You probably have stuff lying around that you think could be useful someday or might be worth something. It’s easy to hold on to things hoping they’ll come in handy or someone will want them, but that’s not always the case.
Knowing what not to hang on to can save you space, time, and even stress. This article helps you figure out which items you’re saving that most people won’t want, so you can make smarter choices about what to keep and what to let go.
Outdated software CDs
You probably have a pile of old software CDs sitting around. Most of these discs don’t hold much value anymore, especially if the software is outdated or no longer supported.
If you want to keep the programs, consider converting the CDs to digital files like ISOs. That way, you can save space and still access them if needed. Otherwise, it’s usually fine to let them go.
Expired coupons
If you’re still holding onto coupons from 2018, it’s time to toss them. Most stores won’t accept coupons that old, and the savings are long gone.
Keeping expired coupons just clutters your space without any benefit. Plus, expired coupons can’t be combined with current discounts anyway.
Instead of saving those, focus on clipping fresh deals that actually work. Your future self will thank you for the clearer wallet and draw!
Old concert ticket stubs
You might be holding onto old concert ticket stubs thinking they’re precious keepsakes. But honestly, most people won’t care about those faded pieces of paper.
If you do want to keep them, avoid glue since it can damage the tickets. Tape or a shadowbox works better for preserving them without ruining the stub.
Remember, holding onto decades of tickets can just turn into clutter, especially if you’re missing the story behind each one.
Used gift cards with zero balance
You might have gift cards tucked away that show a zero balance. These are basically useless because they can’t be spent anymore.
Sometimes cards get accidentally emptied or don’t activate properly. Checking balances right after you get the card can save you from this hassle.
If you find zero-balance cards, it’s time to let them go. Holding onto them won’t do you any good.
Torn receipts from groceries
You might hold onto torn grocery receipts thinking they’re useful for returns or tracking expenses. But torn receipts are often hard to read and may not be accepted for returns.
If you need proof of purchase, keep your receipts intact or take a clear photo of them right away. Otherwise, they just clutter your space without much benefit.
Empty candle jars
You might be holding on to empty candle jars thinking they’ll come in handy. But most people don’t want them cluttering up space either.
Cleaning out the leftover wax can be a hassle, and repurposing jars takes effort. If you’re not really into DIY projects or organizing small items, these jars often just sit around unused.
Saving too many can weigh down your space without adding much value. Sometimes it’s better to toss or recycle them and clear room for things you actually need.
Broken phone chargers
You probably have a bunch of old phone chargers that no longer work. Keeping them around might seem useful, but most people won’t want them since they’re damaged or outdated.
Instead of stuffing them in a drawer, look for an electronics recycling center near you. Tossing them with regular trash isn’t a good idea.
If you want to save money, some broken chargers can be fixed, but often replacements are cheap and safer to use.
Old membership cards from gyms
You might be holding onto old gym membership cards thinking they’re valuable. The truth is, once you cancel or stop using a gym, those cards lose their worth.
Gyms rarely let you transfer old memberships or cards to others. Plus, they often deactivate old cards after a while.
If your card is worn or damaged, it’s even less useful. Tossing them won’t cost you anything and clears up clutter.
Cracked sunglasses
You might think your cracked sunglasses are worth keeping, but most people won’t want them. Cracks not only mess with how they look but can also affect your vision and comfort.
Sure, some cracks can be fixed by a professional, but often it costs more than just buying a new pair. If they’re badly damaged, it’s usually better to let them go.
Souvenir coins from trips no one took
You might have a jar full of foreign coins from trips you never actually took. Holding onto them feels nostalgic, but most people won’t find value in coins without stories behind them.
These coins often just collect dust. Unless they have unique designs or are rare, they rarely hold much worth beyond sentimental value to you.
Dried-up markers
You might hold onto old markers thinking you’ll revive them someday. The truth is, most dried-up markers don’t come back to life easily.
Some people use tricks like adding water or soaking the tip for a few minutes. It works sometimes, especially for water-based markers, but permanent markers are much harder to fix.
Instead of keeping a bunch of dry markers, it’s usually better to recycle them and buy fresh ones when you need them. Your art or notes will turn out better that way.
Used birthday candles
You might hang onto birthday candles after they flicker out. It feels like saving a little piece of celebration.
But once they’ve been used, most people won’t want them. The wax is often melted or bent, and they rarely relight well.
If you keep them, be ready for a random stash that won’t see many future parties. It’s one of those things you probably don’t need to save.
Worn-out flip-flops
You might hold on to those old flip-flops because they’re comfy or remind you of past summers. But if the soles are cracked or the straps are loose, they’re pretty much done.
Worn-out flip-flops won’t offer much support or protection anymore. It’s better to toss them and grab a fresh pair that won’t leave your feet sore.
Free promotional pens with no ink
You might have a drawer full of free pens from events or companies. They look cool but many don’t actually write.
These pens were meant to advertise, not to be useful. You keep holding onto them hoping they’ll work someday. But if the pen has no ink or skips constantly, it’s unlikely anyone will want to use or keep it. Let it go.