We all have that one space in our home that seems to accumulate everything we don’t need. More often than not, that space is the attic. If you’re dreading the thought of spring cleaning because of all the junk in your attic, here are 13 things you should consider throwing away.
1. Old Newspapers and Magazines
We all have a stack of newspapers or magazines that we’ve held onto for some reason. Whether it’s a memorable headline or an article we loved, these can pile up over time. Unless they hold significant sentimental value, it’s time to recycle them. Not only are they taking up space, but they could also be a potential fire hazard.
2. Broken Electronics
That old computer monitor or broken TV that’s collecting dust in your attic? It’s time to let it go. With today’s ever-evolving technology, it’s unlikely you’ll ever need or use these again. Plus, many cities have electronic recycling programs, making it easy to dispose of these items responsibly.
3. Old Paint Cans
We often keep leftover paint for touch-ups, but let’s be real: if it’s been sitting in your attic for more than a couple of years, it’s probably not good anymore. Paint can become lumpy and unusable over time, especially if it’s been exposed to extreme temperatures. Dispose of it properly and free up some space.
4. Outgrown Children’s Clothes
You may have held onto your kid’s old clothes with the thought of passing them down or for sentimental reasons. But if they’re just sitting in a box collecting dust, it’s time to donate them. There are many charities and organizations that would greatly appreciate these items.
5. Old Mattresses
Old mattresses are bulky, heavy and take up a lot of space. There’s no reason to keep them around if they’re not being used. Many local waste disposal companies offer bulky item pick up services or you can donate them to a local charity or shelter.
6. Unused Exercise Equipment
That old treadmill or exercise bike that’s become more of a clothes rack than a piece of workout equipment? It’s time to say goodbye. If they’re still in good condition, consider selling or donating them.
7. Outdated Holiday Decorations
We all have those holiday decorations that we haven’t used in years. If they didn’t make it out of the box this past holiday season, they probably won’t next year. Donate or recycle them and make room for new memories and traditions.
8. Expired Medications
Expired medications can be dangerous and should not be used past their expiration date. It’s easy to forget about these when they’re stored out of sight. Properly dispose of any expired medications in your attic, and remember to keep them in a more accessible place in the future.
9. Old Textbooks
Old textbooks from your school days are likely outdated and taking up valuable space. Unless they hold sentimental value, it’s time to recycle them.
10. Unused Luggage
Luggage that hasn’t been used in years is just taking up space. If it’s still in good condition, consider donating it. If it’s damaged or broken, it’s time to let it go.
11. Broken Furniture
That chair with the broken leg or the dresser with the missing drawer? If you haven’t fixed it by now, chances are you won’t. Don’t let broken furniture clutter your attic.
12. Old Appliances
Like electronics, old appliances quickly become outdated and are often replaced with newer, more efficient models. If you have old appliances collecting dust in your attic, it’s time to dispose of them properly.
13. Boxes of Unsorted Junk
We all have those boxes we moved from our last home and never unpacked. If you haven’t needed anything from those boxes yet, you probably never will. Take the time to sort through them, and throw away or donate what you don’t need.