Basements have a funny way of turning into catch-all storage spaces. At first, it’s just a few seasonal decorations and old keepsakes, but before you know it, your basement is packed with boxes of things you haven’t touched in years. If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably shoved things down there thinking, I might need this someday!—but let’s be honest, someday never comes.
If your basement is overflowing with clutter, it’s time for a serious cleanout. Here are 10 things you should toss right now to free up space and make your basement feel less like a junkyard and more like a usable, organized space.
1. Expired Paint Cans
I used to keep every half-empty paint can, thinking I’d use them for touch-ups. But the truth is, paint doesn’t last forever. If it’s been sitting for more than five years, chances are it’s separated, dried out, or just unusable.
- Check the expiration date or consistency—if it’s lumpy or smells off, toss it.
- Many cities have paint recycling programs—don’t just dump it in the trash!
- If you want to keep a reference for touch-ups, store a small sample in a labeled jar instead of the whole can.
Letting go of old paint frees up a surprising amount of space in your basement.
2. Broken or Unused Furniture
If a chair has been broken for three years but you keep saying, I’ll fix it someday, let’s be real—it’s never going to happen. Holding onto broken furniture just takes up valuable storage space.
- If it’s truly beyond repair, take it to the curb or a recycling center.
- If it’s still usable but you don’t need it, donate it to a local charity or list it for free online.
- Consider repurposing—sometimes an old headboard can become a decorative wall piece!
Your basement is not a furniture graveyard—let it go!
3. Old Holiday Decorations You Never Use
I used to save every single Christmas decoration, even the ones I hadn’t put up in years. But if something hasn’t been used in multiple holiday seasons, it’s time to let it go.
- Broken string lights? Recycle them.
- Outdated ornaments or old tinsel? Donate what’s still in good shape.
- Holiday decor you don’t love? Pass it on to someone who will use it.
Keeping only what you actually use makes decorating each year so much easier.
4. Boxes of Random Cables and Electronics
We all have that box—the one filled with mystery cables, old remote controls, and outdated electronics. Chances are, you don’t even know what half of them are for anymore.
- Sort through and keep only the cords you actually need.
- Recycle old electronics at e-waste disposal centers.
- Label and organize the cables you do keep so you never have to dig through a tangled mess again.
You’ll never need that old Nokia charger again—trust me!
5. Moldy or Stained Clothing
If you’ve been storing old clothes in your basement, check them carefully. Basements are notorious for humidity and moisture buildup, which can lead to mold, mildew, and musty smells.
- Anything with visible mold or mildew stains needs to be tossed—washing won’t always save it.
- If it’s still wearable but you haven’t touched it in years, donate it.
- Use airtight plastic bins instead of cardboard boxes to prevent future damage.
Airing out your basement and clearing old clothes will make it feel fresher instantly.
6. Expired Canned Goods and Pantry Items
I used to stash extra pantry items in the basement, but then I realized some of them were years past their expiration date. If you’re storing canned goods, flour, or snacks down there, it’s time to check the labels.
- Expired canned food? Toss it—don’t risk food poisoning.
- Unopened but still good? Donate to a food pantry.
- Store new pantry items in airtight containers to keep them fresh longer.
No one wants to find a five-year-old bag of flour—trust me.
7. Old Kids’ Toys and Baby Gear
If your kids have outgrown toys, baby swings, or playpens, keeping them in the basement just takes up space. Unless you’re planning for another child soon, it’s time to declutter.
- Broken or unsafe toys? Trash them.
- Still in good condition? Donate to a local shelter or daycare.
- Keep only the truly sentimental items—not every stuffed animal needs saving!
Clearing out unused toys makes it easier to find what your kids actually play with.
8. Rusty or Unused Tools
I once found three broken hammers and a rusted saw in my basement—none of which I had used in years. Keeping old tools “just in case” is fine, but if they’re broken or covered in rust, they’re just taking up valuable space.
- Toss anything rusted, broken, or beyond repair.
- Organize the tools you actually use in a toolbox or pegboard.
- Donate duplicates—how many screwdrivers do you really need?
A streamlined tool collection makes DIY projects so much easier.
9. Unfinished DIY Projects
Let’s be honest—if you haven’t finished that DIY project in years, you probably never will. Holding onto half-painted furniture, unused craft supplies, or fabric you planned to sew just creates unnecessary clutter.
- If you’re truly going to finish it, set a deadline and make it a priority.
- If you’ve lost interest, sell the supplies or donate them to a creative friend.
- Freeing up space can actually spark new motivation for future projects.
A basement full of unfinished projects is just clutter in disguise!
10. Outdated Workout Equipment
If your basement gym consists of a broken treadmill, old dumbbells, and a thigh master from the ‘90s, it’s time for a purge. Fitness equipment takes up a ton of space, and if you’re not using it, it’s just collecting dust.
- If it still works, sell or donate it to someone who will use it.
- If it’s broken, see if a scrap metal recycler will take it.
- Keep only the workout gear you actually use.
A clutter-free basement makes room for things you actually enjoy.