Studies show that clutter can stress you out and can cause feelings of anxiety and guilt. Are you looking to simplify your life and remove this clutter?

If so, have you considered a minimalist lifestyle that will prevent clutter from taking over once again?

Living in an apartment is a great step to leading a minimalistic life. Apartments cut down on unneeded space and helps you simplify. For other ways to get started, take a look at these tips for minimalist living that will help you feel free from unwanted stress, and put you in control.

1. Get Rid of Unnecessary Items

The first thing you should do to have a minimalist home is to get rid of items you don’t need. Go through the small areas first, so you don’t feel overwhelmed.

For example, go through your bathroom cabinet and then move to drawers. If you haven’t used something recently, it’s time to get rid of it. You will be surprised at how many unnecessary things you have in your home.

2. Buy Higher Quality

Instead of buying quantity, try for quality. While higher quality items do tend to cost more, you’ll save money because they’ll last longer, meaning you won’t have to buy them again when they break down the road.

Don’t buy extra clothing items just because they are a good deal. A study found that people wear 20 percent of their clothing 80 percent of the time, so think about all that space you can regain in your closet by getting rid of clothes you don’t wear.

3. Give Every Item a Home

As you go through your stuff, everything should have a home. If you can’t find a home for it, put it in a box. In 30 days, donate items in that box that you have not used.

Make sure everything goes “home” each day. Talk to your family about putting everything away when they are done with it.

4. Think Before You Buy

Before you buy anything, ask yourself if you really need it. People buy things out of habit, which can lead to unnecessary stuff.

Think about your buying habits, and be aware to help prevent you from buying unnecessary items. Write down your purchases so you can see what you are buying and where you can cut back.

5. Purge Regularly

Becoming a minimalist doesn’t happen after one purge. You need to go through your stuff regularly because tastes and needs change.

Add purging to your cleaning list. You can do it once a month or once a season, whichever works for you. Just don’t stop!

When you buy something new, get rid of something. For example, when you buy a new shirt, donate one of your old shirts.

6. Choose a Smaller Living Space

Imagine renting a smaller place and how much money you could save, especially without places to stash stuff.

Don’t choose your living space based on other people. Don’t base your space on the occasional overnight guest; if you don’t need an extra bedroom regularly, don’t get a bigger space. Instead, purchase a sofa that doubles as a bed so the occasional overnight guest still has a place to sleep, and you don’t have the extra unneeded space.

7. Material Things Are Just Material

In order to cut the ties, you need to remember that material things are not the meaning of you. Everything you own can be replaced.

It’s okay to hold on to some items with sentimental value, like photos or videos, just make sure to give them a “home” in your space.

Ready to Be a Minimalist

If you are ready to cut ties with personal possessions, you can do it. To be a minimalist, downsize and get rid of things you don’t need first. Make a plan to get items you truly need and nothing more.

Looking for a more minimalist place? Contact us today to find the right place for your minimalist lifestyle.