As humans, we have a natural tendency to collect things. Whether it’s mementos from travels, books, clothes, or even random knick-knacks, we accumulate more and more stuff over time.
But when does collection turn into clutter? If your home feels heavy and crowded, it might be time to reconsider what you’re holding onto. Here are 14 things I stopped collecting that made my home feel lighter and more relaxed.
1. Old Magazines and Newspapers
The tendency to hold onto old magazines and newspapers can be traced back to our innate desire to stay informed and connected. However, these items can quickly turn into clutter, taking up valuable space in our homes.
Instead of letting them pile up, consider subscribing to digital versions of your favorite publications. If you still like having a physical copy, make it a rule to recycle old issues as soon as the new one arrives. Libraries and schools often appreciate donations of gently-read magazines and newspapers, too.
2. Unnecessary Kitchen Gadgets
From avocado slicers to egg separators, our kitchens can quickly become overwhelmed with single-use gadgets. While these tools may seem helpful, they often end up gathering dust in a drawer.
Consider investing in versatile kitchen tools that serve multiple purposes, such as a good-quality knife or a multi-function blender. This will not only save space in your kitchen but also make cooking a more enjoyable experience.
3. Unused Exercise Equipment
We all have good intentions when we buy that yoga mat or set of dumbbells, but if they’re just sitting in a corner gathering dust, they’re not doing us any good.
Instead of letting unused exercise equipment take up space, consider selling or donating it. Alternatively, make a commitment to actually use the equipment on a regular basis. If it’s out and in use, it’s not clutter.
4. Excessive Decorations
It’s easy to get carried away with decorations, especially during holiday seasons. However, too many decorations can make a home feel cluttered and overwhelming.
Try to keep decorations to a minimum and focus on quality over quantity. Choose pieces that have sentimental value or bring you joy and get rid of the rest. Remember, less is more when it comes to creating a peaceful, relaxing home environment.
5. Old Electronics
Old cell phones, outdated laptops, and broken appliances can take up a lot of space in our homes and aren’t doing us any favors.
Rather than holding onto old electronics, consider recycling them safely or donating them to a reputable organization. There are many charities that refurbish old electronics for those in need.
6. Clothes You Haven’t Worn in a Year
If you haven’t worn a piece of clothing in the last year, it’s likely you won’t wear it in the future. Rather than holding onto clothes ‘just in case’, consider donating them to someone who will actually use them.
A good practice is to turn all your hangers backward at the beginning of the year. As you wear items, turn the hangers the right way. At the end of the year, any hangers still backward indicate clothes you haven’t worn.
7. Excess Bedding and Towels
Having an excess of bedding and towels can take up a lot of valuable closet space. Keep only what you need and donate the rest.
A good rule of thumb is to have two sets of bedding for each bed (one on the bed and one in the wash) and two sets of towels per person. This will keep your linen closet organized and clutter-free.
8. Old Paint Cans
Keeping old paint cans ‘just in case’ you need to touch up a wall can lead to unnecessary clutter in your garage or basement.
Instead of holding onto old paint, consider donating it to a local school or community center. Alternatively, many hardware stores offer paint recycling programs.
9. Unused Craft Supplies
Craft supplies can quickly accumulate and take over our homes. If you have craft materials that you haven’t used in the past year, it’s time to let them go.
Consider donating unused craft supplies to a local school or community center. Alternatively, many craft stores offer recycling programs for certain materials.
10. Old Medicines and Cosmetics
Old medicines and cosmetics can clutter up our bathroom cabinets and aren’t safe to use past their expiration dates.
Instead of holding onto these items, dispose of them safely. Many pharmacies offer medicine take-back programs, and some cosmetics companies offer recycling programs for their products.
11. Outdated Paperwork
Old bills, receipts, and paperwork can quickly pile up and become overwhelming. It’s important to regularly go through your paperwork and safely dispose of anything that’s no longer needed.
Consider going digital wherever possible to reduce the amount of paper clutter in your home. Many companies now offer electronic billing and statement options.
12. Multiples of the Same Item
Whether it’s mugs, pens, or spatulas, having multiples of the same item can lead to unnecessary clutter.
Try to keep only what you need and use on a regular basis. Donate or recycle any duplicates. This will help to keep your home organized and clutter-free.
13. Old CDs and DVDs
With the rise of digital media, CDs and DVDs have become somewhat obsolete. Rather than holding onto these items, consider donating them or recycling them safely.
Many libraries welcome donations of gently used CDs and DVDs. Alternatively, some recycling centers accept these items.
14. Unused Gifts
We all receive gifts that we don’t really want or need. Rather than letting these items clutter up your home, consider passing them on to someone who will appreciate them.
Remember, it’s the thought that counts, not the gift itself. Don’t feel guilty about letting go of unwanted gifts. Your home is a place for things that you love and use, not for things that you feel obligated to keep.