Woman decluttering stuff at home. different cartons to donate,discard and keep

7 Things Minimalists Never Keep When They Declutter (And You Shouldn’t Either)

Are you ready to simplify your life and make your home a serene and peaceful retreat? Embrace the minimalist lifestyle. This trend is not about deprivation, rather it’s about making room for what truly matters.

By decluttering, you can save time, increase your safety by reducing tripping hazards, and foster a sense of tranquility and peace.In this article, we’ll share seven items that minimalists never keep when they declutter.

These are common household items that may seem necessary but are actually just clutter. By removing these items from your home, you’ll be taking steps towards a more minimalist lifestyle.

Outdated Electronics

A television set with a remote control on a table.
Image Credit: Illia Horokhovsky / Unsplash

Many of us are guilty of holding onto outdated electronics. Whether it’s an old mobile phone, a laptop that no longer works, or a camera that’s been outdated for years, these items just take up space. Minimalists understand that these items are not only unnecessary but also potentially harmful. Old electronics can leak harmful substances, which can be detrimental to your health and the environment.

Consider recycling or donating your old electronics. There are many companies that offer safe and responsible electronics recycling. You can also sell them to buyback programs. The extra space and peace of mind you’ll gain are worth it.

Unused Beauty Products

assorted plastic bottles on brown woven basket
Image Credit: Poko Skincare / Unsplash

Do you have a drawer full of beauty products that you never use? Many of us buy products on a whim or receive them as gifts, only to let them gather dust in a drawer. These unused items not only clutter your home, but they can also expire and become unsafe to use.

Minimalists get rid of these items. They prefer to use only what they need and love. Consider donating unopened products to local shelters or organizations. For opened items, check the expiration date and discard it if it is past. This way, you can reduce clutter and make your beauty routine simpler and more efficient.

Old Magazines and Newspapers

a pile of magazines sitting on top of a table
Image Credit: Rhamely / Unsplash

Old magazines and newspapers are common clutter culprits. While you might think you’ll go back and read them someday, chances are you won’t. They just pile up, taking valuable space and gathering dust.

Minimalists don’t keep these items. They prefer to read online or borrow from the library, reducing paper waste. If you have a stack of old magazines and newspapers, consider recycling them. You could also donate them to schools or art studios, where they can be used for projects.

Expired Medications

Medical supplies and medications displayed on a red background, emphasizing healthcare essentials.
Image Credit: Maksim Goncharenok / Pexels

It’s easy to forget about expired medications tucked away in a medicine cabinet, but these can be dangerous if accidentally ingested. Additionally, they take up unnecessary space and make it harder for you to find the medications you do need.

Minimalists don’t keep expired medications. They regularly check the dates on their medications and dispose of any that are out of date. Be sure to follow local guidelines for safe disposal of medications. Clearing out these items can make your home safer and more organized.

Unused Kitchen Gadgets

A toaster oven sitting on top of a counter
Image Credit: wei / Unsplash

The kitchen is a common place for clutter to accumulate, especially when it comes to gadgets. How many times have you used that avocado slicer or egg separator? These gadgets may seem handy, but they often end up unused and forgotten in a drawer.

Minimalists stick to the essentials when it comes to kitchen tools. They prefer multi-purpose tools that can perform various tasks. If you have gadgets that you don’t use, consider donating them or giving them to someone who will use them. Your kitchen will be easier to navigate and you’ll have less to clean.

Excess Linens and Towels

four green towels
Image Credit: Denny Müller / Unsplash

While it’s good to have a few spare linens and towels, having too many can quickly lead to clutter. These items can take up a lot of space in your closets and drawers, making it difficult to find what you need when you need it.

Minimalists keep only what they need and use regularly. Consider donating your excess linens and towels to a local animal shelter or homeless shelter. You’ll have more space in your home and you’ll be helping those in need.

Unwanted Gifts

A festive flat lay of various Christmas presents adorned with colorful ribbons on a wooden background.
Image Credit: George Dolgikh / Pexels

It’s a common dilemma: what to do with gifts that you don’t want or need. Many of us feel guilty about getting rid of them, so they end up cluttering our homes.

Minimalists understand that the love and thought behind the gift are what’s important, not the gift itself. If you have unwanted gifts, consider donating them to charity or regifting them to someone who would appreciate them. By doing this, you’re not only decluttering your home, but also ensuring that the items are put to good use.