When preparing to pack up and move, it’s the perfect time to declutter and get rid of items that are simply taking up space. One room that tends to accumulate the most clutter is the kitchen. We all have those items that we thought we would use, bought on a whim, or received as gifts, but they are just gathering dust.
Why not get rid of them now, before you go through the trouble of packing and moving them? Here’s a list of 12 unnecessary kitchen items that you can ditch before your move.
1. Duplicate Items
One of the easiest ways to start decluttering your kitchen is by getting rid of duplicates. Chances are, you don’t need two toasters, three can openers, or four spatulas. Choose the one you use most often, or the one in the best condition, and donate or recycle the rest. This doesn’t just apply to appliances and utensils, but also to pots, pans, and dishware sets.
2. Specialty Gadgets
Kitchen gadgets that only serve one purpose can take up valuable space. While it might be fun to have a popcorn maker or an avocado slicer, ask yourself how often you really use these items. If it’s not on a regular basis, it might be better to let them go. After all, there are plenty of multi-purpose tools that can do the same job.
3. Expired Spices
Spices lose their potency over time. If you can’t remember when you bought that jar of cumin, it’s probably time to toss it. While you’re at it, get rid of any spices you bought for a specific recipe and haven’t used since. You can always buy more if you need it.
4. Old Plastic Containers
Plastic containers have a way of multiplying in the kitchen. If you’ve got a cupboard full of mismatched lids and containers, it’s time for a clear-out. Keep a small selection of good-quality containers that you use regularly, and recycle the rest.
5. Unused Small Appliances
That bread maker seemed like a good idea at the time, but if you’re not using it, it’s just taking up space. The same goes for any other small appliances you don’t use regularly. Consider selling or donating these items to make more room in your new kitchen.
6. Cheap, Worn-Out Cookware
If your pots and pans have seen better days, now might be the time to replace them. Cheap, worn-out cookware doesn’t heat evenly and can be frustrating to cook with. Consider investing in a few pieces of high-quality cookware that will last.
7. Unloved Cookbooks
If you have cookbooks that you never use, why keep them? Chances are, you can find most recipes online these days anyway. Donate your unused cookbooks and free up some space on your kitchen shelves.
8. Single-Use Tableware
Unless you host dinner parties on a regular basis, you probably don’t need a full set of fancy china. The same goes for holiday-themed tableware that only gets used once a year. Consider keeping a versatile set of dishes that can be used for any occasion, and let the rest go.
9. Old Baking Ingredients
Baking ingredients don’t last forever. If you’ve got a cupboard full of old flour, sugar, and baking powder, it might be time for a clear-out. Make a list of the baking ingredients you use regularly and replace any old stock.
10. Unused Barware
If you’re not a regular cocktail maker, you probably don’t need a full set of barware. Keep the basics, like a good corkscrew and a set of wine glasses, and donate the rest.
11. Junk Drawer Items
We all have that drawer in the kitchen filled with random items. Before you move, take the time to sort through your junk drawer. Chances are, most of the items in there can be thrown away or relocated to a more appropriate place.
12. Excess Dish Towels
Kitchen towels have a way of piling up. If you’ve got more dish towels than you know what to do with, consider keeping a small selection and donating the rest. Remember, they’re easy to replace if you ever need more.
Remember, the goal is to lighten your load and make your move easier. By ditching these unnecessary kitchen items, you’ll have less to pack and more room in your new kitchen for the things you really love and use. Happy decluttering!