If your bedroom has become a catch-all for clutter and chaos, it might be time to call in a professional organizer. These experts have a keen eye for what to keep and what to toss. Let’s take a look at 14 common items found in bedrooms that a professional organizer would recommend getting rid of immediately. We hope that this list will inspire you to take control of your space and create a serene and organized retreat.
1. Unused Exercise Equipment
We all have good intentions when we buy that treadmill or set of weights. But if they’re gathering dust in the corner of your bedroom, it’s time to let them go. Unused exercise equipment takes up valuable space and serves as a constant reminder of failed fitness goals. Donate, sell, or recycle these items and free up room for something you’ll actually use.
2. Clothes You Haven’t Worn in a Year
Your closet should be a curated collection of items that you love and wear regularly. If you haven’t worn a piece of clothing in a year, it’s time to say goodbye. This includes that dress you’re saving for a special occasion that never comes, or those jeans you’re hoping to fit into again someday. Donate these items to charity or sell them online.
3. Old Magazines and Books
Books and magazines can easily pile up and create clutter. If you’ve read them and don’t plan on revisiting them, pass them on. Libraries, schools, and second-hand stores are often happy to accept used books. As for magazines, consider switching to digital subscriptions to cut down on paper clutter.
4. Outdated Electronics
That old cell phone or laptop sitting in your drawer isn’t doing you any good. Not only do these items take up space, but they can also contain personal information that you don’t want falling into the wrong hands. Look for electronic recycling programs in your area to dispose of these items safely and responsibly.
5. Excess Bed Linens
You really only need two sets of bed linens: one on the bed and one in the wash. Anything more than this is just taking up unnecessary space in your linen closet. Donate extra sets to a local shelter or repurpose them as rags for cleaning.
6. Unused Makeup and Beauty Products
Those half-used bottles of lotion and old makeup compacts are just taking up space in your vanity. Most beauty products have a shelf life, and using them past their expiration date can lead to skin irritation. Dispose of these items properly and enjoy the extra space in your bathroom.
7. Knick-Knacks and Souvenirs
While it’s nice to have a few personal items in your bedroom, too many can create a cluttered and chaotic environment. If a knick-knack or souvenir doesn’t hold significant sentimental value, consider letting it go. Your bedroom should be a calm and relaxing space, not a museum of random objects.
8. Old Pillows
Pillows lose their support and can accumulate dust mites over time. If your pillow is more than two years old, it’s time for a replacement. Your neck and allergies will thank you.
9. Broken or Unwanted Jewelry
If you have jewelry that you never wear or is broken, consider getting rid of it. There are many organizations that accept jewelry donations, or you could sell it for some extra cash. If a piece is broken but holds sentimental value, take it to a jeweler for repair.
10. Old Prescription Glasses
If you have old prescription glasses lying around, donate them. Many organizations collect used eyewear to distribute to those in need. Not only will you be clearing clutter, but you’ll also be helping someone else see clearly.
11. Unfinished Projects
Unfinished projects are a common source of clutter in many bedrooms. Whether it’s a half-knitted scarf or a scrapbook you started years ago, if you’re not going to finish it, it’s time to let it go. Donate the materials to a local school or art program, or simply toss them if they’re unusable.
12. Out-of-Date Medications
Check your medicine cabinet and nightstand drawer for any medications that are past their expiration date. These can be ineffective or even harmful. Many pharmacies offer medication disposal programs, which allow you to get rid of these items safely and responsibly.
13. Unused Candles
We all have those candles we received as gifts or bought on impulse, but never actually used. If you’re not going to burn them, it’s time to pass them on. Donate unused candles to a local shelter or sell them at a garage sale.
14. Old Receipts, Bills, and Paperwork
If your nightstand or desk drawer is overflowing with old receipts, bills, and other paperwork, it’s time for a purge. Shred any documents that contain personal information, and recycle the rest. Going forward, consider going paperless to reduce this type of clutter.