We all have those items in our closets that haven’t seen the light of day in years. And yet, we can’t seem to part with them. Whether it’s a case of sentimental value, a “just in case” mindset, or an out-of-sight-out-of-mind mentality, these items are taking up precious space and collecting dust.
But it’s time to let go, declutter, and reclaim your closet. Here are 12 forgotten closet items that are ready for the trash.
1. Ill-Fitting Clothes
We all have that pair of jeans we’re hoping to fit into again, or that oversized shirt we swear we’ll alter someday. But if they’ve been sitting in your closet for years without coming close to fitting, it’s time to face the music.
When clothes don’t fit well, they don’t make us feel good. So why keep items that bring down your self-esteem? Donate them or toss them out, and make room for clothes that make you feel fabulous right now, not “someday”.
2. Old Prom Dresses
Remember those high school days when you felt like a princess in your poofy prom dress? Fast forward a few years and now that dress is just taking up space. If it’s in good condition, consider donating it to a charity that provides prom dresses for girls who can’t afford them. But if it’s stained, torn, or outdated, it’s time to say goodbye.
Some may argue that keeping old prom dresses for nostalgia’s sake is worth the closet real estate. But consider this: how often do you actually take out the dress and reminisce? If the answer is “almost never”, it’s time to take a picture of the dress for memory’s sake, and then toss it out.
3. Stained or Damaged Clothing
If you’ve tried everything to get that stain out, or repair that rip, and it’s still visible, it’s time to bid farewell. Stained or damaged clothing can’t be donated, and it’s not going to get worn, so it’s just wasting space.
Believe it or not, some materials from damaged clothing can be recycled and turned into new items. So instead of throwing them in the trash, look for textile recycling programs in your area.
4. Outdated Accessories
Remember when bulky belts and oversized earrings were in style? Or when everyone was wearing those neon plastic sunglasses? If you’ve got these relics of fashion past hiding in your closet, it’s time to let them go.
Fashion trends come and go, and while it can be fun to keep a few vintage pieces, there’s no reason to hang onto every outdated accessory. If they’re in good condition, consider selling them to a vintage shop. If not, it’s time to toss them.
5. Uncomfortable Shoes
How many times have you bought a pair of shoes that were so cute, but so uncomfortable? And how many times have you actually worn them? If the answer is “hardly ever,” it’s time to get rid of them.
Shoes that are uncomfortable aren’t just a waste of closet space, they’re bad for your feet. So do your feet (and your closet) a favor and toss those uncomfortable shoes.
6. Unused Workout Gear
We all have good intentions when we buy workout gear. But if that yoga mat, resistance bands, or pair of weights hasn’t been used in over a year, it’s time to reassess.
Workout gear that just sits unused isn’t motivating you to exercise, it’s just cluttering up your space. Donate it to a local community center or toss it if it’s worn out.
7. Old Undergarments
Underwear and bras that are stretched out, have lost their elasticity, or have holes in them need to go. They’re not comfortable, they don’t provide the support you need, and let’s be honest, they’re not doing you any favors in the looks department either.
Most people hang onto old undergarments because they’re out of sight, out of mind. But just because they’re hidden under your clothes doesn’t mean they’re not taking up valuable closet space.
8. Socks Without Matches
We’ve all got that pile of socks that have somehow lost their other half. But holding onto them in hopes that their match will magically appear is just wishful thinking.
If you’ve done a thorough search and still can’t find the missing sock, it’s time to let it go. Single socks can be used as cleaning rags, or recycled in textile recycling programs.
9. Old Hangers
Wire hangers from the dry cleaners or flimsy plastic hangers from the store not only take up more space than necessary, but they can also damage your clothes.
Invest in a set of good quality hangers that will take care of your clothes and optimize your closet space. The old hangers can be returned to the dry cleaners for recycling or thrown out if they’re broken.
10. Unworn Gifts
We all have that well-meaning aunt who gifts us clothes that are just not our style. Or those promotional t-shirts from events that we never wear.
Holding onto these items out of guilt isn’t doing you any favors. If they’re new and unworn, donate them. If not, it’s time to throw them out.
11. Old Pajamas
Pajamas are some of the most worn items in our wardrobe, but they’re often the last to be replaced. If your pajamas are worn thin, have holes, or are just plain old, it’s time for a refresh.
You’ll be amazed at how much better you feel going to bed in a nice, fresh pair of pajamas. The old ones can be recycled or turned into cleaning rags.
12. Unused Bags
Whether it’s a collection of reusable grocery bags, old purses, or backpacks from your school days, bags can take up a lot of space.
If you haven’t used a bag in over a year, it’s unlikely you’ll use it in the future. Donate reusable grocery bags to your local grocery store, sell good condition purses or backpacks online, or toss them if they’re worn out.
