As mothers, we often find ourselves playing the role of the family historian, archivist, and even clutter collector. Whether it’s outgrown clothes, piles of school artwork, or forgotten toys, our homes can quickly become overrun with items that have outlived their usefulness or sentimental value. And let’s not forget about our own personal items that have been relegated to the back of closets and drawers.
The reality is, decluttering not only frees up physical space, but it can also make you feel less stressed and more in control. So, here’s a list of 15 things that moms wish they’d tossed sooner.
1. Outgrown Clothes
Kids grow fast, very fast. One moment you’re buying cute newborn outfits, and the next, you’re wondering where to put the pile of clothes they’ve outgrown. While it’s tempting to hold onto these items for sentimental reasons or for future children, they can quickly add up and take up precious space. Consider donating, selling, or passing them on to friends or family. If you must keep some, choose a few special pieces that hold the most memories.
As for your own clothes, if you haven’t worn something in a year, it’s probably time to say goodbye. This is especially true for items you’re holding onto in hopes of fitting into them again someday. The reality is fashion trends change and your body might too. Instead of feeling guilty every time you see these items, let them go and make room for clothes that fit and make you feel good now.
2. Old Makeup and Skincare Products
Just like food, makeup and skincare products have expiration dates. Using them past their prime can lead to skin issues and infections. Generally, mascara and liquid eyeliner should be tossed after three months, foundations and concealers can last up to a year, while powders and eyeshadows can go for two years. Skincare products usually last one to two years, but always check the packaging.
Don’t forget to declutter your makeup bag and tools too. Old brushes and sponges can harbor bacteria, leading to breakouts. Regularly clean your tools and replace them as needed.
3. Unused Kitchen Gadgets
Most of us have that one kitchen gadget we bought thinking it would revolutionize our cooking but has since been gathering dust. Whether it’s a juicer, a waffle maker, or a fancy vegetable slicer, if you’re not using it regularly, it’s probably time to let it go. These items tend to be bulky and take up valuable kitchen space.
Donate these items or sell them online. You might be surprised how many people are looking for the exact gadget you’ve never used. Plus, you’ll have more room in your kitchen for items you actually use.
4. Old Magazines and Books
Books and magazines can quickly pile up, especially if you’re an avid reader. While it’s hard to part with a good book, consider donating ones you know you won’t read again. As for magazines, if you haven’t read an issue in over a year, it’s time to recycle it.
Consider switching to digital versions or using your local library. You’ll still get to enjoy reading without the physical clutter.
5. Expired Food and Spices
We all have that can of soup or box of pasta that’s been sitting in the pantry forever. Do a thorough cleanout of your pantry and fridge every few months and toss anything that’s expired. Don’t forget about your spice rack. While spices don’t necessarily go bad, they do lose their potency over time.
A decluttered pantry and fridge make meal planning and grocery shopping easier. Plus, it reduces the risk of food waste.
6. Old Bills, Receipts, and Paperwork
In today’s digital age, there’s no need to hoard paper. Most bills and bank statements can be accessed online, and there are apps where you can store digital copies of receipts. Unless it’s a major purchase, warranty, or tax-related document, you probably don’t need to keep that piece of paper.
Store important documents in a safe place and toss or shred the rest. Your home office will thank you.
7. Unloved Toys
Kids often have more toys than they know what to do with. Regularly go through their toys with them and donate or sell anything they’ve outgrown or no longer play with. This not only helps keep their rooms tidy but also teaches them about letting go and sharing with others.
Try to resist the urge to buy new toys unless it’s a special occasion. They’ll appreciate their toys more and learn to value quality over quantity.
8. Unused Craft Supplies
Whether you’re a scrapbooker, a knitter, or a painter, craft supplies can quickly accumulate. If you have materials for a project you never started or finished, consider donating them to a local school or community center. Keep only the supplies you know you’ll use.
Having fewer supplies to sift through can actually boost your creativity. You’ll spend more time creating and less time organizing.
9. Old Cell Phones and Electronics
Many of us have a drawer filled with outdated cell phones, chargers, and other electronics. These items can often be recycled or even sold. Some stores offer trade-in deals, and there are charities that accept old cell phones.
Remember to erase any personal data before you dispose of these items. And if you have an old VCR or CD player gathering dust, it’s probably time to say goodbye.
10. Unused Exercise Equipment
That treadmill you swore you’d use every day has now become an expensive clothes rack. If you’re not using it, sell or donate it. There are plenty of ways to stay fit without bulky equipment.
Consider joining a gym or trying out fitness classes. You might find you enjoy working out more when you’re not at home.
11. Old Paint and DIY Supplies
We all have that can of paint from a project a few years back, just in case we need to do touch-ups. But paint doesn’t last forever. If it’s more than a year old, it’s probably not good anymore. The same goes for old brushes, rollers, and other DIY supplies.
Donate these items to a local school, theater group, or community center. They’ll get a new lease of life, and you’ll have more space in your garage or shed.
12. Old Medication
Most of us have a medicine cabinet filled with expired medication, old prescriptions, and half-used tubes of ointment. Not only do these items take up space, but they can also be dangerous if taken by mistake. Most pharmacies have a medication take-back program where you can safely dispose of these items.
Make it a habit to clean out your medicine cabinet once a year. You’ll have a better idea of what you have and what you need to restock.
13. Old Bedding and Towels
Old, worn-out bedding and towels can take up a lot of space. If they’re past their prime, consider donating them to a local animal shelter. They’re always in need of these items.
Invest in a few good quality towels and bed sheets. They’ll last longer and feel much nicer to use.
14. Old CDs and DVDs
With the rise of digital music and streaming services, most of us don’t need our old CDs and DVDs anymore. If you haven’t listened to or watched them in years, it’s probably time to let them go. Many charities accept these items, or you could sell them online.
Switching to digital also means you can access your favorite music and movies anywhere, anytime. Plus, you’ll have more shelf space for other items.
15. Forgotten Gifts
We all have those gifts we’ve received but never used. Whether it’s a book you’ll never read, a scarf that’s not your style, or a gadget you have no use for, keeping these items around won’t do you any good. Consider regifting them or donating them to a charity.
Remember, it’s the thought that counts, not the gift itself. Don’t feel guilty about letting go of things that don’t serve you. Decluttering is a process, and it’s okay to take it one step at a time. You’ll feel lighter, happier, and more in control of your space. And who knows, you might even discover things you thought you’d lost in the process.
