Did you know that a cluttered environment can cause stress and decrease productivity? If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the mess, it’s time to embark on a decluttering journey. But where should you start? Most of us remember to declutter the obvious places like our closets or living rooms, but there are many areas in our homes that we often overlook. I have compiled a list of 13 things that people always forget to declutter. From the junk drawer to digital clutter, these are the things that tend to accumulate without us even realizing. So, grab a box and let’s get started!
The Junk Drawer
Let’s start with the infamous junk drawer. We all have one: that drawer where we toss everything that doesn’t have a designated place. Before you know it, it’s overflowing with random objects that you may not even remember owning! Decluttering the junk drawer can be a surprisingly satisfying task. Start by emptying everything out, then sort through each item one by one. If it’s not useful or doesn’t bring you joy, it’s time to let it go.
Old Electronics
Next up, old electronics. Think about all the devices you’ve replaced over the years. Chances are, the old ones are still lying around somewhere, gathering dust. Not only do they take up space, but they can also be a potential fire hazard. Check out this video for tips on how to safely dispose of old electronics and free up some much-needed space.
Unused Kitchen Appliances
How many kitchen appliances do you own that you haven’t used in the past year? That bread machine you thought was a good idea at the time, or that juice extractor that’s too much of a hassle to clean? Consider donating these items to someone who will make better use of them. Your kitchen will thank you for it!
Outdated Magazines and Newspapers
Do you have a pile of magazines and newspapers that you’ve already read or will never get around to reading? These can quickly accumulate and become a source of clutter. If you can’t bear to part with them, consider switching to digital subscriptions to save space.
Storage Spaces (Attic, Basement, Garage)
Out of sight, out of mind, right? Not when it comes to clutter! Your attic, basement, or garage might be hiding a treasure trove of items that you no longer need. Tackling these spaces might seem daunting, but think of it as an opportunity to rediscover forgotten items and free up valuable storage space.
Medicine Cabinets
Expired medications and old prescriptions have a way of lingering in our medicine cabinets. It’s easy to forget about them until we need something and have to rummage through a pile of pill bottles. Take the time to sort through your medicine cabinet and safely dispose of any expired items. Not only will this make it easier to find what you need when you need it, but it can also prevent accidental ingestion of expired medications.
Old Makeup and Beauty Products
Did you know that makeup and beauty products have an expiration date? Using expired products can lead to skin irritations and infections. If you can’t remember when you bought it, it’s probably time to toss it. You’ll be amazed at how much space you can free up in your vanity or bathroom cabinet.
Wardrobe: Clothes Not Worn in Over a Year
Have you worn everything in your closet in the past year? If not, it might be time to declutter. A great tip is to turn all your hangers in one direction at the start of the year. When you wear something, turn the hanger the other way. At the end of the year, anything that’s still facing the original direction hasn’t been worn and should be considered for donation or recycling.
Forgotten Digital Clutter (Emails, Files, Photos)
Clutter isn’t just physical. Digital clutter can be just as overwhelming and distracting. Take some time to go through your emails, files, and photos and delete anything you no longer need. Consider using cloud storage or an external hard drive for important files that you want to keep, but don’t need access to on a daily basis.
Children’s Old Toys and Games
Kids outgrow toys and games quickly, and before you know it, you’re tripping over things they no longer play with. Involve your children in the decluttering process and encourage them to donate their old toys to less fortunate children. They’ll learn valuable lessons about giving and you’ll regain some much-needed space.
Fridge and Pantry: Expired Food Items
How often do you clean out your fridge and pantry? If you’re like most people, probably not often enough. Expired food items can take up a lot of space and create unpleasant odors. Make it a habit to check for expired items regularly and toss anything that’s past its prime.
The Home Office: Old Documents and Files
With more people working from home, home offices have become a hotspot for clutter. Old documents, files, and paperwork can quickly pile up. Invest in a good shredder and get rid of anything you no longer need. For important documents, consider digitizing them to save space.
Miscellaneous Items: Gifts, Souvenirs, and Random Knick-Knacks
Last but not least, those random knick-knacks that seem to accumulate over time. Gifts you didn’t really like, souvenirs from trips you barely remember, random items that you can’t even remember acquiring… It’s time to let them go. Remember, your home is not a storage space for things that don’t bring you joy or serve a purpose.
Decluttering doesn’t have to be a stressful task. By tackling these often-overlooked areas one at a time, you can create a more peaceful and organized home. And who knows, you might even rediscover some forgotten treasures along the way! For more decluttering tips, check out this blog post and this book. Happy decluttering!
