We’ve all got them. Those items that lurk in the corners of our homes, taking up space and collecting dust, yet for some reason, we can’t seem to part with. Whether it’s an old piece of clothing with sentimental value, a kitchen gadget we swear we’ll use one day, or a stack of magazines we’re convinced we’ll read eventually, these things have a way of sticking around long after they’ve outlived their usefulness.
Here are 11 items I never use but can’t seem to throw away. Perhaps you’ll see some of your own space-hoggers on the list!
1. Old Yearbooks
I don’t know about you, but I haven’t flipped through my high school or college yearbooks in years. Despite this, they occupy prime real estate on my bookshelf. Maybe it’s the nostalgia or maybe it’s the fact that I’m still holding out hope that I’ll one day have a reunion worth attending, but for some reason, these hefty volumes continue to stick around.
Yearbooks are packed with memories, and even though we might not look at them often, the thought of getting rid of them can feel like saying goodbye to a part of ourselves. One possible solution is to digitize them, which allows us to keep the memories without the physical clutter.
2. Old Cell Phones
In this day and age, technology is constantly evolving. We upgrade our phones regularly, yet our old ones often end up in a drawer, forgotten but not discarded. We think we’ll use them as an emergency backup or maybe even sell them, but more often than not, they just collect dust.
Keeping old cell phones can seem practical, but unless you’re actually using them, they’re just taking up space. Consider donating them to programs that refurbish and redistribute them to those in need. Not only will you clear out some clutter, but you’ll be doing a good deed as well.
3. Cookbooks
I love to cook, and I’ve amassed a sizable collection of cookbooks over the years. Despite the fact that I use online recipes almost exclusively now, I can’t bring myself to part with these culinary tomes. They’re beautiful, they’re inspiring, but they’re also largely unused.
If you’re in the same boat, consider passing them on to someone who will actually use them. Libraries, schools, and community centers often accept book donations, and you might just inspire a budding chef in the process.
4. Old Paint Cans
Most homes have a stash of old paint cans in the garage or basement. They’re kept around for touch-ups, but years later, they’re still sitting there, unused and probably dried up.
Before tossing these cans, check with your local waste management facility about how to dispose of them properly. Many cities have special hazardous waste collection days for items like this.
5. Clothes That Don’t Fit
We all have those clothes that we swear we’ll fit into again someday. They hang in our closets, both a reminder of the past and a promise for the future.
Instead of holding onto clothes that don’t fit, consider donating them. There are countless organizations that would be thrilled to receive them, and you’ll feel lighter without the constant reminder of a different you.
6. Old Greeting Cards
Whether they’re from holidays, birthdays, or special events, it’s hard to throw away old greeting cards. They’re tangible reminders of the people who care about us.
One way to keep the sentiment without the clutter is to take pictures of the cards and then recycle them. You’ll still be able to look back on the kind words, but won’t have to find a place to store them.
7. Expired Medications
We keep them just in case, but expired medications can be both ineffective and potentially dangerous.
The FDA has guidelines on how to dispose of different types of medications. Follow these to safely clear out your medicine cabinet.
8. Old Makeup
Like medications, makeup also expires. Old makeup can harbor bacteria, which can lead to infections.
Before tossing old makeup, check if your brand has a recycling program. Many do, and some even offer rewards for bringing back empty containers.
9. Broken Jewelry
We hold onto broken pieces with the intent of fixing them, but often, they just end up forgotten in a box.
Consider taking these pieces to a jeweler for repair, or repurposing them into something new.
10. Unused Exercise Equipment
We buy them with the best of intentions, but often, these machines become nothing more than expensive coat racks.
If you’re not using it, sell it or donate it. You’ll reclaim your space and someone else might actually use it.
11. Old Electronics
From outdated computers to old gaming consoles, these items can take up a lot of space.
Many electronics stores have recycling programs for old devices. Look into these, and clear out your electronic graveyard.
In the end, the key to decluttering is to be honest with ourselves about what we’re really using and what’s just taking up space. It’s not always easy to part with things, but often, we find that we don’t miss them once they’re gone. And who knows? You might just find a few things you forgot you had along the way!