Paper clutter is an issue that everyone deals with. Whether you are handling documents in a workspace or tossing junk mail into a pile at home, it is easy to collect too much too quickly. If you don’t know how to get rid of clutter, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the paper piling up around you.
Managing your documents and sorting through your paper clutter is possible. The key is having a simple organizational system that accounts for the type of paperwork you receive and need to keep. Creating and sticking with a system will create a long-term solution for handling clutter in your home or office. Watch the video or read below to learn how to get rid of clutter in your home or office.
Step 1: Gather Your Documents
To begin decluttering, you will want to collect all of your documents, so you can sort through them. Gather your documents from desk drawers, filing cabinets, countertops, and anywhere else it may be accumulated. Give yourself lots of room to spread out and organize your clutter.
Step 2: Sort by Category
Once your paperwork is all together, you can begin sorting your documents by category. The easiest place to begin is by first making a “keep” pile. Items in this category are meaningful or necessary papers that you are not discarding. Examples might be tax documents, medical records, bills, appointment reminders, or sentimental items.
Next, you can sort through the items you are ready to discard. Place these documents in either the “recycle” pile or the “shred” pile. You should destroy any paperwork containing personal information. Documents containing personal details can be used to steal your identity and commit fraud. Items without personal information can go directly into the recycling bin.
Step 3: Organize and Store
Depending on how much paperwork you need to keep and the space you have available for storage, you will want to create a storage system that meets your needs. File your documents in a way that makes sense and makes them easy to access when needed.
Also, consider whether physical storage makes sense for your documents. Scanning can quickly convert your documents into easily organized, searchable digital files. You can also request that your bank, utility company, internet provider, and nearly all other companies provide documents in electronic format only moving forward.
Step 4: Implement a Daily System
Create an area where you can deal with incoming paperwork quickly, preventing future clutter. Items you need to save should be filed right away, while junk mail and other throw-away items can be placed directly in the recycling or shred bin.
Paperwork requiring action before you file or toss it can stay visible in a tray or other space you designate for it. “Action” documents can include invitations, bills to be paid, homework, or reminders. Declutter this area as often as possible to keep the clutter under control.
Step 5: Discard Unneeded Documents
Once you sort all your paperwork, discard your “shred” and “recycle” piles. You should place all recycling in the bin for collection. Store sensitive documents in a shred bin or other secure container until your service provider destroys them. Mobile shredding services can come to your location to safely dispose of your documents onsite. Shredding can be scheduled at regular intervals to maintain your shredding needs and reduce paper clutter in your home or office.
Bonus Step: Get Rid of Your Unused Electronics
While gathering your paperwork, you may find some obsolete electronics in your drawers or closets. If you have any unused computers, laptops, hard drives, cell phones, or tablets lying around, safely destroy and recycle them using an electronics destruction service. You will be protecting the data on them as well as the environment from the harmful materials they contain.
Get Rid of Clutter in Your Home or Office with Shred Nations
Mobile shredding services are available nationwide to meet your shredding needs. We come directly to your location to destroy your documents at the curb. Watch the entire process as your documents are securely shredded. You will have peace of mind knowing your information is safe. Give us a call at (800) 747-3365 or fill out the form to receive free quotes on shredding services near you.
