Looking to reclaim your living space? This 20-day decluttering plan will help you transform your home without overwhelming yourself. Plus, I’ll share where Capetonians can donate or responsibly dispose of their unwanted items.
Days 1-5: The Quick Wins
Day 1: Clear kitchen countertops and dispose of expired food items
Day 2: Tackle your wardrobe – set aside clothes you haven’t worn in a year
Day 3: Organize your bathroom cabinets and discard empty containers
Day 4: Clear your entryway of shoes, jackets, and items that don’t belong
Day 5: Sort through paperwork, mail, and documents
Days 6-10: Living Spaces
Day 6: Declutter your living room surfaces and entertainment area
Day 7: Reorganize bookshelves, keeping only favourites
Day 8: Clear under beds and store seasonal items properly
Day 9: Sort through children’s toys and outgrown items
Day 10: Tackle kitchen cupboards and drawers
Days 11-15: Storage Areas
Day 11: Clean out your linen cupboard
Day 12: Sort through garage or shed tools and equipment
Day 13: Organize electronic items and discard broken ones
Day 14: Clear out your home office space
Day 15: Tackle outdoor spaces and garden equipment
Days 16-20: Final Push
Day 16: Sort through memorabilia and keepsakes
Day 17: Clear out the pantry and food storage areas
Day 18: Reorganize remaining storage spaces
Day 19: Make decisions on any “maybe” items you’ve set aside
Day 20: Take inventory and create systems to prevent future clutter
Where Capetonians Can Donate or Dispose of Items – Donation Centres
1. The Homestead Projects – Accepts clothing, household items, and furniture to support homeless youth
2. U-turn – Takes clothing and household goods to support people experiencing homelessness
3. Help the Rural Child – Accepts books, clothing, and toys with collection points across Cape Town
4. SPCA Charity Shops – Perfect for household items, clothing, and books
Recycling and Responsible Disposal
1. Waste Drop-off Facilities – Cape Town has several municipal drop-off sites including Bellville, Kraaifontein, and Wynberg
2. Electronic Waste – eWaste Africa in Stikland or Elektronik Waste Africa in Brackenfell
3. GreenCycle – Collects recyclable materials from your home in some areas
4. Oasis Association – Accepts paper, cardboard, and glass for recycling
Selling Options
1. Gumtree South Africa – Popular platform for selling second-hand items
2. Facebook Marketplace – Great for local sales
3. Cash Crusaders – Buys electronics, sports equipment, and musical instruments
4. Thrift markets – Consider selling at Milnerton Market or the Neighbourgoods Market
Remember, one person’s clutter is another’s treasure. By responsibly donating or recycling your unwanted items, you’re not only decluttering your home but also contributing to the community and environment in Cape Town.
Happy decluttering!
