The clutter gets overwhelming for me too. It kept me from having people over, etc. Once I had to pack everything for a move, I either tossed, donated or gave away alot via freecycle (www.freecycle.org). Since moving, I have really been trying to keep up the cleaner look. I have friends over more often to re-enforce it. I have a a stack of boxes that I have not unpacked yet (occupying a section of the garage), and am finding I need less of what I brought along. With freecycle, you belong to an e-mail group in your area (hopefully possible in your location), and you post items to get rid of. Those interested, reply back, and arrange a time to pick up. I got my moving boxes free this way, and was able to provide others household items that were usable and needed by them, furniture included. And I too do not pass up the calls for charity pickups. It has helped! Good luck!