As I dove into a simpler lifestyle, I began to discover the many things in my life that I really didn’t need. The things that were just taking up space, creating clutter, and adding stress. So I started to eliminate them. Here are the 10 things I stopped buying that instantly reduced clutter in my life.
1. Excess Clothing
I used to be a sucker for a good sale. I’d buy clothes I didn’t really need simply because they were cheap. But all they did was take up space in my closet. I’ve since adopted a minimalist wardrobe, focusing on quality over quantity. Now, I only buy clothes that I genuinely love and need. It has not only reduced clutter but also made getting dressed in the morning so much easier.
2. Single-Use Kitchen Gadgets
You know those avocado slicers and egg cookers that seem so handy? Turns out, they’re often more trouble than they’re worth. They take up valuable kitchen space and can often be replaced by a good old-fashioned knife or pot. I’ve cleared out all my single-use gadgets and my kitchen feels so much more spacious and functional.
3. Physical Books
I’m a big reader, but books can take up a lot of space. I’ve switched to ebooks and audiobooks instead. Not only do they save space, but they’re also more portable and convenient. And for those books I really want a physical copy of, I use the library. It’s a win-win.
4. Cheap Furniture
I used to buy cheap, flat-pack furniture because it was affordable. But it never lasted long and always ended up looking cluttered and messy. I’ve since started investing in quality, timeless pieces that I love. Not only do they look better, but they also last longer and create a more peaceful, clutter-free environment.
5. Disposable Products
From paper towels to plastic bags, I used to be all about convenience. But these disposable products were creating a lot of waste and clutter. I’ve since switched to reusable alternatives like cloth napkins, grocery bags, and glass containers. They’re more sustainable, save money in the long run, and help keep my home clutter-free.
6. Impulse Purchases
Impulse buys were my biggest source of clutter. I’d buy things I didn’t need just because they were on sale or caught my eye. Now, I practice mindful shopping, really considering if I need and will use something before I buy it. It has drastically reduced the amount of unnecessary stuff in my home.
7. DVDs and CDs
With streaming services like Netflix and Spotify, there’s really no need for physical DVDs and CDs anymore. They were just gathering dust on my shelves. I’ve since digitised my collection and donated the physical copies, freeing up a lot of space.
8. Travel Souvenirs
I used to buy a souvenir at every place I visited. But they were just collecting dust on my shelves. Now, I opt for experiences over physical things. I take lots of photos and make amazing memories instead. It’s much more meaningful and doesn’t add clutter to my home.
9. Trendy Home Decor
Trends come and go, and I found myself constantly buying new home decor to keep up. But it was just creating a lot of clutter and didn’t really reflect my personal style. I’ve since focused on buying timeless, meaningful pieces that I truly love. My home feels so much more personal and clutter-free.
10. Magazines
I used to have stacks of magazines laying around my house. But I rarely read them and they were just creating clutter. Now, I get all my news and entertainment online. It’s more convenient and takes up zero physical space. I donated all my old magazines and haven’t looked back.