Creative Clutter-Free Gift Giving

As we get closer to the holidays it is natural to feel a little pressure to get that "perfect gift" for a family member or friend. Rather than rush out to the mall or the nearest big box store, the National Association of Professional Organizers, Southeast Michigan Chapter (NAPO-MI) would like you to consider gifts that are both useful and clutter free.

The last thing most of us need is more "stuff" in our homes or offices. Now, if the folks that you are buying for have asked for a specific item, by all means give them what they want. But for the rest of the people on your list, try to give a gift that won't be looked upon as clutter come July or August.

What is a clutter free gift?

A clutter free gift can be anything that the person receiving has requested, can use and/or will not take up much space. This can include consumable items such as food, home spa items, bird seed, or basically anything that will be used up in the months ahead.

Clutter free gifts can also include services such as oil changes, snow removal, spa treatments, or any other service that offers gift certificates, such as a restaurant. It can also be a charitable donation in honor of that person that has everything.

In addition, a clutter free gift does not have to cost anything but your time and can be homemade. In some families the siblings get together prior to the holidays to prepare complete frozen meals for their elderly parents. What a wonderful way to share and care for someone you love!

A note about gift cards
Gift cards are great, but are not always clutter free. When working with clients, many professional organizers often stumble across unused gift cards. Please be sure that the gift card is for a store or restaurant that the person frequently visits and that using the gift card will not add more clutter to their space.

Staying organized throughout the holiday season can be easier than you think! For more organizing tips, visit www.NapoMichigan.com.

Article submitted by Chapter member, Carolyn Anderson-Fermann.