AX TIME IS THE RIGHT TIME: Whether you've been collecting all those receipts in the top drawer on purpose or not, you may be able to squeeze some serious cash out of them. Get them organized and you'll get more out of your taxes. "The time and effort pays off when you can reach into your filing system and say 'These are all my receipts for business entertaining or medical expenses,'" says Weid. "You need to easily be able to grab them rather than spending time and effort sorting through box or bag to find them."

GATHER YOUR CHANGE: The coins lying under couch cushions, in pants pockets and at the backs of drawers can add up to tens or even hundreds of dollars. So gather them up and you might be surprised how much you have. And don't be stingy about the fee for a coin-counting service if using one is the only way you'll get value from the coins. After all, it's found money!

FINALLY, THE HARD PART: Improving your habits. After you've decluttered, and maybe made a few bucks, don't wait for the detritus to start gathering again. Just as cleaning gutters regularly can make them last longer and cut your repair costs, changing your heater's or air conditioner's filter will help it last longer, and keeping the bathtub clean every day will mean less money spent on (and less environmental impact from) extra-strength cleaners to remove tough lime stains. Says Fishburne: "It saves time, but it also really does save money."