Every one of us has things we want to save for a certain occasion — but, let’s face it, most of them just take up space. If you’ve been meaning to declutter but aren’t sure where to start, this list can help. Professional organizers know the everyday culprits that clutter up our homes. Here are 12 things you’re likely still holding on to that need to go.
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Sentimental “Junk”
Every single one of us feels attached to something, but the professional organizers encourage us all to judge their worth. Do you have to keep every birthday card or baby doll? Keep a few meaningful pieces & let go of the rest to free up space.
Expired Pantry Items
No one needs the cans, spices or baking materials that you’ve been saving for years in your pantry. Check expiration dates and throw away anything that’s not fresh to keep your kitchen tidy & functional.
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Freebies & Promotional Items
Those free mugs, pens, or tote bags from events may seem cool, but they can pile up quickly. If you’re not using them, donate or recycle them & avoid bringing more home in the future.
Old Electronics
Old phones, outdated laptops & long-forgotten DVD players are just taking up space. Donate or recycle old electronics that you no longer need, but erase personal data first.
Duplicate Items
Two can openers? Three sets of measuring cups? Duplicates are easy to collect, especially in the kitchen. Professional organizers advise you to store one of everything & donate the rest.
Outdated Paperwork
Unwanted bills, receipts & documents you no longer use are all regular clutter contributors. Shred anything with personal information & only keep important documents, like tax records, that are required for legal or financial reasons.
Broken Items You’ll “Fix Someday”
From chipped plates to wobbly chairs, holding onto broken items, you’ll “get around to fixing” usually means they sit untouched for years. If it’s not worth the effort or expense of fixing, get rid of it.
Clothes You Never Wear
The sweater you haven’t worn in three years is not helping you. Donate if it’s not your size, or not your style, or you haven’t worn it in a year. Dressing is much easier when your closet is smaller.
Random Cords & Chargers
We all have that drawer full of mystery cables & outdated chargers for devices we don’t even own anymore. Organizers suggest labeling the ones you need & recycling the rest responsibly.
Expired Beauty Products
No one wants their makeup, skin, or hair products to be sitting around expiring. Not only are they ineffective, but they can also harbor bacteria. Declutter your beauty stash & keep only what’s current and in use.
Unused Kitchen Gadgets
That avocado slicer or mini waffle maker you used only once? I’m sure it’s just sitting in your cabinets. Professional organizers recommend keeping only multipurpose tools & gadgets you actually use regularly.
Old Magazines & Newspapers
Stacks of outdated magazines or newspapers serve little purpose beyond collecting dust. If you haven’t looked at them in months (or years), it’s time to recycle them. If you have an article or recipe you would like to keep with you, just snap a photo & save it to your phone.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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