This Type of Clutter Is Everywhere - Here's How to Get Rid Of It

"Paper clutter is often one of the hardest types of clutter to sift through because it's a blend of practical items you hold onto "just in case" (like receipts, bills, and bank statements) and sentimental things that you feel slightly guilty about getting rid of (such as birthday cards, photos, and ticket stubs). Plus, it's often spread out in piles across your home (thinkL in a junk drawer, the entryway, or closet). But getting rid of paper clutter can help cut down on visual clutter, plus it makes it easier to quickly find any important documents when you need them."

"Day 6: Organize and get rid of paper clutter. Start by identifying where all the paper piles are around your home. Then, decide if you'd like to tackle it one area at a time (which we recommend!) or bring it all together in one massive pile. As we go through this process, make sure to take breaks when you need them. To declutter and organize it, we'll be sorting into six main categories."

"Trash and recycling: This includes used envelopes, inserts, ads, coupons, and junk mail - all of which can be easily recycled or thrown out. For any items with sensitive information, use a shredder, scissors, or your hands to tear them up. Recycle items where possible. Action items: These require you to "take action," like a bill that needs to be paid. These should be accessible - such as in a bin near your workspace or at the entryway - so you know you'll need to address them soon."

Identify all paper piles around the home and decide whether to tackle one area at a time or gather everything into a single pile. Take breaks as needed during the process. Sort papers into six main categories. Recycle or trash used envelopes, inserts, ads, coupons, and junk mail; shred any items with sensitive information. Keep action items accessible, for example in a bin near a workspace or entryway so they get addressed promptly. Regularly decluttering and organizing paper reduces visual clutter and speeds retrieval of important documents.

Read at Apartment Therapy