Junk drawers are a reality in most homes, often becoming a catch-all for items that don’t have a designated place. You might think that holding onto everything in your junk drawer is harmless, but certain items can take up unnecessary space and create clutter.
By knowing which items to eliminate, you can create a more functional space that is easier to navigate. It’s refreshing to open a drawer and find only what you need, rather than sifting through pointless clutter.
1. Expired coupons
Expired coupons can clutter your junk drawer without offering any value. They take up space and can create unnecessary frustration when you dig through your drawer.
It’s easy to forget about them until the moment you need a discount. Instead of holding onto them, it’s best to toss out any that have expired.
Make it a habit to check your coupons regularly, ensuring you only keep the ones that can actually save you money.
2. Nonworking pens
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It’s time to let go of those nonworking pens cluttering your junk drawer. You know the ones—those that ran out of ink ages ago and just sit there taking up space.
You might think you’ll fix them or they’ll start working again, but let’s be real. Keeping them only makes it harder to find a pen that actually writes when you need one.
Clear them out and enjoy a less chaotic drawer. Your future self will thank you when you reach for a reliable pen instead!
3. Old batteries
Old batteries don’t belong in your junk drawer. They can leak and cause damage to other items. If you find any dead batteries, it’s best to dispose of them properly rather than keeping them around. Consider switching to rechargeable options like NiMH Eneloops, which last longer and don’t leak.
For storage, always keep batteries in their original packaging or invest in a battery organizer. This helps keep things safe and tidy.
4. Takeout sauce packets
You’ve probably got a few takeout sauce packets lurking in your junk drawer. These little packets can pile up quickly, and often, you forget about them.
While they might be tempting to keep “just in case,” many sauces can expire. If you don’t use them within a reasonable time, it’s best to toss them out.
Instead of holding onto extras, try to just keep a few favorites. That way, your drawer stays organized and ready for things you actually need.
5. Random keys
It’s easy to toss random keys into your junk drawer, but do you even know what they unlock? Most likely not.
These forgotten keys just take up space and add to the clutter. Instead of holding onto them, consider sorting through and keeping only the essential keys. If a key has no known purpose, it might be time to let it go.
6. Expired medicine
Keeping expired medicine in your junk drawer is not a good idea. It’s risky for your health and can lead to unwanted side effects.
Always check the expiration dates on your medications and toss anything that’s past due. Using expired meds can be ineffective or even harmful, so it’s better to be safe. Consider proper disposal options to avoid clutter and maintain safety in your home.
7. Old magazines
You probably have a few old magazines cluttering up your junk drawer. Holding onto them takes up valuable space and adds to the mess.
Consider how often you actually flip through them. If it’s been years, it’s time to let them go.
Toss those outdated issues and make room for things that matter more. You’ll feel lighter and more organized without the unnecessary paper piles.
8. Paperclips
Paperclips can pile up quickly in your junk drawer. While they’re handy at times, keeping too many just adds clutter.
Consider if you actually use them regularly. If they rarely see the light of day, it’s time to let them go.
You can keep a few for emergency use, but being overwhelmed by options isn’t helpful. Simplify your drawer and enjoy the space.
9. Spare change
Keeping spare change in your junk drawer might seem convenient, but it often just adds clutter. You probably have pennies, nickels, and dimes piling up without a real purpose.
Instead, consider using a jar or a designated space for coins. This way, you can easily collect them for a rainy day, or even use them for small purchases.
Freeing up that drawer space will make it easier to find what you truly need. Plus, that change can actually add up if you keep track of it!
10. Broken scissors
Keeping broken scissors in your junk drawer is just taking up space. You can’t really use them, and they can be frustrating when you need to cut something.
It’s better to toss them out and free up that area for tools that actually work. If you have a pair that’s dull or damaged, it’s time to say goodbye.
You deserve scissors that do their job right. Clear out the clutter and make room for items that are actually helpful.
11. Dry rubber bands
Dry rubber bands often end up in junk drawers, taking up space for no good reason. When they lose their elasticity, they become useless for holding things together.
Instead of hanging onto these dried-out bands, consider tossing them out. Fresh rubber bands are affordable and can easily be replaced when needed.
Clearing out old rubber bands makes your junk drawer more organized and functional. You’ll thank yourself later when you can find what you actually need without sifting through unnecessary clutter.
12. Single-use cutlery
You know those plastic forks and spoons you grab for takeout? They tend to accumulate in your junk drawer. While they’re convenient, keeping too many can lead to clutter.
It’s easy to think you’ll use them someday, but chances are, you won’t. Most of us prefer regular cutlery for meals at home.
Consider tossing the extras and keeping only a few for emergencies. Clear some space in your drawer and say goodbye to single-use cutlery that just takes up room.
