I’ve noticed how easy it is to hold onto things “just in case” without ever really using them. Over time, these items quietly gather dust and take up space, leaving me wondering if I actually need them at all. It’s a habit many of us share, but it often leads to clutter that weighs on us more than helps.
Understanding which items we keep but never need can help us clear space and reduce stress in our daily lives. By taking a closer look at these things, I found it easier to decide what’s truly worth holding onto and what’s better to let go.
Old phone chargers and cables
I’ve noticed that I keep old phone chargers and cables “just in case,” but honestly, I never use them. Most new devices come with different cords, so these old ones just sit in drawers.
It’s easy to hang on to them, thinking they might come in handy someday. But with how fast technology changes, they usually don’t.
I try to recycle or repurpose cords now instead of letting them pile up. You can find more tips on dealing with old cables and chargers here.
Unused kitchen gadgets
I used to keep all sorts of kitchen gadgets “just in case” I might need them someday. But most of those gadgets just ended up collecting dust in a drawer.
I realized I hadn’t touched them in months, and they were only taking up space. Letting go of unused kitchen tools made my cooking area feel less cluttered and more inviting.
If you want, check out ideas on items to toss from trusted sources like The Kitchn.
Expired spices and herbs
I used to keep old spices and herbs, thinking I might need them someday. But honestly, most lose their flavor long before I remember to use them.
They won’t usually make you sick, but stale spices just don’t add much to meals. Tossing them out frees up space and makes cooking easier.
If you want to be sure, give them a quick smell or taste before deciding to throw them away. For more on this, check out tips on expired spices.
Duplicate office supplies
I used to keep extra pens, staplers, and paper clips “just in case.” But honestly, I never needed more than one or two of each.
Having duplicates just creates clutter and makes my workspace feel messy. It’s easier to stay organized when I only keep what I actually use.
If you want to clear some space, try sorting through your office supplies and letting go of those extras you don’t really need. You might be surprised how freeing it feels.
For more ideas, see this article on home office decluttering.
Heavy winter clothes never worn
I always hold onto heavy winter clothes just in case the cold gets worse. But year after year, I never actually need them.
Those bulky coats and sweaters just take up space in my closet. Letting go of them freed up room for items I actually wear regularly.
If you want to see why it’s okay to part with these rarely used clothes, check out this article on clothes you’re keeping for someday.
Random souvenir shot glasses
I have a collection of random souvenir shot glasses from trips I took years ago. They sit on a shelf, mostly just for decoration.
Honestly, I’ve never used them to drink. They’re more like little reminders of places I visited than practical items.
Keeping them “just in case” feels unnecessary, but they somehow stick around like quiet trophies. Sometimes, it’s hard to let go of small memories.
You can find examples of these keepsakes that often never get used in collections like mine on this list of things people save just in case.
Extra sets of keys for old locks
I hold onto extra keys for old locks “just in case.” Sometimes they’re for doors I no longer use but haven’t replaced yet.
My old deadbolt key stays in a drawer, even though I rarely think about it. It feels good to know I have a backup if needed.
If you want ideas on key storage, this spare key storage for emergency access might help.
