These professional tips are the key to nailing modern interiors

<p>It's often said that less is more and when it comes to our homes, we couldn't agree more. Minimalism has been a key trend for a few years now and can do so much more than just clear clutter in your home: applying a minimalist approach to your home and life is said to de-stress a hectic lifestyle, remove negativity and improve your mood and, most importantly, give you a space you can look forward to coming home to. Plus, throwing out clutter and getting rid of anything you don't need can actually be really cathartic. So if you're a bit of a horder or your wardrobe, living room or study could do with a good clear out, follow our rules to help you become a natural minimalist...</p><h2>1. Use the one year rule</h2><p>The rule is, if you haven't used it in over a year, you probably never will. That means getting rid of old magazines, books, medicine and vitamins, old make-up and spare electronics. This applies to clothes as well! However much you love that dress, if you haven't worn it since August 2014 then you're probably never going to. It might feel ruthless and you might feel nervous getting rid of things you think you love, but as soon as your home is only full of things you use, you will feel so much better.</p><p><img alt="walk-in-wardrobe__hero" class="ci-image ci-hero" src="https://ui3.assets-asda.com/dm/walk-in-wardrobe__hero_GL?scl=1"></p><h2>2. Go digital</h2><p>In 2016, there is no need to have paper bills and documents lying around. Even most shops now offer the option of a digital receipt and most companies deal in paperless billing. Obviously don't throw out the important things like birth certificates, but you should be able to fit all your paper documents in one folder. For everything else, use online services such as <a href="https://evernote.com/" target="_blank">EverNote</a> and <a href="https://www.icloud.com/" target="_blank">iCloud</a> to make sure everything is filed neatly away in a clutter-free (and more modern) way.</p><p><img alt="woman-on-computer__hero" class="ci-image ci-hero" src="https://ui3.assets-asda.com/dm/woman-on-computer__hero_GL?scl=1"></p><h2>3. Create a capsule wardrobe</h2><p>Once you've applied the one year rule to your wardrobe, it's time to minimalise your shopping habits! Pick clothes that can work well together and can create effortless outfits from just eight to ten pieces. Stick to neutral colours and classic styles and just add a few trend-led pieces each season, which you can quickly sell on once you've finished with them. A minimalist wardrobe will also make getting ready in the mornings much quicker &ndash; no more faffing before work or the school run!</p><p><img alt="clothes-hanging__hero" class="ci-image ci-hero" src="https://ui3.assets-asda.com/dm/clothes-hanging__hero_GL?scl=1"></p><h2>4. Simplify the food shop</h2><p>Not only is <a href="https://www.asda.com/good-living/article/time-saving-tips-for-frozen-foods-fresh-fruit-vegetables">throwing food away wasteful</a>, but having excess food in the house will add to clutter. Try to plan your <a href="http://www.asda.com/" target="_blank">food shop</a> carefully and only buy what you need each week. Freeze as much as you can and try to use up any leftovers for lunch or dinner the next day.</p><p><img alt="chopping-food__hero" class="ci-image ci-hero" src="https://ui3.assets-asda.com/dm/chopping-food__hero_GL?scl=1"></p><h2>5. Live by the 'one in, one out' rule</h2><p>If you buy something new, you have to get rid of something old. Simple! Sticking to this rule will mean you are regularly decluttering and keeping on top of what's in your house. </p><p><img alt="woman-shopping__hero" class="ci-image ci-hero" src="https://ui3.assets-asda.com/dm/woman-shopping__hero_GL?scl=1"></p><p><em>Learn the <a href="https://www.asda.com/good-living/article/marie-kondo" target="_blank">KonMari method</a> of folding to further declutter your wardrobe</em></p><p><em>Restyle or update your rooms with <a href="http://direct.asda.com/george/home-garden/D26,default,sc.html" target="_blank">George at Asda's latest homeware collection</a></em></p>

How to turn your home into a minimalist haven

By Asda Good Living,4th August 2016

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