You probably have items around your home that haven’t been touched in over a year. It’s easy to hold on to things out of habit or just because they seem useful “someday.”
Recognizing what you haven’t used in a long time can help you declutter and create more space and peace in your environment. Taking a moment to identify these items gives you a clearer idea of what really adds value to your daily life.
Old manilla folders
If you’ve got old manilla folders lying around, chances are they’ve been gathering dust for a while. Instead of tossing them, you can repurpose them for organizing small items or creating mini albums.
You might also try cutting them into smaller folders for journals or scrapbooking projects. They’re surprisingly sturdy and great for crafts if you give them a second life.
Dried-out permanent markers
If your permanent markers have dried out, don’t toss them just yet. You can try to bring them back by soaking the tip in rubbing alcohol for a few minutes.
Another option is to stand the marker nib-down in a small cup of alcohol. This helps rehydrate the ink inside without the need to pull the tip out.
Using isopropyl alcohol can also clean the tip and improve the flow. It’s a simple trick that often saves markers you thought were done.
Expired coupons
You probably have a stash of expired coupons lying around. Most stores won’t accept them past their date, but some places like Bed Bath & Beyond might give you a break if you ask.
If you want to save those coupons, check if the store’s policy allows a grace period. Otherwise, it’s best to toss them and avoid the hassle at checkout.
Unread magazines from last year
You probably have a pile of unread magazines gathering dust. They seemed like a good idea at the time, but now they just take up space.
If you haven’t flipped through them in over a year, it might be time to let them go. Keeping stacks of unread magazines often just adds clutter.
Cutting out pictures or articles you like is an option, but if you never got around to it, those magazines aren’t serving you. Consider recycling or donating them instead.
Worn-out running shoes
If you haven’t worn your running shoes in over a year, they might not be safe to use anymore. The materials inside can break down even if you don’t wear them, causing less support and cushioning.
Most shoes last about 400-500 miles before they start to wear out. Old shoes might feel stiff or uncomfortable, and you could notice aches when running.
Check for cracked soles, crushed cushioning, or yellowing glue. If your shoes show these signs, it’s probably time to replace them.
Unused yoga mat
If you’ve got a yoga mat sitting unused for over a year, don’t just stash it away. You can cut it up to use as drawer liners or shelf padding.
It works well as a cushion for knees if you do any gardening or home projects.
You could also donate it to animal shelters or community centers that might need mats for pets or sleeping pads.
Old college textbooks
You probably haven’t touched those college textbooks in a long time. Most of them lose value after a couple of years, especially if the subject changes fast.
If you don’t plan on using them again, consider donating. Some places accept older books, but it can be tricky. Otherwise, recycling is a simple option.
There’s also the chance to sell if they’re still in demand. But don’t expect to get much money for books that are out of date.
Broken sunglasses
You probably have a pair of sunglasses sitting somewhere that didn’t survive last summer. Maybe you stepped on them or a hinge snapped, and they’ve been forgotten ever since.
If you want to replace them, you could look for affordable options online. Some brands offer warranties, but cheap replacements might be easier if you just want something functional. Either way, broken sunglasses often end up unused.
Expired makeup
If you haven’t used your makeup in over a year, it’s probably expired. Using expired products can lead to irritation or even infections because bacteria build up over time.
Powders last longer than creams or liquids, but it’s safest to toss anything that’s past its prime. Holding on to old makeup might seem okay, but it’s better to start fresh to avoid skin problems.
Stack of unused greeting cards
If you’ve got a pile of greeting cards sitting around unused, it might be time to sort through them. You can keep the ones with meaningful notes and toss the rest.
Another option is to repurpose cards by cutting them into gift tags or decorations. This way, they get a new life instead of collecting dust.
Holding on to every card isn’t necessary, especially if it’s been over a year. Let go of what doesn’t bring you joy or value.
Last year’s tax documents
If you haven’t needed your tax documents from last year, it’s usually fine to stash them away for now. You should keep records like your tax returns and related paperwork for at least three years, just in case.
Some people prefer holding onto them for up to seven years, especially if they want extra security. Scanning and saving digital copies can help keep things organized and easy to access when you do need them.
Unused kitchen gadgets
You probably have a drawer full of single-use gadgets that seemed like a good idea at the time. Think avocado slicers, garlic presses, or those tiny egg separators you forgot you bought.
If you haven’t touched them in over a year, it’s okay to let them go. Often, a simple knife or spoon does the job just fine. Clearing them out frees up space and cuts down on clutter.
Old phone chargers
If you haven’t used your old phone chargers in over a year, they’re probably just taking up space. You might want to check if they still work or if they fit any other devices you own.
Instead of tossing them, consider donating or selling them online. Some people collect chargers for backup or specific gadgets.
If you’re done with them completely, recycle the cords properly. Many places accept electronic waste, so it won’t harm the environment.
Empty photo albums
If you have empty photo albums sitting around, chances are you haven’t used them in a while. They can take up space without serving much purpose.
You might want to consider repurposing them for art journaling or using them to organize other small keepsakes. Otherwise, donating or recycling is an option to clear clutter.
Sometimes, empty albums can remind you to print and organize digital photos, but if that’s not happening, it’s okay to let them go.
Worn-out belts
If you haven’t worn a belt in over a year, it might be time to check it out. Leather belts can dry out, crack, or become stiff when left unused.
Synthetic or thinner belts may melt or harden depending on how they were made and stored.
Keep in mind, even if it looks okay, a belt that’s dry rotted or cracked won’t hold up well. If your belt feels brittle or squeaky, it’s probably past its prime.
Unused board games
You probably have a few board games sitting untouched on your shelves. Maybe you bought them for a specific group or event, but they never got played again.
Sometimes, games get replaced by newer favorites or digital versions. It’s easy to forget them, especially if they require a larger group or a lot of setup.
If you want to give those games new life, try revisiting one a month. Playing a game three times a year can help it feel fresh without overwhelming your schedule.
Old software CDs
You probably have some old software CDs lying around collecting dust. They can still be useful if you need to install programs without an internet connection.
It’s a good idea to make digital copies of these discs, like ISOs, to save space and keep them safe. That way, you won’t have to hunt for the physical discs later.
Just keep in mind that some old software might not work on newer systems without extra tweaks or compatibility settings.