I’m currently decluttering. It’s unbelievable how much stuff we store in cupboards that just don’t get used! Such a waste

I have a rule: I don’t buy anything unless I know I’ll use it in the next week or have a very specific use for it at a later date (eg a birthday present). Doesn’t stop the occasional silly purchase, but it has helped me cut down a lot.

I agree with BellaB. Also just be more mindful when purchasing anything and ask yourself whether it is something you can see yourself or your children getting a lot of use out of. If not, don’t buy it.

I personally enjoy window shopping via the internet – the trick is to never check out. If I do add things to my basket, I then go through it asking “do I need this?” and it’s surprising how quickly the basket empties again.

Good luck! I can imagine that this will be a real challenge for you and your family. It sounds like you’re on the right track already by going through your existing ‘stuff’ and weeding out the rubbish and unnecessary bits and pieces.

I find that by staying away from the shops I am not tempted and I don’t impulse buy. It also helps to keep in mind a financial goal – this helps stop me from spending.

I suspect that if you google minimalism blogs you’ll probably get a few decent blogs with ideas/ hints/ tips on how to get started and how to keep going. There might also be some decent ideas on Pinterest.

if you do have stuff you must keep, store it in a box and out of sight. Mainly everything in your house will be practical and functional. Have a few select pieces that are beautiful or there for the look. I love the monochrome scheme as well. It helps to pull off the overall look.

Will power. I couldn’t do it though, I love shopping and my stuff.

There are some great online sites for de-cluttering and also television shows on de-cluttering. These may give you some inspiration and tips and ideas.

If I have not used something for 6 months and it is tucked away I get rid of it by donating it to a charity or by giving it away to family and friends. If I have not used it then I really did not need it! Good luck with de cluttering!

I think I’m lucky that I don’t really care for shopping but at the same time I’ve found that we as a family have way more than we need. When shopping I generally go with a list and only get what is on there – if I see something I like or just want I leave it and figure if I really need/want it i’ll come back for it but generally I don’t

Every time you want to buy something, first get rid of another item in the house. It’s a great way to avoid cluttering.

I’m doing this at the moment too. Every time I go to buy something I just ask myself whether I actually need it or just want it, and then put it back on the shelf. Less stuff makes keeping the house clean much easier.

Swap your shopping days for other outings such as outdoor activities, beach, museums etc. there are a lot if things to do that are either free or don’t cost much. My favourites in melbourne are the art gallery (free) and IMAX museum. These two are also very educational

I am trying to do this too. I am a massive op shopper and I have so much stuff and my kids have so many toys. My issue is that I have such a hard time letting go of stuff. I am slowing decluttering though and I feel so much freer with every bag and box I take to the local op shop to donate.