You’ve decided to declutter – to make the tough calls over what to keep and what to let go of. The vase you don’t like, the baby outfit that was outgrown before it was worn, the couch that clashes with your new decor – they’re all going, but they’re too nice to put in the bin. The most effective way to stop the unwanted creep back into your domain, is to...

A Guest Post by Aby Garvey, Simplify 101 (When I read this article by Aby Garvey from Simplify 101, I knew it said everything anyone ever needed to hear about making a new start. Since she wrote it so well, I asked her permission to share it, and she has graciously agreed. You can also read it and more great articles by Aby here. Thanks Aby! - Angela Esnouf, AAPO...

I heard a decluttering horror story which should act as a warning to one and all. There's a clear lesson in it. Someone called a cleaning company to come and declutter. During the session, the employee kept cherry-picking items she liked and asking if she could have them herself. Alarm bell number 1! The homeowner was a distributor for a cosmetic company. The employee set aside some product for which...

For decluttering tips, don't take your advice from the Australian Labor Party. Much better to consult a Professional Organiser. In the meantime, it's election time for the Australasian Association of Professional Organisers. Members should seriously consider making a contribution to their industry association. Now's the time to get those nominations in quick.