With the increasing trend of minimalistic living and the proven benefits of a decluttered space, it’s high time to reconsider the items we keep in our homes. An overcrowded home not only affects your physical space but also impacts your mental well-being, leading to stress and anxiety.
Our list is curated based on current lifestyle trends, expert opinions, and surveys reflecting what items are often overlooked when we declutter. Each item on the list is accompanied by an explanation of its impact on your home’s calmness. You can expect a comprehensive guide on what to box up to achieve a more peaceful and serene living environment.
1. Old Magazines
Old magazines are often kept for sentimental reasons or for the intention of revisiting them in the future. They pile up over time, creating clutter and occupying unnecessary space in the home.
As people now prefer digital mediums due to environmental concerns and convenience, these stacks of magazines have become redundant. Boxing up these old magazines can free up considerable space, creating room for calmness. Recent trends suggest that the digital wave is here to stay, making it an ideal time to let go of these physical paper stacks.
2. Unused Kitchen Gadgets
Many of us are guilty of purchasing kitchen gadgets that we seldom use. These gadgets, bought with the best of intentions, often end up creating clutter in our kitchen cabinets.
With the growing trend of minimalistic kitchens and the rising popularity of multifunctional appliances, it’s time to box up these rarely used gadgets. Clearing them out will not only create a calmer kitchen environment but also make cooking more efficient. You can refer to this guide for maintaining a safe and organized kitchen.
3. Outgrown Children’s Toys
Children’s toys are another category of items that tend to accumulate over time. While these toys bring joy to our little ones, they often outgrow them quickly, leaving behind a cluttered space.
Donating or boxing up these outgrown toys can make a significant difference in the calmness of your home. Not only will this de-cluttering provide a safer environment for your children, but it will also instill in them the habit of letting go. Studies have shown that fewer toys can enhance children’s creativity and focus.
4. Old Electronic Devices
Old electronic devices, such as outdated mobile phones, cameras, or laptops, often lie around the house collecting dust. These devices are usually kept because of the perceived value they once held or the data they contain.
However, with rapid technological advancements, these devices quickly become obsolete. Boxing up these old devices or properly recycling them can create a more streamlined and calm environment in your home. This guide can assist you in responsibly recycling your old electronics.
5. Old Clothes
Most of us have clothes in our wardrobes that we haven’t worn in years. These garments, whether kept for sentimental reasons or with the hope of future use, contribute significantly to clutter.
Current trends in sustainable living encourage decluttering of wardrobes and donating unused clothes. Boxing up these clothes will not only create a calmer home but also promote sustainability. Research indicates that reducing clothing waste has a significant impact on the environment.
6. Unused Furniture
Unused furniture pieces often take up significant space in our homes. Whether it’s an old chair, a spare desk, or a redundant bookshelf, these furniture items contribute to a crowded and stressful environment.
With the rising trend of small and minimalistic living spaces, it’s time to reconsider these furniture pieces. Boxing up or selling unused furniture can drastically improve the calmness and spaciousness of your home. Here’s a helpful article on what to do with your old furniture.
7. Old Textbooks
Many people keep old textbooks from their school or college days, often for nostalgic reasons. Over time, these books pile up, taking up substantial space and contributing to a cluttered environment.
Donating or recycling these textbooks can greatly enhance the calmness of your home. Moreover, with the shift towards digital education, these physical books are becoming less relevant. Check out this guide on how to responsibly dispose of your old textbooks.
8. Excessive Decor Items
Decor items enhance the aesthetic appeal of our homes. However, an excessive number of these items can lead to a cluttered and overwhelming space.
With the growing popularity of minimalistic home decor, it’s time to box up those extra decor items. A cleaner and less cluttered space can significantly contribute to a calmer home. This article provides some excellent tips on minimalist home decor.
9. Old CDs and DVDs
Old CDs and DVDs are often kept for nostalgic reasons or because they contain our favorite movies or music. However, with the advent of digital media, these items have become obsolete and take up unnecessary space.
Boxing up these old CDs and DVDs can contribute to a calmer home environment. With the rise of digital streaming platforms, there’s hardly a reason to hold onto these physical items. Here’s a guide on what to do with your old CDs and DVDs.
10. Unused Sports Equipment
Unused sports equipment, whether bought with good intentions or outgrown by your children, often ends up cluttering our homes. These items can take up considerable space, contributing to a stressful environment.
With more people opting for gym memberships or outdoor activities, it’s time to box up this unused equipment. Clearing out these items can drastically improve the calmness and space in your home. This article provides tips on where to donate old sports equipment so it gets a second life.
