It’s easy to collect items as an adult entertainer without realising. Really easy. From gifts to props to equipment, it all builds up. So, I’ve broken down my usual work decluttering process. It’s a lot like a normal decluttering process, but sometimes even if you don’t love something, clients do and you have to keep it because it sells. I try to go by the rule of thumb that if I don’t feel good in an outfit, I don’t keep it, but sometimes the money from an item or prop is too good to ignore.
Over the years I’ve had multiple clearouts – sometimes as often as every 6 months because my boxes of props and outfits become too big to store and full of clutter. Here’s how I usually go about clearing the clutter.
Step 1
I ask myself these questions in regards to an item:
- When did I buy it/was gifted it?
- When was the last time I used it (if ever)?
- Does it really have a purpose?
- Does it make me money?
- And a few extra questions for stockings – do they have ladders in them/can I find the other one/if it’s got a hole, does it show on camera?
Step 2
Then I sort things into categories:
- Frequency of use – daily, monthly, yearly (Christmas decor).
- Broken/damaged or not easily repaired – get rid of pile.
- Donate – always donate, pass the item on if you can!
Step 3
I have a ‘limbo’ box.
I put everything I can’t make a decision on into a box, so I know it’s there and can get it if I suddenly think of a way to use it. Everything left in limbo after 6 months in the box gets donated/binned/sold depending on the item.
Step 4
Put everything into boxes, bins or draws, but make sure whatever you put your stuff in has internal organisation.
I’ve given myself a loose space allowance of 4 Kallax unit boxes, 3 Kallax draws, 1/4 of a hanging rail, a box for seasonal and lighting equipment. There are a few smaller boxes for recording equipment, backup drives and miscellaneous stuff, but for the most part, I try to keep everything contained to that amount of space.
Step 5
If I really need to keep a bunch of outfits, I will use vacuum bags so items take up less space. I also do this for the extra clothes (lesser worn) that don’t fit in my Kallax boxes or draws. I always try and make sure I’m storing items efficiently, and keep a piece of paper noting where everything is.
A box with stuff chucked in it will hold less than an organised box, and an organised box will feel better in terms of clutter. That way everything takes up less space and I can still keep odd items just in case I get a random custom request, or if I’m not particularly ready to put it in limbo yet.
Step 6
Set aside a day to crack on and actually use the item. It’s a good excuse to see if the item/costume actually works, or if it was just a good idea in theory. If I’ve produced content with it or found other ideas for the item great, if not, I get rid of it or pop it in limbo.
Step 7
The last, but the most important rule I use is to be honest with myself.
I find it’s easier to make clips if I’ve got less stuff as the decision on what I’m going to wear or use has been taken out of my hands by the sheer fact I only have x numbers of items to work with.
You could use these tips for just about anything – but I’m a little more reluctant to let go of my other items. So, my sex workboxes are the ones I gut regularly to stop becoming overwhelmed with the amount of stuff. It’s really easy to pick up bits and pieces for work – especially because they’re an ‘expense’, but an expense you never use is just wasted money – a lesson I learnt the hard way.
