SPRING has sprung and it's time to throw open the doors, let in some fresh air and clear out the clutter.
"Clutter can accumulate throughout the winter months spent indoors and spring is the perfect opportunity for an interior refresh, " says Craig Evans, national visual merchandising manager for Fantastic Furniture.
Here are Craig's top tips for the perfect spring clean:
■ Break it down — to avoid feeling overwhelmed by the task ahead, tackle each room separately.
"You may not complete the whole house in a day, but you can tick each room off as a project in itself and feel as though you are achieving your goal."
■ Eye it up — conduct a "room audit". "We often learn to live with our mess and it literally becomes part of the furniture.
"Before you start to clear up, take a long hard look at the room with the eye of an outsider. Look for anything that is unnecessary and that has no use and then make a start."
■ Sort it out — sort like items with like, gather magazines, ornaments, toys, shoes, clothes etc and place in piles. Once sorted, it's easier to decide whether it goes or stays.
■ Throw it out — be tough and let go of old stuff. "The rule still applies - if you haven't worn it for a year, then donate it to charity. If it's old and worn, throw it out. Re-gift unused gifts or sell them online.
"Be strong and feel the freedom of letting go. There is so much mental clarity and peace of mind that can be gained from opening up space in your home."
■ Stow and store — find the right storage.
"So often, whether we rent or own our own home, we inherit built-in storage that doesn't suit our needs. Don't just live with it — do something about it. From built-in wardrobe inserts, shoe stackers, to shelving units, there is a huge range of storage options available."
Details: fantasticfurniture.com.au.
Your Home and Fantastic Furniture have five Toto Round Lamp Tables (RRP $45 each) to give away.
For your chance to win, simply tell us in 25 or fewer words your top spring cleaning tip. Email yourhomecomp@fairfaxmedia.com.au
Terms and conditions apply.
Entries close Friday, September 4
