Declutter Events - Before & After & Table Swap
“The question of what you want to own is actually the question of how you want to live your life.” —Marie Kondo
Option 1: Virtual Before & After
Challenge your residents to take 10-15 minutes out of their day to declutter something and start the year off fresh. You get to have a small part in improving their productivity and calming their minds at home or in the office!
This online event is perfect for “Clean Off Your Desk Day!”
Here’s how it works:
Post our graphic set or story set that includes this prompt: Set your timer for 10-15 minutes, take a before picture, and see how much decluttering you can get done. Take an after picture and post it online, tagging us so we can see your progress.
Option 2: Host a Table Swap
A table swap is one of the simplest ways to spark community without planning a full event. Residents drop off gently used books, puzzles, or décor items—and then browse the table to find something new to take home. No schedules, no programming, just a casual moment of sharing.
What makes a table swap especially appealing is how passive it is. Set it up in a common area or clubhouse, leave it out for a few hours (or even a full day), and let residents participate on their own time. It works just as well for busy weekdays as it does for weekends.
Why it’s easy
Minimal setup and supervision
Residents come and go at their convenience
Encourages reuse and neighborly connection
What you’ll need
A table (or two) in a visible common area
Our simple sign: “Leave One, Take One”
Clear signage listing what’s allowed (clean, gently used, family-friendly items only)
Trash bags or boxes for leftovers at the end of the day (donate what’s left or discard as needed)
Pro tip
Position the table near the office, mailroom, or another high-traffic spot to increase participation. A quick reminder sign or email the morning of the swap can also help build momentum without over-promoting.
Easy to host, easy to enjoy, and easy to repeat—table swaps are one of those small efforts that leave a surprisingly warm impression.
flyers & signs
Access all of your Canva-Compatible flyer & sign templates for the entire Collection.
digital graphics
Access all of your Canva-Compatible digital graphics templates for the entire collection.
stories
Access all of your Canva-Compatible video and reel templates for the entire collection.
Preview the Collection
Click to customize in canva or download
Tidy Inspiration
Download the below photos and use them in Canva designs, social media posts and your website.
10 Tips to Help Declutter
1. Start with just one small area
Pick a single drawer, shelf, or corner. Small wins build momentum and make the rest feel manageable.
2. Use the “one in, one out” rule
Any time something new comes in, decide what’s leaving. It keeps clutter from sneaking back.
3. Create a donation box you keep accessible
Place it in a closet or by the door. When you find something you no longer need, drop it in immediately.
4. Declutter by category—not room
Go through all your books, then all your clothes, then all your kitchen gadgets. Seeing the total helps you keep only what you really use.
5. Set a 10-minute timer each day
Short bursts of decluttering prevent burnout but add up fast. You’ll be amazed at how much you can accomplish when the clock is running.
6. Clear surfaces first
Countertops, tables, and nightstands make the biggest visual impact. Decluttering them instantly makes your home feel calmer.
7. Use bins or baskets to control “loose” items
Remotes, chargers, mail, dog toys — give each a specific container so they don’t migrate all over the place.
8. Digitize what you can
Scan paperwork, move photos to digital folders, and use apps for recipes and manuals. Less paper = less mess.
9. Be honest about the “someday pile”
If you haven’t used it in a year and it has no sentimental value, it’s probably safe to let go.
10. Make decluttering a habit, not a project
Tidy as you go: put things back after use, empty your bag daily, and reset your living room each night. A few minutes daily prevents major cleanups later.