Decluttering often means tossing things out, but not everything is meant for the trash. You might be surprised by the objects experts choose to save instead of discard.
Knowing which items to keep can help you avoid wasting things that still have value or purpose in your home. This article will guide you through some unexpected objects that professionals hold onto during their decluttering process.
Empty tissue boxes reused for plastic bag storage
You can easily repurpose empty tissue boxes to store your plastic grocery bags. They keep bags organized and prevent clutter in your kitchen or pantry.
Simply remove any plastic liner inside the box. Then, stuff your plastic bags inside and pull them out from the opening when needed.
This is a simple way to reuse something you’d normally toss, while keeping your bags neat and easy to access.
Old jars saved for organizing small craft supplies
You can give old jars a new purpose by using them to store small craft supplies. They keep tiny items like buttons, beads, or pins visible and easy to find.
Labeling the jars helps you quickly identify what’s inside without opening each one.
Repurposing jars is an eco-friendly way to reduce waste while keeping your craft area tidy.
Single socks kept for cleaning rags
You might think single socks are just trash, but decluttering experts often save them for cleaning. These socks can be reused as rags for dusting or wiping surfaces.
Instead of throwing them away, you can turn them into handy cleaning tools. When they get too dirty, you can recycle or dispose of them easily.
Keeping a small bin for lone socks helps you avoid waste and keeps your cleaning routine simple.
Wine corks collected for DIY projects
You might be surprised how useful wine corks can be for your DIY projects. They’re easy to collect and perfect for creative reuse.
You can make simple items like coasters, decorative wreaths, or even magnets. These small crafts are fun and help reduce waste.
Natural cork is renewable, so every cork you save helps you be a bit kinder to the planet. It’s a small way to add sustainability to your home.
Paper envelopes stored for important papers
You might be surprised how useful old paper envelopes can be. They are great for organizing and keeping important documents safe.
Using envelopes to store receipts, warranties, or small notes helps you avoid piles of loose paper. Labeling them makes it easy to find what you need quickly.
Instead of tossing envelopes, think of saving ones that are sturdy and clean. They keep your papers contained and reduce clutter without extra expense.
Sentimental jewelry pieces kept despite wear
You might find old jewelry that’s worn or broken, but experts often recommend holding on to these pieces. They carry sentimental value that goes beyond appearance.
Instead of tossing them, consider repurposing or upcycling the jewelry. This way, you keep the memory while giving the item new life.
If you’re unsure, storing these pieces safely can help you decide later without feeling rushed to discard something meaningful.
Unused glass bottles repurposed as vases
You might have glass bottles lying around that you no longer use. Instead of tossing them, try turning them into simple, stylish vases.
With just a little cleaning and maybe some paint or twine, these bottles can hold fresh or dried flowers in your home. It’s an easy way to add a personal, eco-friendly touch to your decor while keeping clutter down.
Expired spices saved for potpourri
You don’t have to toss expired spices right away. They can still add a nice scent to your home when used in potpourri.
Simply combine your old spices with dried flowers and herbs. Then simmer them in a pot of water or place them in a bowl for a gentle, natural fragrance.
This is a great way to repurpose spices that no longer pack the same flavor but still hold some aroma.
Worn-out t-shirts turned into cleaning cloths
You don’t need to throw away old t-shirts once they’re too worn to wear. Instead, cut them into pieces and use them as cleaning cloths around your home.
These cloths work well for dusting, wiping surfaces, and even cleaning windows.
By repurposing your old t-shirts, you reduce waste and save money on buying disposable rags or cleaning wipes. It’s an easy way to give your worn-out clothes a second life.
Artwork scraps used for gift tags
You can turn leftover artwork scraps into unique gift tags. Small pieces of colorful paper, drawings, or painted sections add a personal touch to any present.
Cut the scraps into shapes like rectangles or hearts, then punch a hole for string or ribbon. This is a simple way to reuse materials while making your gifts stand out.
Using artwork scraps helps you reduce waste and adds charm without extra cost. It’s a creative way to cherish your projects and give your gifts a special look.