If you’re like me, you’ve probably looked around your house and felt overwhelmed by the sheer amount of stuff you’ve accumulated over the years. What started as innocent, fun collections can turn into cluttered chaos that weighs us down. I realized that curating my possessions had a significant impact on the energy and atmosphere of my home.
As I pared down, my space began to feel fresher, airier, and more serene. This post covers 14 things I stopped collecting that transformed my home forever.
1. DVDs
Let’s start with something many of us are guilty of: collecting DVDs. With the rise of streaming services, do we really need a physical DVD collection? I used to have shelves full of them, but it just felt outdated and messy.
Instead, I’ve moved to digital. It’s easier to find what I want to watch, and it doesn’t take up any physical space. I sold my DVDs on eBay, and the money I earned went towards a new smart TV. Now, my living room feels cleaner, and there’s less dusting to do!
2. Mugs
Mugs are deceiving. They’re small, cute, and often come with sentimental value. But when you have cabinets overflowing with them, it becomes a problem. I had mugs from travels, gifts, events, and some I just bought because they were cute.
I reduced my collection to just enough for daily use and a few extras for guests. The rest I gave to friends, donated, or sold at a yard sale. Now my kitchen feels more spacious, and I can find my favorite mug without digging through a pile!
3. Magazines
I used to have stacks of magazines that I kept for “reference” or because they had a beautiful cover. But the truth is, I rarely looked at them again after the first read. They just collected dust and took up space.
Instead, I’ve embraced digital reading. I keep my favorite articles bookmarked on my computer or phone. And for the beautiful covers? I turned some into wall art, and recycled the rest.
4. Books
Books are a tricky one, especially for us bookworms. But I realized I was holding onto books I had already read and would likely never read again. They were just sitting on the shelf, gathering dust.
I kept my absolute favorites and those with sentimental value. The rest I donated to local libraries, schools, and thrift stores. Now, my bookshelves are less cluttered, and I have space for new books that I’m truly excited to read.
5. Clothes
We often hold onto clothes for sentimental reasons, or because we hope they’ll fit again someday. But I found that a wardrobe full of clothes I didn’t wear made getting dressed a stressful experience.
I adopted a minimalist approach, keeping only what I love and wear regularly. The rest I donated, sold, or swapped with friends. Now, my closet is organized, and dressing up is a joy, not a chore.
6. Souvenirs
Travel souvenirs can quickly pile up if you’re not careful. I had boxes full of knick-knacks that I didn’t know what to do with.
Instead of buying physical souvenirs, I now focus on creating memories. I take lots of photos and keep a travel journal. And if I do buy something, it’s a piece that can double as home decor.
7. Makeup
Makeup has a shelf life, but I found myself holding onto old products because they were expensive, or I liked the packaging. But old makeup is not only useless, it can be harmful to your skin.
I decluttered my makeup drawer, keeping only what I use regularly. The rest I tossed, and I now save money by buying only what I need.
8. Plastic Bags
I used to keep every plastic bag “just in case.” But they quickly became a chaotic mess in my kitchen.
I switched to reusable bags for shopping. They’re eco-friendly and much easier to store. And for small trash bags, I use biodegradable ones.
9. Cords and Cables
We all have that drawer full of random cords and cables. But they’re a nightmare to untangle, and most of the time, we don’t even know what they’re for.
I took the time to go through them all, keeping only what I need. The rest I recycled at a local electronics store.
10. Old Documents
We need to keep certain documents for legal or financial reasons, but many others we can safely dispose of. I had boxes of old bills, receipts, and paperwork that I no longer needed.
I went digital with my bills and receipts, and shredded and recycled the rest.
11. Old Medications and Cosmetics
Expired medications and cosmetics can be ineffective and potentially harmful. I had a medicine cabinet full of them.
I cleared out my medicine cabinet, safely disposing of anything expired. And now I only buy what I need.
12. Unused Kitchen Gadgets
Kitchen gadgets can make life easier, but only if you use them. I had drawers full of gadgets I hadn’t touched in years.
I donated the gadgets I didn’t use, and my kitchen drawers are now organized and functional.
13. Old Paint Cans
Old paint cans take up a lot of space, and their contents can become unusable over time. I had a garage full of them.
I properly disposed of my old paint cans, freeing up a lot of space in my garage.
14. Old Batteries
Old batteries can leak and cause damage. I had a drawer full of them.
I took my old batteries to a recycling center, and now I only buy what I need.
By letting go of these collections, I’ve found more space, peace, and clarity in my home. It’s a process, but the fresh feeling that results is well worth the effort!
