Does anyone else struggle immensely with cleaning/keeping things clean? I struggle with clutter.
I haven’t been able to get my apartment clean since I moved in over a year ago and it’s just a disaster.
What do you do? I can’t really afford to hire someone so I need all the info.

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Yesss. My tips: disposable plates, bowls, cups, and utensils. Trash can in every single room and in your closet (can be a small waste bin). Bins for categories of stuff. A bin for office related things, accessories, electronics etc. You can go through the bins and organize them into other places when you have time, but to keep clutter low, chuck them in the bins for now. Get a huge laundry basket and use it. Set a day to always do laundry. Keep one laundry basket for clean clothes when you don’t have time to put them up. Get tub spray that you can spray after each shower to prevent it from getting too dirty. Get those toilet inserts that clean with every flush. Put everything for your routines in one place (coffee, mugs, and sugar in one place. Face wash, toothbrush, moisturizer etc. in one small storage tray. The goal is to trash everything you can, keep laundry up off the floor, and keep everything you need for routines in one place so you don’t have to remember where things go and can put it all back at once.

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Now, talk about a great tip! Like OP, I also struggle so much with keeping things clean. And your advice is the most doable one yet.

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As a digital nomad, I started throwing almost everything. I realized that I didn't need all the things that were in my apartment. Now I don't have to worry about having to organize useless things. If not, try reading or watching the Marie Condo series.

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Same! I keep next to nothing 😁

Invest in shelves, containers, organizers, and a label maker. They've helped so much. Now that everything has a space, it's easier to place things back where they belong instead of just throwing it around anywhere.

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I have a label maker but I have avoided getting bins because I worry about them becoming dumping grounds even more than anything else.

Try setting aside a day... maybe Sundays to straighten everything up. That way it keeps the clutter under control instead of piling up.

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You have to observe what your pitfalls are. For me, I’ve learned to reduce the number of flat surfaces around because that attracts clutter and that everything needs a place. I also cut myself some slack and keep paperwork and mail in one spot and then handle it all once a week. Yes, it requires a system but for me to not get overwhelmed, it’s a way of life at this point.

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Yes, clutter is probably one of the biggest obstacles in my way. Brain just isn't wired like that so I feel you 100%. Are you talking about within your workspace or your home?

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Home. I mainly WFH.

Definitely struggle. It’s been an issue for me forever. Now I have little kids and they have So. Much. Stuff. I finally hired a professional organizer and I have to say, it’s changed my life. My brain feels good when I look around my kitchen and see counter space!

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See Im the opposite. I am a neat freak and need to have everything clean. I cant have clutter bc it bothers me. Maybe have some friends come help you clean it up initially and then every night before you go to bed clean up everything. Make it part of your routine.

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I’ve struggled with this my whole life. Cleaning - just remember it will take you twice as long as you think it will. If you think you can clean your whole space on Saturday you’re wrong it will probably take Sunday too. That’s just the nature of executive dysfunction. Try using timers, like 15 mins to seep the floor. It will help keep you on task and help you transition between tasks.
If you can set a timer to tidy up 30 mins a day and do necessary tasks first (ex. Dishes, spoiled food in the fridge = biohazard) you will feel better. The clutter gives anxiety which creates more clutter. And most of all, if you have someone in your life who is non judgmental and willing to help out as a love language (act of service) then that’s excellent. Sometimes having another person with you gives you enough stimulation/motivation to complete cleaning tasks. Good luck!

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It’s a good way to accept yourself and get rid of shame. Depends on the friend and the person. I think self acceptance prevents the shame spiral, and also helps you get out of a rut and actually clean.

Another tactic is making sure you block all social media and clean for a certain amount of time, let’s say 3 hours.

Yes. I have a housekeeper that comes twice a month and even in between there I still struggle. I thin kbecause there is so much clutter and I don't really knwo where to start.

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This is my issue. I have shit everywhere and it’s not functional at all. I would hire someone if I had the flexibility in my budget to do so.

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Oh man. I broke down once after realizing how cluttered my apartment is. I also can't afford to hire a service. Fortunately, my mom called me at the right time and asked how I have been and broke down again. She asked me if she can come help me clean up. And I swear, I feel so relieved while cleaning up. So thankful for my mom.

Update: I used a coupon and hit up Container Store for some of their “shoe boxes” and am planning to use them to start getting some stuff situated.
Thank you everyone for the advice and it feels good to commiserate!!

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