Are you in two minds about whether to keep or discard something at home? This ‘Autumn Purge’ tool can help you make a swift decision on what stays and what goes. It comes after a recent survey found that the average person has 17 items they no longer use, keeping them just in case they might need them again.
Many people struggle to part with items in their homes, even if they haven’t used them for years. Half of us cling onto outdated technology like CDs and mobile phones, while 43 per cent can’t bear to throw away old shoes and 38 per cent hoard books they’ll likely never read again.
While one in four attempt to declutter every few months to free up space at home, the research revealed that a change in season often triggers people to tidy up their homes, with 16 per cent doing so in September, and 22 per cent ahead of buying new items around Black Friday and Christmas.
Over half (51 per cent) actively search for items they can flog on Facebook Marketplace, Vinted and other online platforms during a clear-out, while 54 per cent said they recycle their unwanted goods.
For those with unused items gathering dust at home, 31 per cent admit they don’t sell them because it’s too much hassle, while 30 per cent don’t believe their belongings are worth much.
Other obstacles to selling unused items include lack of motivation, time constraints and fear of getting rid of an item you might need later in life.
Professional decluttering specialist and Sort Your Life Out star Dilly Carter has teamed up with the Post Office to help families clear out unwanted items – and there’s now a handy new tool to make it easier than ever to get rid of the stuff you’ve been holding onto.
The study was commissioned by Post Office, where individuals can send and collect second-hand goods across its 11,500 branches.
Candice Ohandjanian, Mails and Parcels Director for the brand, said: “Our research revealed that people can feel overwhelmed by decluttering, but it brings a huge boost to mental health once it’s done.
“We partner with the UK’s largest carriers, so you can drop all your sold items in one place to help ensure they’ll arrive safely and securely at their new homes.”
The findings from OnePoll.com also demonstrated that 32 per cent claim clearing out has a significant positive effect on their mental health, but 38 per cent believe having guidance from a professional would make it an easier process.
A further 36 per cent of those clearing out their homes have felt overwhelmed before sorting through everything – although 31 per cent experience relief once it’s completed.
Dilly said: “Letting go of unused items is essential, not just for the way our homes function, but also for our overall wellbeing.
“When we’re weighed down by belongings we don’t need, it can have a huge impact on how smoothly our homes – and lives – run.
“Having worked in thousands of homes, I’ve seen firsthand how clutter can affect not just your space, but also your energy and peace of mind.
“I want to encourage everyone to pass their items on to the right homes, in the most efficient and thoughtful way possible.”
