Step One: Ask yourself- Does it have value? This will help you determine if you should keep at item. Remember, if it doesn't have value to you, it may to someone else; donate what you're no longer using to your local Goodwill. Be sure to Goodwill's Donor Guidelines for a full listing of items they can and cannot accept.

Step Two: For items you choose to keep, look for ways to store them. Goodwill has a wide selection of storage solutions available at great low prices. There are also many simple storage solutions right at your fingertips!

Creative Storage Solutions:

Mason Jars

Once you're done using glass jars from salsa or spaghetti sauce, you may have another use for them before they hit the recycling bin! Store nuts, nails, bolts and other small hardware pieces that normally lay around in them to keep a workspace organized. Or, add a unique storage display to your bathroom by placing Q-tips, cotton balls and scented crystals in the jars. The glass helps you see what items are where, but keeps everything in its own space. If you have a sewing room, mason jars are also perfect for storing buttons and thread.

Cardboard Boxes

We love the idea of keeping sturdy cardboard boxes, because they have endless uses. We must admit though, they aren't always to most convenient shape for storing! One way to repurpose them is to cut them into strips and use them as drawer dividers. This is a simple way to keeps socks from piling up in your dresser, or paper clips from getting lost amongst your office items. One of the simplest ways to use a cardboard box is to keep it for its original purpose. Your dress shirts will stay wrinkle free and organized when you keep them in the boxes they came in. Just take a photo of the shirt and display it on the front of the box so you know where to find it. (Just remember, you want to stay organized; if you donate the shirt, the box should either be repurposed or recycled to keep your closet clutter free).

Plastic Ties/Paper Clips

Nothing looks more cluttered than a pile of cords! The truth is, we have items laying around our house that can quickly whip that pile into shape. Many of us bring home bread and produce form the grocery store that is closed with a plastic tie. Rather than throwing the ties away, use then to wrap up a thin cord. For thicker cords, borrow an oversize paper clip from your desk. Using office labels, make sure you note which item each cord is for; this will make finding it when you need it much quicker. Use one of your cardboard boxes, shoe boxes or baskets to store your bundles of cords!