If you find yourself stressed or struggling to get started, Greenwood recommends taking a vacation day to tackle those nagging projects.
- Happiness researcher Gretchen Rubin calls it a "loose ends day." You'll feel much better after you purge your closet, or recycle those empty Amazon boxes.
What's next: 2024 is all about concealing the chaos, Greenwood says.
- Experts predict modular organization kits or systems will be especially popular as consumers want DIY solutions for customizing their pantries, home offices, mud rooms, laundry rooms and flex spaces, according to consumer research group Freedonia.