Your attic might be the last place you think to organize, but it’s often a hidden treasure trove of unused items, forgotten memories, and sadly, a lot of unnecessary clutter. The trick is knowing what to hold onto and what to let go of. Don’t worry – we’ve got a professional organizer on deck to help you figure it out! Here’s a list of 14 things that they would throw away immediately.
1. Outdated Electronics
Old smartphones, VCRs, outdated computers, or broken DVDs players – we all have these relics hidden away. However, these items do nothing but take up space and collect dust. Their technology is outdated and they might not even work anymore, so there’s no use in keeping them. They can be recycled responsibly through electronics recycling programs.
2. Old Clothes and Shoes
Take an honest look at that pile of clothes and shoes in your attic. Will you ever wear those flared jeans from the 90s or those worn-out sneakers again? Probably not. Clothes and shoes that haven’t been worn in years, are out of style or no longer fit should be donated or responsibly disposed of. This will free up a lot of space in your attic.
3. Forgotten Toys
Your children have grown up, but their toys are still in your attic. If the toys are broken, missing pieces, or haven’t been touched in decades, it’s time to let them go. Donate them to charity or sell them at a yard sale. You could also see if there are any family members or friends who could use them for their kids.
4. Mattresses and Bedding
Old mattresses and bedding are bulky items that take up a lot of space. They can also harbor allergens and bed bugs if they’ve been stored improperly. Unless you’re planning to use them in the near future, consider disposing of old mattresses and bedding. Many areas offer mattress recycling programs, which can be a great, eco-friendly way to get rid of your old mattress.
5. Old Paint Cans
Paint cans are hazardous waste and should not be simply thrown in the trash. If you have old paint cans in your attic, they’re probably dried out and useless by now. Many cities have special disposal sites for hazardous waste, so make sure to dispose of them properly.
6. Broken Furniture
Do you have broken furniture in your attic that you’re planning to fix “one day”? Unless you’re a skilled carpenter or you’re emotionally attached to the piece, it’s probably not worth the effort. Broken furniture is just taking up space that could be used for something else.
7. Old Newspapers and Magazines
Old newspapers and magazines are often kept for sentimental reasons or because we think they might be worth something someday. In reality, they’re just taking up space and gathering dust. Recycle them and enjoy your newfound space.
8. Outdated Textbooks
Unless you’re a teacher or a scholar, you probably don’t need those old textbooks from college. The information in them is likely outdated and they’re just collecting dust in your attic. Donate them to a local library, school, or sell them to a used book store.
9. Unused Exercise Equipment
Remember that exercise bike you bought with every intention of using daily? If it’s been gathering dust in your attic, it’s time to let it go. Sell it, donate it or recycle it. This will create more space and remove the guilt of not using it.
10. Old Holiday Decorations
We all have boxes of holiday decorations in our attics. But how much of it do you actually use? Take a good look at your collection. If there are items you haven’t used in years, it’s time to donate them or throw them away.
11. Unused Luggage
Old suitcases that are broken or haven’t been used in years are just clutter. If they’re still in good condition, consider donating them. Otherwise, it’s time to send them to the recycling center.
12. Old School Projects
We all love our children’s school projects, but they can take up a lot of space. Keep only those that hold a lot of sentimental value and take digital photos of the rest. This will preserve the memory without the clutter.
13. Broken Tools
If you have any broken tools in your attic, it’s time to let them go. They’re not doing anyone any good by just sitting there. If they can be fixed, fix them. If not, dispose of them properly.
14. Outdated Medications
Many people store extra medications in their attic. However, medications lose their effectiveness over time and can even become dangerous. Always dispose of outdated medications properly – never throw them in the trash or flush them down the toilet. Your local pharmacy can guide you on how to do this safely.