Decluttering your home to prevent accidents
When you think of accidents and injuries, you’re probably thinking of harm that occurs somewhere other than your own home. However, the fact is that unintentional injuries (such as burns, falls, electrical shocks, suffocation, poisoning, etc.) are very likely to happen in a home.
When it comes to the health and safety of our families, especially for those with young children, it’s important to take preventative action to minimize the risk of injuries. With the COVID-19 pandemic among us, we’ll likely be spending more time at home— which is why having an organized home is a must. Keep reading for our top 8 home decluttering tips!
1. Make a plan
If the thought of organizing your home feels overwhelming, try breaking down the tasks into smaller chunks. You can tackle one room at a time or decide how much time you want to spend cleaning up and organizing each day. Getting started is the hardest part, but we promise that it gets easier!
2. Untangle the cords
Ensure that electrical outlets, cords, and chargers are properly protected and out of reach from children and pets. Use outlet covers when in younger children’s rooms, and wrap any long wires to prevent a tripping hazard.
3. Clean out your medicine cabinet
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, consumers who have unneeded drugs should “dispose of them properly to help reduce harm from accidental exposure or intentional misuse.” Getting these substances out of your home will decrease the risk of family members mistakenly using a drug which they weren’t prescribed.
4. Clean out your pantry
Declutter your refrigerator/freezer by wiping the surfaces and removing unwanted food items. Check expiration dates of less-used items, and clean up any crumbs or spills that you encounter. Be sure that all your food items are properly sealed or packaged. Leaving unpackaged food or crumbs on shelves can promote mold growth, or worse, serve as an invitation for insects or pests. Cleaning out your pantry will not only keep your home looking neat, but will also create a safer space for food storage.
5. Store cleaning products and chemicals properly
If you store your cleaning supplies in the bathroom, be sure to allow any brushes or sponges to dry completely before storing. Tucking away toilet brushes or cleaning sponges in a closet before the brush can dry will encourage an environment where mold and mildew can flourish. Also remember that cleaning products and chemicals should always be kept out of reach from children.
6. Store sharp tools in high places
Add a pegboard wall in the garage to hang drills, shovels, and handsaws in a high and safe place. This will create more workspace and protect children from accidents.
7. Pick up debris
Whether it’s small toys around the house, clothes on the floor, or gardening tools on the lawn, it’s important to pick up these items and store them in a designated spot. Small objects can be a tripping hazard— especially if they’re concealed by fallen leaves or other debris.
8. Identify what’s important
When you’re decluttering your home, take a step back and ask yourself: which possessions are truly important to my family? What do we use, and what do we love? If you encounter items that do not fit this criteria, consider donating or throwing it away. Having a clean and decluttered home not only prevents accidents, but also makes life a little less stressful. Having a sense of organization in the home can help you feel energized, reduces anxiety, and makes your guests feel at peace!