#673 &#8211; The Dishwasher Dilemma: Secrets to a Clutter-Free Kitchen

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Meet Our Co-Host

Tonya Kubo

Tonya Kubo is the illustrious and fearless leader of Kathi Lipp’s Clutter Free Academy Facebook group and the Clutter Free for Life membership program. A professional community strategist, she believes everyone deserves to have a place online where they feel like they belong. Raised by a hoarder, Tonya knows firsthand the pain and isolation that comes from living in conditions others don’t understand. She wants better for her family and her cluttery peeps, which is why she is passionate about the compassionate slow-and-steady approach that makes Clutter Free unique. She lives in the heart of California with her husband, Brian, their two spirited daughters, and one very tolerant cat. Visit tonyakubo.com to find out more about her community work, or email her at tonya@kathilipp.org to discuss the Clutter Free Academy podcast and programs.

Meet Our Guest

Barb Roose

Barb Roose is an established author, a speaker at national women’s conferences, and a regular contributor to (in)courage, Crosswalk, and iBelieve. She has written six Bible studies, including Matthew: Pray Like This, Surrendered: Letting God and Living Like Jesus, and Joshua: Winning the Worry Battle plus Finding Jesus in the Psalms and Three other books. She is the host of Bold, Brave & Beautiful podcast. Barb, also serves as a teaching pastor at her home church, CedarCreek Church, with more than 6,000 in weekly attendance. The proud mother of three adult kids, an Army Captain, preschool teacher and NICU Nurse, Barb loves reading and walking. Whenever possible, she prefers to eat dessert first. You can find what Barb is currently up to here.

Transcript

Kathi Lipp (00:08)

Well, hey friends, welcome to Clutter Free Academy where our goal is to help you take small doable steps every day to live with less clutter and more life. And I am here with my consummate co-host, is Tonya Kubo. Hey, Tonya. ? Now, I know you have four people living at your house. How are dishes for you guys?

Tonya Kubo (00:23)

Hey, Kathi

? like you would expect with four people living in my house, but at least we have a dishwasher. Not everybody does.

Kathi Lipp (00:37)

Right,

isn’t that it is such I I probably spent five years doing Dishes by hand and so I well, I hate doing dishes I am one of those people that is super super grateful for that dishwasher every single day I think part of my problem for so many years was not having a rhythm. It was like, okay, I would

Tonya Kubo (00:45)

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (01:03)

put off doing dishes as long as possible. I think one of things that I used to think deeply was I couldn’t run the dishwasher until every little bit of it was full. And that would mean, you if we went to bed and there were still spaces for a few glasses, I wouldn’t do the dishes and then we’d have breakfast dishes. And then it always felt like I was behind and I hated that feeling. ?

Tonya Kubo (01:06)

Mm-hmm.

Hmm.

Mm-hmm.

Yeah.

Kathi Lipp (01:31)

I can imagine, now who’s the chief dishwasher in your house?

Tonya Kubo (01:36)

So it has historically always been Brian, but we’ve been, you know, the girls are older. We try to split chores with them. So we had a beautiful system when it was just Brian. We had a pretty good system when it was Brian and Lily, but now it’s Brian, Lily and Abby doing different components. And I really feel like I know that we will be grateful for this later, but right now it just feels like too many cooks in the kitchen. And I mean that pun in every bit.

Kathi Lipp (01:47)

Mm-hmm.

Yes.

Yeah,

it’s painful. And I know a lot of people are like, well, it’s just easier to do it myself. It is easier now, agreed. And there will come a day when you’ll be really, really grateful that you raised competent adults who, even though they may not do things perfectly, know how to do them and know the expectation is them. So good job, mom. Good job, dad Brian. We love it. Okay, so today we want to cover setting

Tonya Kubo (02:11)

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (02:34)

of a daily dish rhythm, maintaining your dishwasher and getting optimal results because I, for years and years and years, I didn’t know that there was a way to maintain your dishwasher. I thought it was either working or not working. Those were the, you it was very binary. And I now know that there are some things that we can do to make it last longer and make it run more effectively. So I want to talk about that. I

Tonya Kubo (02:36)

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (03:02)

Our daily dish routine looks a little bit like this. We usually are unloading in the morning and then filling up during the day. And depending on whether I’m cooking or not, we want run it once or twice. Does that look very different from what you guys do?

Tonya Kubo (03:23)

No, I would say ? it’s about the same, but sometimes I would say probably two to three days a week, I’ve got to run it twice in a single day. Just, yeah, well, and there’s more humans here.

Kathi Lipp (03:31)

Yeah, yeah big cooking days. Yeah Yep,

absolutely. my goodness for sure. Yeah, anytime I’m cooking it’s going to be a you know, and sometimes I’m cook sometimes, you know, we have Leftovers from when I cook we have a lot more leftovers than most people because it’s just the two of us. So ? Those are don’t be tend to be heavy dish days, but I I think it’s really really important

to say, okay, dishes are just a part of life. We need to figure out a routine for them. And we need to make sure that everybody in the house is sticking to the ideal. It’s not the perfect, but ideal for what our house can actually do. So unless you are single and eating a lot of takeout, you’re probably going to be needing to do one load a day. ?

I think, for us, we never get away with not doing dishes in the day. That just is not how we run. And so if I just say, OK, dishes have to be there every single day. And then ? do you guys have any rules for people bringing dishes to the sink?

Tonya Kubo (04:35)

Mm-hmm.

Well, sure, doesn’t mean anybody follows them, Kathi, ?

Kathi Lipp (04:51)

Okay, sure, sure, sure, yes. I understand

that deeply too. What? Yeah.

Tonya Kubo (04:56)

Yeah, you know, it’s the teenager thing.

But for us, you’re supposed to bring, the rule is you bring your dish into the sink, you rinse it out and it goes on the left side. Once it’s rinsed out on the right side of the sink, it’s then put on the left side of the sink. I prefer the dishes to go into the sink. Brian prefers them to be on the counter next to the sink.

Kathi Lipp (05:11)

Mm-hmm.

? interesting. Okay. Yeah, I think next to the side of the sink would kill me.

Tonya Kubo (05:26)

Yep, yep, not gonna say you’re wrong there.

Kathi Lipp (05:26)

Yeah. Yeah.

You can always tell when a blood Lipp is living here, whether it’s Roger or one of his kids, because they put drinks unthrown out. Yeah, they don’t drain the cup. They put it next to the sink. And like, why? Why?

Tonya Kubo (05:37)

Yeah

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (05:52)

Why am I, why are you waiting for somebody else to dump out your Starbucks cup? I don’t understand that. You’re killing me. Now, one thing I have heard is, you know, some people like they load right after each meal or snack. That’s what we tend to do as well. But then I thought this was interesting. One of my friends says that she uses a small bin. I don’t know if it’s on the counter or if it’s

Tonya Kubo (05:58)

hahahaha

Mm-hmm. Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (06:21)

suction to the inside of the sink where she puts cutlery ? until it’s ready to go into the dishwasher. So I find that fascinating as well. I don’t necessarily see the advantage, but I’ve heard of a couple of people who are doing that. So ? do you stay in the kitchen while Roger, ? Roger, I’ve now married you off to my husband. Hope that’s okay. ?

Tonya Kubo (06:27)

Mmm.

Yeah.

Brian might have a complaint or two, but you know.

Kathi Lipp (06:51)

You know, if you’re going to be married off, he might have a complaint, but

you know what? You know, if I if I have to give you something of mine, that’s not a bad deal. ? I tend to stay in the kitchen and put things away while Roger’s doing the dishes. Are you guys separate or are you like body doubling by working in there together?

Tonya Kubo (07:08)

Hmm.

Yeah, so Brian doesn’t want anybody in the kitchen when he’s in the kitchen. Absolutely not. He like, no, that’s not okay. But the girls and I will will tag team because I find for them they feel, you know, it feels like less of a chore if we’re all doing something together. Yeah.

Kathi Lipp (07:16)

? okay.

That’s how I feel too. Yeah, like it’s

not woe is me, here I am, know, Cinderella.

Tonya Kubo (07:34)

Yeah, but

like if you came over to my house and I was cooking dinner, I wouldn’t want you to help me cook dinner, but I would want you to sit at the table and chat with me while I cooked. Like that’s fun for me. But Brian is just like, ? I’m sure there’s another room in this house you can be in. And I’m like, okay.

Kathi Lipp (07:42)

That’s all I need. Yes. Yes.

Okay. Good to know, Brian. Okay.

Yeah. So Roger, like he loves to barbecue because people will come out and talk to him. But if somebody makes a suggestion on how to barbecue. No, not okay. ? Okay. Yeah. I love going to bed knowing the dishes are done. Like there’s a clean slate, we’re starting the day off well. And we do a delay setting on our dishwasher. So it’s running at

Tonya Kubo (07:59)

Mm-hmm.

Mm-mm.

Mmm, yeah.

Kathi Lipp (08:18)

like two in the morning because what that does is it’s not using energy during peak hours. So we’re delaying it by like, you know, four hours because we’re probably he’s probably putting the last things in at around 10 o’clock at night. And that seems to really, really help. ? I do believe as kids get older, a couple of different things. One,

Tonya Kubo (08:20)

oooo

you

Kathi Lipp (08:48)

I believe that everybody should at least be responsible for scraping off their plates. I don’t want to scrape off your food when you’re 17 years old.

Tonya Kubo (08:57)

Mm-hmm.

No, and honestly if your kids go to preschool they have to do it there.

Kathi Lipp (09:04)

Right exactly

You have you seen these videos of the japanese preschools? Where my goodness you guys if you haven’t seen it i’ll see if they’re first of all, they’re the cutest kids in the entire world and They are all scraping off their own thing. They’re all using cleaner to wipe down their tables. They’re they’re sweeping the floors i’m like ? Yeah, had I I wish I would have seen that earlier because I don’t think I believe that my kids were capable of that but now

Tonya Kubo (09:11)

Yes.

Those kids are so cute.

Kathi Lipp (09:34)

They are they were they they’ve always been okay guys We’re gonna take a quick break, and then I want to come back and talk about Maintaining your dishwasher just a couple of things you might not have thought about because I didn’t grow up this way So maybe you didn’t grow up this way. I used to always think I didn’t grow up this way I was the only one and I’ve come to find out it’s much more universal than that right So we’re gonna give you a couple of different things that you can think about

Tonya Kubo (09:57)

Yeah.

Kathi Lipp (10:03)

and we will be right back.

Okay, guys, we have talked about loading and unloading your dishwasher. I will say one other thing that has changed our dishwasher unloading, Tonya, is we got a kitchen island. You know, I don’t know, maybe six, eight months ago. Maybe it’s been longer than that. Well, yeah, anyway. And one thing I love about it is when we’re unloading the dishes, we can stack them there and then just go.

Tonya Kubo (10:17)

Mm-hmm.

Yeah.

Kathi Lipp (10:36)

to where the dishes go, or go to where the plates are. I love it so, so much. ? Okay, but I wanna talk about maintaining your dishwasher. A couple of things to think about. One, ? a weekly quick clean. Now, I don’t necessarily do this weekly, but one thing I do is I peek in there at least once a week and just check the filter.

Tonya Kubo (10:54)

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (11:00)

Does around the filter start to look gunky? Is there paper on there from like a jar or something like that? So I will pull that out every once in a while. And then I’ll just kind of look at the seals around the door. I check it every week. I don’t clean it every week. I’m not going to clean something that doesn’t look dirty. Life is not that boring for me. But once I’ve done that, it makes me feel so much better about knowing that it’s going to run well.

Tonya Kubo (11:01)

Mmm.

Mm-hmm.

Yeah ?

Kathi Lipp (11:30)

? and then monthly couple of different things one we use ? finish in our our dishwasher just to You know, it’s that final rinse that is really really good in addition do you use anything like that?

Tonya Kubo (11:50)

No, no, we’ll use vinegar in the dishwasher every now and then. We have horrible hard water. And so a lot of times those ? rinse aids and cleaning agents actually just increase the mineral deposits.

Kathi Lipp (11:54)

Okay.

Uhhh, yeah.

Mmm, okay. Yeah, it just doesn’t work for you. Okay. Now I do want to talk about glisten Glisten is a dishwasher cleaner. So look I’m going to try to describe it for our listeners at home It’s just like a plastic bottle, but you take the lid off and it has a wax seal in the in there because you want this for the last cycle that heating cycle of your dishwasher

Tonya Kubo (12:09)

now

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (12:35)

So that wax melts in there and it’s perfectly safe for your dishwasher. But what it does is it gives a deep clean to your entire dishwasher. So I don’t know that I’ve ever talked about it on here. You’ll remember if I have because you have a much better memory than I do. But Roger and I have a tub that we call the once a month tub. And okay, so I’ve talked about it. These are things we want to do once a month in our house. So this is stuff like

Tonya Kubo (12:47)

Nice.

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (13:05)

cleaning, deep cleaning that dishwasher, changing out the baking soda in our refrigerator, Moose’s ? tick and flea treatment, water filters, because we have very healthy water, but terrible tasting water. So we put these, ? these glisten bottles, we buy them three at a time, we put them into that box. And when I’m down to the last one, I order some for the next month.

Tonya Kubo (13:27)

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (13:33)

And we just go around the house and we put our plant fertilizer. So it’s something that we want to do once a month or approximately once a month. And it just, we don’t have to remember to do it. We just do it. And so that’s been really helpful for us. Another thing to think about is yeah, running a cycle of the dishwasher with a dishwasher cleaner or a cup of white vinegar. White vinegar is a miracle, isn’t it? It’s just a miracle. Yeah. Yeah.

Tonya Kubo (13:33)

Hmm.

Mm-hmm.

I feel like it is, I feel like it is.

Kathi Lipp (14:03)

So ? we just have very tough water up here. So that’s why we tend to use this glisten stuff ? You also want to check the spray arms. So again, I’m not like ? it’s once a month. Let’s check our dishwasher I’m much more loosey goosey than that But if things are coming out of the dishwasher and I’m not liking how they’re looking These are the things I do. So I’ll run the I’ll run an extra cycle with some vinegar

Tonya Kubo (14:26)

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (14:32)

I’ll check the spray arms for debris. I’ll check in the utensil tray and racks as needed. then you can, know, yearly maintenance. If you need to research for your brand, what your brand suggests. If you have some hard water buildup in there, I’m not going to suggest it because I don’t want to know, but also check hoses for leaks and cracks. If you’re not getting the performance that you want to.

And then I want to talk about loading your dishwasher because that can really affect the performance. I will also link ? the episode of ? Wirecutter, yes, to this, their whole dishwasher episode and the brands that I, we just like, we like the ? Cascade Extra.

Tonya Kubo (15:01)

Mm-hmm.

Wire cutter.

Kathi Lipp (15:26)

That’s the brand that we really, really, really like for our actual dishwasher. But they also go through with about different kinds that, you know, for your dishwasher might be good. But give dishes spaces so water can get in between there. Use designated areas for specific items. So you want plates where the plates are supposed to go. Bowls, cutlery, glasses.

Tonya Kubo (15:27)

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (15:53)

Check to see if you have a wine glass arm all those kind of things and then ? powders gels and pods What we were told by a dishwasher repairman is never use a gel I It he says When I am repairing I always see under their sink what they’re using and it tends to be gels that where their dishwasher has run down worse

Tonya Kubo (16:06)

Mm-hmm. Mmm.

Kathi Lipp (16:21)

Now we use the pods, which is a gel powder combo. you know, so far we’ve had great results, but that’s just something I’ve heard about. Do you do anything to mitigate the water hardness or is you just have to live with it?

Tonya Kubo (16:26)

Mm-hmm.

Yeah, we have a magnet thing that goes inside the dishwasher. And so that’s supposed to help the deposits not form. ? But pretty much everybody in my neighborhood replaces their dishwasher every three years. Or they’ve just decided that they don’t need a dishwasher. And yeah, and we can’t use powder because it’ll etch our glasses. Like anything that’s glass gets etched with the powder.

Kathi Lipp (16:47)

Okay.

Really?

Wow, that is serious.

Wow.

Tonya Kubo (17:07)

We can’t use pods because the hard water mineral deposits build up so quickly that the pods won’t dissolve. Every now and then I’m just like, well, maybe we just skip the dishwasher and we’ll just put another cabinet there. And Brian’s like, or maybe we move. And I’ll say, maybe what we need to do is get like a water treatment system because we need something that’s a little bit more than a softener. And he’s like, or how about we move?

Kathi Lipp (17:22)

Yeah!

Tonya Kubo (17:32)

? so I’ve just stopped making suggestions cause Brian seems to think there’s only one solution, which involves me moving and I don’t like.

Kathi Lipp (17:34)

Yeah

No, you’ve pretty much stated you want to die in this house. So can I tell you the most interesting thing I learned from the wire cutter episode on dishwashers?

Tonya Kubo (17:51)

I wanna hear it.

Kathi Lipp (17:52)

You do not want to clean your dish too much before it goes into the dishwasher.

Tonya Kubo (18:02)

Okay, I need to know why, because I do not believe them.

Kathi Lipp (18:03)

don’t really understand

the science behind it, but they said that your dishes need something, your detergent needs something to grab onto. And so you don’t want things that are caked on there. Like you don’t want to put your eggy dish that has been sitting in the sink overnight in there because that’s too much for almost any dishwasher, or detergent.

Tonya Kubo (18:14)

Hmm

Mm-hmm.

Yeah.

Kathi Lipp (18:32)

It doesn’t want to have to be perfectly clean. So I’ve I have lowered my standards Thank you very much wire cutter and I feel like I’m getting even better results So it may all be psychosomatic. You know what, but don’t don’t yuck my yum. Okay? ? The other thing that’s really important is hot water if you’re not getting the results you need

Tonya Kubo (18:45)

Nice.

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (18:57)

One of the things you may have to do is run the hot water and again, this may be like well duh, Kathi to everybody else I did not grow up knowing this so now I know right or Maybe this is something my mom did and I didn’t realize it but you have to run the hot water for a while and even we have found even if we run the hot water at 10 o’clock and then we set the dishwasher for two It seems to be fine. So ?

Tonya Kubo (19:12)

Mm-hmm.

Mmm.

Kathi Lipp (19:27)

And then most of us are going to need a rinse aid of some kind, the finish or something like that. ? Create a daily rhythm, Maintain your dishwasher. Don’t overcrowd it. And then check with your manufacturer to see if there are any extra tips. You don’t have to have the user’s manual. You can go online and look and see what that is. ?

Tonya Kubo (19:31)

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (19:53)

Is there anything you’re going to do differently, Tonya, because of today?

Tonya Kubo (19:58)

you know what? think one thing that I’m going to do differently, aside from making sure that I run the hot water, cause that’s brilliant. But I think that I am going to do more about checking those cleaning arms. Cause I am good about checking the bottom of the dishwasher. That’s where my filter is. But I only think about the cleaning arms when it’s not working.

Kathi Lipp (20:05)

Mm-hmm.

Yeah, great.

Mmm, okay, and I We do have a very sophisticated water filtration system, but I still want to find out about your magnet So we’re gonna we’re gonna put that in the show notes because I think that that might be something that would be really really helpful to us guys I want you to just think through your routine Is there something you could be doing that is going to help you out? And by the way guys, we’re gonna be doing some more

Tonya Kubo (20:26)

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (20:46)

System spotlights. That’s what we did today system spotlight about your dishes ? in a few weeks We’re gonna be doing laundry. So yeah that I’m excited. That’s a two-parter Tonya It’s too much information to contain in one episode. So You guys are going to love it. Okay guys, we will be back in just a minute We’re gonna take a quick commercial break and then I’m gonna share with you ? this week’s

It has earned a place in my clutter free home. You’re not going to want to miss this episode.

*PART TWO*

Kathi Lipp (00:00)

Hey friends, we are back. We are back. this is, this is my new favorite series. Things that have earned a place in my home. Because as you guys know, not everything that I want actually earns a place in my home.

So in order for it to not become clutter. It has to be something I love I use or would buy again and I’ve got a Three hit I’ve got this one checks all three It’s called Matthew pray like this and it’s by my friend Barb Roose and so I want to discuss it today because we’ve got Barb here and Barb

Welcome back to the program. I’m so glad to have you’re a frequent flyer here on clutter free academy And i’m so grateful to have you back

Barb (00:53)

I love coming back and we’ve only been on here for like 15 seconds and I’m already taking notes on what you just said.

Kathi Lipp (01:02)

my goodness, but it’s so true. Okay, so let me tell you why this is be why I’m saying this like I am because I will tell you my prayer life There’s been a lot of stops and starts recently I’m just in a space where prayer and I’ve been here before and here’s the thing God is so gracious and I know I’m going to get out of that space and it’s going to be okay and

And I have to remember that God doesn’t leave me anywhere for a long time. But prayer has been hard recently, and then I get this book and I’m like, well, all right, OK, so God’s giving me a little tool for this time in my life. So I feel like we’ve all had I don’t want to speak for other people, but I feel like we’ve all had these moments when we’re like prayer isn’t working. I don’t even know what to pray.

I think there’s been a lot going on in my life in my world where I just like kind of hold throw up my hands I’m saying God I don’t even know where to start so I would love to hear from you why why this book why now and What? What do you say to those of us who have been struggling?

Barb (02:24)

Well, I, first of all, what you just shared about where your prayer journey is at right now, it has either created this exhale for listeners who are like, that’s where I felt like I’m at. Cause they have been struggling and they want to pray and know that they should pray. And for a variety of reasons, it just hasn’t looked like how they wanted to. So thank you. Because I think more people are there than not.

Kathi Lipp (02:38)

Hmm.

Barb (02:51)

because prayer is this conversation with God. The barrier always has been that we can’t see God, he’s not showing up, we don’t have like this face-to-face, and so there’s so much in life that can happen. A quote that’s meant a lot to me is a Cory Ten Boom quote. She said, prayer, your steering wheel or your spare tire. And yeah, and so there have been many seasons of my life. This Bible study actually is so wild to me.

Kathi Lipp (03:07)

Mmm.

yeah.

Barb (03:20)

because prayer was mostly a spare tire for me. I grew up as a Christian. I knew something about prayer because of how I was taught, but my mentality, my personality, I was a do first, pray later kind of person, which meant, yep, so I was always busy, had things to do, always kind of felt that guilt in the back of my mind because I was like, okay, I’m going to pray, I’m going to pray and something would come up. The Bible study that you have is a testament

Kathi Lipp (03:24)

Mmm.

Yeah, yeah.

Mm-hmm.

Barb (03:50)

of how God guided me in his gracious love through from a do first, pray later to a pray first, pray often. And that is we all go through these seasons and these spiritual journeys. And he guided me through that in a way that allowed me to get to where I really wanted to be. A woman who prayed every day about everything without guilt or shame.

Kathi Lipp (04:16)

Okay, so I want to pick up on something you just said because this is my first love of this book is that you don’t guilt us into praying more, it guides you into praying more meaningfully. And ? my goodness, it has been, it’s just an invitation. And so yeah, if you’re in that place where you’re feeling like my prayers are hitting the ceiling or I…

I just I don’t even know where to start so I don’t start but here’s here’s just that my moment of honesty because Here’s the problem a lot of Bible studies sound good on the shelf, but they never get opened, right? I mean, it’s we’ve I have been an avid collector of Bible studies for probably the past 30 years my collection abounds But I feel like this one is actually practical practical and doable. So like

What are those things that made it grabbable and why did you, what was your heart behind this? Who is this for?

Barb (05:23)

This Bible study is for everyone at every stage who wants to get to the place where they want to be a woman who prays about everything every day without guilt or shame. So this can be from the woman who is still trying to figure out who God is to the woman who has been following Jesus for a long time. But the heart of the study is that often our problems or our panic drive our prayers.

versus us actually connecting with God. So I wanted to write a Bible study that was about God and not us. And in doing that, it was, let’s start with where Jesus walks us into prayer. And the Bible study itself is framed around walking through the Lord’s prayer as we study the whole book of the Gospel of Matthew. But I wanted it to be where we felt like we had an active role in prayer.

Kathi Lipp (06:05)

Mm-hmm.

Yeah.

Barb (06:19)

So

my particular Bible study style is very application heavy. I love looking at the scriptures and going, okay, what can we learn about God and how do we apply? So each day of the Bible study is a way to step into prayer actively and creatively because I do not want Bible study to be boring. That would be the kiss of death. God is not boring. His word is not boring. So this Bible study,

Kathi Lipp (06:25)

Mm-hmm.

Right. No.

Barb (06:47)

provides these ways that I wanted to hit all of the senses, the thinking, the feeling, the taste, like hearing all of that.

Kathi Lipp (06:52)

Mm-hmm.

And I think you have, I really, really think you have in this. And I love that it’s just six weeks. I feel like six weeks is so doable, even though it’s kind of a chunky book, I’m not gonna lie. Like when I first picked it up, I’m like, oh, there’s some heft to this. And I also love that I was planning to do the whole study by myself. I’ve already delved into it. And I just had a friend who said,

Need a Bible set. I’m like, you know what? It’s gonna work for the two of us too. So I’m very very excited about that Okay, here’s something I know about you Barb, because I’ve had you on many times You have been here for many a Bible study and I know that God always gives you something like a new revelation a new aha, whatever the light bulb is What was it for writing this book because God changes you in the writing of these books?

I’ve seen it many times.

Barb (07:55)

Well, Kathi, have you ever had something you have been praying for for a long time and you’re like, should I keep praying for it? Why am I still praying for it? What the heck? And that was the journey with this Bible study. I tended to treat God a lot like Amazon Prime. I would have a prayer request and then two days later I would be like, so God, why haven’t you answered this prayer?

Kathi Lipp (08:01)

Yes.

Right.

Yes.

Barb (08:22)

Because

if the Amazon Prime people can deliver my stuff in two days, I believe that God could do it a lot sooner. And so for me, this Bible study was about God kind of working the Amazon Prime mentality out. And other people kind of like God’s a vending machine. have this whole, like vending machines are stocked of all the things we love, the tasty stuff. And so people go to God and go, well, I think I should have this blessing and this blessing and this blessing.

Kathi Lipp (08:29)

Right? Right?

Hmm.

Yeah.

Barb (08:52)

That’s not so much me or other people treat God like customer service where you call God up and you’re like, this is a problem, Lord, you need to fix it. This is a problem. We all have those different mentalities, but mine was learning to trust God’s timing and in allow and allowing prayer to be a part of that journey. So I learned for me, the aha moment was that.

Kathi Lipp (09:01)

Mm-hmm.

Mm.

Barb (09:18)

When I persisted in prayer about the thing that was the hardest for me to hold in my life, what God did every time I brought that matter to him was he was able to give me something I needed more. For this thing that that still is important to me, that I still struggle with to this day, I was feeling guilty as a Christian about

Kathi Lipp (09:35)

Mmm.

Barb (09:46)

continuing to pray about the same thing all of the time. What I learned in how Jesus taught about persisting in prayer is that when we bring it to God, he actually uses that thing as a way to bless us with teaching us more about him. So I have been able to learn more, receive more of God’s grace. I’ve been able to receive more of God’s love. I’ve been able to receive more of God’s strength.

so that I don’t try to take matters in my own control.

Kathi Lipp (10:18)

Yeah.

Barb (10:19)

And so that’s the been the learning blessing, the learning journey for me in this study.

Kathi Lipp (10:26)

You know, I think we all have our prayer peccadillas and what I, yeah, and I, what I know mine is, is prayer tinged with jealousy. Like God, I have seen what you’ve done for others. I want that. And to understand that God knows what is best for me, what is best for his kingdom.

Barb (10:31)

Here, I can deal with

Hmm.

Kathi Lipp (10:55)

Is not always what I have seen others have and so i’m still wrestling with that I still fight with that and I think you know, it’s It’s very interesting Here’s my question. We all have these these prayer struggles. What what does matthew say about that?

Barb (11:14)

Well, this is where coming up a verse that I have focused on. It’s right before Jesus teaches about the Lord’s Prayer in Matthew chapter six, three verses before that, Jesus says, don’t be like the babblers who repeat what they’re praying. And I actually just I want to read it because it has really made such a difference for me. He says when he says that,

Kathi Lipp (11:19)

Yeah.

Barb (11:43)

Let me, okay, when you pray, don’t babble on and on as the Gentiles do. They think their prayers are answered merely by repeating their words again and again. This is what I love. Don’t be like them, for your father knows exactly what you need even before you ask. And I was thinking about this because I’m going to tell the very, very small version of this. This story isn’t in the book, but when I was 18, it was my, it was my first semester of college at Christmas break.

And I had been worrying myself sick because I didn’t have the $300 I needed for book money. This was in 1990. My dad called me downstairs and he wanted me to sit down on the couch and he said, Barbara, do you have enough money for books? And my dad was such a loving, kind man, but you did not lie to Bob Neal. And so my eyes dropped to the brass and glass coffee table that my parents had because it was 1990. And I just.

Kathi Lipp (12:19)

Yeah.

Hahaha!

Absolutely.

Barb (12:41)

right? So I shook my head no and my dad pulled out a crisp $100 bill and he laid it on that table. Kathi, dad had lost his long time career six weeks before I left for university. I still had two siblings at home. My parents were trying to make ends meet and my eyes bucked wide open and he said, that not, is that enough money? And I shook my head no because I couldn’t lie. My dad pulled out a second crisp

Kathi Lipp (12:47)

Mm.

Right.

Barb (13:10)

$100 bill. This is a week after Christmas. Me and I’m going, what is happening? Where is this coming from? Dad said, is that enough? And I said, I shook my head no. He pulled out a crisp $100 bill and laid them next to the other two. I never told my parents I needed $300 in books.

I never talked to them. I simply was stressed out, crying all the time. I’d spent all of my Christmas break working temp jobs. And my parents knew what I needed, even though I was at school two and a half hours away. And they had access to resources and understanding beyond what even I knew. And I think that that’s what happens to us when we think about God.

We repeat our prayers over and over again, but our prayers are driven by our panic rather than our trust. Kathi, how many prayers has God answered in your life that you’ve never prayed?

Kathi Lipp (14:14)

Countless. Countless! That’s the only word. Countless.

Barb (14:18)

And so the point of prayer for us isn’t that we need to ask God for things. It’s that we need to be able to see who God is. And so this Bible study, I said it’s about God, not us. So I’ve structured it around four parts of God, who God is, his character, what God has done, his faithfulness, what God can do, his power, and what God will do, his promises.

And that’s what the study is structured around because God knows what we need even before we ask. We can trust him.

Kathi Lipp (14:55)

that’s exactly why this book is staying in my house. Guys, it’s not just pretty, it’s useful. And for someone like me, who’s trying to keep only what matters, I mean, that is everything. Okay, friends, you can grab Matthew Pray Like This wherever books are sold. We’ll have a link in the show notes. Barb, thank you for writing. Thank you for just talking to us about prayer today. And

If you have stumbled in your prayer life or maybe you’ve been hurt by unanswered or delayed prayers, just know that God has you. God sees you. if you need a, I just pray that this conversation has made you feel held when things are not as you hoped for or planned or expected. Friends,

You’ve been listening to ClutterFree Academy. I am Kathi Lipp. Now, go create the clutter free life you’ve always wanted to live.

#672 – From Pantry to Plate: The Secret to Smart Food Storage

Jun 3, 2025 | Clutter Free, Clutter Free Home, Clutter Free Podcast, Foodie Friday, Home, Kitchen, Organizing, Overwhelmed, Podcast

Join Kathi Lipp and Tonya Kubo in this episode of Clutter-Free Academy as they tackle the often overwhelming world of food storage. Whether you’re struggling with long-term pantry organization, fridge chaos, containers for on the go or finding the right containers for...

#671 – Sentimental Clutter: Finding Freedom in Letting Go

May 27, 2025 | Clutter Free, Clutter Free Home, Clutter Free Podcast, Home, Organizing, Overwhelmed, Podcast, Relationships

Kathi Lipp returns with Tonya Kubo and Tenneil Register to address a common challenge faced by those on the clutter-free journey: sentimental items. In this insightful episode, the trio tackles the emotional weight of inherited belongings and the guilt that often...

#670 – Emotional Decluttering: A Journey Through Sentimental Keepsakes

May 20, 2025 | Clutter Free, Clutter Free Home, Clutter Free Podcast, Home, Mental Load, Organizing, Overwhelmed, Podcast, tips and ideas

In this episode of Clutter Free Academy, Kathi Lipp is joined by clutter experts Tonya Kubo and Tenneil Register for the second part of their heartfelt discussion on sentimental items. Discover the emotions that often lead us to hold onto things we neither love nor...

#672 – From Pantry to Plate: The Secret to Smart Food Storage

by Clutter Free Academy Team | Jun 3, 2025 | Clutter Free, Clutter Free Home, Clutter Free Podcast, Foodie Friday, Home, Kitchen, Organizing, Overwhelmed, Podcast | 0 comments

#672 – From Pantry to Plate: The Secret to Smart Food Storage

Listen Now

Join Kathi Lipp and Tonya Kubo in this episode of Clutter-Free Academy as they tackle the often overwhelming world of food storage. Whether you’re struggling with long-term pantry organization, fridge chaos, containers for on the go or finding the right containers for meal prep, Kathi and Tonya share practical tips and solutions that can turn your kitchen clutter into culinary clarity. They explore the benefits of square, stackable, and see-through storage solutions, the beauty of a cheese drawer, and how to make food storage solutions work for your unique household needs. Tune in for insights that cater to anyone aiming for a clutter-free kitchen.

Photo of Kathi’s storage drawer organization as promised!

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Sabbath Soup: Weekly Menus and Rhythms to Make Space for a Day of Rest

Kathi Lipp gives readers an easy-to-follow process for meal planning and prep, so that they can enjoy a full day each week of real rest and refreshment.

Could you use a break from cooking (and everything else) once a week? Not only is rest vital for your mind and body, it’s good for your soul too. God designed us to enter into Sabbath rest one day per week, but as you know, meals still need to be made. Your family still needs to be fed.

Sabbath Soup includes convenient, seasonal meal plans that take the guesswork out of shopping and cooking. More than just a collection of delicious recipes—including main dishes, breads, breakfasts, desserts, salads, sides, and yes, soups—this is your guide to establishing a weekly rhythm and routine of meal planning and prep that allows you to have a true day off.

Do something good for your soul and experience the peace that comes with a full day dedicated to spending time with God, family, and friends. Savor your Sabbath as you proudly proclaim, “Soup’s on!”

Order your copy of Sabbath Soup: Weekly Menus and Rhythms to Make Space for a Day of Rest here.

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Meet Our Co-Host

Tonya Kubo

Tonya Kubo is the illustrious and fearless leader of Kathi Lipp’s Clutter Free Academy Facebook group and the Clutter Free for Life membership program. A professional community strategist, she believes everyone deserves to have a place online where they feel like they belong. Raised by a hoarder, Tonya knows firsthand the pain and isolation that comes from living in conditions others don’t understand. She wants better for her family and her cluttery peeps, which is why she is passionate about the compassionate slow-and-steady approach that makes Clutter Free unique. She lives in the heart of California with her husband, Brian, their two spirited daughters, and one very tolerant cat. Visit tonyakubo.com to find out more about her community work, or email her at tonya@kathilipp.org to discuss the Clutter Free Academy podcast and programs.

Transcript

Kathi Lipp (00:11)

Hey friend, welcome to clutter free Academy where our goal is to help you take small doable steps every day to live with less clutter and more life and I am here with my my co-conspirator on all things clutter free. It is Tonya Kubo. Hey Tonya We are both in podcasts ? How do we want to say we’re both heavy laden with podcasts right now

Tonya Kubo (00:28)

Hey Kathi.

Yes, we are deep, deep in creator mode.

Kathi Lipp (00:41)

Yes. ? you know, so most of my clutter free people are probably not your target audience for the podcast you’ve just launched. But you know what, if 3 % of them are, they’re going to want to find it. Just just do me a favor. Tell me, give us like the the elevator pitch of what your new podcast is about.

Tonya Kubo (01:02)

Yeah, so my new podcast, so it’s depending on our cluttery people, it actually could be perfect for them, because my podcast is for people who feel like they don’t fit in. So.

Kathi Lipp (01:09)

Okay.

Well, okay,

there we go. I hadn’t heard it described that way. Yeah.

Tonya Kubo (01:17)

Yeah, yeah, it’s not a business podcast. is.

So Apple is categorizing it under relationships and so society and culture is the big label. And it’s just for people who feel like they don’t fit in, aren’t quite sure that they might be too weird for a polite company. And we just have a conversation every single week with somebody who has learned that.

Kathi Lipp (01:28)

Mm-hmm.

Mm-hmm. Okay.

Tonya Kubo (01:45)

rather than trying to fit in, they’re just gonna own their weird and find other people just like them. And then we talk about what makes that work.

Kathi Lipp (01:50)

?

And what’s the name of the podcast? Love it, love it, love it.

Tonya Kubo (01:54)

Find your freaks. And who

gave me that title? That would be Kathi Lipp. That would be Kathi Lipp.

Kathi Lipp (02:00)

You know what?

I love a good title. Not going to lie. Yeah, I did a whole speech around that for when you’re writing to an audience, you have to find your freaks because your book is not for everybody. It’s just not. And so with this podcast, we’ve had to find our freaks. So, guys, you are our freaks and we love you. And I just want you to know that’s the highest compliment we can give you, because who else is going to listen to an entire podcast episode?

Tonya Kubo (02:09)

Yeah?

No!

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (02:28)

food storage. Who? Our freaks! Because I love this stuff and can I just tell you Tonya you gave me the highest compliment I think anybody has ever given me. Because when I said Tonya what kind of food storage do you use? How did you answer me?

Tonya Kubo (02:29)

Our freaks. Our peeps.

Whatever I see you use in your house.

Kathi Lipp (02:50)

Okay, can I tell you why I feel like that’s such a huge compliment because I do take these things too seriously like it I have realized in ? my late stage clutter ? the things that I am doing my clutter looks very different now in my late 50s than it did say in my 30s or 20s and Usually my clutter now

Tonya Kubo (02:57)

Hahaha

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (03:15)

Is I buy something because I’ve researched it. I think it’s going to be great and come to find out it doesn’t quite work But it works enough that I don’t want to get rid of it But it works not enough for me not to go out and buy another thing and so then I have two things and I have to I have to fight my inner clutter girl and Say, you know what somebody this is going to be perfect for somebody else, but it’s not me

Tonya Kubo (03:23)

Mm-hmm.

Hmm.

Kathi Lipp (03:45)

And so that is my story of storage containers. And here’s why I think it matters, ? especially pantry organization. have, okay, so I really believe that there are three different kinds of food storage. And there may be more, but in my house, there are three. There’s the long-term pantry storage. So what I consider long-term is not like years, but ? we in our house put,

Tonya Kubo (03:45)

Yeah.

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (04:15)

cereal into a plastic container not because we’re trying to be as my niece would call it aesthetic ? no, it’s because we live in the middle of the country and every once the while the ins the outside tries to come inside and My goodness, yes, so we’ve done a much better job of that recently, but it just is better. We also can get

Tonya Kubo (04:31)

I was gonna say you have to keep out the critters!

Kathi Lipp (04:42)

Extreme temperature differentials and so it just makes sense so but also storing like your flour or your sugar or Your brown sugar those kind of things so we’ve got long-term pantry storage, and then we have fridge storage So I’m thinking like last night. I made a Cucumber salad in like an Italian dressing that tastes better after it sat overnight and so

? That went into fridge storage Leftovers go into fridge storage now if it’s up to Roger it might go into a ziplock bag because deciding on on The storage even though it really is pretty well laid out is just too much for him So I tend to put be the person who puts away all of the leftovers, but I that’s really important What are you going to keep your leftovers in? Because you want to be able to eat your leftovers when you come back to them

Tonya Kubo (05:41)

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (05:41)

And then

the third segment is food to go storage, which isn’t a huge category for the Lipp family. I’m guessing it might be a bigger category for the Kubo family. If you’re packing lunches. Now, where it is a category for us is we often bring food to neighbors or to my mom. And then ? also when we go to town, you know, we are usually driving for an hour and 15 minutes before we get somewhere. And Roger’s going to need a little snack.

Tonya Kubo (05:52)

Yeah.

Yup.

Kathi Lipp (06:11)

? He’s just gonna need a little something to nosh on and of course I will join him in that. those are the categories we’re talking about. So ? I wanna talk about long-term pantry storage first. ? I really believe that getting the right storage, it helps you keep track of what you have. Now, is your storage see-through or is it opaque?

Tonya Kubo (06:11)

Yeah.

Mm-hmm.

? most of my storage is see-through.

Kathi Lipp (06:40)

Okay, I feel like that is a huge bonus, at least for us to say, this is actually what we have instead of opening it up and also. Yeah.

Tonya Kubo (06:42)

Mm-hmm.

Yes, because like I have a flour

bucket. So you know, because I have sourdough and I use a high gluten flour to feed my sourdough. So that is in an opaque round bucket. And then our backup rice is also in an opaque round bucket. And there is nothing worse than opening that up and thinking it’s like half to three fourths full and finding out, no, no, no, my friend, you are wrong.

Kathi Lipp (06:58)

Yes.

Okay.

How?

Right. You’re not making sourdough tonight. What were you thinking? You thought you were going to have rice with that orange chicken? I think not. Yeah. No, I have to have everything see through. In fact, I this will be a totally different episode. But Roger just Roger makes very few decrees in our family. ? He makes very few like, but he said we will never and I mean never buy an opaque storage container again because we are

Tonya Kubo (07:20)

Mm-mm. Mm-mm.

Mm-hmm

Yeah.

Kathi Lipp (07:43)

currently going through our attic and cleaning things out and I agree it’s Have mercy. Okay. I also love a see-through container because it it avoids duplication you know what you have you can see what you have and then For me it makes meal planning quicker and more efficient because like I need to know are we running low on rice?

Tonya Kubo (07:48)

And every box is a mystery.

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (08:10)

And if we are, we have rice probably three times a week, which may pale in comparison to the Kubo household, but very few others. And ? I need to know when we’re running low because it’s not go down to 7-Eleven. It’s it’s hitch up the mule team.

Tonya Kubo (08:14)

Mm-hmm.

Yes. Well,

and you know, we live within walking distance of a grocery store, but we have finally bitten the bullet and decided we are the buy rice 25 pounds at a time family.

Kathi Lipp (08:38)

? Costco does this for a reason. They love us and they want good things for us. Okay, I wanna talk some best practices. So ? I believe deeply for all storage containers, square and stackable. ? Because square takes up less space than round because it can fit together better. And then stackable,

Tonya Kubo (08:42)

Yes.

Mm-hmm.

Yes.

Kathi Lipp (09:07)

This is especially for like our fridge storage and things like that. There is nothing worse than having containers that don’t sit well together. I don’t know anybody’s house who has enough space for that. I really don’t. ? How do you label your containers?

Tonya Kubo (09:10)

Mm-hmm.

Yeah.

No.

Well, if they’re see-through, I usually can just see what they are. That’s part of the beauty of having transparent storage is you don’t have to label. ? You know, I love a good label maker because you taught me that and I don’t have great handwriting, so it’s just nice to use a label maker. But for some reason, my label maker seems to always end up at Mr. Kubo’s classroom. And so I frequently can’t use my label maker in my home.

Kathi Lipp (09:31)

Okay.

Yeah, yes

I don’t either.

?

Tonya Kubo (09:55)

I get to use my label maker every summer because he remembers to bring it home at the end of the school year. But I don’t get it.

Kathi Lipp (10:01)

So you’ve got two,

two and a half months to make all your labels for the year. my goodness.

Tonya Kubo (10:04)

I just keep my

sticky notes with all the things I want to label and then come June 6th get to label stuff.

Kathi Lipp (10:09)

My goodness Label everything. my goodness

now. I will say Yes, I think you can see most of the stuff, but I have to label things like flour Are apparently I collect rice I had no idea but I was looking at my rice collection I have about seven different kinds of rice and I want to make sure I’m using the right rice. I know I’m ridiculous you guys but I I

Tonya Kubo (10:19)

Mm-hmm.

hahahaha

Kathi Lipp (10:39)

got a new labeler ? because my other one died and it’s called Kata symbol. I’m holding it up, yes, right there. And can you see that?

Tonya Kubo (10:46)

Let me see. want to see. Hold on. I have to move a thing.

Ooh, it’s so nice and like compact.

Kathi Lipp (10:53)

Yes,

it’s really nice and it is Bluetooth to your phone. So you type on your phone and it spits it out. ? it makes me very, happy. Very, very happy. So yes, I will.

Tonya Kubo (11:08)

I’m adding that to my list of things I want, but I will

hide it. It’s small enough to hide. See, my other one’s not small enough to hide. This is small enough to hide. And then maybe it can actually be my label maker.

Kathi Lipp (11:16)

Uhhh

I love

that. I love a good plan for you, my friend. Okay. Now, um, I, so I believe in labeling and expiration dates and you know, some things I don’t worry so much. We go in through enough flour. We go through enough rice that we’re not going to worry about that. But if I am worried about it, I am going to put it on there, whether it’s an official label or maybe I’m just going to write it on there with like, um, blue painters tape or something like that, because I am not.

Tonya Kubo (11:23)

Hahaha

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (11:50)

making my storage pretty for other people. mean, it this is we’re getting it done friends. And then my, my long term pantry storage, I like to categorize it together. Like I’m putting baking things together and I’m putting snack items together and canned goods and grains. Like I, and I know what area to go to in order to do that. And we’ve talked about this in some other episodes. They’re also

Tonya Kubo (11:53)

Yeah.

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (12:18)

It’s great to have those containers, but it’s also good to have things like risers so that if you have smaller containers towards the back, you can see those. And then, of course, I will always mention these until the day I die, the pullout shelves. The pullout shelves, I will list all of this, you guys. And at the end of the episode, we’re going to talk about my favorite kind of storage. As you know,

Tonya Kubo (12:23)

Mm-hmm.

Yes, yes.

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (12:44)

I am the pied piper of storage that the Kubos will just follow along afterwards. But I feel like I’ve done the research and we’re gonna be able to do that. Okay, I wanna mention some things about just some tips for this. ? FIFO, we all know the acronym FIFO, first in, first out. So if you are…

Tonya Kubo (12:46)

Hahahaha

Kathi Lipp (13:10)

creating the storage and you have more than one container, make sure you’re using up your first container first and airtight. I think that’s the most important thing. ? What special considerations do you have for like temperature and stuff at your house? is, cause it gets pretty hot there, right?

Tonya Kubo (13:28)

It does. so our challenge, of course, so we don’t have a pantry. So we have like two cabinets and one cabinet gets really hot. It’s just that’s where the kitchen like sunshine comes through. And so that one is like I keep cold cereal there. I keep things that aren’t going to go bad faster if they get the sun beating down.

Kathi Lipp (13:37)

Yeah, right.

Mm-hmm.

Right.

Yeah, so something to consider friends if you live in a place where ? you’re getting those big bags of flour and things like that one, know, Tonya is right. Don’t be storing that in the hottest place ? because, know, It can change things. She’s storing stuff like cereal and things that is going to get eaten more rapidly. But also a good practice is to freeze

that rice, freeze that flour at least overnight so that if there are any what we’ll call wee beasties in it, you’re gonna kill those off.

Tonya Kubo (14:19)

Mm-hmm.

I was gonna say,

that’s why I don’t want my flour where it gets hot is I don’t want the wee beasties to come out and play.

Kathi Lipp (14:30)

Yes, right. Yes, to grow.

Yep, exactly. Okay, guys, we’re going to take a quick break and then we’re going to come back and we’re going to talk about fridge storage. So you’re not going to want to miss that. We’ll be right back.

Okay friends, it’s time to get into your fridge. ? I love again a square container. I love a square container because I feel like that’s more stackable and clear. I think in the fridge, it’s super important that you have clear containers because only things that are known and seen will be eaten. Yeah. And also if something’s gone a little off, you want to make sure that you’re able to see that.

Now, I stack my clean containers in a drawer and I’ve got, I’ll add a picture of that drawer so you can see how I’ve organized it, but I’ve also bought some organizers to, ? how do I wanna say this? Contain the lids. Lids are an important thing, right? So I’m going to show you my storage drawer, which feels very intimate. I don’t know why, it just does. But I’m.

Tonya Kubo (15:35)

Yeah, that’s hard.

I was like, I’m not

showing them my storage drawer, Kathi.

Kathi Lipp (15:46)

That’s okay,

I will take the bullet for both of us. But I want you to see how I’ve stacked the lids in there too, to maybe give you some ideas. And I’ll put a link to the kind of drawer dividers and things that we use in there. Because I feel like for the first time in my adult life, it’s working. It’s taken 57 years, but we’re here. ? Yes. And it’s also important that things have a tight seal.

Tonya Kubo (15:54)

Mm-hmm.

Mmm. ?

Yay!

Kathi Lipp (16:17)

because you don’t ? want any odors getting out or coming in. So that’s really, really important. I also tend to have designations within my refrigerator of like the top shelf is leftovers and ready to eat items, middle shelf, dairy and frequently used item, bottom shelf, more like raw meat, that kind of stuff. And then I have a crisper drawer and a cheese drawer. I love my cheese drawer, not gonna lie.

Tonya Kubo (16:17)

Mm-hmm.

Me too,

I have a cheese drawer. It’s my favorite part of the fridge.

Kathi Lipp (16:46)

It’s it’s the best isn’t it if I

it acknowledges our love and passion for cheese I love that so much the other thing that I’ve done in the past is have bins for similar items so a couple of things you might want to think about like if you’re gonna be creating a charcuterie tray just having a bin in the fridge that you can throw all that into and pull out or a Condiment bin if that you know depending every refrigerator is like a fingerprint

Tonya Kubo (17:16)

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (17:16)

It’s very

different than somebody else’s fridge and how often and where you want to find stuff. I think that that’s very individual as well.

Tonya Kubo (17:24)

Yeah, well, and it also depends on life circumstances. Like when the girls were littler, so I’m thinking like when Abby was in preschool, Lily was in early elementary school, we had bins in the bottom shelf of the fridge that had the snacks that they could grab and go with whatever they needed, right? So like your like package string cheese, your little apple slices, like all of that. And then they had a lot of freedom at snack time because they knew which bin had what.

Kathi Lipp (17:39)

Mm-hmm. Right.

Yeah.

Yeah, ? I love that so much.

Yes, I feel like every, I don’t know, five years, my refrigerator goes through a metamorphosis and things just have to be in different places than they’ve been before. I just have to, you have to make it your own. And I think part of making it your own, one customization, maybe some containers, like kids know, hey, here are the snacks you can have anytime. And here are the snacks you can have once an afternoon.

Tonya Kubo (18:11)

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (18:25)

And those are in two different containers. We’ve got the red and the yellow or the green and the red. There we go. And then, ? but also having those clear containers for leftovers helps me meal plan better. I know what’s there. I’m like, that’s right. I forgot I’ve got that potato salad leftover from when we did barbecue the other day. And now I’m going to be inspired to barbecue something else.

Tonya Kubo (18:30)

Yeah.

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (18:51)

I also am a big believer in labeling those leftovers with the date. I just have blue painters tape. It’s nothing fancy. It’s not aesthetic, but it works. ? I know some people, I don’t do this, but some people keep a small dry erase board on the fridge door to track leftovers and expiration dates. That seems next level. But if you’re cooking, if you’re cooking for more than a few people, that might be really, really important. And

Tonya Kubo (19:13)

Yeah

Kathi Lipp (19:20)

As I’m spending, I’m trying to spend less money on groceries, that might become something, that might be something I aspire to one day. Is there a way that you clean out your fridge on a regular basis?

Tonya Kubo (19:24)

Mm-hmm.

Well, for us, we make soup on the weekends, which is how we use up leftover meats and veggies and any veggies that are about to go bad. That’s our favorite thing. I have, again, because I have kids, I do the meal plan on the fridge. so I generally know if there’s rice in the fridge, the rice came from Tuesday night. If there’s potatoes, the potatoes were from Monday. I don’t need to actually mark the leftover container.

Kathi Lipp (19:41)

Love that.

Mm-hmm.

You’ve got an archeological dig going on that will really, really help. I love that. Okay. And then let’s go to our third segment, food to go storage. ? I, I love making sure that I have containers. One, I don’t know if this is an issue in your home, but I send containers and I say, go with God. Like if I don’t get those containers back, I’m not sending my

Tonya Kubo (20:22)

Hahaha!

Kathi Lipp (20:28)

$8 a pop clear good containers out ? What what kind of to-go containers are the Kubo’s using?

Tonya Kubo (20:30)

Hmm.

Yeah, so Brian prefers to use like the gladware, you know, so that’s the it’s disposable, but it’s meant to go through multiple uses. Because like you said, if it doesn’t come back, especially with the girls lunches, it’s like, OK, if they leave it or what usually happens is it gets left in the backpack in the car over the weekend. Brian likes to just throw the whole container away. Just say, you know what? We have sacrificed this to the microbial gods. So.

Kathi Lipp (20:46)

Right.

Yeah.

Right, right.

Right.

Tonya Kubo (21:06)

That’s his preference. I have always preferred the metal containers, but good golly, Kathi, they are such a beast to clean. And so I’ve just had to say, you know what? Forget it.

Kathi Lipp (21:16)

How are they, really?

For this stage in my life, no. Yeah. ? I love these kind of containers because sometimes what I’ll do is I’ll just prep a bunch of meals and just stick them in there and I can bring them to our neighbor. We can eat them. They’re ready to go. ? I really do feel like they encourage healthier eating on the go. Like I’ll make our little snack packs in there or something like that. It’s better than going to Carl’s Jr.

Tonya Kubo (21:23)

No.

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (21:48)

at least budget-wise, health-wise. And I like the multi-container. What do I want to say? Yes, I like that. Now, some people like to have a bunch of different containers. ? You know, you do what floats your boat. Now, when I’m bringing food to other people, I will sometimes do that because I don’t want to put like the dip.

Tonya Kubo (21:58)

Like multi-compartment.

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (22:16)

Like if I’m making a yogurt dip, I don’t want to put that in the same ? container that a the hummus at like I don’t want them to have to heat things up. So I don’t want them to have to heat up the meat that kind of thing. So I like multi-purpose containers that are microwave safe, freezer safe, leak proof. We don’t normally heat stuff up in plastic, but I’m also not ? religious about it. ? But they do have to stack.

Tonya Kubo (22:16)

Mm-hmm.

Yeah.

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (22:46)

Like

if they don’t stack, it’s not happening. I’m pitching them. They’re out the door. And I love like the bento box kind of that makes me super, super happy. The other thing I haven’t had much experience with and I wonder if you have is reusable bags. I mean, I know we all know about, you know, washing out a Ziploc, but have you used any of like the beeswax or any of that kind of stuff?

Tonya Kubo (23:10)

Kathi, if it exists, I have used it. Yes, I did. I did the beeswax fabric ? sandwich wraps for a while. I’ve done reusable. Yeah, we’ve done the reusable, like resealable bags. We’ve done all of it. And, you know, it’s like everything works to some extent if it works for your family. Right. So the beeswax stuff.

Kathi Lipp (23:12)

I know, you’re an experimenter, yes.

Right, right. Sometimes you just have to try.

Tonya Kubo (23:37)

Yeah, and this, like the beeswax to wrap a sandwich isn’t bad, but they don’t last forever. So you do have to replace them. And then when they stop being sticky, you just have to be prepared that there are consequences to that action.

Kathi Lipp (23:44)

Mm-hmm.

Mmm.

Yeah, I will say one thing. We’re gonna get into our next segment and tell you, I’m gonna tell you some of the things I recommend. But can I tell you, this is a category where my millennial-ish kids love when I buy them something. They love a food container. They love a beeswax. Like, it’s the practical thing that they may already have.

Tonya Kubo (24:09)

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (24:21)

but it’s in a different format. And if you’re trying to think of something, because they don’t want to be using the Ziploc bags, they don’t want to do any of that stuff. But also those glass containers are pretty heavy to take to school or work.

Tonya Kubo (24:26)

Mm-hmm.

Yeah, well, that’s the problem, right? Is glass and metal are heavier. ? nowadays, especially like for school age kids, you used to be able to just put your lunch like by the door of the classroom. Now they expect the lunch to be in the backpack all day. So it’s a lot for the kid to carry on their back. But what I was going to say is if you don’t have compartmentalized containers, if you don’t have the bento box, know, the silicone cupcake holders, like cupcake wrappers.

Kathi Lipp (24:47)

? interesting. Yeah.

Yeah, great idea.

Tonya Kubo (25:01)

Those are something that

I use when I do, I tell Abby that I’m taking, I’m sending her with mini charcuterie. ? I used to call them like mom lunchables, but it’s whatever word it takes, but you can put the stuff in those and then they can pull it out if they need to heat something up.

Kathi Lipp (25:08)

Mm-hmm.

Yes. Right.

I love it. And is she is she a lunchbox accessory bringer homer?

Tonya Kubo (25:26)

? no. No. That would be nice though. One day.

Kathi Lipp (25:28)

Okay, okay. Yeah,

you know, some days. ? Okay, where are you storing all this stuff in your tiny petite kitchen?

Tonya Kubo (25:38)

Yeah, so we just have one cabinet that has two shelves that’s devoted to kind of all of this stuff and the bakeware.

Kathi Lipp (25:46)

Yeah So guys my number one recommendation for this is The stuff you’re not using donate it or throw it away Like you’re never going to use it more. You’re gonna buy stuff to replace What you if you lose what you love, but I I kept things for way too long I also have Something like I said when i’m giving things to other people. It’s the I don’t care if it comes home

Tonya Kubo (25:54)

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (26:15)

And

so one of the things I’ve done for that is ? I’ve bought some lower cost ones and we’ll talk about that in our next segment. Okay, Tonya, we’re gonna take a quick break. We’re gonna come back and I’m gonna tell you my favorite food storage brands and why I love them. This is my own mini version of Wirecutter. These are the things I love and I have tested and I can’t wait to talk to you about them. So guys, we’ll be right back.

Okay guys, we are back and I’m gonna tell you these are the things that have earned a place in my clutter free home and I’m just gonna tell you my favorite brands will link them in the show notes So if you want to check them out on Amazon or other places you’re able to do that So my favorite why can’t you the right container matters? These things are not cheap. Let’s be really honest. ? I I love a good container

Tonya Kubo (27:18)

True.

Kathi Lipp (27:23)

But when I went to go order my long-term pantry storage containers, I said, yeah, I’ll be doing that in three months once I saved up, because that’s how not cheap they were. But I’m glad I invested, because they look better, they seal better, and all of that. ? I want something that’s durable, stackable, and versatile. ? I also like to be able to wash those out in my…

Tonya Kubo (27:35)

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (27:53)

dishwasher and so I will tell you you have to turn your heater off and I am not guaranteeing that any of these things are going to be ? Dishwasher safe for you, but I’ve come to a place where I’m using hot water in my dishwasher But turning the heater element off so that it’s not melting things because I have melted and I didn’t cry but I did feel tears forming in my eyes

Tonya Kubo (28:14)

Hmm.

Yeah.

Kathi Lipp (28:22)

So let me tell you my three favorites. So this is for the long-term pantry storage I love the OXO good grips pop containers. Do you know what I’m talking about Tonya? I

Tonya Kubo (28:35)

Of course I have them because I tried them out at your house and so I have them at my house now. This is

going to be a very short segment for us, Kathi, because you’re going be like, hey, Tonya, have you heard of these? I’m like, yes, actually I have. I own them.

Kathi Lipp (28:45)

Okay, the

the third one may be a surprise for you the third one Okay, so because I don’t know that I’ve ever shared those with you. Yeah guys, you’ve probably seen these they’re clear containers I have them in both my ? I have them in white and in like stainless steel they look great and They are durable in the dishwasher again with the heater element off

Tonya Kubo (28:49)

Okay.

Kathi Lipp (29:15)

and they keep things fresh. And I don’t have a ton of storage. Maybe other people might think, you have a ton of storage, Kathi. For me, it doesn’t feel like a ton of storage. So I need to use that storage space as smartly as possible. And these are all squares or rectangles, and they are great. And you like them as well, right? I know you have them, you like them. You’re not feeling like you wanna try something different.

Tonya Kubo (29:36)

Yep, I do, I do.

No, but I will say that, you know, because they do that vacuum kind of seal thing, but you can’t overfill your container. So we’ve had some issues with the cinnamon toast crunch not being willing to seal, which just means everybody eats cinnamon toast crunch for dinner. Really is what happens. We have to make the space.

Kathi Lipp (29:46)

Yes. Yes.

It’s so true. Yes.

Yes, I love that. I love that plan. It’s a use it up plan. And I label those again with my little labeler. I love them. Okay, my fridge storage are the Rubbermaid Brilliance food storage containers. So these are clear on top clear on the sides. And they have like gray handles, they have a gasket all the way around. So when you press it down, it seals and then they have ?

Handles on both sides that click down and I have dropped those on the floor Not a problem. They do not leak. They do not let odors in or out. So Love me some of those ? Do you have those as well Tonya?

Tonya Kubo (30:45)

I do. ? My Kubo girls though are hard on things. So they have managed to like get the sides those like tabs. They can break those off. And so you do have to be careful. But I find like that wasn’t a problem on the ones that I used exclusively. I’m just gonna say. Not that I blame people. I’m just saying I did not have that challenge.

Kathi Lipp (30:50)

?

? yeah.

Mmm, yeah.

They have different dexterity than people our age. And you know what? Here’s the thing is I get older, I’m going to get back into a dropping stage. So, you know, everything that is new goes around again. I love these. Again, neither of these I’m talking about are cheap. I’m just admitting it, guys. But I’ve also not wanted to rebuy, rebuy, rebuy, rebuy. And I feel like they’re such an investment because they keep the food longer. And so I’m not throwing food away.

Tonya Kubo (31:10)

Hahaha

Yeah.

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (31:36)

And so I use these for Roger’s chips for crackers all sorts of things. They keep things that I like a crunch and you know when your cinnamon toast crunch doesn’t have a crunch anymore It’s not as enjoyable. I’m not gonna lie Okay, so my favorite thing that I do for on the go storage. It’s a ? A brand called bent go so it’s like bento but been good. you’ve used it before Tonya

Tonya Kubo (31:50)

Mm-hmm.

Yeah, for lunch containers for the girls.

Kathi Lipp (32:06)

I love their stuff. I love it.

Tonya Kubo (32:08)

Yeah, it’s really,

really nice, except that I not going to lie, I threw an adult size temper tantrum when they didn’t come home for summer break last year. Because they’re they’re like a little too pricey for me to want to replace twice a year.

Kathi Lipp (32:17)

I don’t blame you. Okay.

Yeah, okay. So the ones I bought and let me know if these are the same. It’s a 20 20 pack now when they say a 20 pack what they mean Is the bottom of the container and the top so you’re getting 10 units? and so So if you’re expecting 20 of these it’s not going to happen guys, but so 10 units for $14, excuse me

Tonya Kubo (32:40)

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (32:52)

It comes out to be about a $1.40 apiece, I think.

Tonya Kubo (32:55)

? that’s

a really good deal. What we got was they were specific for school lunches. And so it was the bottom, the top, was some accessories for like dipping sauces and then like a, a tote and a drink.

Kathi Lipp (33:00)

Okay.

Okay, so

here’s what I’m imagining because mine you would not want these in a backpack if it had like spaghetti or Something a little bit wet in it. So I I think bento makes a lot of different things So you probably have the foo foo shishi ones and these I got I actually got these at Sam’s Club ? in a pack some of them were just one compartment some of them were two compartments and

Tonya Kubo (33:14)

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (33:37)

? Than three compartments and ? and Tonya Tonya hold up what you’ve got there I know you were trying to you were trying to be sneaky

Tonya Kubo (33:43)

Oh, well, I was like, hold on. was trying to

show you something and then it was like big pop over ad that just keeps happening on my thing. But there we go. Yes, it says claim your $10 off. I would really like it if it would let me exit. OK, well, there you go. So that little like $46 one.

Kathi Lipp (33:53)

Okay.

But you found a discount.

Nice.

Okay. ? nice! Okay.

Tonya Kubo (34:12)

is what we had.

Kathi Lipp (34:12)

Okay. And so

this is from the actual company. So we will put the Amazon link and the Bintco ? link in there as well. Cause we love to save a little cash. love that. Yeah. This is perfect for meal prep, lunches, snacks, you guys, if you’re taking food to work or, you know, sending it off to a friend, something like that. I think that these would be great. ? If you know somebody who has had a baby and you’re bringing dinner.

Tonya Kubo (34:24)

I love saving cash.

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (34:42)

And to do ? a few of these for family members so everybody can have their own. Beautiful, beautiful. And we also use them for like, we’ll do a snack-cuterie. So like here’s a few crackers, here’s some ? grapes or orange slices, that kind of thing. It makes us really happy. Snackle box, I’ve seen that before. It’s so cute. Choosing the right container really does help simplify this.

Tonya Kubo (34:55)

Mm-hmm.

We call that a snackle box.

Kathi Lipp (35:12)

You’re not spending and guys, okay This is gonna be my last thing and now I know some of you are gonna write me and say Kathi must be nice to have all the money. I get it Sometimes we are able to buy ourselves out of solution But can I tell you one of the best things I’ve ever done was get rid of all my random Tupperware rubber made Bing-bob-boom ? Because it was frustrating me so much and I just went all in

Tonya Kubo (35:39)

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (35:41)

on this Rubbermaid Brilliance. It made all the difference in the world. I am not constantly hunting for the right ? lid to the right thing. It just works. ? I hope this episode’s given you some practical tips, inspiration to organize your food storage. Guys, if you’ve enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe wherever you love to listen to podcasts or share it with a friend who could use a little help in the kitchen.

Don’t forget to tune in next time. We want you to be able to organize your spaces without feeling overwhelmed. That is our goal here. Thanks so much for hanging out with us. You’ve been listening to Clutter-Free Academy. I’m Kathi Lipp. Now, go create the clutter-free life you’ve always wanted to live.

#672 – From Pantry to Plate: The Secret to Smart Food Storage

Jun 3, 2025 | Clutter Free, Clutter Free Home, Clutter Free Podcast, Foodie Friday, Home, Kitchen, Organizing, Overwhelmed, Podcast

Join Kathi Lipp and Tonya Kubo in this episode of Clutter-Free Academy as they tackle the often overwhelming world of food storage. Whether you’re struggling with long-term pantry organization, fridge chaos, containers for on the go or finding the right containers for...

#671 – Sentimental Clutter: Finding Freedom in Letting Go

May 27, 2025 | Clutter Free, Clutter Free Home, Clutter Free Podcast, Home, Organizing, Overwhelmed, Podcast, Relationships

Kathi Lipp returns with Tonya Kubo and Tenneil Register to address a common challenge faced by those on the clutter-free journey: sentimental items. In this insightful episode, the trio tackles the emotional weight of inherited belongings and the guilt that often...

#670 – Emotional Decluttering: A Journey Through Sentimental Keepsakes

May 20, 2025 | Clutter Free, Clutter Free Home, Clutter Free Podcast, Home, Mental Load, Organizing, Overwhelmed, Podcast, tips and ideas

In this episode of Clutter Free Academy, Kathi Lipp is joined by clutter experts Tonya Kubo and Tenneil Register for the second part of their heartfelt discussion on sentimental items. Discover the emotions that often lead us to hold onto things we neither love nor...

Kathi Lipp’s Clutter Free Academy Facebook Group

#671 – Sentimental Clutter: Finding Freedom in Letting Go

by Clutter Free Academy Team | May 27, 2025 | Clutter Free, Clutter Free Home, Clutter Free Podcast, Home, Organizing, Overwhelmed, Podcast, Relationships | 0 comments

#671 – Sentimental Clutter: Finding Freedom in Letting Go

Listen Now

Kathi Lipp returns with Tonya Kubo and Tenneil Register to address a common challenge faced by those on the clutter-free journey: sentimental items. In this insightful episode, the trio tackles the emotional weight of inherited belongings and the guilt that often accompanies letting go. Through personal stories and heartfelt advice, listeners will find encouragement and practical ideas for memorializing loved ones without drowning in clutter. Tonya and Tenneil offer creative solutions and emphasize that true memories don’t reside in things but in the stories and connections we cherish. Tune in to gain a fresh perspective on organizing keepsakes that celebrate the lives of those we’ve loved and lost.

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Sabbath Soup: Weekly Menus and Rhythms to Make Space for a Day of Rest

Kathi Lipp gives readers an easy-to-follow process for meal planning and prep, so that they can enjoy a full day each week of real rest and refreshment.

Could you use a break from cooking (and everything else) once a week? Not only is rest vital for your mind and body, it’s good for your soul too. God designed us to enter into Sabbath rest one day per week, but as you know, meals still need to be made. Your family still needs to be fed.

Sabbath Soup includes convenient, seasonal meal plans that take the guesswork out of shopping and cooking. More than just a collection of delicious recipes—including main dishes, breads, breakfasts, desserts, salads, sides, and yes, soups—this is your guide to establishing a weekly rhythm and routine of meal planning and prep that allows you to have a true day off.

Do something good for your soul and experience the peace that comes with a full day dedicated to spending time with God, family, and friends. Savor your Sabbath as you proudly proclaim, “Soup’s on!”

Order your copy of Sabbath Soup: Weekly Menus and Rhythms to Make Space for a Day of Rest here.

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Meet Our Co-Host

Tonya Kubo

Tonya Kubo is the illustrious and fearless leader of Kathi Lipp’s Clutter Free Academy Facebook group and the Clutter Free for Life membership program. A professional community strategist, she believes everyone deserves to have a place online where they feel like they belong. Raised by a hoarder, Tonya knows firsthand the pain and isolation that comes from living in conditions others don’t understand. She wants better for her family and her cluttery peeps, which is why she is passionate about the compassionate slow-and-steady approach that makes Clutter Free unique. She lives in the heart of California with her husband, Brian, their two spirited daughters, and one very tolerant cat. Visit tonyakubo.com to find out more about her community work, or email her at tonya@kathilipp.org to discuss the Clutter Free Academy podcast and programs.

Meet Our Co-Host

Tenneil Register

Tenneil Register can be found creating, repurposing, decorating, gardening and welcoming guests to their reclaimed barn storefront. She and her husband, Cowboy, established rural roots for their blended family of 7 in their DIY ranch home in Iowa. Connect with her on Instagram for practical ideas to reclaim your home.

Transcript

Kathi Lipp (00:09)

Hey friends, welcome to clutter free Academy where our goal is to help you take small doable steps every day to live with less clutter and more life and we are back here for our three part series of sentimental items because Tonya Tonya Tenneil and I have all talked about this recently where when Tonya you were doing the clutter free Bible study and you said that people were really struggling with their sentimental items. Is that correct?

Tonya Kubo (00:36)

Yeah, that is 100

% correct.

Kathi Lipp (00:40)

Was it more their own stuff, their kid’s stuff, or stuff that has maybe been passed down from people that they love? All the above. Okay, we’re not doing any special treatment for anybody. It’s just all the things. Yeah, you know, all three of us have had to go through this at one point or another. I’ve lost my dad. Tonya, you’ve lost your mom. And, Tenille, you lost a sibling recently. And so…

Tonya Kubo (00:48)

All of the above. Yeah.

Kathi Lipp (01:09)

? We are all coming to this with some practical Application and you know, Tonya, I’ve never really thought about this before But I’m just gonna get and this wasn’t something I prepped for the show But you know, I don’t think you care. You’ll let me come at you. Is it different? I wonder because you and I have both lost a hoarder as I just wonder

Tonya Kubo (01:34)

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (01:38)

I have not personally, like, but you know, my mom’s not a hoarder, my dad was. I haven’t been able to compare and contrast that. That is not your situation either. Do you think that there’s a different level of guilt or do you think there’s a different level? I don’t know. I’m just, I’m, you can tell I’m exploring this in my brain in real life time, but I always know you have such good wisdom. What’s your immediate thought to this?

Tonya Kubo (02:01)

Yeah.

It is a different type of hard and let me I’ll give you the sort of what I have come to because you’re right I don’t have the personal experience of Having to clean up after one relative who was a hoarder and one who wasn’t but you know Brian lost his dad before we met and ? Because I am so closely connected to our Clutter Free community, right? I talked to them a lot about what they’re dealing with and so the difference is

Kathi Lipp (02:10)

Yeah.

Tonya Kubo (02:35)

is the first difference that’s a big one for those of us with a hoarding background is the volume we have to manage when our loved one dies. There’s a volume that nobody else can ever understand that we go through. So there’s that piece that makes it different. But in terms of the sentimental items, those of us, depending on where our loved one was on the hoarding spectrum,

Kathi Lipp (02:44)

Yeah. ? amen. Yeah. Yeah.

Tonya Kubo (03:04)

In some cases, is actually there is a large volume of stuff that is usable, good condition, yada, yada, yada. And then on, you in my mother’s case, there was actually very, very little that was usable. I mean, so much had just been destroyed and eaten away and rotted. So that’s different. So there’s that piece.

Kathi Lipp (03:27)

Yeah.

Tonya Kubo (03:30)

that makes it different. And then the other that I would say is our folks who don’t come from a hoarding background, a lot of times part of why the sentimental items are such a struggle is because they have these very acute memories of the sacrifice that their parent or their sibling went through to keep this stuff over the years. And they feel like they are a bad daughter, bad son, bad sister, bad whatever to not

Kathi Lipp (03:50)

Yeah.

Tonya Kubo (03:59)

have the energy, the time, or even the desire to go through that same level of sacrifice.

Kathi Lipp (04:04)

Yeah, you know, it’s very interesting. I think ? not always, but many times this does fall to the oldest daughter. And I’m an oldest daughter. Tonya, you’re an old you’re you’re only child. So oldest, you’re all the thing. You’re you’re the middle of the youngest. Tenneil I don’t know. I know you have a sister. Where do you fall?

Tonya Kubo (04:20)

I’m all the things, all the things over here.

Tenneil (04:28)

Yeah, so I’m the second in my overall family, but I am also the oldest in some ways.

Tonya Kubo (04:35)

Well, and I would say it’s being the oldest daughter and it also tends to fall to the daughter who lives the closest.

Kathi Lipp (04:44)

Yes, absolutely. Yeah.

Tenneil (04:44)

That’s where I have

been a lot of times. Yeah.

Tonya Kubo (04:49)

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (04:50)

Yeah, the one who’s closest. Well, this is part of the reason that we have ? our clutter-free creative counselor, Tenille Register here, who has walked this road, but also has great ideas for us to honor the loved ones with meaning and intention. And you’ve done some really beautiful things in your own life. So ? we’re very grateful you’re here, Tenille.

Tonya Kubo (04:53)

Mm-hmm.

Tenneil (05:15)

I’m glad to be here.

Kathi Lipp (05:18)

Yeah, okay. So

here’s the first thing I want to talk about is the emotional weight of inherited items. ? Because they do have a weight to them, right? We get things, whether sometimes they are passed down, sometimes they are left behind. ? Tonya, I have to imagine that a lot of your stuff as with my stuff, it wasn’t so much passed down to me. There wasn’t intention with it being passed down.

Tonya Kubo (05:46)

Mm-mm.

Kathi Lipp (05:47)

It was more of like, well, there’s their stuff. Same for you. Yeah. OK. Yeah. And so ? I think there was a real issue for me not knowing what my dad wanted done with some of these things and, you know, not thinking to ask those questions until he really couldn’t answer it. ? You know what? Where does that guilt come from, Tonya? When

Tonya Kubo (05:51)

Yep, exactly.

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (06:14)

where things that haven’t been specifically passed down to us and we’re trying to sort through all this stuff. What do you think is running through people’s heads with that guilt?

Tonya Kubo (06:23)

Well, I think if it hasn’t been intentionally passed down, right? I mean, first of all, there’s this belief that there must have been a reason for them keeping it. And because I don’t know the reason, I can’t make the right decision on what to do with it. That’s a big one. Another piece of guilt is, you know, my, like what I’ve heard a lot in our group is my parents had such meager circumstances.

Kathi Lipp (06:33)

Mmm.

Tonya Kubo (06:50)

but they made a point to move this through three different houses. So who am I to get rid of it? And so there’s that, that’s a heavy weight, right? Because what you’re really doing is you’re carrying the burden of your parents decision-making there. And like though you can make a different decision, some people don’t feel free to make the different decision. And then the other piece, and I go back to this, nobody has said this in the group recently, but it…

Kathi Lipp (06:50)

Mm-hmm.

Yeah.

Hmm.

Mm-hmm. Yeah.

Tonya Kubo (07:19)

was it came from a deep place of pain. And I think that just because people haven’t said it out loud doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist. They actually believe what they do with the item is akin to what they do to the person. And so I have heard things like to get rid of my brother’s sweaters would be to kill him all over again.

Kathi Lipp (07:34)

Yeah.

my gosh, okay, that’s deep. Yeah. Yeah.

Tonya Kubo (07:42)

Like, but that is the depth of the feeling. And I’ve heard that several times.

Like when I was doing my free sale and I was getting rid of this angel collection I had, I’ve talked about the angel collection for years, people were like, that is like you are destroying the generosity of every person who gave that, gave one of those angels to you.

Kathi Lipp (07:54)

Yeah.

?

Tonya Kubo (08:06)

And but the thing is, is I don’t get offended, right? Because I know the pain that that is coming from. They’re not they’re projecting their own hurt, their own tenderness onto me. And I don’t have to accept that. But I mean, this is this is how cluttery people feel many times that keeps them holding on to things that they don’t even really.

Kathi Lipp (08:15)

Yes.

Right, absolutely. You know, it’s so interesting. Am I erasing that person if I get rid of this item? And you know, it’s very interesting to me because my kids only know my grandparents through items. You know, I think, you know, my youngest grandparent died when my son was, you know, probably five and didn’t live anywhere near us. And so, you know, but we have to

Tonya Kubo (08:49)

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (09:02)

Curate that because as much as we don’t want clutter our kids Do not want clutter all my kids in their 30s like now I will say that my girls have wanted some very specific things like one of my girls like If you ever get rid of that purple chair, I’ll take that purple chair and she said that to me like eight times I’m like, know what? I think you’re gonna enjoy this purple chair more than I will and like, you know some things that were super practical but

Tonya Kubo (09:09)

Mm-hmm.

Yeah.

Kathi Lipp (09:31)

They don’t want stuff from their great grandparents that they’ve never met. That’s not how they are living. I’m holding onto a couple of things from my grandfather to my son, but they’re small. There’s like a football ring and things like that. ? yeah, Tonya, go ahead.

Tonya Kubo (09:34)

Mm-mm. Right.

Mm-hmm.

There’s just one more aspect that I, because I think Tenille’s gonna have a really good insight on this, so I wanna bring it up. So this came up recently in the Bible study, which is, because to your point about as much as we don’t want the clutter our kids don’t, is trying to work, we’ve got several members who walk this walk. They try to get their parents to declutter and downsize while their parents were alive. And their parents very,

Kathi Lipp (09:56)

Yeah, yeah.

Tonya Kubo (10:16)

freely and unapologetically said, why would I do that? That’s your problem when I’m gone. And now they’re in a place where the parent is gone. They have to clear through it all and they are angry. And what they’re realizing is whereas one person might say, well, I’m so angry. I’m backing up a dumpster and it’s just all gonna go. They’re so angry that they don’t feel like they can.

Kathi Lipp (10:22)

Cool.

yeah.

Tonya Kubo (10:41)

objectively process through the clutter and so it’s taking them even longer and then that just makes them angry.

Kathi Lipp (10:43)

Hmm.

Yeah, when we have people come into the clutter free for life group, our paid group, I would say at least a third of them are saying they don’t want to leave this mess behind for their kids. And so that’s what I love. Okay, Tenneil, we’re going to get you back in here. let me ask one of the things that I have realized through, you know, looking at my grandparents stuff, we’ve lost ? all four of Roger’s parents because we had, you know, steps and things like that.

Tonya Kubo (10:53)

Mm-hmm.

Mm-hmm. Yeah.

Kathi Lipp (11:17)

is that it’s not the stuff, it’s the story. Like what’s the story that I want my kids or Roger’s kids to know about these people who have passed on? So how do we tell that story? Because we can’t sum up a whole life, but we can leave our kids with a narrative of these people that they come from.

Tenneil (11:42)

And listening to Tonya talk about the reasons that people struggle with this stuff, it is even more important that we figure out how to take what I heard over and over, Tonya, is a thread of guilt and turn it into a story, right, of joy and remembering and even that grief story. So I think there’s something to be said for physically, tangibly.

Kathi Lipp (11:45)

.

Tenneil (12:10)

not just having the object, but doing something with the object that says, I’ve moved through the guilt, I’ve moved through the pain, and this is what I’m taking from this person’s life. And not just what the story of their life was, but how it intersects with ours. And so I think there’s a lot of hands on ways we can do that because we don’t want them to be just a memory, right?

Kathi Lipp (12:25)

Yes, yes, absolutely.

Tenneil (12:33)

We want their story to have its shape in our life, whether our memories of them are positive or not. They still have helped shape who we are. So how do we take some tangible objects and reflect that shaping?

Kathi Lipp (12:46)

Okay, I want to know how you’re doing this, Tenille. And I think one thing, Tonya and I got some feedback the other day from one of our previous episodes, we were talking about memories and how I kept a footprint of one of my chickens in my underwear drawer. I think, and Tonya, what was it that you kept in your drawer? I’m trying to remember. Baby teeth, that’s right. We talked about that last time.

Tonya Kubo (13:11)

? baby teeth.

Kathi Lipp (13:15)

The baby teeth are a recurring theme here. But here’s what I’m wondering. Do cluttery people not feel that their memories are worth having a space to keep them? Why am I keeping these next to my underwear? That’s my big question. Like I’ve never had like

Tonya Kubo (13:17)

It’s always the baby teeth.

Kathi Lipp (13:38)

like a chest, a memory chest or anything like that. A hope chest, that’s what I was trying to say. I’ve never had a box where I keep all my, like, why do I think that my memories are not important enough to preserve in a special way? I don’t know, I’m getting very deep in this episode. I don’t know. Yeah, Tenille, please address this, come on, help me.

Tenneil (13:41)

Yes.

Tonya Kubo (13:42)

Mm-hmm.

Tenneil (14:02)

some of it is decision paralysis, right, which is what really affects us about clutter, right, is this weight of the decision, right, where am I going to keep these things? And so I think when we can put these things in a visible place, in a practical way that influences our life, then we kind of take some of that decision out about where to store it or where to keep it.

Kathi Lipp (14:06)

Mmm.

Yeah.

Tenneil (14:29)

even honestly if we get too caught up in where to hang it, right? Or how to frame it. We’re going to get stuck in any of those places. And so I like to really keep it tangible and simple and also changeable, right? We’re not making a monument here. If we hang it on the wall in the kitchen and it works until we redecorate the kitchen, that’s okay. We are not making monuments here. We are just learning to live with the pieces

Kathi Lipp (14:29)

Hmm.

Yeah.

Right.

Yeah.

Tenneil (14:58)

of someone else’s story that have crossed our path. So this can look like a seasonal decor item and just really getting creative. Like when do I think about this person? If it’s grandma and you think about her in the kitchen or, you know, like I have a memory with my sibling ? who was not ? like mechanical or carpentry.

Kathi Lipp (15:02)

Thank you.

Hmm.

Tenneil (15:24)

but he was available and so he helped me repair my falling down flower bed, right? And so it’s not like gardening that connects them to me, but this like section of the garden I actually hate, his willingness to stick it out in the heat and figure it out with me are there, right? And so this year I’m gonna plant something purple, his favorite color, near that section of the flower bed. If my flowers die, it’s okay. That’s not my brother.

Kathi Lipp (15:51)

Mm-hmm. Right,

right.

Tenneil (15:54)

That’s

my memory of him being there for me, right? And so those are some examples of simple ways, like where am I when I think of this person? What are the connections I feel?

Kathi Lipp (16:06)

And I think the other question there is where am I most likely to tell their story? So like to tell the story to your kids, you know, when he was helping me with this garden, I knew that was love because he didn’t like to do stuff like that, but he just wanted to be near me. I think those are some great criteria for that. ? And I’ve talked about this in other places. Like I have something of my dad’s that is connected to both of us.

It’s his first paycheck when he worked at the library for 40 cents an hour, you know, his first paycheck was like 720, $7.20. But you know, because

having something that is I love what you said. It’s not just about the person. It’s about your connection to the person. I love that. Okay. So it’s what you’re seeing is make that memory active. Like put it into place. Yes.

Tenneil (17:02)

Yes, and

use the things. Like sometimes we’re so scared if all we have left is grandma’s dishes, we don’t want to break them, right? So we don’t use them. Grandma doesn’t want you to live like that, right? And so use those dishes at your gathering. If there’s a tool that you kept of your dads or your grandpas, use it every now and then. Like I just really think that it’s important that it becomes a real and

Kathi Lipp (17:16)

Yeah, right.

Tenneil (17:31)

part of your life in any way that it can.

Kathi Lipp (17:35)

Love it, love it. I love the idea of honoring someone by living with the items. Okay, when we come back, I want to talk about some memorial projects because I think this is what people think of mostly when it comes to what do I do with their things? And so I know that you’ll have some great ideas about that. You’re gonna help me and Tonya out here a bunch. So we’re gonna take a commercial break and then come right back.

Tonya Kubo (17:52)

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (18:05)

Okay, we are back and Tenneil is going to solve all of our problems about what to do with those keepsakes. Tonya, did you have anything from your mom that you were able to use to memorialize her? Was there anything that you were able to keep as a keepsake or was that just not something you were able to do?

Tonya Kubo (18:27)

Yeah, that’s an interesting question. So the things that I kept that I was able to keep. So she still had my grandfather’s wallet from when he died at the hospital. She still had the bag of stuff, of his stuff, but the wallet was still in good condition. Everything else wasn’t. So I have that. I have my grandfather’s old milking stool from the 1930s.

Kathi Lipp (18:37)

? cool.

Mm, okay.

?

how cool.

Tonya Kubo (18:56)

It’s absolutely not usable, right? ? But I still have it because it’s cool. ? And then ? there was a small container of ceramics that I had done when I was in like the second grade. So those are really like all that was usable because my mom, because of how advanced her hoarding was, there were no keepsakes. There was no jewelry. You my mom never married, so there wasn’t a wedding set. There wasn’t a locket.

Kathi Lipp (19:00)

Yeah. Yeah.

No.

Yeah.

Tonya Kubo (19:25)

Nothing

like that. She had some of her writings, but even her recipe box, which I loved when I was little, it was completely, all the recipes were mildewed and the paper had disintegrated. So that would have been something I would have loved to have kept. That probably would have been my absolute favorite thing to have kept. It just wasn’t in a condition where I could.

Kathi Lipp (19:31)

?

Yeah, but you’ve got the memory, so that’s good. I love that you have the memory. Okay, Tenille, we need some ideas. We cluttery people are very good with a project when it’s low hanging fruit. It can’t be too complicated, it can’t be too crazy. So give us some ideas, all right?

Tonya Kubo (19:51)

Mm-hmm.

Tenneil (20:09)

Okay, so one trend that I love when it comes to fabric is we’re starting to see taking just a little piece of it. So like we’ve got grandma’s wedding dress or a baptism gown or these things. I grew up in a home where these things hung in the closet turning yellow and you were the evil one if you decided to throw these things away, right? So we’re starting to see where they’re cutting out just a bit of lace from it.

Tonya Kubo (20:23)

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (20:27)

Right.

Yeah.

Tenneil (20:35)

And they’re having that piece of lace sewn into their dress or onto their veil or things like that. So I think that’s a huge shift is that we don’t have to take the whole object. It can be just a piece of the object. So I think that is really important. And then looking, I mean, the most common is when you can plant something in it, right? So we’re talking teacups, ladles, even like,

an old can from the garage, right? Lots of grandpas kept every can under the sun, full of all the different nails and the objects and stuff. And if your conversations with grandpa happened in that workshop, right? It’s okay to get rid of all of his stuff and then hold on to one of those rusty cans, right? And plant a little something in it or use it to hold your pens and pencils on your desk. Like let their real memory stand out. It doesn’t have to be of

Kathi Lipp (21:08)

Hmm.

Yeah.

Tonya Kubo (21:23)

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (21:23)

Right?

Tenneil (21:34)

? like monetary value. If it makes sense to you, then it makes sense.

Kathi Lipp (21:38)

Right. Right.

I’ve got to dig out that Hillsbrothers coffee can, you know, ? because we have a couple of those and I’ve always kept them outside and they would look so cool inside. Yeah. I mean, yeah, I think that that’s really, really key is it doesn’t have to be of great monetary value. We have something that I just have to tell you about it. It’s so cool. And I’m sure both of you have seen it in our house, but you may not have known what it was.

My grandmother loved popcorn, loved popcorn. And she has a popcorn popper. It’s this long metal kind of, don’t know. It looks like, I don’t even know what it looks like, but it’s an old fashioned popcorn popper that we have.

I love it so much because we could use it to pop popcorn and we will someday. We haven’t done it yet, but we will someday. And it makes me so happy to think about my grandmother, even though I never popped popcorn with her, the joy is there. And by the way, Roger loves popcorn. Like that’s his favorite thing in the world. So it intersects, even though she never got to meet him, she would have loved him. Yeah, so that’s what it brings up for me. So I love that.

when you’re saying it doesn’t have to be a value, but it’s a value to you because of the memory.

Tenneil (23:04)

Yeah, and like taking that coffee can one step further, if it has a lid that’s open and closed, then if you have like little sugar or creamer packets that you only get out every once in a while, storing those in there so it also like is super functional rather than just decorative can be a really big one. Another great one is to take like a wood planer tool. So it’s like a chunk of wood, you know.

Kathi Lipp (23:13)

you

Yeah?

Tenneil (23:31)

And you can turn that into a bookend or there’s like a little hole on the top of those that’s perfect for a test tube. And then you can use it for like starting plants, right? Now you have a piece of art and this like talking piece all from this thing. And also I think a really big one is think outside the box. We tend to think like, where can I put this in my living room? I feel like that’s just what we go to for memory things.

Kathi Lipp (23:42)

Yes!

Tenneil (23:57)

but it doesn’t have to be limited to that. It can be as simple as keeping the clothes pins and using those clothes pins to hang a few things on the wall in the laundry room. Right? Like you just can be so simple in how we do these things.

Kathi Lipp (24:08)

Wow, I love that.

Here’s what I love that so many of the things that you’re speaking of ? are for men. Because I think it’s easier for us to figure out what we’re going to do with grandma’s apron. But dads, dads can be hard. Grandpas can be hard.

Tonya Kubo (24:14)

Mm-hmm.

Tenneil (24:28)

I didn’t, when you were talking about cleaning out your loved ones things, I have this unique experience where I had to clean out all of my dad’s belongings and I would say he was borderline hoarder and while he was still living, but without his say in it. And so I’m gonna go through that whole process of wondering whether I was doing the right things for them. Now I’m 20 years down the road and he’s starting to accumulate things again.

Kathi Lipp (24:44)

Mm-hmm. Yeah. Wow.

Tenneil (24:55)

But I have very firmly given him like square footage boundaries. He can only feel that space because I don’t want to go through that whole process more than once.

Kathi Lipp (24:59)

Yeah

And it

is a process. And I can’t even imagine with the person still being alive and going through that process and them coming back to say, wait, you got rid of blank? my goodness. And it’s like, ? yeah. Okay, so I know that we’ve all seen some of the things ? online where ? you make it into a teddy bear, you make it into a t-shirt quilt.

I will tell you one of the things that I saw recently that I loved. ? One of my friends, her father passed away and he always wore flannel shirts. She took a heart out of his flannel shirt and sewed it to the inside of her jacket. And I just thought, what a clever way of keeping him close to you without having to keep hundreds of shirts.

Tonya Kubo (25:56)

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (26:01)

because I think there were dozens of shirts. Let me not exaggerate. There were dozens of shirts, but if there were 200, I wouldn’t be surprised. But to take a couple of those things, a couple of those shirts and cut out the hearts and put those in places where you’re gonna see it over and over again. And one of things I thought about and she is gonna do now, which I think is really cool, is she is sewing one of those hearts onto the front of a pillow.

that she can keep in her, I think it’s her living room or maybe it’s her study. But I just think what a simple way, you don’t have to keep the whole shirt. You can use that as the basis of something. What about donations? ? Now, Tonya, I know you didn’t have a lot to donate. Like we went through a lot with my dad because my dad had a lot of collections. So, and of course, you my mom, you know, here we are 10 years out.

Tonya Kubo (26:51)

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (26:57)

It’s so weird why I remember the year he died. It’s the same year that the clutter free came out. And for some reason, I have to put those two things together to be able to remember it. But it’s been 10 years out and my mom just gave away his stamp collection because that was 50 years of them being together. Let’s not always say agreeing on the stamps because when I say a stamp collection, we’re talking

Tonya Kubo (27:22)

Yeah.

Kathi Lipp (27:26)

crates and crates and crates of stamps. But it was such an intricate part of who he was. And so ? we did some donations there. We did some tool donations. did a, ? we did put some ads, some places about people could pick things up if they were interested in them. But he had very specific things, not of a great deal of value. Like if you saw them guys, you would be like, ? maybe not.

But I know Tenneil would be able to come up with things to decorate with. But not high value, but for some people, they might have been high value ? because they are very interested in that niche. And so I think about those kind of donations things, but I also think about in Tonya’s case where there wasn’t a lot left to

to remember them by, know, is there, what are things that we can do? I love your idea, Tenille, of planting something, because if Tonya’s mom had a favorite flower or a favorite color, you can find that somehow. Are there any other things that you can think of to memorial? Or maybe you don’t live close to that person. Yeah.

Tenneil (28:45)

Right. So I

was thinking that earlier, like ? when I sell vintage things, ? one of the things that I sell is like thermos, old vintage thermos. And I’ve had several people buy those because it looked like the one that their dad had. And then they incorporate that into the decor. And so because our connection is to the memory and honoring that person’s legacy, it doesn’t have to be their exact object.

Kathi Lipp (29:00)

? yeah.

Tenneil (29:13)

Also thinking outside the box. So when I lost my sibling, we have his childhood items, but we, he did not own any possessions of his own when he passed, he was living homeless. trying to figure out how to process that, right? In the place where we did us a memorial where he was found, there was like a dried Spanish moss hanging off of the tree growing on the fence and scattered.

Kathi Lipp (29:24)

Hmm. Yeah.

Tenneil (29:43)

on the ground there. And so I took some of that Spanish moss that I could bring home and just put in a little bowl, right, as a little bit of a memory. And so thinking outside of the box, or if the person loved to go hiking, come up with, you know, a little bowl of pine cones or something like that. So we can kind of recreate if we’re in a situation, let’s face it, families can get really ugly in the process of dividing up things.

Kathi Lipp (30:10)

Yeah.

Tenneil (30:13)

And so if you didn’t end up with grandma’s recipe box and that broke your heart, look around, make vintage shopping and adventure and find one that’s maybe similar or represents the same thing. And the other value that that has is if you do have these odd objects that you’re like holding onto because I want to use it, but I’m not sure what to do with it. I say, find your local vintage shops that are especially decorative.

Kathi Lipp (30:13)

Yeah.

Tenneil (30:41)

because a lot of times you’ll go in and you’ll see an idea. Countless times ? do I hear people say, ? my goodness, I have one of those in the garage from my grandma or grandpa and I never knew what to do with it and now I’m gonna bring toolbox in and put my grandkids colored pencils in it and they’re coloring the toolbox at the ready, right? So those are the things.

Kathi Lipp (30:41)

Mm-hmm.

Bye.

Yes.

? you just sparked something

for Tonya. You just sparks. Yeah.

Tonya Kubo (31:08)

love that idea! That’s such

a great idea!

Kathi Lipp (31:12)

I love that so much. Tonya, I want to come back to you because I feel like many of us who are cluttery, we struggle with the conversations around items. Where do you think that that stress mostly comes from for our people?

Tonya Kubo (31:29)

Well, what do mean by the conversations around the items?

Kathi Lipp (31:31)

Like,

what do, when you pass, what do want me to do with this? When I pass, do you want to have this? I guess if the, I guess my question is, is there an easier way to get into those conversations that you have heard from our group? I know my mom was very bold and said, I’m putting Post-it notes under everything I want you to make sure you don’t sell.

Tonya Kubo (31:36)

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (31:57)

So like,

I love that she brought it up because it’s very awkward for me to bring up. Let’s be clear.

Tonya Kubo (32:02)

Yeah, I would agree. It’s always easier if the parent brings it up to the kids or like, it’s much easier for you to bring up what you want them to do after you’re gone than it is for them to bring up what you want me to do with this after you’re gone. But I would also say that there are some kids that really struggle with their parents’ mortality. And so you kind of have to like weigh the pros and cons. Like, not…

Kathi Lipp (32:13)

Yeah.

Mmm.

Yeah.

Tonya Kubo (32:30)

all kids want to have the conversation with you. But what you can do, so let’s just say that you can’t have the conversation. Well, you can do what your mom did, right? And do post-it notes or even, ? I knew somebody who did a label maker, right? And just did labels underneath and they just, they put the name of the person they wanted it to go to. And then they had a journal that, and it was in an envelope that was like open when I die sort of thing.

Kathi Lipp (32:33)

Yeah.

Yeah. Okay.

I love that.

Tonya Kubo (32:57)

But in that journal was like, the things that I haven’t specifically designated, here’s what I think you should do with it. And here are the things that if you think I care about these things, I just need you to know you’re wrong. Like I don’t care what you do with this.

Kathi Lipp (32:57)

Yes.

Mm-hmm.

Yeah, okay.

Okay,

that’s such a great statement. If you think I care about this, you’re wrong. I love that. Yes.

Tonya Kubo (33:15)

Right?

Yeah, there

was like one item that it was a military family and so they had moved it from places and the person was just like, look, I’m sure you think because we moved it to so many places, it was really, really special. It was really, really special to me, but I don’t see this being of any use to either of you kids. Now, if I’m wrong, fine.

Kathi Lipp (33:32)

Mm-hmm.

Yes. ?

Yeah.

Tonya Kubo (33:44)

But just so you know, there’s like something, if you’re like, don’t know what to do with this, don’t feel like you have to like run a storage unit for it. We’re good.

Kathi Lipp (33:50)

I

love that. Yes, there is nothing that I own that my kids should be paying rent on. I love that. Yeah. And you know, we had a terrible thing happen in our family when my husband’s stepfather, so my stepfather-in-law, I don’t know, ? you know, he graduated from Princeton. He was a doctor of philosophy. ? He had a chair from Princeton.

Tonya Kubo (33:57)

Right.

Kathi Lipp (34:19)

And the people who were closest proximity wise was my brother-in-law. And so he contacted everybody in the family and said, who would like this chair from Princeton? And everybody said no. So he donated it. And then like four months later, somebody said, you know what? I’ve changed my mind. I want that chair. And he’s, I didn’t keep it. And like, I don’t blame my brother-in-law for getting rid of it.

Tonya Kubo (34:24)

Mm-hmm.

Right. Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (34:45)

You said you didn’t want it and

people are going to be listening to this and saying Kathi Why didn’t you bring it home? It would have had to have been shipped like it was a whole thing. So there was ? Yes, we can’t keep everything forever

Tonya Kubo (34:58)

No, and I just want to offer you a flip side to that story because similar was Brian’s dad’s truck, which they kept for a while because it’s like all of them agreed. Brian’s mom, sister and him agreed. It’s nice to have a truck, right? Like in the family. And if it doesn’t belong to any one of us and we all share it, this is kind of like nice to keep around. It makes sense to renew the registration. And everybody agreed it would live. It lived at his sister’s house for a long time. Then it lived at his mom’s house. Well, his mom

Kathi Lipp (35:05)

Mm-hmm.

Yeah, right.

Mm-hmm.

Tonya Kubo (35:27)

was not appreciating it living in her house. Quiet like his sister enjoyed it living in her house. And so his mom put out the call, know, like asked us if we wanted to keep it, because if we wanted to keep it, she was fine with it. She’d pay the registration. It was this whole thing. And Brian’s sister was like different phase of life now, like, no, like I can’t store it, can’t do this. We were like, yeah, we just don’t see that that makes sense for us. So his mom said, okay, well, I’m selling it. Kathi, there must have been.

Kathi Lipp (35:29)

Okay.

Yeah.

Tonya Kubo (35:57)

a dozen times in the following five years where somebody in the family would be like, dad’s truck would really come in handy right now. But here’s the thing, it was as so funny as they would say, ? dad’s truck would have come in really handy right now. And then they were like, but the idea of storing it to get to right now, right? But they would laugh because everybody acknowledged we had the chance, we were given the choice, didn’t make sense.

Kathi Lipp (36:04)

Ha

Right? Yeah, exactly.

Yep.

Tonya Kubo (36:23)

I of regret it right now, but don’t regret it enough to wish we’d had it for the last so many years.

Kathi Lipp (36:27)

Exactly. And you know what? Dad’s truck served when it needed to serve and then you could figure out other things. Guys, I just want to wrap us up by saying this, that if there is no other circumstance where quantity is lesser than quality, it’s in the memories of our people. And, you know, I also want you to know when that person has passed,

Tonya Kubo (36:31)

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (36:55)

They don’t know what you’ve done with their stuff. And they didn’t always have an accurate perception of what was important to you. I think it’s really interesting when my kids bring up childhood memories and I’m like, going to the train station is your favorite memory. What about Disneyland that we spent thousands and thousands and thousands of dollars on? No, it was going to the train station. So let’s…

Tonya Kubo (37:16)

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (37:21)

the important things be important to the people that they were important to. And you don’t have to, you don’t have to manufacture that importance any longer. Tenneil and Tonya, thank you so much for being here. And friends, thank you for being here. You’ve been listening to Clutterfree Academy. I’m Kathi Lipp Now, go live the clutter free life you were always meant to live.

#672 – From Pantry to Plate: The Secret to Smart Food Storage

Jun 3, 2025 | Clutter Free, Clutter Free Home, Clutter Free Podcast, Foodie Friday, Home, Kitchen, Organizing, Overwhelmed, Podcast

Join Kathi Lipp and Tonya Kubo in this episode of Clutter-Free Academy as they tackle the often overwhelming world of food storage. Whether you’re struggling with long-term pantry organization, fridge chaos, containers for on the go or finding the right containers for...

#671 – Sentimental Clutter: Finding Freedom in Letting Go

May 27, 2025 | Clutter Free, Clutter Free Home, Clutter Free Podcast, Home, Organizing, Overwhelmed, Podcast, Relationships

Kathi Lipp returns with Tonya Kubo and Tenneil Register to address a common challenge faced by those on the clutter-free journey: sentimental items. In this insightful episode, the trio tackles the emotional weight of inherited belongings and the guilt that often...

#670 – Emotional Decluttering: A Journey Through Sentimental Keepsakes

May 20, 2025 | Clutter Free, Clutter Free Home, Clutter Free Podcast, Home, Mental Load, Organizing, Overwhelmed, Podcast, tips and ideas

In this episode of Clutter Free Academy, Kathi Lipp is joined by clutter experts Tonya Kubo and Tenneil Register for the second part of their heartfelt discussion on sentimental items. Discover the emotions that often lead us to hold onto things we neither love nor...

#670 – Emotional Decluttering: A Journey Through Sentimental Keepsakes

by Clutter Free Academy Team | May 20, 2025 | Clutter Free, Clutter Free Home, Clutter Free Podcast, Home, Mental Load, Organizing, Overwhelmed, Podcast, tips and ideas | 1 comment

#670 – Emotional Decluttering: A Journey Through Sentimental Keepsakes

Listen Now

In this episode of Clutter Free Academy, Kathi Lipp is joined by clutter experts Tonya Kubo and Tenneil Register for the second part of their heartfelt discussion on sentimental items. Discover the emotions that often lead us to hold onto things we neither love nor use, and learn how to navigate these feelings with grace. Whether it’s figuring out what to do with your prom memorabilia or repurposing your grandmother’s teacup, our hosts share practical steps and innovative ideas to help you cherish the memories without clinging to items out of guilt or fear. Tune in to learn how to display the items you love and let go of those you don’t. Plus, dive into Tenneil’s incredible tips on repurposing for a clutter-free home filled with joyful memories. As an added bonus, Kathi cointinues her new segment: “Things That Have Earned A Place in My Clutter Free Home” where she chats with Tenneil about a simple gadget that made a huge difference in storage space in the kitchen!

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Sabbath Soup: Weekly Menus and Rhythms to Make Space for a Day of Rest

Kathi Lipp gives readers an easy-to-follow process for meal planning and prep, so that they can enjoy a full day each week of real rest and refreshment.

Could you use a break from cooking (and everything else) once a week? Not only is rest vital for your mind and body, it’s good for your soul too. God designed us to enter into Sabbath rest one day per week, but as you know, meals still need to be made. Your family still needs to be fed.

Sabbath Soup includes convenient, seasonal meal plans that take the guesswork out of shopping and cooking. More than just a collection of delicious recipes—including main dishes, breads, breakfasts, desserts, salads, sides, and yes, soups—this is your guide to establishing a weekly rhythm and routine of meal planning and prep that allows you to have a true day off.

Do something good for your soul and experience the peace that comes with a full day dedicated to spending time with God, family, and friends. Savor your Sabbath as you proudly proclaim, “Soup’s on!”

Order your copy of Sabbath Soup: Weekly Menus and Rhythms to Make Space for a Day of Rest here.

Links Mentioned:

MUDEELA Pot & Pan Organizer

FYI: Some product links may be affiliate links. If you buy, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support!

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Meet Our Co-Host

Tonya Kubo

Tonya Kubo is the illustrious and fearless leader of Kathi Lipp’s Clutter Free Academy Facebook group and the Clutter Free for Life membership program. A professional community strategist, she believes everyone deserves to have a place online where they feel like they belong. Raised by a hoarder, Tonya knows firsthand the pain and isolation that comes from living in conditions others don’t understand. She wants better for her family and her cluttery peeps, which is why she is passionate about the compassionate slow-and-steady approach that makes Clutter Free unique. She lives in the heart of California with her husband, Brian, their two spirited daughters, and one very tolerant cat. Visit tonyakubo.com to find out more about her community work, or email her at tonya@kathilipp.org to discuss the Clutter Free Academy podcast and programs.

Meet Our Co-Host

Tenneil Register

Tenneil Register can be found creating, repurposing, decorating, gardening and welcoming guests to their reclaimed barn storefront. She and her husband, Cowboy, established rural roots for their blended family of 7 in their DIY ranch home in Iowa. Connect with her on Instagram for practical ideas to reclaim your home.

Transcript

Kathi Lipp (00:08)

Well, hey friends, welcome to Clutter Free Academy, where our goal is to help you take small, doable steps to live every day with less clutter and more life. And we are back. We have a three-part series here on sentimental items, how hard they are to declutter, what do we do with them, and maybe just a couple of pieces of advice to say it’s okay to get rid of it and prove that you don’t hate.

the other person who gave it to you or your own life. And I’ve got two of my favorite cluttery experts here. We’ve got Tonya Kubo and Tenneil Register. Hey guys, welcome back to the program.

Tonya Kubo (00:48)

Hey, Kathi, .

Tenneil (00:49)

Hey there!

Kathi Lipp (00:51)

Okay, so Here’s what I want to talk about today Because you guys are such geniuses Tonya about making the hard decisions about getting rid of to Tenneil once you’ve made the decision to keep it What do you actually do with it? And Last week we talked about your kids stuff, which has so much emotional attachment next week We’re to talk about the stuff from people who have passed on

I mean, like we’re just bringing out all the hard hitting subjects right now. But today I want to talk about our own stuff. And I want to talk about why do we hang on to things that is that maybe we know we’re never going to use them. We know that we maybe we don’t even really love them, but we feel such an obligation to keep them.

I’ve had that for a couple of different items in my life I feel like Through a lot of growth and let me be honest from a couple of people passing on I’ve been able to get rid of some things But I just wonder do any either of you have any insight to this? Why do we hang on to stuff even? Sometimes I don’t even think it brings back great memories, but we just can’t seem to let it go

Tenneil (02:16)

Letting go is scary because we’re wondering what that means about us and what that means about that relationship.

Kathi Lipp (02:25)

Tell me more about that.

Tenneil (02:28)

So when we’re walking through it and we are still holding on to a physical object, we’re still giving ourselves time to figure it out, figure out the relationship, figure out what it meant, figure out how to grieve, figure out how to hold on. And we find something significant about doing the physical let go. And so we kind of want to know for sure that we’ve done the emotional part correctly if we do the

Kathi Lipp (02:42)

Yeah.

Tenneil (02:56)

physical part correctly. We’re like looking for affirmation.

Kathi Lipp (03:01)

Okay, okay, I totally get that. I have a question for both of you. Are you guys hanger on-ers to your own stuff? We’re not not stuff you’ve been given necessarily, or are you letter goers?

Tonya Kubo (03:14)

It takes me a while. Like I am in general, my cluttery problem is not that I acquire a lot. I am not a big shopper. I just don’t know what to do with stuff once I have it. So I tend to be a keeper. So like what we have been, you we talk about this all the time. It has taken Brian and I have been married now 16 years and it’s just this year that we’re getting rid of the wedding pictures from our first marriages.

Kathi Lipp (03:25)

? yeah.

Yeah, that’s a hard one. It’s a hard one.

Tonya Kubo (03:41)

Well, and it’s back to what Tenneil said, because I’m thinking like where I keep those photos is also where all of the prom stuff is. And I don’t know if so this is the thing is this does not hit home with current teens at all because this is not how they do prom. But prom in the 90s was a whole thing of a thing. You paid your money. You got your photo album with the theme on the cover. You got your champagne flutes. Why did they give us champagne flutes? It’s not like we could drink at that age, but they did.

Kathi Lipp (03:59)

Absolutely.

Tonya Kubo (04:10)

And we got a key chain, got all these things that matched the theme. And I remember thinking it was so important to have that stuff back then. And now I look at it and I’m like, what am I supposed to do with this? Like all I can think about is we had one year where the theme was from dusk till dawn. And that’s when the Quentin Tarantino movie came out. So every time I look at it, I go, I remember how excited I was to see that movie and how horrible that movie was.

Kathi Lipp (04:36)

Okay, there we go. I love that that’s the memory that pops up for you.

Tonya Kubo (04:38)

So as, right,

why am I still keeping that stuff if that’s the memory that pops up? I’m keeping that stuff because I go, well, when I go to my high school reunion, are other people gonna have it? Are other people gonna talk about keeping it? What does it say about me and my high school years and what I think about all the people I went into prom with if I get rid of this, which is what I really want to do?

Kathi Lipp (05:04)

Yeah, ? really interesting. How about you, Tenneil? Are you a hangar oner or a letter goer?

Tenneil (05:10)

So I’m somewhere in the middle. I’ve become much better letting it go. think transitions of life. I do still have first wedding pictures also because I thought that my child would want them, but he doesn’t. So I’m really close on that one too. Tonya, have to tell you though, let go of the prom stuff. I’ve had my reunion. There was one really great thing that somebody brought from the reunion.

Tonya Kubo (05:23)

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (05:25)

Nope, they

don’t.

Tenneil (05:38)

It was the school handbook for our very conservative parochial school. And that makes for excellent conversation. So if your key chain’s not gonna make for good conversation, let it go.

Tonya Kubo (05:51)

Fair enough.

Kathi Lipp (05:51)

Hmm

really interesting. Yeah, I want to talk about the emotional drivers that sit behind our inability to let things go so Tonya you and I have talked about this for years fear what if I need it someday or the other version of that is what if I regret letting this go and Guilt this was from somebody that was important in my life whether I’m no longer in touch with them or maybe they’ve passed on something like that

And then I think there’s a third one here, identity. Guys, again, I’m bringing up old stories, but I only have one life to live. And so I only have so many stories. But I was a sales rep for years and years and years. And I invested in these leather cases for catalogs. And this was important in my job.

We did not have a laptop to bring around. These were leather cases that we put, you know, the A &A plush and the Carolina candles and all those catalogs in. I would take them into a store and somebody would order something and I’d go home and write up the order. It feels very archaic now. I could not get rid of those leather cases for the longest time because they were expensive. And you know, the year I bought them, I bought them because I was salesperson of the year.

And that was important to me. That meant something to me. And so that was, it was an identity. I didn’t recognize it at the time, but it was an identity thing saying, you know what, because then I went home and I was homeschooling my kids and then I went through a divorce and I was working at a job that wasn’t my favorite. And I could look at those cases and say, okay, but I had it going on

like and maybe I’ll have it going on again. You know, sometimes we keep things not out of love but out of guilt, fear or the need to remember who we were. And I just think it’s so important to really recognize why are we hanging on to things that make no sense. By the way, I no longer have those leather cases. It’s probably been 20 years now. I’m good. But at the time, and I think we all have those things like that.

Tonya Kubo (07:48)

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (08:16)

We have somebody in our life who says or maybe it’s media. You’ll regret getting rid of that You’ll regret it. So One of the things that Tonya and I have talked about a lot in our group Clutter free for life that if you love it show it so if you if you say that you love this purse But you have it in a box in your garage. I question your love

And so I wanna talk about some ways that we can display things. And one of my favorites is I have a friend, Robin Neal, who we’ve been friends for a really long time. And her father-in-law had passed away earlier the year of this story. And he was famous for his chili recipe. And so she had a butcher block inscribed.

with her father-in-law’s handwriting with the chili recipe. And there’s a great picture that went around TikTok. And I think it had something like six million views. It was crazy. It went crazy of her husband opening up this package and seeing that and what it meant to him. But it wasn’t just keeping the recipe and even just framing a recipe could have been cool, but this took it a step beyond. And when we wanna talk about the step beyond

Tonya Kubo (09:24)

wow.

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (09:42)

We come to Tenneil Register. We’d love some ideas for things that maybe they’re not super useful day to day, but can give us some ideas of, I don’t want to get rid of it because it’s important to me. I’ve discovered I’m not keeping out of fear or guilt or false sense of identity. No, it really brings back happy memories and I want it.

Tenneil (10:05)

Yeah, I want to share a recipe idea too, because it’s always such a favorite. And that is at Christmas time, have a small tree in your kitchen and hang the recipe cards for family recipes like this all over the tree. And if you have grandma’s old utensils or something like that, you can hang it on the tree. Then the rest of the year, you can pack that down into a small little tote and you have

Kathi Lipp (10:09)

Yeah.

Tenneil (10:34)

At the time of year that you’re gathering with your family in your kitchen, you can pull out these recipes and these little utensils and do a kitchen tree. It is usually everyone’s favorite idea of how to remember grandma.

Kathi Lipp (10:46)

Okay, I want to spin off on this for just a second because I think we think if we want to put something up it has to be up all year round and I am a very seasonal girl like every spring summer fall winter I’ve got a little tote where I’m pulling things out not just the fall decor. It’s not that it’s the Native American dolls that my friend Susie gave to me that I put in the fall decor. It’s the

Tonya Kubo (10:55)

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (11:14)

picture that my grandmother passed down to me that I have out in the spring. But I don’t have it out year round because my house would be an antique store. But it’s I love the idea of switching things out. Okay, what are some other ideas to Tenneil?

Tenneil (11:30)

Yeah, so another one is make sure you’re using the things you can use. like sometimes, you know, that’s like a vase and we’re afraid to use it because it might get broken or something like that. If like you said, if we love it, use it. But also like maybe you don’t put fresh flowers in vases. I use a lot of like sentimental items. I think you might even be able to see one on the video behind me as bookends. So like a vase from China is

Kathi Lipp (11:36)

Mm.

Yes.

Tenneil (11:59)

holding up as a book in for my actual books that I need to use throughout the day. And so incorporating those so that if it’s functional, then we’re not setting up a museum, right? And that’s what we want to avoid is having a museum of things. We want to have a home that’s been built over time that’s functional. And so I think asking yourself, how can I use it is really, really the most important question if you

Kathi Lipp (12:04)

Mm-hmm.

Right.

? I love that so much. And I think that displaying something, being surrounded by things you love is such a gift to yourself. And it shows the life you have and the hopes and dreams you’ve had. know, Tonya, do you have any ideas that you could share with us on this topic?

Tonya Kubo (12:50)

Well, mean, I second what Tenneil says. It’s like, if you can create something functional out of it, I think that’s brilliant. know, the recipe cards. I knew a woman who had her mom’s recipes all framed in the kitchen. And it was such an easy way to decorate an apartment and make an apartment feel homey. And part of it was that her mom’s handwriting in and of itself was a beautiful decor in addition to the recipes.

And I think, you know, I think we need to give ourselves permission to not be connected to the items. Like it is okay that that meant a lot to you 15 years ago, and it can have meant a lot 15 years ago and not mean as much today. And that doesn’t make you a bad person.

Kathi Lipp (13:31)

Mm hmm. Right.

Mm-hmm.

I love it. Yeah, you know, what I’ve had to discover is that having, using what I can or have it when I can’t use something, but it’s still precious to me. I was just visiting my friend Sherry, our friend Sherry, and she gave me a little framed sunflower. And that was her daughter who had passed away, her favorite flower.

Like there’s no practical use for it, but I’m not getting rid of it because I love it. And so it has yellows in it. So I put it with some blue little vases that I really like. And sometimes the vases have flowers in them and sometimes they don’t, but a little vignette is, a fun thing. And you can, you can make a vignette out of the weirdest stuff. I, I came in second place in a baby contest when, you know,

56 years ago. I’ve got the little trophy. I it means nothing to anybody But I just like having it on display because I’m like what a weird thing and I love it so, know and sometimes we don’t want to use things because We don’t want them to get broken. We don’t want them to get chipped So we keep them away, but when something feels too precious to use or display I think we have to ask ourselves. Am I protecting it or

Tonya Kubo (14:44)

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (15:00)

Is it protecting me from dealing with letting it go? Like, am I too afraid to unpack those emotions? And maybe you can’t unpack the emotions right now, but it’s okay. We’re gonna take a quick commercial break and then we’re gonna come back and we’re gonna talk about Tenneil’s favorite subject, repurposing. Okay, so we’re gonna, we’ll be right back. Okay, we are back with Tonya and Tenneil. Tenneil, how do you?

I want you to talk about more ideas for repurposing. Give us some more ideas because you’re such a genius at this. And I want you to give us your weirdest and wackiest ideas.

Tenneil (15:39)

Oh boy. Well, I was going to start with the plain ones, Kathi, , but we’ll start with the plain ones. So your plain ones is right, like a teacup. If you don’t drink tea from it, but it’s grandma’s teacup, can it hold your rings? Can it hold soap? Right? And even like your little sunflower picture, is it something that should be out all the time or should it come out just during the month of May that you get out the tea

Kathi Lipp (15:44)

Go f- start there and then build our way up, yes.

you

Mm-hmm.

Yeah.

Tenneil (16:09)

for the soap, know, like that

Kathi Lipp (16:10)

Yeah.

Tenneil (16:10)

kind of thing, so that you’re going through a process. Wackier ideas is like the things you can hang on the wall. So when you were talking about your leather suitcases, I actually have a bag from my corporate days too that I still love, but I don’t carry it. So it hangs on the coat rack by my front door for like your everyday clutter that you need to hide in a hurry. And it’s just like a hiding place, right? It looks like a bag I carry in and out, but I actually…

don’t, right? And so, grandpa’s, you know, hand rake, if grandpa was a gardener, right, hang that on the wall and use that to hang your necklaces off next to your closet or hang the dog leash on next to the door where you head out, just to turn the object upside down, inside out, spin it round and round until you can find some other form.

Kathi Lipp (16:40)

Yeah.

Mm-hmm.

?

? I need to be thinking about this. Okay, so I’m gonna throw a couple objects at you. This is our game show. And I want you to tell me, okay, so not only do I have one spoon that is precious to me, I have two. One that we found buried on the property here, and it’s from a company called Rogers Brothers.

and we looked it up, it’s from the 1920s. And then I have one of my grandmother’s serving spoons. Like, what do I do with those?

Tenneil (17:41)

Well, I mean, first of all, are they usable? Like, can you stir your coffee with it? The rogers spoon?

Kathi Lipp (17:46)

just that

they’re giant and I’m worried would I get poisoning from them but maybe that could use them yeah yeah I would need to figure that out yes

Tonya Kubo (17:52)

I was gonna say, this lead poisoning? I don’t know.

Tenneil (17:58)

So a big spoon, one of the ideas we’ve done in the store and people usually love because they usually have one like an old spoon or ladle or something. If you’re able to hang it on the wall and it makes a cup, you can put like a little plant or succulent or something like that. Or you could have your kitchen keys, your keys or whatever, if you need it to be functional.

Kathi Lipp (18:09)

Mm-hmm.

I love that idea. And I love the idea what you were talking about the rake where you could put a dog leash or something like that. I love that idea. Okay, I’m trying to think. I have lots of cards that people have sent me and I get rid of most of them. But what’s an idea for the ones that you want to keep?

Tenneil (18:39)

Yeah, this one’s not overly creative, but it looks a little better than a bulletin board. I have a screen in my office. It’s like a wood frame that’s a screen. It’s industrial off the farm. And I have clothes pins on it where I can rotate out cards or inspirational sayings. I’ve got a couple of pictures of my grandparents. Just my own kind of teenager pin board in my office. But to keep up with looking bulletin board, it’s actually like an industrial primitive screen.

Kathi Lipp (18:43)

I’ll take it.

Mm-hmm.

Mmm.

Tenneil (19:09)

you could do it with an old window screen too.

Kathi Lipp (19:09)

?

okay, I love that. Tonya, I’m gonna ask you for one in just a second. But, Tenneil, another thing I would be interesting to get some ideas from, if you have somebody in your family, they wore a uniform, you know, like I’m thinking like, you know, firefighter, police officer, they have a badge, they have a hat, like, what are your ideas for that?

Tenneil (19:34)

Yeah, so some people go full out, right? Like shadow box on the wall, it’s that important. You mentioned last time we were talking about kids, like sometimes it works to get it out seasonally, you know, for that moment of memorial. But I think it’s kind of choosing an item from it, right? The hat, can it be worked into your mantle decor, that kind of thing? Or like I think of a fireman’s jacket. I could see some semblance to leaving that on your coat rack next to the door.

Kathi Lipp (19:46)

Mm-hmm, yeah.

Right.

Tenneil (20:04)

just there as a statement kind of thing.

Kathi Lipp (20:07)

Yeah,

and guys don’t be afraid to look at something like Etsy if you’re not the crafty person because they can take grandma’s china that was broken and turn that into a necklace or something along those lines Tonya jump in here play the game. What’s something that you would throw it to Tenneil?

Tonya Kubo (20:26)

Something that I would throw at Tenneil, baby teeth.

Tenneil (20:29)

yeah.

Okay. I’m going to say first of all that I’m pro getting rid of the baby teeth. And I believe there should be a tradition when the truth comes out about the tooth fairy that we give those babies back and the kid can decide like, we want to bury them or what do we want to do?

one for you all that is still a thing in our house and that is a first pacifier. I think at 17 my kids still finds a little joy from knowing it’s in the top drawer of my jewelry.

Kathi Lipp (21:07)

Oh my gosh. You guys, anything that somebody has sucked on? I don’t know. I don’t know.

Tonya Kubo (21:15)

I didn’t

have a pacifier, my children never had pacifiers, so I have no pacifiers in my home.

Kathi Lipp (21:19)

? my-

Okay, we went to the hospital in the middle of the night to get Justin his pacifier that he was going to die without apparently. Like, because he didn’t know the difference between, you know, not having a pacifier and me dumping him off at the orphanage. Like they were on the same plane. Okay. Yeah, I love the idea of like,

Tonya Kubo (21:32)

?

Mm-hmm.

Tenneil (21:41)

Thank

Kathi Lipp (21:48)

burying the teeth for the tooth fairy to recycle or something. I love that idea. Guys, I love this so much because our memories shouldn’t live in an attic, they should be in our lives. They should be incorporated into our lives. And Tenneil is so good at this. Tenneil, would love, you you said at the store, what people may not know is you own a beautiful store. What’s it called?

Tenneil (21:52)

Right?

Yeah, R7 reclaimed and it’s a vintage barn and so we specialize in how to recycle and, you know, reclaim the unexpected.

Kathi Lipp (22:17)

Yeah.

Yeah, okay at some point what I’m gonna do if you’re a listener and you’re like I have this weird item that I would like to know how to incorporate I’m gonna book another show and what we’re gonna do is we’re gonna bring these ladies back and We’re gonna come up with those weird items. I’m gonna read them off. I’m not gonna give to Tenneil any prep Because she is so creative. She is seen and done everything No

Tonya Kubo (22:45)

Ooh.

Tenneil (22:49)

Are you gonna save me at all?

Tonya Kubo (22:53)

I will prep, I will do homework for you, Tenneil, because I’m the person who threw baby teeth at you, okay?

Kathi Lipp (22:59)

Yeah

my goodness, I love this so much. Okay, guys, just remember, you deserve to enjoy your sentimental items, not be overwhelmed by them. Okay, thank you ladies so much for being here. Guys, we’re gonna be back in just a moment with my new favorite segment, Stuff That Has Earned A Place In My House. We will be right back.

PART 2

Kathi Lipp (00:00)

Well, welcome back to ClutterFree Academy. ?

Today in our third segment is another episode of things that have earned a place in my clutter free home. And I’ve got my friend, Tenneil Register. Tenneil’s part of my team, but also my friend. And if you need your house redecorated, just invite her over and let her sit amongst your house and she will not be able to help herself. That’s just the kind, but she’ll only do it with your permission. Hey Tenneil.

Tenneil (00:27)

Yeah.

such

an accurate version of me. I’ll be switching, but I’ll wait for permission.

Kathi Lipp (00:36)

Well

You were you were not rooted at all. I’m like, please please please because here’s the thing I think other people can sometimes see things that you know, you just live with all the time, right? And you think you don’t think about things being in a different way and we were literally moving dressers upstairs from downstairs and You know when I bought this house man, you know things were where they were and I changed a ton of stuff

but some of the stuff I left just where it was because I thought it was cute. But then your house moves and things like that and you just have to figure out new solutions. And that’s one of the things we’re gonna talk about today is figuring out new solutions. there’s very little that I get to influence Tenneil about, but I influenced you and that makes me very happy. And it was so funny. I’ll tell you this Tenneil and then we’ll actually talk about the item.

You know Roger and I were going to a church and we have since left this church so I’m not telling any tales out of school but ? one of the pastors did a whole sermon on like the worst thing that your child could grow up to be is an influencer and I’m like well, okay, first of all, thanks ? But I also think isn’t that what everybody does? We’re trying if you’re a politician, you’re an influencer if you’re on TV, you’re an

Like we’re all influenced and I want to influence people one to not buy things that they don’t need but two if something works for me I want to share about it because it’s made my life better, right?

Tenneil (02:16)

Yes, and for most of us, at least listening to this podcast in America, we’re probably gonna spend our money on something. So if it’s something that makes your life easier and makes you happy, I love when people share what’s working for them. It just gives me new ideas.

Kathi Lipp (02:29)

Right. And that’s the thing. I don’t want to spend my money on stuff that doesn’t work. And so, so let me tell you how I influenced Tenneil. Now, some of you have listened to the podcast where I was talking about organizing your pots and pans and ? Tenneil I, the day that podcast came out, she’s like, I’m getting that pan organizer. And okay, so I’m going to tell you my experience with it. then

Tenneil (02:34)

Yeah.

Kathi Lipp (02:55)

I want to hear yours. And I don’t know what her experience is. I just told her, Hey, we’re recording this episode. I’ll find out if you liked it or not. But I’m going to tell you what my experience was. my, have a corner cabinet in the kitchen and pots and pans. They were such a pain that my husband who everybody I know, you know, I, everybody knows I, I, I don’t worship him. only worship God, but

Tenneil (03:24)

Admire.

Kathi Lipp (03:25)

I admire greatly, but it got to the point where he was setting out to dry the pots and pans on a pretty regular basis because there’s such a pain in the rear to put away. And so he also, he still does this with our, our, ? not Tupperware. I can you tell I’m a child of the eighties. I call it Tupperware, but, yeah, he doesn’t like that either, but that’s very easy to put away. So I bought,

this it’s called ? Muddella eight tier heavy duty adjustable pan organizing rack for kitchen cabinet storage and organization. So I mean, that is a mouthful. But what it does is it’s so you don’t put your pans or your pots inside of each other. They’re each on their own level. And I have to say the amount of people who now put away their pots and pans in my household.

or even people who are visiting ? without being harangued has gone up 100%. Including me, by the way, including me, because I used to avoid it too. Okay, so now I don’t know, this is honest reaction, not that we’re gonna ever lie to you guys, but ? Tenneil, what is your unbiased reaction about this pot and pan organizer?

Tenneil (04:49)

I love it. So I was so excited because our pot in pan one, I’m like the only one who can do it correctly, right?

Kathi Lipp (04:55)

Yes,

nobody can do it like mom does it.

Tenneil (05:00)

And similarly, we tend to leave them out like on the stove kind of ready to reuse because it’s irritating and we cook a lot. So I was super excited about this pot and pan holder and I ordered it and it was super late at night when it was delivered from Amazon. Everyone was like, who’s at the door? And so I start putting it together. So it was a whole family activity of watching me, you know, put this together. Me explaining that I’d ordered it off the podcast. I just, I don’t usually do that kind of

Kathi Lipp (05:04)

Yeah.

Mm-hmm.

Tenneil (05:29)

And so they were super intrigued. The guys in my house were really impressed with the design. And I got down on the floor to put it in my cabinet and it didn’t fit because I didn’t measure first. And I was like so bummed. But I was like, this thing though, it makes sense. This thing makes sense. And so I scooted my little rear over to the next cabinet, to my corner cabinet, where I also have like

Kathi Lipp (05:30)

Yeah, yeah.

Ooh!

? no.

Yes.

Yeah.

Tenneil (05:57)

piles of things, but they’re a little bit different. They’re like containers that I take cookies in, deviled eggs, tray, strainers stuff like that. And it worked brilliantly in there to stack all that stuff up and each have its own, it’s almost like a slot, its own shelf, right? And I ordered a second one to do under there. And then ? we’re still gonna order another one. We can make it fit our pan cabinet, but our pan cabinet has a

Kathi Lipp (05:58)

Mm-hmm.

Yeah,

Yes, right.

Tenneil (06:26)

like a top shelf in it, half shelf.

Kathi Lipp (06:29)

That’s mine does too. Yes.

Tenneil (06:30)

And so you

need to remove that for this to really do its job, which is okay. I would prefer it be gone in this baby work.

Kathi Lipp (06:38)

Yes.

So for some reason, this works with my half shelf. It just, mean, yeah, it’s a little, it loses a little space. But what I’ve done is I’ve put my turkey roasting pan behind that, which I only need to get to once a year. And I only need to get to it when my 30 year olds are in the house and one of them can do the crawling. So I’m fine with that. So yeah. So, ? okay. I, I’ve never given, you know, a

a ranking on this portion of the podcast. But for me, this is a 10 out of 10. It solves a huge problem. It isn’t crazy expensive. It’s not cheap, but I also don’t want cheap because I want this to last for a long time. It’s $31 and ? I just got it off of Amazon. We will put the link in the notes ? and you don’t have to give it a 10 out of 10, but what is your ranking for it?

Tenneil (07:32)

Yeah, for sure for what it did for me, I would give it a 9 out of 10 for the space that it fixed for me and I’d give it a 10 out of 10 if it measured correctly, but that’s on me, not on the product, right?

Kathi Lipp (07:37)

Yeah.

Okay,

but you know what this is really good to know that you should take that extra three minutes and Measure that space and guys, you know, I’ve talked about how I’ve ordered and I’ll put a link to these two I’ve ordered ? Those a dozen of the tiny measuring tape. So I have one in every room of the house because I That saves me a trip into town to return something

Tenneil (07:49)

Yeah!

Kathi Lipp (08:08)

And yeah, so many times I wish it worked better on clothes because like I still end up returning clothes because I don’t know what size I am anymore. But for things in your house, it’s always good to just take that extra second to measure. I bet nine times out of 10 Tenneil, you can eyeball stuff. I bet you.

Tenneil (08:29)

Yeah,

and when it comes to like furniture and other spaces, I pretty well have nailed that and I measure a lot of stuff. I just didn’t think through. I was so excited about it on the podcast. So, yeah.

Kathi Lipp (08:33)

Go.

No, of course not. Yeah, exactly.

Okay, friends. So this is called the Mudella eight tier heavy duty adjustable pan organizer rack for kitchen cabinet storage and organization. And so ? I, like I said, love this thing. If you are struggling with what to do with your pots and pans, this is worth trying. As you know, Amazon, you can always return things.

But yeah, this works for us. And I noticed like it’s saying free delivery today, 5 to 10 PM. Yeah, and here’s the thing guys, it doesn’t do free delivery to my house. It does free delivery to my mom’s house. But if I really needed it, we could do it. So I’ve ordered the second one.

Tenneil (09:19)

No.

Kathi Lipp (09:26)

And yeah, we’re gonna be so organized. It’s gonna make cooking a dream. I’m so excited. Tenneil thanks for sharing my love of pot and pan organization. It makes me super happy.

Tenneil (09:37)

Yes, it’s the little things.

Kathi Lipp (09:39)

It’s the little things, that’s true. Anytime you can remove an obstacle from something you have to do is huge. Well friends, you have been listening to ClutterFree Academy, I’m Kathi Lipp, now go create the clutter free life you’ve always wanted to live.

#672 – From Pantry to Plate: The Secret to Smart Food Storage

Jun 3, 2025 | Clutter Free, Clutter Free Home, Clutter Free Podcast, Foodie Friday, Home, Kitchen, Organizing, Overwhelmed, Podcast

Join Kathi Lipp and Tonya Kubo in this episode of Clutter-Free Academy as they tackle the often overwhelming world of food storage. Whether you’re struggling with long-term pantry organization, fridge chaos, containers for on the go or finding the right containers for...

#671 – Sentimental Clutter: Finding Freedom in Letting Go

May 27, 2025 | Clutter Free, Clutter Free Home, Clutter Free Podcast, Home, Organizing, Overwhelmed, Podcast, Relationships

Kathi Lipp returns with Tonya Kubo and Tenneil Register to address a common challenge faced by those on the clutter-free journey: sentimental items. In this insightful episode, the trio tackles the emotional weight of inherited belongings and the guilt that often...

#670 – Emotional Decluttering: A Journey Through Sentimental Keepsakes

May 20, 2025 | Clutter Free, Clutter Free Home, Clutter Free Podcast, Home, Mental Load, Organizing, Overwhelmed, Podcast, tips and ideas

In this episode of Clutter Free Academy, Kathi Lipp is joined by clutter experts Tonya Kubo and Tenneil Register for the second part of their heartfelt discussion on sentimental items. Discover the emotions that often lead us to hold onto things we neither love nor...

#669 – From Macaroni Necklaces to Masterpieces: A Guide to Decluttering and Organizing Kid Memorabilia

by Clutter Free Academy Team | May 13, 2025 | Clutter Free, Clutter Free Home, Clutter Free Podcast, Home, Organizing, Podcast, tips and ideas | 0 comments

#669 – From Macaroni Necklaces to Masterpieces: A Guide to Decluttering and Organizing Kid Memorabilia

Listen Now

In this episode of Clutter Free Academy, Kathi Lipp teams up with decluttering experts Tonya Kubo and Tenille Register to tackle one of the toughest challenges for parents—letting go of kids’ sentimental items. Whether it’s a macaroni necklace or a monumental art project, sentimental clutter can be overwhelming. This trio of brilliant ladies share personal stories and practical strategies for managing this emotional baggage. Learn how to curate your children’s treasures thoughtfully and set healthy boundaries with blended families’ keepsakes. Plus, discover special tools like the School Year’s Memory Kit! Tune in for relatable advice and humor-infused wisdom to clear cluttered spaces without guilt. As an added bonus, Kathi introduces us to her new segment: “Things That Have Earned A Place in My Clutter Free Home” where she chats with Dorina Lazo Gilmore-Young about her new bible study on the book of Ruth!

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Sabbath Soup: Weekly Menus and Rhythms to Make Space for a Day of Rest

Kathi Lipp gives readers an easy-to-follow process for meal planning and prep, so that they can enjoy a full day each week of real rest and refreshment.

Could you use a break from cooking (and everything else) once a week? Not only is rest vital for your mind and body, it’s good for your soul too. God designed us to enter into Sabbath rest one day per week, but as you know, meals still need to be made. Your family still needs to be fed.

Sabbath Soup includes convenient, seasonal meal plans that take the guesswork out of shopping and cooking. More than just a collection of delicious recipes—including main dishes, breads, breakfasts, desserts, salads, sides, and yes, soups—this is your guide to establishing a weekly rhythm and routine of meal planning and prep that allows you to have a true day off.

Do something good for your soul and experience the peace that comes with a full day dedicated to spending time with God, family, and friends. Savor your Sabbath as you proudly proclaim, “Soup’s on!”

Order your copy of Sabbath Soup: Weekly Menus and Rhythms to Make Space for a Day of Rest here.

Links Mentioned:

School Years Memory Kit (use the code CLUTTERFREE10 for a discount!)
Redeemer: God’s Loving Kindness in the Book of Ruth (study by Dorina Lazo Gilmore-Young!)

FYI: Some product links may be affiliate links. If you buy, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support!

Clutter Free Resources:

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Meet Our Co-Host

Tonya Kubo

Tonya Kubo is the illustrious and fearless leader of Kathi Lipp’s Clutter Free Academy Facebook group and the Clutter Free for Life membership program. A professional community strategist, she believes everyone deserves to have a place online where they feel like they belong. Raised by a hoarder, Tonya knows firsthand the pain and isolation that comes from living in conditions others don’t understand. She wants better for her family and her cluttery peeps, which is why she is passionate about the compassionate slow-and-steady approach that makes Clutter Free unique. She lives in the heart of California with her husband, Brian, their two spirited daughters, and one very tolerant cat. Visit tonyakubo.com to find out more about her community work, or email her at tonya@kathilipp.org to discuss the Clutter Free Academy podcast and programs.

Meet Our Co-Host

Tenneil Register

Tenneil Register can be found creating, repurposing, decorating, gardening and welcoming guests to their reclaimed barn storefront. She and her husband, Cowboy, established rural roots for their blended family of 7 in their DIY ranch home in Iowa. Connect with her on Instagram for practical ideas to reclaim your home.

Meet Our Guest

Dorina Lazo Gilmore-Young

Dorina Lazo Gilmore-Young is an author, speaker, Bible teacher, and spoken word artist.

Her passion is helping people discover God’s glory in unexpected places and flourish in their God-given callings. She wants you to become a glory chaser with her, running after God’s glory rather than your own. This has made a world of difference in every facet of Dorina’s life.

Her happy place is near the ocean with her people or running on a trail in the mountains near her home. A foodie, Dorina loves trying new recipes and restaurants. Tears, laughter, and good food are always welcome at her table. Guests are invited to come as they are.

Dorina’s Website

Transcript

Kathi Lipp (00:10)

Hey friends, welcome to clutter free Academy where our goal is to help you take small doable steps to live every day with less clutter and more life and I am here with the queen of decluttering Tonya Kubo and The queen of making things cute. I Tonya. I’m sorry. That does not feel fair like Okay, okay Yeah, you know, I I mean because if I had to choose one, I’m not gonna lie

Tonya Kubo (00:30)

It’s totally fair. It’s totally fair. I own it. I own my role.

Kathi Lipp (00:39)

Making things cute Feels like a bigger superpower But hey, we know why our people are here and they are here to be able to declutter But we’re gonna have some purpose with our declutter So it’s Tonya Kubo and Tenille Register and I I am going to start with the softest of softball questions for you Tenille how many kids do you have?

Tenneil (01:04)

Five? Not a small question for me.

Kathi Lipp (01:05)

Okay, Tonya. well,

Tonya Kubo (01:09)

was gonna say!

Kathi Lipp (01:11)

you know what? And here’s the thing, depending on who’s asking the question, it could mean two different things because people will ask Roger often how many kids he has and he says two. And it’s like, he goes, ? wait, no, I have four. And like, because blended families, right? So you have a blended family, I have a blended family. What are their ages, Tenille?

Tonya Kubo (01:17)

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (01:35)

That’s the hard question.

Tenneil (01:36)

They are 17 to 28, so in some ways we like to pretend we have none now.

Kathi Lipp (01:42)

Right, exactly. Okay, and Tonya, how many kids? Okay. Okay, so for the purposes of this, I’m calling it a teen and a tween. Does that feel accurate? Okay, good, good, good. Okay, because what we are talking about today is kids’ sentimental items. Tonya, you’ve been leading our Clutterfree Bible study, and how big of a deal are sentimental items in

Tonya Kubo (01:46)

Two, 10 and 15.

It works for me. Totally feels accurate.

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (02:11)

that Bible study. Yeah.

Tonya Kubo (02:13)

Huge, huge.

mean, honestly, it’s because the emotions are so intertwined with the things. Like a candle is not just a candle. It’s a whole relationship.

Kathi Lipp (02:24)

Right.

Yeah. Can I tell you the most interesting thing that you guys know, I’ve been on the show, Dr. Nurse Mama, which is a nationally syndicated show. And they’ve had me come back in 2025 once a month to be on the program. And we were talking about Dr. Jessica’s, she has a stuff problem. Her husband does not have a stuff problem.

Tonya Kubo (02:34)

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (02:52)

but they have a stuff problem together. And she said, and we were talking about why it’s hard for her to let go of her adult kids stuff and her kids are still living there. She goes, when I see all of the stuff, it proves to me I was a good mom. And I’m like, that is deep, right?

Tonya Kubo (02:54)

Mm-hmm.

Mmm.

That

is deep and I’ve never heard anybody say that before.

Kathi Lipp (03:19)

It’s so honest though. If you can look at your kids’ trophies and you say, was there for every practice, or you see, let’s be honest, in my kids’ cases, their participation certificates, okay? Because we were not a trophy family, but we were a, you know what, we were behind the scenes, we did all the things. But you showed up for all of that. And I know that there are a lot of parents who don’t feel

Tonya Kubo (03:21)

Yeah.

Mm-hmm.

Hahaha!

Kathi Lipp (03:46)

super confident in their parenting because what works for one kid doesn’t work for another. But you can say, hey, look at this. I really tried. I really tried. And when Roger and I got married and we moved in together, we realized we both had a kid stuff problem because, you know, he wanted to be a good dad. I wanted to be a good mom. And I was drowning in all of the stuff.

Tonya Kubo (03:51)

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (04:14)

And Tenille, I don’t know if this resonates with you at all, but I didn’t feel like I could get rid of any of my stepkids stuff. Like I would just, I would be a wicked stepmom. That like would be the official sticker that would be on my shirt. Does that resonate?

Tenneil (04:31)

Absolutely. Not only can you not get rid of it, but you probably didn’t form their thinking about stuff. And so like with my bio kid, we had these like little seasonal habits of decluttering some things and reviewing the wardrobe and I didn’t have that process. And so that means their stuff just like stays forever even after it doesn’t fit or how do I establish that with them?

Kathi Lipp (04:38)

Yeah.

Right.

Right and I remember going through stuff and trying to have conversations and I’m like Roger I just need you to be the bio parent we we had two different roles We had the bio parent or the parent in charge So like if I left the house, I would say hey Kimber Roger’s the parent in charge if you need something talk to him

And then bioparent, when it was emotional stuff, when it was the slamming the doors, I hate my life, that went to the bioparent. And Tonya, you are past the macaroni necklace stage, but you’re in the teen stage that brings a different kind of sentimental chaos. What are your kids bringing into the house right now?

Tonya Kubo (05:39)

Well, part of our challenge is different kids, different personalities. So for Lily, Lily has very few items, but everything she has is very, very precious. So the few things she has, she values a lot. Abby has a lot of stuff that is precious. And Abby is in an art phase. So I’ve got canvases and paintings and quite honestly paint everywhere in my house.

Kathi Lipp (05:43)

Mm-hmm.

Okay, now.

This

Okay.

you

Tonya Kubo (06:09)

and she wants it all displayed and she you know she wants to visit her artwork that she has given me regularly. It’s a thing.

Kathi Lipp (06:20)

Can we just say Abby is an intense human being? Yes.

Tonya Kubo (06:24)

She is, and she

is, she’s a big personality and she has so much joy. And also there is just a lot that goes on with the whirlwind that she is.

Kathi Lipp (06:28)

guess.

Yes. Okay. So I’m going to tell you guys one thing that helped me, but then I want to hear a lot of your different ideas. And when it, when we blended our families and we had this overabundance of stuff and we had, we had a lot of cardboard boxes, like the bankers boxes of art and stuff. And it wasn’t precious enough to be in their room, but it was too precious to get rid of. And so.

Tonya Kubo (06:51)

Mm.

you

Kathi Lipp (07:04)

I finally, we lived in a 1300 square foot townhouse. There was not enough room for that much precious. So finally I got it down, we did a one tub rule. Now I started this earlier with my kids where we had a tub and of course kindergarten, everything that came home was, this, I’m gonna frame this, we’re going to have a gallery wall. Everything was precious. And then you get to about fourth grade and you’re like, why do they send all this stuff home?

And it’s like, because the teachers don’t want that stuff. I get it. I get it now. I feel deeply for teacher. Tenneil’s a teacher. She gets it.

Tenneil (07:36)

you

They’re proving they’re good teacher just like we’re proving we’re a good mom.

Kathi Lipp (07:43)

That’s

right. my goodness. You are so correct the more stuff that comes home the more of a good teacher thing that’s deep insight. I love that Deep insight so we did a one-tub rule like we’ll keep one tub in the garage But then you have to decide what is precious and what is not precious And then we also had to have the when they move out. We finally Tonya knows this story

Tonya Kubo (07:48)

Mm-hmm.

Deep, deep.

Kathi Lipp (08:12)

I think it was July 30th one year. I said, if your stuff is not out of our garage, and by the way, we gave them like six weeks, but if you’re, they were in there, they were firmly in their twenties, not living at our house. And so Jeremy showed up at our house at 1130, the day of to get what he wanted. And I’m like, guys, I’ll,

Tonya Kubo (08:21)

And how old were they, Kathi? You have to include their ages.

Tenneil (08:35)

haha

Kathi Lipp (08:37)

This is the last time I’ll be happy to throw things away for you. I’ll be happy to recycle all those, but I cannot deal with this stuff anymore unless you want to start paying rent for your stuff. Well, that cleared it up real fast. So that one tub was super helpful. Tonya, how do you keep track of what is Abby’s and what is Lily’s?

Tonya Kubo (08:51)

Mm-hmm.

So I have a rainbow organizer and they get assigned colors. So there’s the drawers and I know, you know, this pink drawer is for Abby and the blue drawer is for Lily. And like, I love the one tub rule. That’s a good one. What we started early on is because when Lily was in kindergarten, because you’re right, it’s like, that’s when the stuff starts really coming in. In preschool, we didn’t get stuff all the time.

Kathi Lipp (09:06)

Mmm.

Tonya Kubo (09:28)

They would just give us like a packet during conference. And by the way, parent teacher conference for a three year old. That just blew my mind. I was not prepared for that.

Kathi Lipp (09:30)

Hmm.

There are lots of parents who they live or die by that conference.

Tonya Kubo (09:41)

Right, so we would have a conference twice a year. They would hand me a stack of stuff. So that felt very easy to manage compared to kindergarten when it’s all coming home every Friday. And at that time, the house we lived in, I just had a drawer for Lily in the laundry room and I would just shove everything in the drawer and then once a month go through it and decide what to keep.

Kathi Lipp (10:00)

Okay.

Nice. Yeah. I think that one of the things that we have to figure out is curation with our kids, right? Because they get to determine what is important, what is it. Tenille, do you have any tips for that?

Tonya Kubo (10:10)

Mm-hmm.

Tenneil (10:18)

Yes, I love the one tub kind of sets you up for that mindset. And I remember to Tonya that big packet from preschool appreciating it. And I would say, what is your favorite one and why, and then pick that one to hold on to. So I started with my bio kid at a very young age saying like, let’s pick our favorite thing that we want to remember and then have something really special that happens with that one.

Tonya Kubo (10:26)

Mm-hmm.

Tenneil (10:46)

So you’ve probably seen online like having a frame on the wall for each kid and you can rotate which one’s up front. As my number of kids multiplied, the idea of going over and changing the photo on the wall like was not happening, right? And so what I did is I put up, if you picture like a laundry rope, right? Like you were getting your clothes out to dry with little clips there.

Tonya Kubo (11:10)

Mm-hmm.

Tenneil (11:14)

and then they could switch out their art on their little segment. And for those who really loved art, they had one of those in their room that they could be in charge. And then I had one in the hallway that I could put their little prize picture on. So that was a great one for us. And then as we got into the digital world, I started saying, like, hey, tell me about it. And I would just video record them with their art and their little story behind it.

Kathi Lipp (11:15)

Yeah.

Tenneil (11:45)

And then I have that to put on their graduation video instead of this big stack of stuff. So by the time we got to kid number five who’s graduating in May, I have one basket of school artifacts. That’s it. And I’m really excited about that because I inherited from my parents like a dozen boxes. They kept all of it and it created stress for me as an adult. how many objects from those boxes

Tonya Kubo (11:57)

Yeah.

Kathi Lipp (12:00)

Nice.

Right.

Tenneil (12:14)

my five kids want.

Kathi Lipp (12:16)

How many? Yep, exactly.

Tenneil (12:18)

Zero, you guys. Zero.

Tonya Kubo (12:20)

Mm-hmm.

Tenneil (12:20)

There’s not one object from that box from all five kids that they’re interested in.

Kathi Lipp (12:26)

Yeah, it’s so true. You know, we have to understand these kids live lighter than the our generations before us. And, know, you mentioned the clothes line. One thing. So Kimberly’s first Christmas outfit, it was a little red and green checked dress and pantaloons. She’s never going to want that. You know, that’s not her thing. But what I did was I put it on a piece of rope with some clips and I pull that out every Christmas.

Tonya Kubo (12:31)

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (12:55)

and I use it as a decoration and I just love it and she has no interest but she’s like, yeah, I wore that. But for me, it was like, ? my god, my mom made it, it has a little bit, the whole thing. So I did wanna mention Tonya has a relationship with this company that produces school years memory kits. Tonya, can you just tell us a little bit about them?

Tonya Kubo (13:00)

Mm-hmm.

Yeah, well, it’s like perfect alignment with this one tub rule. And so the the owner, it’s owned by a husband and wife company, and they have an app that works for baby books. But what I love about the school year’s memory kit is it’s simple. It’s a box about and you can buy the box or not buy the box totally up to you. But it’s a box that’s about a foot wide, about 18 inches deep, and a little less than a foot tall.

So just think it’s like one nice sized tub fits in most closets. And it comes with 11 by 14 file folders. And it’s one folder for each grade, preschool all the way up to 12th grade. And it’s printed on the outside. And this is what I love about it. I mean, it’s one of those things, you could totally DIY this yourself. I’m just not crafty like Tenille, so I have to buy the craftiness.

But it’s printed so you can put their school, their teacher, and then what do they wanna be when they grow up? Who are their closest friends? What are they really good at? Paste a picture on the front, and then in that folder, you just put all the mementos from that school year.

Kathi Lipp (14:29)

I love it. And if you’ve been meaning to do something like that for seven years, buy the kit if you can. But if you can DIY it, that’s great. I know that Tenille would come up with cute fonts and everything. So we’ll have a link to that in our show notes. And we have a 10 % off because every little bit helps. love a mom and pop store. So the code is clutterfree10. And so we’ve got that for you.

Tonya Kubo (14:45)

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (14:58)

Guys, we’re gonna take a quick commercial break and then we’re gonna be back and we’re gonna talk about when it’s time to transfer ownership. I cannot wait.

Okay guys, we are back. Okay, at some point some of this stuff needs to leave the house. Here’s the deal, if you, but here’s what I had to learn and it’s very hard for me. I’m not gonna lie. If you hand it over, it’s theirs and you no longer get a say about what they do with it. If they light it on fire, that’s okay because it’s theirs. I think that strikes people very differently.

Because I do have a relative who tries to give me stuff and then checks up on it at my house. And I’m like, no, no, no, no, no, no, no. If it’s important to you, please keep it. But if you’re giving it to me, I get to decide what happens to it. And that’s a really hard, I don’t know. It feels very guilt inducing. And so here’s my question. Tonya, have you talked about this at all with your kids about like,

Tonya Kubo (15:59)

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (16:05)

What will happen when they I I know you are it feels like a lifetime from now But have you had any conversations about what happens with their stuff?

Tonya Kubo (16:09)

Mm-hmm.

like what happens with their stuff later? No, because I don’t know that they ever will leave, honestly. mean, like Lily would have her own apartment right now. She would, but it would just be like her and her bed and a cat and nothing else. She would just wear the same thing every day that she thrifted, right? Because she’s the big thrifty person. But all…

Kathi Lipp (16:17)

Yeah, when they move out.

Ha

You’re right.

Right. Yeah.

Tonya Kubo (16:39)

ever really talk about is just like what do we have space for right now because those girls share a room.

Kathi Lipp (16:43)

Yeah,

yeah, it’s so true.

Tonya Kubo (16:47)

So our

big conversation in the house right now is books. It’s like going to Abby going, you’re 10, you’re reading chapter books. I think we can get rid of the picture books now.

Kathi Lipp (16:57)

Mm, yeah.

Tonya Kubo (16:59)

And I will give you a little tip on what we’re doing. And Kathi you know that this is big for me. Listeners know that this is big for me. I agreed to a yard sale.

Because Abby is my collector, so we agreed to a yard sale and they get to split the money. Whatever we make, they’re gonna split it in half. And so Abby is very gung-ho about getting rid of those toys and the clothes and everything that she has outgrown. And we’re not having to fight about it. It’s beautiful.

Kathi Lipp (17:13)

Yeah.

Okay?

Yes!

Ooh,

ooh, could they still get like $1 if they give, if something’s given away for free? I’m just, thinking about you, Tonya. I’m thinking about you.

Tonya Kubo (17:38)

Right,

well, so the thing is, is they get half of even the stuff we’re putting out for sale. Like I am done pretending, so I’ve lived in this house since 2018, I am done pretending I’m gonna put the stuff on the walls that was on the walls at the last house. I keep thinking it’s gonna happen, it’s not gonna happen. The stuff’s gonna go to a different home. So we’re getting rid of a bunch of home decor stuff and they get to keep that too.

Kathi Lipp (17:43)

Okay, okay.

Yeah, yeah, it’s not gonna happen.

Yeah.

It makes the transition to adulthood so much easier if there’s not all that stuff. Tenille, how about in your house? How did that all work out for you? Or is it still?

Tonya Kubo (18:06)

Yeah.

Tenneil (18:09)

Yeah, so it’s something,

I love that we’re having this conversation, right? Because it’s something you don’t think about when your kids are growing up until that first one’s gone and you kind of like need the space and you’re not sure how to handle it, right? And so for me, it was, I’m going to keep this one chest of things for you because I know that you live in transition in a small space. And so I will keep this one box for you. And then there was a separate category of stuff. That’s like a bigger like,

Kathi Lipp (18:20)

Right. Mm-hmm.

Tenneil (18:39)

heirloom piece of furniture, right? Like a really nice dresser, like I love it better than my dresser. Am I willing, how long am I willing to hold on to that one, right? So for me, the valuable things like that, I said, I will hold on to until you own your own home. And that’s undated, right? 25 or 45 until you own your own home. Because I don’t want to pressure them into settling down if they’re content with like a little bit more nomad. But all the

Kathi Lipp (18:49)

Hmm.

Mm, okay. Yeah.

Tenneil (19:09)

stuff is like a one box rule and even that is like as they’re all getting older I need to adjust one more time and so I recently came across an idea and did it with my oldest daughter who’s not in her own home but she is in like she doesn’t own it but she’s there and she’s settling in and I did a kit for her house and I combined it with like new items that I knew she wanted to have right like some new kitchen linens and some things like that

one or two pieces of childhood that I knew she could put directly like onto her wall or on her bathroom counter and she would want and I said she was so excited to have them and I said Everything else it’s out there. Do you want me to just get rid of it? And she was like absolutely Right. I did the think work for her and that’s what she needed. So I think you have to play it kid by kid, but I

Kathi Lipp (19:57)

good.

Yeah.

Right.

Tenneil (20:05)

I definitely think you setting the boundary of how much you’re willing to hold on to and then partnering with their personality to navigate it is really great.

Kathi Lipp (20:15)

Tonya, what were you going to say? Yeah.

Tonya Kubo (20:17)

Question so

because this comes up in clutter free Academy a lot what happens if they never buy a home?

Tenneil (20:26)

Yeah, so for me at that point, I would say like, do you want me to sell it and you can have the money or are you giving it to me? Right? Because my daughter’s sister, she would give it to me. I would use that dresser, right?

Tonya Kubo (20:35)

Yeah!

Kathi Lipp (20:38)

Right?

Tonya Kubo (20:39)

curious, at what age? Cause like we’ve got members that I have been walking this path with and one of them, it’s like the kid is 40. And she was like, and I didn’t realize this for a long time. I thought we were talking about 20 somethings, but it’s like, okay, well, if at 40, they don’t live in a home that can accommodate the big China cabinet or whatever it is, I think we have to make peace with the fact that they may not.

and come up with an alternative plan.

Tenneil (21:10)

And I should put a clarifier on it. Like this is only on furniture that I have a space and a use for in my home. This is a dresser that is in my guest room that she comes home to and it serves a purpose in our home. If that was in my living room or in my way or did not fit, then I, like Kathi, would put that expiration date on there. I might even offer like, you can pay for storage for it, right? Like I have a vehicle.

Tonya Kubo (21:17)

Mm-hmm. Mm.

Mm-hmm. Yeah, okay.

Kathi Lipp (21:37)

Yeah.

Tenneil (21:39)

from my father that I pay storage on because someday I’m going to fix it up. That’s my choice, right? But nobody else is responsible for my hoarding that.

Tonya Kubo (21:39)

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (21:48)

Right. Okay. I love all this you guys and you know, we’re we’re coming to the end here. Tenille, I would love just a couple of creative ideas from you of things for our kids, whether they are littles or they are grown adults. But you know, those things that we don’t want to get rid of, but they don’t necessarily have a purpose is do you have a couple of ideas for us?

Tenneil (22:17)

I do. So one of them is the box of like little trinkets is to have like a glass jar, right? You have their like matchbox or you know, their favorite little makeup purse or these little things. Create a glass jar. It’s got your movie tickets and your concert tickets from high school and let that just be a decorative jar that you give them as a Christmas gift. And they have that in their house and you’ve gone through and

Kathi Lipp (22:40)

?

Tenneil (22:44)

you’ve decluttered it and you’ve got these little objects. So I think that’s a super fun one. And it’s something that when you walk by it and you kind of see your first little magic matchbox car or your little things, it’s kind of fun collected memory. Another one, I think another great one is to take that like first piece of artwork and have it put up onto a canvas. You can do that so inexpensively now, like just through Walgreens photo or whatever.

Kathi Lipp (22:56)

Yeah.

Tonya Kubo (22:59)

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (22:59)

I love that.

Tenneil (23:12)

for art for their apartment or their bathroom or something like that. I think that’s also like give a couple of meaningful pieces and let the rest.

Kathi Lipp (23:15)

Hmm.

Tonya Kubo (23:20)

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (23:21)

It’s so much about the presentation, isn’t it? The curation and presentation. I’m not giving you every Sunday school paper that you scribbled on, but I understand that this was an important time in your life. Like, you know, I kept the pictures of Thomas the Tank Engine that were so important to my son.

Tonya Kubo (23:27)

Yeah.

Kathi Lipp (23:41)

But the where he was scribbled on Jesus, we didn’t keep those necessarily. But it’s okay. He loves Jesus in his heart. And so I think just recognizing that curation makes things more precious. It makes them be things that we care about and that we love. And then we say, even if you don’t remember this, this was important to you.

And here’s the story that goes with it. And I think that that is such a great encouragement. And it gives them context for their lives, which I absolutely love. So I’m just gonna encourage you listener, start small, one box, one folder, one school year. It’s not about getting it all done today. It’s about making intentional choices. Okay, hang out with us for just another moment.

We have a new segment I’m so excited about Stuff that has earned a place in my house and I’m gonna share some really fun and exciting Things that you might want to consider bringing into your house as well

SECOND AD BREAK HERE

Kathi Lipp (00:01)

Well, hey friends, welcome back and we are starting a new series here on the podcast, Clutterfree Academy. I tell you all the time to get stuff out of your home.

Get it out, you don’t need it. You don’t need those birthday napkins from six years ago. You don’t need the Dora the Explorer backpack that you’ve been hanging on to for just the right child. But I wanna tell you some of the things that have earned a place in my home. And sometimes it’s gonna be something that I found at the store. Sometimes it’s gonna be a book and today it’s actually gonna be a Bible study.

I am I’m just gonna admit it up front you guys. This is one of my friends I love her so much her name is Dorina Lazo Gilmore Young and She has a Bible study. It’s called Redeemer God’s Loving-Kindness in the Book of Ruth and Let me just tell you I’ve been obsessed with the book of Ruth ever since I started Like reading the Bible and so I am so excited to talk to her today Dorina welcome back to the podcast

Dorina Lazo Gilmore-Young (01:24)

Thanks, Kathi. I always feel so welcome at your table. So thanks for inviting me.

Kathi Lipp (01:27)

Oh,

thank you. Well, and we were just talking about you baking sourdough and I’m making soup and that’s how we’re getting through this winter and spring. And but you are also in, you know, as you spend your time lovingly watching your sourdough rise, you also have completed this book, Ruth. And I love what you say that sometimes Ruth is kind of put in a hallmark movie tinted lens.

And so what do you mean by that? If somebody’s not familiar with the book of Ruth and the story of Ruth and Naomi, can you give us the reader’s digest version?

Dorina Lazo Gilmore-Young (02:08)

Yeah, thanks for asking. Now, I just want to make clear that I do love my Hallmark movies and the predictability is something that is actually sometimes a balm to the soul.

Kathi Lipp (02:12)

? yes, there’s… Yeah.

And Dorina, should say that

we both work in some, we’re both contractors with Hallmark. So like we are not disparaging the Hallmark name. So please go ahead, yes.

Dorina Lazo Gilmore-Young (02:25)

Yeah.

Absolutely not. But when I say that the Book of Ruth is usually viewed through this kind of hallmark tinted lens, I say that because oftentimes people connect to this story with kind of a, you know, girl suffers hardship, girl overcomes the hardship, boy meets girl, they fall in love and then they live happily ever after. And what I have discovered through the Book of Ruth is that it is so much deeper than that.

And it’s not just this predictable kind of like romance story. It’s actually a description for us of a real life situation that was messy and unexpected and colored by grief. And so just to kind of quickly summarize, asked, you know,

Kathi Lipp (03:11)

Mm-hmm.

Dorina Lazo Gilmore-Young (03:18)

What’s the Reader’s Digest version or, you know, I think about Cliff Notes. We used to use Cliff Notes, right? So what’s the quick way to kind of talk about the Book of Ruth? I would say what it starts with actually is tragedy. So Ruth is a woman who was married and her husband actually dies. In fact, her brother-in-law and her father-in-law also passed away. And so here we have Ruth.

Naomi, her mother-in-law and her sister-in-law, Orpa, and they are in a dire situation where they are widows. They don’t have their providers. They don’t seem to have a way forward. And that’s where the book of Ruth starts. And then what we see is we see these women on this dusty road back to Bethlehem. And yes, we are supposed to recognize the name of that city. They are headed back to Naomi’s home where there’s a promise of provision.

And when they go there, they find God’s provision, but in a very unexpected way through a landowner named Boaz. And that’s kind of the gist of the story. And I don’t want us to hurry past all of that richness just to get to the happily ever after.

Kathi Lipp (04:24)

Right.

It you know, the happily ever after only comes after we recognize the pain in our lives. boy, you know, I didn’t really when you said that you had written this Bible study on Ruth and I thought, that’s so cool. I always love your takes on stuff. It didn’t occur to me later that this mirrors your own story so much.

And you don’t have to be a widow to appreciate the depth of this story, but this does mirror some of your own experience, doesn’t it?

Dorina Lazo Gilmore-Young (05:16)

Absolutely. This is a book that I was in love with for years before, like you said, since I fell in love with the Bible. You know, this has been a book that I’ve studied, that I’ve taught, that I’ve mulled over, but it completely changed when I was widowed 10 years ago. And here I was on the road to Bethlehem, so to speak, and trying to figure out what my life was. And God, the Redeemer met me on that dusty road. And so he used

reading and studying of this book actually to bring the real life redemption that he had in store for me and for my daughters.

Kathi Lipp (05:52)

And you know, you think about this, the book of Ruth is really about God’s love for the disenfranchised, isn’t it? For the widow, for the orphan, for the immigrant, for the refugee and the poor. What in your perspective has changed since you did this Bible study? Has your perspective on any of…

how we as Christians interact with widows or with orphans or with the poor. Has any of that changed for you through your lens of Ruth?

Dorina Lazo Gilmore-Young (06:34)

You know, I definitely feel like going through the process of creating this study and then even, you know, we did video teaching. So teaching this study, writing it, editing all of it, it has deepened my understanding that we serve a God who cares about the vulnerable. And so that is really actually the invitation here. Part of it is for us to understand that God cares about us.

in our unexpected circumstances, whether you’re a widow or not. But then part of it is an invitation for us to see that, hey, there are people all around us who are vulnerable, who are disenfranchised, who are grieving, that actually God the Redeemer calls us to reach out to, to feed, to come alongside. so for me, that’s where the story then became not just this description of what happened to this one woman,

Kathi Lipp (07:04)

Yeah.

Dorina Lazo Gilmore-Young (07:32)

but also a call to all of us as believers.

Kathi Lipp (07:37)

You know, one of the things that I found so fascinating about this is that you’ve really incorporated some artistic elements into this study. There are visual arts and journaling prompts. And I just thought I would so love to do this with a group of women where we can be sharing those experiences and seeing into each other’s study and their history.

because I think that that is something that sometimes we’re missing. I’ve been to Bible studies before where you are just filling in blanks and writing in answers. And that can be helpful, but it can be so much more. What caused you to take this really kind of multimedia approach to this Bible study?

Dorina Lazo Gilmore-Young (08:31)

Well, you I wanted to do something that was a little bit more creative and recognizing that a lot of people have studied the Book of Ruth. It’s popular for women’s studies. And so I thought to myself, well, what’s something I could do that’s unique, that’s experiential, that invites people to go a little bit deeper? And so we incorporated things like Vizio Divina, which is original art pieces that were created for my Bible study. And then

Kathi Lipp (08:40)

Yeah, right.

Dorina Lazo Gilmore-Young (08:57)

It allows people who are reading the study to look at that art piece, to be reflective, to pray, to contemplate, and then to enter in with the Holy Spirit to see, okay, well, what can I learn from this portion of scripture? And a lot of times, visual arts and different forms of art can help us to go there. And so that’s why I wanted to incorporate something a little bit different. I do believe in verse by verse exposition, and that’s there.

But I do want people to own this in their heart, to have a takeaway that this is a book that not just knowledge is gained, but actually that their lives are changed.

Kathi Lipp (09:39)

I love it. What group of women do you feel like would most benefit from going through this study? Do you think it would be better, you know, one-on-one with just a couple of people, a large group or I know we think every Bible study is for everybody, is, you know, but I also feel I love this. And like I said, I would want to do it with a group of my friends, even if we were online together, but

Who did you have in mind when you were creating this Bible study? I guess that’s the question.

Dorina Lazo Gilmore-Young (10:14)

Well, I’ll be honest and say kind of that bullseye target is for women who are suffering or who are grieving. And I’m having the privilege of actually going through the study right now with a small group of widow moms. And it is so rich to just see how this ministers to them. But I do believe that it can appeal to different groups. And so that’s why I would really encourage people to think about whether it’s through online Zoom or even in person in someone’s living room.

Kathi Lipp (10:41)

Mm-hmm.

Dorina Lazo Gilmore-Young (10:42)

that you go through it with a small group where you can process some of those things. some of the reflection questions that I have for people also are to look around and to see who’s in your community, who’s in your church or your circle, your neighborhood, who really needs that ministry of presence. And I think if we do it in a small group, we can even brainstorm some of those things together.

Kathi Lipp (10:59)

Yeah.

I love it. Yeah, because there’s a real practical element to all of this as well, which I absolutely love. Dorina, it is Redeemer, God’s loving kindness in the Book of Ruth. Guys, it’s available anywhere you love to buy books, but of course, we’ll have the link in there for you as well. And we’ll also have Dorina’s website so you can find out more about it. Thanks so much for being on with me today.

Dorina Lazo Gilmore-Young (11:30)

Thanks for making my Bible study something that you keep in your home.

Kathi Lipp (11:33)

Yes, absolutely in a place of honor

friend in a place of honor. Well friends you’ve been listening to the writing. ? no, you haven’t Well friends, you’ve been listening to the clutter free academy podcast. I’m Kathi Lipp now go create the clutter free life You’ve always wanted to live

#672 – From Pantry to Plate: The Secret to Smart Food Storage

Jun 3, 2025 | Clutter Free, Clutter Free Home, Clutter Free Podcast, Foodie Friday, Home, Kitchen, Organizing, Overwhelmed, Podcast

Join Kathi Lipp and Tonya Kubo in this episode of Clutter-Free Academy as they tackle the often overwhelming world of food storage. Whether you’re struggling with long-term pantry organization, fridge chaos, containers for on the go or finding the right containers for...

#671 – Sentimental Clutter: Finding Freedom in Letting Go

May 27, 2025 | Clutter Free, Clutter Free Home, Clutter Free Podcast, Home, Organizing, Overwhelmed, Podcast, Relationships

Kathi Lipp returns with Tonya Kubo and Tenneil Register to address a common challenge faced by those on the clutter-free journey: sentimental items. In this insightful episode, the trio tackles the emotional weight of inherited belongings and the guilt that often...

#670 – Emotional Decluttering: A Journey Through Sentimental Keepsakes

May 20, 2025 | Clutter Free, Clutter Free Home, Clutter Free Podcast, Home, Mental Load, Organizing, Overwhelmed, Podcast, tips and ideas

In this episode of Clutter Free Academy, Kathi Lipp is joined by clutter experts Tonya Kubo and Tenneil Register for the second part of their heartfelt discussion on sentimental items. Discover the emotions that often lead us to hold onto things we neither love nor...

#668 – Let’s Get Under the Sink

by Roger Lipp | May 6, 2025 | Clutter Free, Clutter Free Home, Clutter Free Podcast, Home, Organizing, Podcast, tips and ideas | 0 comments

#668 – Let’s Get Under the Sink

Listen Now

In this episode of the Clutter Free Academy Podcast, host Kathi Lipp, joined by Tonya Kubo, demystifies one of the most daunting household areas: under the kitchen sink. The duo shares practical tips on decluttering, cleaning, and organizing this often-neglected space. Listeners will learn how to inspect for leaks, utilize vertical storage, and develop a system to avoid overstocking on cleaning products. With Kathi’s relatable anecdotes and step-by-step guidance, tackle your under-the-sink chaos and reclaim a clutter-free life. Tune in for a sprinkle of humor, insightful advice, and strategies for enjoying your home anew.

Click here to be notified when the next podcast episode is released!

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Sabbath Soup: Weekly Menus and Rhythms to Make Space for a Day of Rest

Kathi Lipp gives readers an easy-to-follow process for meal planning and prep, so that they can enjoy a full day each week of real rest and refreshment.

Could you use a break from cooking (and everything else) once a week? Not only is rest vital for your mind and body, it’s good for your soul too. God designed us to enter into Sabbath rest one day per week, but as you know, meals still need to be made. Your family still needs to be fed.

Sabbath Soup includes convenient, seasonal meal plans that take the guesswork out of shopping and cooking. More than just a collection of delicious recipes—including main dishes, breads, breakfasts, desserts, salads, sides, and yes, soups—this is your guide to establishing a weekly rhythm and routine of meal planning and prep that allows you to have a true day off.

Do something good for your soul and experience the peace that comes with a full day dedicated to spending time with God, family, and friends. Savor your Sabbath as you proudly proclaim, “Soup’s on!”

Order your copy of Sabbath Soup: Weekly Menus and Rhythms to Make Space for a Day of Rest here.

Links Mentioned:

Products & Amazon Links

Below are suggested products for organizing under the sink,

2-Tier Sliding Drawer

Example: SimpleHouseware 2-Tier Under Sink Organizer

Link: https://amzn.to/4kQ0rdL

Stackable Bins

Example: Hudgan Set Of 8 Stackable Organizer Bins, Straight Sides Plastic Storage Containers?

https://amzn.to/3FtUDqd

Door-Mounted Rack or Hooks

Example: Command Wire Hooks 16-Pack

Link: https://amzn.to/4kP2PkX

(Great for hanging towels, brushes, or gloves on the inside of the cabinet door.)

Tension Rod for Spray Bottles

Example: AIZESI Spring Tension Rod 16-28 inch – 2Pcs

Link: https://amzn.to/3DGgDxA

(Pick a length that fits your cabinet width.)

Non-Slip Shelf Liner

Example: Gorilla Grip powerGRIP Drawer Shelf and CabinetLiner

Link: https://amzn.to/3FEt9y8

Moisture-Proof Bins for Towels/Rags

Example: IRIS USA WeatherPro 6 Qt Storage Bins with Lids, 6 Pack,

Link: https://amzn.to/41GHzoM

(Keeps moisture out and is easy to wipe clean.)

Label Maker (Optional)

Example: DYMO LabelManager 160 Portable Label Maker Bundle

Link: https://amzn.to/3Ra9FE4

General Tools MMD4E Digital Moisture Meter, Water Leak Detector, Moisture Tester,?

Link: https://amzn.to/4hA1ZWq

Clorox Free & Clear Disinfecting Mist, Household Essentials, 1 Spray Bottle and 1 Refill, 14 Fl Oz Each

Link: https://amzn.to/4bNEuba

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Meet Our Co-Host

Tonya Kubo

Tonya Kubo is the illustrious and fearless leader of Kathi Lipp’s Clutter Free Academy Facebook group and the Clutter Free for Life membership program. A professional community strategist, she believes everyone deserves to have a place online where they feel like they belong. Raised by a hoarder, Tonya knows firsthand the pain and isolation that comes from living in conditions others don’t understand. She wants better for her family and her cluttery peeps, which is why she is passionate about the compassionate slow-and-steady approach that makes Clutter Free unique. She lives in the heart of California with her husband, Brian, their two spirited daughters, and one very tolerant cat. Visit tonyakubo.com to find out more about her community work, or email her at tonya@kathilipp.org to discuss the Clutter Free Academy podcast and programs.

Transcript

Kathi Lipp (00:08)
Well, hey friend, welcome to Clutter Free Academy where our goal is to help you take small doable steps every day to live with less clutter and more life. I’m Kathi Lipp. Today I am here with Tonya Kubo. Hey Tonya. And we are tackling another project. I think this may rank as one of my least favorite areas to declutter and clean. It is

Tonya Kubo (00:22)
Hey, Kathi.

Kathi Lipp (00:38)
Under the kitchen sink. How do you feel about under? I anything where I have to squat down Is going to go pretty low on the list

Tonya Kubo (00:47)
Yeah,

and my house is old, so underneath the sink smells funny. Not gonna lie. Just smells weird. I just don’t want to go down there.

Kathi Lipp (00:52)
Yeah, okay.

Yeah, you know, several years ago, we we noticed that the outside of our house had a big spot on it. And we’re like, what is that? And it we had a leak under our sink we didn’t know about, and ended up replacing part of our house, you know, the side on the house having to

Tonya Kubo (01:04)
Mmm.

Kathi Lipp (01:19)
cut that all out, repaint it. Fortunately, we hired somebody who knew what they were doing because that’s not mine and Roger’s giftedness. But it’s important that you’re down there pretty regularly and inspecting things because…

Tonya Kubo (01:34)
for that

exact reason, which is also why I avoid it.

Kathi Lipp (01:38)
Yeah, I

know, right? There’s a show that Roger and I love, it’s called Mom, and somebody was at Bonnie’s house and they moved the bookcase and she says, you have mold, you you have a wet spot. And she goes, I know, and I paint it and it goes away for six months. And it’s like…

Why do you think we have the desk where we have it? It’s not because we want it there. Yeah, but you know, this stuff can be serious and it’s also annoying. Tonya, let’s talk under the sink.

Tonya Kubo (02:15)
All right, so it’s a catch-all, which you’ve established. We avoid it, which we’ve also established. So how do we get started if we want to doom clean under the sink?

Kathi Lipp (02:19)
Yeah, yes.

Hahaha

Yeah, so first of all, we have to declutter and it was so interesting just the other day. We had our windshield replaced on our car because Giant Boulder came at my face. I was like, it was was not fun, but we got it. And the people who replaced it, they had a big old can. They gave us a big old can of auto window cleaner. And I said, as I was.

Tonya Kubo (02:40)
Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (02:57)
Like, where do we put this? And I said, Roger, where would you first think to look when you needed auto window cleaner? And he said, under the sink. I’m like.

Tonya Kubo (03:06)
Hahaha!

Kathi Lipp (03:09)
Really?

Tonya Kubo (03:10)
But it’s true because you’re like, I mean, this was in my house two weeks ago. Lily was looking for something random and it’s like, it’s so random. Where would you put that? I bet I would put that under the sink. And she went and it was there.

Kathi Lipp (03:23)
Really?

My good. Okay. Well see I cannot argue when I say I’m going to ask you the question Where would you first look for this and I was thinking our auto supplies. nene It’s under the sink. Okay, apparently Roger has been affirmed in this so Yeah, we’re gonna pull everything out. We’re gonna empty that cabinet and You just need to see everything sponges have to empty cleaners

And there’s nothing wrong with a half empty cleaner, but if you have the half empty cleaner plus the full cleaner plus another half empty cleaner, et cetera, et cetera, you’re gonna have stuff down there you forgot and you have. So we’re gonna, yes please.

Tonya Kubo (04:08)
Yes. Do you want to hear my story? Six.

So I keep the white vinegar underneath the sink too in a big jug because old house stinky disposal. Right. So we had been buying a hand wash like dish, Dawn dish soap. I pulled out the vinegar. I had six dish soaps behind it, but they’re short. They’re short. The vinegar was tall.

Kathi Lipp (04:14)
Okay, uh-huh. Right, yeah.

Yeah.

I’m not gonna fault you. Yes, I know. And

right, I totally get that. Apparently I was deathly afraid that the world was gonna run out of Dawn Powerwash.

Tonya Kubo (04:45)
I’m definitely afraid of that. That has changed our life since we discovered it at your house.

Kathi Lipp (04:49)
Right? It’s so great. And so it feels like every time I went to Costco, I bought the three pack. We’re good. We are so good. Yeah, as one does. Okay.

Tonya Kubo (05:00)
as one does. All right.

So you pull everything out so that you can be like me and discover that you actually have six dishwashing detergent things.

Kathi Lipp (05:08)
Yeah,

so you’re gonna either put that all on your counter on the kitchen table whatever makes sense to you Yeah, you’re gonna keep the products you actually use I don’t care if it’s full full You know a quarter full if you use it and if you can combine things now be very careful with combining things You’re not gonna come buying Bleach and other things right? We’re not gonna be that’s I couldn’t think of the word. Yes We’re not gonna do that because we want everybody to stay alive

Tonya Kubo (05:31)
No bleach and ammonia. Please do not do that.

Yes.

Kathi Lipp (05:38)
So you’re only going to combine like with like. Donate or give away. If you have, you know, maybe 20 Dawn Power washes, maybe it’s time to donate a few of those to your local food pantry. But, you know, don’t, we’re never donating junk guys. And then we’re going to toss things like expired chemicals, moldy sponges, broken tools. Now, when I say we’re going to toss expired chemicals, you’re going to check

Tonya Kubo (05:56)
Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (06:08)
with your local municipality about how you get rid of chemicals. You know what, can I just say there have been hostage negotiations that take less back and forth than us getting rid of chemicals in the greater Sacramento area. But you know what, we’re gonna do it right. and you know, dried paint, things like that. We’re just, we’re gonna do all the right things. You’re going to…

Tonya Kubo (06:24)
Hahaha

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (06:35)
Check for duplicates and safety. So first you’re gonna pull everything out. Second, you’re gonna sort items. Check for duplicates and safety. So if you have three bottles, same cleaner, like we said, combine or let some go. There are some chemicals that can be hazardous, so we’re going to dispose of those properly. But also make sure, check expiration dates. If something is a chemical and it’s out of date,

It’s probably time to dispose of it properly. And then four, you’re gonna decide how many backups can I, six may be too much of maybe. how many backup cleaners do you realistically need? The more backups you hold, the more clutter you risk. So keep a small stash, not an entire store’s worth. So what I’ve done is I have put those Dawn containers

Tonya Kubo (07:11)
Maybe.

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (07:32)
into we have a very high shelf in our garage, but I checked that before I go to Costco and I don’t think I’ve bought any Dawn Power Wash in the last year. So this is a victory. So you have to be able to see it friends.

Tonya Kubo (07:48)
I think that’s the big lesson through this whole series too, right? Is what you can’t see tends to pile up, right? No matter what your daily habits are. And you know, like before the dishwasher soap incident, I would have said that making me pull everything out of underneath my sink would have made me super nervous because honestly, I’m just afraid every time I pull stuff out that I’m gonna find a leak of some sort. That’s really my fear.

Kathi Lipp (07:55)
Great.

Yes, I get

it. Right.

Tonya Kubo (08:16)
is that I’m gonna go

push something through and my hand’s gonna go through the floor. I’ve seen that movie. That doesn’t work out, right? But to your point, it’s the only way to see what’s down there. It’s the only way to figure out if it makes sense. And it’s the only way to really get it clean, which brings me to the next segment of this particular episode.

Kathi Lipp (08:19)
Yes. Yes.

Yeah,

but Tonya, I’m also going to talk about the fear of the drip here for a second. We want a drip, not a demo. OK? I want you to catch the drip before we have to go to power tools, which is what Roger and I had to do. So I’m speaking out. I’m laying myself bare for this experience. So yes, let’s talk about cleaning.

Tonya Kubo (08:51)
Right.

Kathi Lipp (09:08)
Let’s get started with this is that you’re you’re gonna pull everything out and this is the time to disinfect Okay, so that’s before you do anything else and I know we’re gonna be talking a lot about how to clean all this but use I want you to use something that has a disinfecting spray because like you said water mold crusty residue soap

Tonya Kubo (09:23)
Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (09:37)
Leaked liquids. I I want you to wipe down and disavow. know this is such an exciting thing, right? I mean I see your face

Tonya Kubo (09:44)
Super exciting.

Yeah, I’m making my poo face as my kids call it. But the wiping down and disinfecting is really important and it is an important first step. I would love for us to tackle the rest of the steps after our commercial break. So we are gonna just take a quick break, pay a few bills, and then we’re gonna come back and talk more about what cleaning looks like underneath the sink.

Kathi Lipp (09:49)
Okay.

Tonya Kubo (10:14)
Welcome back, Kathi you have helped us declutter. You talked to us about wiping down, disinfecting, especially because there’s spills, there’s leaks. We talked about maybe some mildew and yucky stuff. Now take us to the rest of the steps.

Kathi Lipp (10:18)
Yes.

Okay, so one, wipe down the disinfect, two, address those leaks or dampness. Now, I will find this little tool. I didn’t think about it until we were talking right now, but one of my nephews is a building, like he knows everything. He’s a world expert on concrete, which is, know, but an interesting, and I learned from him that concrete,

Either has no Wait either has cracks or is going to crack so that’s good information to know I didn’t know that but also he told me about a tool that you can get on Amazon that Detects leaks and dampness so I yeah, so if that is something that is a problem for you I’ll find the one that he recommends

Because I think that that’s important for us to have but check things check to see if things are wet Check the garbage disposal and seals if you see moisture or mildew fix it before putting anything back Okay, and then I’m gonna ask you to vacuum and sweep you may want to do this before you wipe things down But you know there’s floor under the sink if you need to get under their crayon crumbs and dust pile up quick vacuum

Tonya Kubo (11:27)
Okay.

Kathi Lipp (11:55)
or sweep ensures a fresh start. We love a fresh start. We love a clean sleep. And then I want you to let it dry thoroughly. Leave the doors open. If you need to stick a fan there to let everything, you don’t want to put moisture on top of moisture. So we’re gonna spend a little time just letting everything dry out. Bone dry cabinets prevent further musty smells, mold issues.

Tonya Kubo (11:58)
We do.

Kathi Lipp (12:23)
And I’m also gonna come back and say, wipe down the sides of the walls, okay? And this is where, you know, I just, want you to have a fresh start in that space. I use, there is a great misting spray. It’s a Clorox disinfecting spray that I have that I really like for those kind of different areas that can tend to have.

Tonya Kubo (12:29)
Mmm.

Kathi Lipp (12:53)
You know, you can have some issues build up there. So we’ll be sure to put that in there as well. But I really want to spend the bulk of our time here today, Tonya, talking about how do you organize for longevity? How do you organize so that you can go to that space? And Tonya, I want to take away the fear of under the sink. So that’s where I want to spend most of our time.

Tonya Kubo (13:23)
Okay, okay. So I think we should just take a quick break so that you can have that uninterrupted at this point. So please just stick with us because Kathi’s gonna come back and walk us through quite a few steps and some detail when it comes to organizing the under the sink area because it is so problematic. We’ll be right back.

Kathi Lipp (13:30)
Yeah.

Tonya Kubo (13:46)
All right, Kathi, take us home. How do we organize under the sink so that it stays neat?

Kathi Lipp (13:49)
Yes.

Let me tell you my goal here. When it comes to the area under the sink, we’re aiming for solutions, not storage of unresolved stuff. Let’s reclaim that space, friend. Let’s reclaim that space, okay? Because it’s very easy to just shove things that you don’t know what to do with them under the sink and just say, okay, well, that’s the place I would look for them. No, I want better for you, my friend. Okay.

So here are a few options of things that have really helped me with some of my, and by the way, this could be under your bathroom sink, this could be your kitchen sink, this could be utility room, all these places. first thing I wanna talk about are these two-tiered sliding drawers or caddies. They are perfect, they’re two-tier, so you get double space because,

That under the sink area can be pretty tall. It’s gonna be, for most modern homes, about the height of your dishwasher. And our dishwashers have two to three tiers on them. So let’s use that vertical space as much as we can. Now you’re under the sink. It was built in the 1950s. What does yours look like?

Tonya Kubo (15:12)
Well, so our garbage disposal takes up most of the under the sink space. So we’ve just got the space on either side of it. It’s weird. Super weird. ?

Kathi Lipp (15:15)
Yeah, okay.

Yeah, okay. So I may have a solution for you though.

I may have something for you. There are these slide out caddies that fit around your pipes, including, it might be wide enough to fit around your garbage disposal and your pipe under the sink. so those, you build them in, you screw them into the floor and they can pull out and give you a lot more storage space. So I don’t know, you…

Here’s what I’m gonna say every single episode. You’re gonna get so sick of me saying this, Tonya, but you have to.

Tonya Kubo (15:54)
Wait, let me guess, let

me guess. Should I measure it first?

Kathi Lipp (15:57)
You should measure it which can I just guys I am the most unmeasured person like That looks like it would work No more. I am now a measuring tape full I want you you have to measure how deep it is how wide your stuff is and then we’ll put a link in there to see if that could fit another Solution might be stackable bits

So if your sink pipes are in the way using shorter bins that fit on either side, that may be have to, you know, what the most that you could do, Tonya. And then we talked about this last time and I know you haven’t had a chance to implement it yet, but I’m going to tempt you again with door mounted racks or hooks. Yes. You do. Okay. A strip.

Tonya Kubo (16:45)
I do have that underneath my sink. have, what do you call it? Like a, it’s a rod,

a rod, you know, to hang the towels or your rubber gloves or anything like that.

Kathi Lipp (16:52)
? okay. ? nice. Yes. Okay.

That I love that. Okay. My next thing I’m going to talk about is also rod related. And that is a tension rod. Now, why would you think why would you put a tension rod there for you can put spray bottles, you can hang those by their handles, or yes.

Tonya Kubo (17:05)
Mmm.

Yeah.

I could hang

spray bottles on mine. It is the perfect size because it’s not too thick. It’s not too thick.

Kathi Lipp (17:24)
Okay, so we’re gonna need to make sure that we see your you know You can give us a link to what you’ve used so I think this is such a small space But I want you to maximize it as much as possible because as we’ve determined It’s really really valuable, and I I’ll be honest with you. I have maximized many of my spaces

Tonya Kubo (17:38)
Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (17:47)
I haven’t maximized all of my, we have a weird bathroom upstairs that I need to, it needs to be more maximized. So we’ve got these ideas for you. gonna, we have a download with all of these links that you can use. But then I want you to think back to how can you group these by categories? So are there things you use every day? I remember when I had my apartment in Japan, I just had a little.

Tonya Kubo (17:55)
Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (18:14)
that I kept under the sink and I pulled it out every day and it had my washcloths, had my spray bottle, it had my sponges. That could be something you do. Backup items or less used products can go towards the back or the upper tiers, but you wanna keep those things that you’re using all the time. And then number three, label and limit. Label and limit how much you’re keeping of things.

Tonya Kubo (18:29)
Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (18:42)
Limit bins or baskets, for instance, cleaning cloths, trash bags, sponges. Also, if you bring in a new product, consider using up the old one. I don’t want you to hoard half-used containers, but I also don’t want you to throw away perfectly good products. So challenge yourself to use up what you have before buying something new. Or say, hey, I have a week left of this. I need to put it on my shopping list. And then…

Are there some additional items you need? If you’re storing any towels or rags, there are such things as moisture proof bins. So if you get a lot of moisture in your house, you may want to consider something like that. Or it might make sense to put a non-slip shelf liner to prevent bottles from sliding around. those are just, again, everybody’s under the sink area is so completely different.

There is no one size fits all, maybe a combination of some of these ideas could really help you out.

Tonya Kubo (19:45)
? gosh, I love that. tension rods, you that’s one of those things I see on TikTok a lot. Like you can do a lot of things with a tension rod. Who knew? And, but the hanging of the spray bottles, I don’t know why I’ve never thought about that. Mainly just because I moved in here and I use everything like the prior owners used it because I just don’t have energy for creativity.

Kathi Lipp (19:53)
You really can. Yes.

Yeah,

right, that’s okay. Your creativity is going to building a business. We use a lot of tension rods in our RV as well for storage and hanging and it’s made a big difference. So you’re right, there’s a lot of tension stuff. We’ll have to really explore tension rods in some of these upcoming episodes, because I think that could be a solution for a lot of people who are living in small spaces.

Tonya Kubo (20:16)
Mmm.

Yeah, okay, so tension rod and we’ve talked about labeling, which I love because I think if you live in a house where it’s more than just you, labeling is the secret to getting other people to help out because then they can’t tell you that they don’t know where things go.

Kathi Lipp (20:49)
Right, absolutely, absolutely. I think you’re exactly right there.

Tonya Kubo (20:53)
So Kathi, are there any final tips you want to tell us you want to add before we wrap up this particular episode on that under the sink area?

Kathi Lipp (21:03)
Yeah, this is the cave of the house, isn’t it? It is the dark, damp cave. But you can do most of this in under an hour if you declutter clean and then organize. First, organize with bins or caddies you have. And Tonya, let me just say, don’t sleep on Dollar Tree. I’m sending you links because

Tonya Kubo (21:06)
It really is.

Kathi Lipp (21:31)
There are not Dollar Tree links as far as I know. yeah, so, but there are caddies you can get at Dollar Tree. You can get tension rods at Dollar Tree. So, you know, one of the things I heard somebody say recently, I thought this was so brilliant. They said, you know, when they were buying tools for their first house, their grandfather said, buy the cheapest tools you can get. And then,

Tonya Kubo (21:34)
Not as far as I know either.

Kathi Lipp (22:00)
When those break, you know you use those enough to replace with something of quality. And I thought, that’s so smart. Instead of buying the best thing ever for every space, buy something, you know, for these solutions. I’ll just tell you, Tonya, I’m trying out all sorts of different organization solutions. I went and I dropped $40 at Dollar Tree.

Tonya Kubo (22:30)
?

Kathi Lipp (22:30)
You

can buy a lot of stuff at Dollar Tree. And so I’m trying to find out what’s the path of least resistance? Do I need the $25 Amazon thing or can I get away with the $1.25 version at Dollar Tree? And some of the things, let’s be honest, what you’re getting from Amazon or IKEA or, you know, there’s still Bed Bath and Beyond, you know, stuff you can buy.

Tonya Kubo (22:36)
Mm-hmm.

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (22:59)
Some of that it’s worth it to buy the solution that you need but some of it the dollar 25 version might be just fine. things like that for little storage under your sink. Don’t sleep on Dollar Tree. That’s what I would say.

Tonya Kubo (23:15)
my gosh, I think that’s a really good tip. And the big one there is just get the cheapest thing that makes sense. And when it breaks, when it wears out, then you know that it’s time to invest in something of a little higher quality versus buying top of the line because we’re buying to belong because we cluttery people do that thinking it’s going to make us more organized, more this, more that. And then finding out that we just don’t use it at all.

Kathi Lipp (23:31)
Exactly.

We love that.

Yeah, know, Tonya, we talked a little bit about this last time, sitting with our discomfort sometimes. And you said that, you you bought a pantry and you thought you needed more space, but what you really needed was to declutter and then put in a couple of organizational tools. And I love that example because that’s exactly it. Sit with your discomfort. Like, why does this area under the sink bother me? Well, I’m worried about…

Tonya Kubo (23:49)
Mm-hmm.

Mm-hmm.

Kathi Lipp (24:12)
the drips, I’m worried about whatever that is, I don’t feel like there’s enough space, we can address that. So sit with your discomfort for a little bit, buy the cheapest solution you can and then upgrade when you need to.

Tonya Kubo (24:18)
Mm-hmm.

my gosh, such juicy, juicy tidbits of wisdom. Thank you so much, Kathi. And thank you for addressing this, because I don’t think I’ve ever heard or saw anything in recent memory, at least that talks about the Under the Sink, but you’ve given me a whole new perspective on it. So I really appreciate that. And listeners, thank you for joining us today. Thank you for sticking it out, learning all about the dank dark underneath the sink area.

Kathi Lipp (24:45)
Yay!

Yeah

Tonya Kubo (24:54)
We appreciate it. You have been listening to Clutterfree Academy. Now go create the clutter free life you have always wanted to live.

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