Your kitchen can quickly become cluttered with items you no longer need or use. Sorting through what to keep, toss, or sell can feel overwhelming, but it’s an important step to create a more organized and functional space.
This article helps you decide which kitchen items are worth holding onto, which ones are better off in the trash, and which could bring in some extra cash if you sell them. Making these choices will make your kitchen easier to navigate and more enjoyable to use.
Keep: High-quality chef’s knife
You should hold on to a good chef’s knife. It’s versatile and makes prep work faster and safer.
Look for knives made with high carbon stainless steel—they stay sharp longer and resist rust. A well-balanced blade feels comfortable in your hand.
Whether you prefer a German-style or Japanese-style knife, the right one will fit your cooking style and last for years. Investing in a solid knife pays off in the kitchen every day.
Keep: Cast iron skillet
You should hold onto your cast iron skillet if it’s in good shape. These skillets are built to last and can even improve with use over time.
A well-maintained cast iron skillet can be passed down for generations. It’s versatile and great for many cooking tasks.
If yours has chips or warps, it’s better to replace it. Otherwise, keep it and enjoy its reliable performance in your kitchen.
Keep: Wooden cutting boards
You can keep wooden cutting boards if you care for them well. They’re durable and gentle on your knives.
Make sure to clean and dry them thoroughly after each use. This helps prevent bacteria growth and warping.
If your wooden board starts showing deep cracks or odors, it’s time to replace it. Otherwise, a well-kept wooden board can last for years in your kitchen.
Keep: Stainless steel mixing bowls
You’ll find stainless steel mixing bowls are durable and versatile for all kinds of kitchen tasks. They don’t stain or retain odors, making them easy to clean and maintain.
These bowls often come in sets with different sizes, perfect for mixing, serving, or storing food. Their metal construction handles temperature changes well, so you can chill or heat ingredients as needed.
Keep: Silicone spatulas
You should keep silicone spatulas in your kitchen because they are gentle on cookware surfaces. They won’t scratch nonstick pans, helping your pots and pans last longer.
They also resist stains and odors, so they stay cleaner and fresher than other utensils. Plus, many are heat resistant, so you can use them safely for cooking without worrying about melting.
Keep: Fresh herbs in a planter
You can easily grow fresh herbs right in your kitchen using a small planter or pots. Place them on a sunny windowsill where they get plenty of natural light.
Make sure your containers have drainage holes to avoid overwatering. Water the herbs when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Having fresh herbs close by saves trips to the store and adds flavor to your meals. Plus, they brighten up your space!
Toss: Expired canned goods
You should regularly check your canned goods for dents, bulges, or leaks. These are signs the food inside might not be safe anymore.
Even if the expiration date has passed, cans that look and smell normal can still be okay. But if you notice any off smells or unusual appearance, it’s best to toss them out.
Keeping expired or damaged cans can risk your health, so better safe than sorry!
Toss: Stale spices
If your spices look clumpy or have lost their aroma, it’s time to toss them. Moisture can sneak in and ruin the flavor, making your dishes less tasty.
Using fresh spices will brighten your meals and keep your kitchen clutter-free. Don’t hold on to old containers that have been open for years—you’ll get better results with new ones.
Toss: Single-use plastic utensils
You should toss single-use plastic utensils because they are not durable and can harbor bacteria in scratches or cracks. These utensils often end up in landfills, where they take years to break down.
Instead, consider switching to reusable utensils made from metal or bamboo. If you want to keep some plastic utensils, try to repurpose them for non-food uses to reduce waste.
Toss: Chipped mugs or plates
If you notice chips or cracks on your mugs or plates, it’s time to say goodbye. These small damages can harbor bacteria and make your kitchen less safe.
Using chipped mugs for hot drinks could cause leaks or burns. Tossing them keeps your kitchen clean and more pleasant.
It’s better to replace these items with intact ones to avoid any risk and keep your space clutter-free.
Toss: Ketchup packets from takeout
You might have a collection of ketchup packets from takeout stashed in your kitchen drawer. These small packets take up space and rarely get used before they expire.
Keeping them “just in case” adds clutter and makes organizing harder. It’s better to toss them and rely on fresh condiments when you need them. This way, your kitchen stays cleaner and less crowded.
Toss: Old or broken kitchen gadgets
You should let go of any kitchen gadgets that are broken or no longer work properly. These items only take up space and add clutter.
Specialty appliances you rarely use, like old pasta makers or single-use tools, are good candidates for tossing.
Also, replace worn-out sponges, towels, and cracked glassware. Keeping only functional items makes your kitchen safer and easier to use.
Toss: Excessive paper towels
You might have more paper towels than you actually need. Keeping a large stock can take up valuable space and lead to waste if they get dusty or damaged.
Try reducing your paper towel stash and rely on reusable cloths for everyday messes. This helps keep your kitchen tidier and cuts down on unnecessary garbage.
When you do use paper towels, opt for smaller amounts and toss only what’s needed to avoid piling up excess.
Sell: Rare vintage kitchen scales
If you find rare vintage kitchen scales, especially from well-known brands, they can be worth selling. Scales with porcelain plates or unique metalwork often attract collectors.
Some vintage models, particularly Art Deco or mid-century designs, can fetch over $100. In rare cases, certain scales even sell for thousands. Keep an eye out for good condition and distinctive features to get the best price.
Sell: Unused stand mixer attachments
If you have stand mixer attachments you don’t use, selling them can be a smart way to clear space and earn some cash. Attachments like pasta rollers, ice cream bowls, or specialized beaters often attract buyers looking for specific tools.
Listing them on platforms like eBay, Amazon, or OfferUp connects you with buyers searching for these parts. Make sure to describe the attachment clearly and include photos to help your sale.