Shelves can be a great way to display your favorite items and keep your space organized. However, not everything belongs on open shelves, as certain things can make your space look cluttered or even create unnecessary dust and mess.
Knowing what to take off your shelves can help you maintain a neat and inviting environment while making your decor stand out. This article will guide you through common items that are better kept elsewhere to improve both the look and function of your shelving.
Expired medications
You should check your medicine cabinet regularly and remove any expired medications. Once a medication passes its expiration date, it may lose potency and not work as intended.
Some expired medicines can become unsafe, so it’s best not to take risks with them. If you’re unsure, consult your pharmacist for advice.
The safest way to get rid of expired medication is by using a medication take-back program. Avoid flushing or throwing them in the trash unless instructed otherwise.
Worn-out towels and sheets
If your towels or sheets are full of holes, stains, or just don’t feel soft anymore, it’s time to take them off your shelves. Holding onto them doesn’t add value, and they can take up space you could use better.
You can repurpose them around your home instead of throwing them away. For example, old towels make great cleaning rags or protective covers for your car floor mats. Sheets can become drop cloths for painting or be donated if still usable.
Letting go of worn linens keeps your space fresh and helps you stay organized without unnecessary clutter.
Old shoes you no longer wear
You might have shoes sitting on your shelves that haven’t seen the light of day in months or even years. Holding onto them can clutter your space and make it harder to find what you actually use.
If your old shoes are still in good condition, consider donating them to someone who could benefit. For shoes that are worn out, look into recycling programs that turn them into new materials instead of landfill waste.
You can also get creative by repurposing your shoes for DIY projects. Removing them from your shelves frees up space while helping reduce environmental impact.
Abandoned craft supplies
You probably have craft supplies you started using but never finished. These items often take up space and create visual clutter on your shelves.
It’s okay to let go of abandoned supplies that no longer inspire you. Holding onto them can hold back your creativity.
Try sorting through these items and decide if you want to finish the project, donate the supplies, or recycle them. Removing abandoned supplies clears space for new ideas and keeps your craft area inviting.
Books you’ve already read
You might have books on your shelves that you loved but don’t plan to read again. Holding onto every read can take up valuable space and make your collection feel cluttered.
Consider letting go of books you don’t intend to reread. You can swap, donate, or even share them with friends, giving those books a new life.
This way, you free up room for new favorites or the unread books you really want to dive into. It’s a simple step to keep your shelves fresh and manageable.
Disorganized or mismatched dishware
Having a cluttered mix of dishware can make your kitchen feel chaotic. When your plates, bowls, and cups don’t match or are scattered, it becomes harder to find what you need quickly.
Keeping a consistent set not only looks nicer but helps you keep track of what you have. If pieces are chipped or don’t fit with the rest, consider removing them to free up space.
Organizing your dishware by type and size can make daily tasks smoother. You’ll save time and reduce stress during mealtime and clean-up.
