A clean and organized home doesn’t just feel more comfortable. According to experts, it reduces stress and improves productivity too.
If you’re serious about making your home a clutter-free zone, here are some things you can probably toss.
1. Boxes of miscellaneous small items
Carry a box from one place to another?
If you haven’t needed to touch a box of unidentified items lately, you probably don’t need what’s inside.
2. Boxes from purchased items
Stacks of empty boxes in your closet aren’t a good look. While keeping a box for bigger-ticket items like computers can be useful for future shipping, most product boxes only create clutter and pose a fire risk.
3. Random cables
Holding onto every random wire, cord, and charging cable “just in case” often results in a cabinet filled with obsolete items. Let go of cables you no longer need to keep your space tidy.
4. Old ink and toner cartridges
Take advantage of manufacturers ‘ recycling programs instead of letting used ink and toner cartridges accumulate. It’s better than contributing to clutter.
5. Worn-out shoes
If the soles have worn flat and no longer provide support, it’s time to let them go. While fast-fashion shoes for occasional outfits can stay, donate or recycle old athletic shoes that have lost their function.
6. Old phones and other tech
While keeping old tech as a backup might seem wise, outdated or broken devices often gather dust. Make sure to recycle electronics properly, as their lithium-ion batteries need safe disposal.
Many electronics stores, like Best Buy, might take them off your hands. Be sure and wipe the memory first, though.
7. Hangers from the dry cleaners
Wire hangers from the dry cleaners cannot hold heavier items well and often become bent out of shape. To keep your closet organized, replace them with sturdy, non-slip hangers.
8. Batteries that are probably dead
If you have a drawer full of used and possibly dead batteries, clear them out. Safely dispose of the ones that no longer work to keep your space tidy.
9. Tattered bras
Bras have a limited lifespan, and once they start to tear or lose their shape, it’s better to replace them. Keeping worn-out ones only clutters your drawers.
This applies to lots of clothing. If you haven’t worn it in a year, are you ever going to?
10. Used razors
Old razors aren’t meant to be kept around once their blades dull or rust. Dispose of them safely instead of letting them pile up in the bathroom.
11. Empty guarantee forms
Past-year warranty papers or refund guarantees are usually outdated and unnecessary. Toss them out to free up space. If you think you may need them, digitize them and store them in the cloud.
This applies to virtually all the paper you’re accumulating. If it isn’t a legal document, you probably don’t need a hard copy.
12. Magnets
Old and unwanted magnets can be removed from your fridge to keep things looking clean and uncluttered unless they hold sentimental value or practical purpose.
13. Puzzles
If your household has already completed a puzzle, consider donating it. Unless it’s a collector’s item, it’s likely just taking up space.
14. Outdated entertainment
Old cassette tapes, VHS tapes, and DVDs that are no longer watched contribute to clutter. (Do you even have the tape deck or VHS any more?)
Consider donating or recycling them to make room for what you actively enjoy.
You can also sell these used items for extra cash by visiting Decluttr.
15. Old bills and statements
Most banks now offer digital copies of your statements, so there’s no need to keep stacks of old paper bills around. Shred and recycle them to reduce clutter.
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16. Lids without a partner
Lids without matching containers are just taking up space. Keep a few spares if needed, but toss the extras to avoid cluttered drawers.
17. Unfinished projects
If you’ve been holding onto items for projects you haven’t touched in months, it might be time to let them go. Keeping them can add unnecessary stress and clutter.
18. Temporary storage items
Things like bread pans or egg cartons meant to be temporary solutions can add to clutter. Replace them with better storage options or let them go.
19. Expired medicine
Expired medication is ineffective and can be hazardous. Dispose of it properly to free up space in your medicine cabinet.
Pro tip: Comparing prescription prices can be a powerful way to manage your healthcare costs and ensure you stick to your treatment plan. Take a few minutes to explore your options — you might be surprised at how much you can save.
20. Loyalty cards
Physical loyalty cards are mostly outdated now, as digital versions can be stored on your phone. Clear out your wallet and opt for app-based versions instead.
Start Simplifying Your Space Today
Decluttering your home can make it a more enjoyable space and bring peace of mind. By letting go of items that no longer serve a purpose, you create room for what truly matters.
Start today and enjoy the benefits of a tidier, more organized home.
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