Drawers often become catch-alls for items that don’t have a designated place, turning into clutter magnets over time. You might think tucking things away is harmless, but stashing certain items can create more mess and make it harder to find what you need.
Knowing what you should stop stashing in your drawers can help you keep your space organized and functional. When you clear out these problem items, your drawers become easier to manage and your home feels more orderly.
Expired medications
You should never keep expired medications tucked away in your drawers. Over time, these drugs can lose their effectiveness or even become harmful.
Checking expiration dates regularly helps you avoid taking medicines that no longer work or might cause side effects.
If you find expired pills, don’t just toss them in the trash. Use a local drug take-back program to dispose of them safely and responsibly. This keeps your home safer and protects the environment too.
Loose batteries
You should avoid tossing loose batteries into your drawers. When batteries touch each other, they can short circuit or drain faster. This is especially risky with 9-volt batteries, which have terminals close together.
Storing batteries loosely increases the chance of a fire hazard. It’s safer to keep them in their original packaging or a dedicated container that prevents contact between terminals.
Keeping your batteries organized also helps you avoid clutter and makes it easier to find the right battery when you need it. Try using battery cases or small boxes to keep them neat and safe.
Random receipts
You might be tempted to stash random receipts in your drawers, thinking you’ll need them later. But most of these papers just add clutter and make it harder to find what you actually use.
Holding onto every receipt can quickly turn your drawer into a messy pile. Instead, keep only those needed for returns, warranties, or tax purposes.
Try using a dedicated folder or an app to store digital copies. This way, your drawers stay clear, and you still have important receipts when you need them.
Old charging cables
You probably have a drawer full of old charging cables, but keeping them there can do more harm than good. When tossed carelessly, cables bend and tangle, which weakens their internal wires, especially near the ends.
It’s a good idea to sort through them and keep only those you still use or might need as backups. For the rest, consider recycling or repurposing to free up space and reduce clutter. This way, you’ll find the cables you need quickly without the mess.
