The short answer
By frequency of use, not by category. Daily things at waist height in the room they are used in, seasonal things high up or in the loft, and anything untouched for two years probably out of the house.
- Waist to shoulder height, in the room of use: anything used daily or weekly.
- Below knee or above shoulder: monthly.
- Loft, garage or the top of a wardrobe: seasonal, in labelled boxes with the label on the end you will see.
- Nowhere: anything you have not touched in two years and can replace for a small amount if you turn out to need it.
What will ruin it
Do not store anything that can be damaged by damp or extremes of temperature in a loft or a garage. That includes photographs, paperwork, candles, vinyl, electronics and most glue-bound books.
Why it works
The effort of retrieving something is what determines whether it gets put back. Storing a daily item somewhere awkward guarantees it will end up on a surface instead.
Tipking is general household information, not professional advice. Test anything on a hidden patch first. Full disclaimer.
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