Are you feeling overwhelmed by the clutter in your home? You’re not alone. Many of us have a tendency to hang onto items we no longer need, use, or even like.
The result is that our homes become cluttered, making it harder for us to focus and relax. Here are 14 common things people tend to hold onto that are really just clutter.
By letting go of these items, you can create a more comfortable, organized, and peaceful living environment.
1. Outdated Technology and Electronic Devices
Many people have a drawer or box full of old cell phones, chargers, and other outdated electronic devices. However, these items are unlikely to ever be used again and are just taking up space. You can recycle these items at an electronics recycling center or sell them to a company that specializes in repurposing old electronics. It’s time to let go of that 2005 iPod you’re never going to use again.
Some of us also hold onto old computers, thinking we may need the data on them someday. If this sounds familiar, it’s time to back up any important files and then recycle the old hardware. There’s no need to keep outdated technology around.
2. Unused Kitchen Gadgets and Appliances
How many times have you actually used that popcorn maker or bread machine? Specialty kitchen gadgets and appliances can be fun to use once or twice, but often, they end up gathering dust in a pantry or cupboard. If you have kitchen items that you haven’t used in the past year, consider donating or selling them.
The same goes for excess cookware and dishware. If you have more plates, bowls, and glasses than you could possibly use, it’s time to pare down. Focus on keeping items that you use regularly and that bring you joy. The extra space in your kitchen cabinets will be a bonus.
3. Old Makeup and Expired Beauty Products
Did you know that makeup and beauty products have expiration dates? Using expired products can lead to skin irritation or infections. Take a look at your makeup bag and bathroom cabinets and toss anything that’s old or that you no longer use.
It’s also a good idea to get rid of products that you bought on a whim but never really liked. There’s no point in hanging onto a lipstick color that doesn’t flatter you or a lotion that you don’t like the smell of. Clearing out these items can make it easier to find and use the products you do enjoy.
4. Piles of Unread Magazines and Newspapers
If you subscribe to magazines or newspapers, it’s easy to end up with a pile of unread issues. While it’s nice to have reading material on hand, if you’re not actually reading these publications, they’re just taking up space and creating clutter. Consider switching to digital subscriptions or simply recycle the old issues.
Books can also become clutter if you’re not careful. If you have books that you’ve read and know you won’t read again, consider donating them to a library or selling them at a used bookstore. If you have books that you’ve never read and don’t intend to, it’s time to let them go.
5. Clothing Items That Don’t Fit or Haven’t Been Worn in Over a Year
Many of us have clothing items that we’ve not worn in over a year, or that no longer fit. These items are just taking up space in our closets and drawers. It’s time to be honest with ourselves and let these items go. Consider donating them to a local thrift store or selling them online.
A good rule of thumb is if you haven’t worn it in a year, it’s time to say goodbye. The same goes for shoes. If they’re uncomfortable or you simply never wear them, it’s time to let them go. You’ll be surprised at how much easier it is to get dressed when your closet isn’t overflowing with unworn items.
6. Old Receipts, Bills, and Other Paper Clutter
Do you have a drawer full of old receipts, bills, and other paper clutter? This type of clutter can be particularly overwhelming because it feels like something you might need to hang onto. However, most of these papers can be recycled or shredded.
If you’re worried about needing a receipt or bill in the future, consider scanning it and keeping a digital copy. There are many apps and services available that make it easy to digitize paper clutter. And remember, you don’t need to hang onto every single bill or receipt. Only keep those that are necessary for taxes or warranties.
7. Unfinished DIY Projects and Craft Supplies
If you love DIY projects or crafts, you probably have a stash of supplies. However, it’s easy for these items to become clutter if you’re not regularly using them or if you have more than you can realistically use. Consider donating excess supplies to a local school or community center.
Similarly, if you have unfinished projects lying around, decide whether you’re actually going to finish them. If not, it’s time to let them go. Holding onto unfinished projects can create feelings of guilt and stress, which is not conducive to a peaceful home environment.
8. Duplicate Items in Your Home
Most of us have duplicate items in our homes. Whether it’s two toasters, multiple sets of measuring cups, or an excess of bath towels, these duplicates can create unnecessary clutter. Decide which items you like and use most, and then donate or sell the extras.
Remember, just because an item is useful doesn’t mean you need to have multiples of it. Keep what you need and use, and let go of the rest. This can be particularly helpful in small spaces where storage is limited.
9. Broken Items Waiting to Be Fixed
Do you have a pile of items that are broken and waiting to be fixed? If so, it’s time to be honest with yourself about whether you’re actually going to repair these items. If you’ve been hanging onto them for months (or years) with no action, it’s time to let them go.
If an item is special to you and you’re committed to fixing it, set a deadline for yourself. If you haven’t repaired the item by that date, it’s time to get rid of it. Broken items can become a source of stress and guilt, so it’s best to deal with them promptly.
10. Sentimental Items That Don’t Spark Joy
We all have sentimental items that we hold onto because they remind us of a special time or person. However, not all of these items bring us joy. If you’re holding onto something out of guilt or obligation, it’s time to let it go. You can take a photo of the item to remember it by and then donate or discard it.
Remember, you’re not obligated to keep every gift you’ve ever received. If an item doesn’t bring you joy or add value to your life, it’s okay to let it go. It’s the thought behind the gift that counts, not the gift itself.
11. Excess Decorations and Seasonal Items
Decorations and seasonal items can certainly add joy and festivity to your home. However, if you have more than you can or want to use, these items can become clutter. Consider donating or selling excess decorations.
This can be especially helpful when it comes to holiday decorations. If you find yourself dreading the thought of unpacking and setting up all your decorations, it’s probably a sign that you have too many. Keep what you love and let go of the rest.
12. Collections That Have Lost Their Meaning or Value
Many of us collect items as a hobby or passion. However, collections can sometimes lose their meaning or value over time. If you’re no longer interested in your collection, or if it’s simply taking up too much space, consider selling or donating it.
Remember, it’s okay to let go of a collection that no longer brings you joy. You can take photos of your collection to remember it by, and then let the actual items go. This can free up space and also allow the items to be enjoyed by someone else.
13. Old School Books and Notes
If you’re holding onto old school books and notes, it’s time to consider whether you really need them. If you haven’t referred to these materials in years, they’re probably just taking up space. Consider recycling the papers and donating the books.
Sometimes we hold onto these items out of nostalgia or because we think they might be useful someday. However, in most cases, they’re simply clutter. Letting go of these items can free up space and also relieve you of any guilt or pressure to use them.
14. Excessive Tupperware and Kitchen Utensils
How many spatulas do you really need? If your kitchen drawers are overflowing with utensils, it’s time to pare down. Keep what you use regularly and let go of the rest. The same goes for Tupperware and other food storage containers. If you have more than you need, consider donating the extras.
Remember, decluttering is not about getting rid of everything. It’s about creating a living environment that is comfortable, organized, and filled with items you love and use. By letting go of these 14 types of clutter, you can create a more peaceful and enjoyable home.
