Netflix's "Tidying Up with Marie Kondo" has truly taken the Television world by storm. While the series itself isn't the most entertaining thing to watch on a Friday night, it really does have some good tips that will leave you asking why you didn't think of any of these on your own. Although the show may have you thinking you need to be a complete mess in order to use these methods, that's not really the case.
Marie Kondo's simple and logical tips are useful for anyone, whether you've just moved into a new house, doing some spring cleaning, or even a college student looking to keep your tiny dorm slightly neater. With that in mind, here are some of the best Marie Kondo tips that everyone, yes even you, can use.
1. Does it spark joy?
A major part of the Marie Kondo method is the expectation that everything you decide to keep should spark joy when you touch them. This seems pretty obvious, but when it comes to things like clothing, it can be the deciding factor of what you're keeping or donating. Nothing should bring you unhappiness, and instead, your things will only bring you peace of mind and joy.
2. Komari folding method
Although it's different than any kind of folding we're used to, the Komari folding method enables us to save a bit more room in our drawers. This is great, especially for college kids. Since we have very limited room to store our clothes, this method can actually fit a little more than expected so if you manage your space correctly, you could fit a bit more than before.
3. It gets worse before it gets better
Because Marie Kondo's method involves dumping everything in a huge pile before actually sorting through it, it'll be worse before it gets better. Massive piles will only allow you to see that maybe you don't need 16 belts or 200 Tupperware containers. But, it'll be a huge relief to see how your house, apartment, dorm room, or any room will be after its decluttered. Cue before and after photos.
4. Every item has a place, so give it one
Every item belongs in a place: winter gloves, holiday decorations, hobbies, etc. All these things have a place in your home and it's your job to find that place, and it's also your job to make sure you know where it is. Marie Kondo recommends not hiding the stuff you put away as one would expect, but use clear containers so its easier for you to find. She also says to organize by size, such as small things with small things so they don't get lost, and store by the frequency of use, such as most used things being easy to grab while things not used as much should be harder to reach.
5. KonMari method essentials
Imagine the ideal lifestyle you want, discard the things that don't bring you joy, and tidy by category, not by location. She recommends separating by clothing, books, papers, Komono (miscellaneous), and mementos (items with sentimental value).
6. Thank your home
A lot of the tips Marie Kondo gives always connects back to mindfulness. One of these tips is to thank your home. Give thanks for the roof over your head and appreciate what you have, just like you give thanks to the memories any items you get rid of. It all comes back to mindfulness, it's important to feel thankful for your home, what memories you create in it, and even the messes.
