We all have that one drawer, or maybe it’s a whole closet, filled to the brim with stuff we’ve kept “just in case.” You know what I’m talking about: the odds and ends that seem innocent enough on their own but somehow multiply into a chaotic collection of what-ifs.
It’s like a hoarder’s paradise, but instead of a TV show, it’s just your living room. So, let’s chat about those six things you keep because they might be useful someday — and whether it’s time to let them go.
1. Old Electronics
There’s something about old gadgets that makes them hard to part with. Maybe it’s that flip phone from 2008, or a cassette player that hasn’t seen the light of day since the dawn of the iPod. You keep telling yourself that one day, you’ll want to relive those nostalgic moments or that you’ll need the charger for something. But honestly, unless you’re planning a retro-themed party, it might be time to let them go. They’re just taking up valuable space that could be used for, you know, actual useful things like a plant or a fresh set of coasters.
2. Empty Jars and Containers
Ah, the empty jar collection. You open your pantry and see a rainbow of glass and plastic containers, each promising to be the perfect vessel for something. You might think, “I’ll use this for my homemade jam!” or “This will be great for organizing my craft supplies.” But let’s be real: how often do you actually get around to that homemade jam? If you’re not using them as part of an elaborate Pinterest project, it might be time to let them find a new home. Or, at the very least, stop keeping ones that are more than two years old. Unless you’re really attached to that spaghetti sauce jar, of course.
3. Clothes You Haven’t Worn in Ages
Every closet has that section where clothes go to die. You know, the outfits you thought you’d wear again someday, like that cute dress you bought for a wedding five years ago or those jeans you swear you’ll fit into again. Spoiler alert: if you haven’t worn them in a year, chances are you won’t miss them. Take a good look — does that old sweater still spark joy, or is it just taking up space? If it’s the latter, why not donate it? Someone else might actually love it, and you’ll feel lighter, both physically and emotionally.
4. Expired Coupons and Gift Cards
Who hasn’t found a stash of old coupons while cleaning? You know the ones: they’re expired, crumpled, and have been hiding in your wallet since the last season of your favorite show. And those gift cards? They’re practically ancient at this point! It’s like a tiny treasure hunt every time you dig through your bag. But let’s be real — if you haven’t used that $25 gift card to a restaurant you’ve never even liked, it might be time to say goodbye. You’re not going to magically find the motivation to go there just because you have a card. Consider it a little spring cleaning for your wallet!
5. Random Office Supplies
Is there a black hole in your desk where pens and paperclips go to disappear? You’ve got enough sticky notes to cover a small wall and a collection of pens that would make any office supply store proud. And yet, you hold onto them, convinced you’ll need that neon pink highlighter for something. Let’s face it: if you haven’t used it in months and you can’t remember the last time you needed a 3-hole punch, it’s okay to let it go. Simplifying your workspace can be a game changer for your productivity and sanity.
6. Books You’ve Read or Never Will
Books can be such sentimental creatures, can’t they? You’ve got the ones you read once and enjoyed, and the ones you’ve been meaning to read for ages but just never get around to. They sit on your shelf, collecting dust, and you keep thinking, “I’ll read that next.” But if you’re not excited about it, it’s okay to part with them. Consider donating those books to a local library or sharing them with friends. They’ll appreciate the fresh reads, and you’ll clear up some space for the next great novel you actually want to dive into.