We’ve all been guilty of hanging onto things that don’t truly belong in our homes. Whether it’s due to sentimentality or convenience, clutter can easily take over our living spaces.
I’m here to share thirty things that have absolutely no business in your home, and trust me, you’ll want to start decluttering right away!
Each item on this list is something I’ve found unnecessary, and I encourage you to think twice before letting these things occupy valuable space in your sanctuary.
1. Expired Spices
When was the last time you checked your spice cabinet? I had spices older than some of my houseplants! Expired spices lose flavor and aroma, and they can even make your dishes taste off. It’s easy to lose track of those little jars, but they deserve a regular purge.
Next time you’re cooking, take a moment to sniff your spices. If they don’t pack a punch, it’s time to let them go. Don’t worry; fresh spices are affordable and can dramatically enhance your culinary creations.
2. Old Magazines
We’ve all had that towering stack of magazines by the coffee table, but let’s face it – they’re just dust collectors now. Most of the information is outdated, and they take up precious space.
Instead of hoarding them, why not recycle or donate to a waiting room? Your living space will feel more open, and someone else might find joy in your old issues. Plus, you’ll have more room for current reads or decorative pieces that truly bring joy.
3. Broken Electronics
Do you have a graveyard of broken electronics stashed away? I once couldn’t resist the temptation to fix them someday. But let’s be honest – that day never comes.
Holding onto these gadgets only clutters your home and contributes to electronic waste. Instead, recycle them responsibly and embrace the liberation of a clutter-free space. It’s time to make room for devices that actually work and add value to your life.
4. Outgrown Children’s Toys
Children grow quickly, and toys that once entertained them may no longer hold their interest. These items can clutter playrooms and common areas, making spaces feel chaotic.
Consider donating toys in good condition to charities or family friends with younger children. This not only clears space but also brings joy to others.
5. Old VHS Tapes
Remember the days of blockbuster nights and VHS rentals? While nostalgic, these bulky tapes often take up valuable space in your home. With digital streaming services now available, the need for these tapes has diminished significantly.
Converting home movies to digital format is a great way to preserve memories without the clutter. You can free up shelves and make room for items that are more relevant to your lifestyle today.
6. Excessive Plastic Bags
You know that drawer filled with a never-ending supply of plastic bags? I did too, thinking they’d always come in handy. But they multiply faster than rabbits! Excessive bags contribute to clutter and environmental harm.
Switch to reusable bags and recycle the excess. With fewer bags, you’ll enjoy a tidier home and feel good about reducing waste. Plus, you’ll always have a stylish tote ready for your next shopping trip.
7. Unused Cookbooks
I once owned cookbooks that only served as dust collectors – beautiful but unused. Those glossy recipes are tempting, but if they’re not inspiring your meals, they don’t belong.
Consider donating or selling them to someone who’ll appreciate them. With fewer cookbooks, you’ll have space for ones you truly love or even for that plant you always wanted. Your kitchen should inspire creativity, not guilt!
8. Excessive Cleaning Supplies
Excessive cleaning supplies can be overwhelming and unnecessary. An overstuffed cabinet under the sink filled with countless sprays and bottles might suggest preparedness, but often leads to confusion and waste. Streamline your cleaning arsenal to just the essentials.
Choose multi-purpose cleaners to minimize clutter and save space. This not only simplifies your cleaning routine but also reduces environmental impact. Embrace a more sustainable lifestyle and enjoy a clutter-free home.
9. Old Receipts
Receipts have a sneaky way of piling up, don’t they? I once had receipts dating back to my college days! While some are essential for record-keeping, most are just clutter.
Sort through them and keep only those necessary for returns or warranty. Shred or recycle the rest. Simplifying your receipt stash will make your drawers tidier and your finances clearer. Plus, you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment with that extra space.
10. Excessive Towels
Ever open your linen closet only to be buried by a towel avalanche? I did, and it was time to rethink my towel collection. Excessive towels take up space and often go unused.
Consider keeping a few quality sets and donating the rest to shelters or animal rescues. With fewer towels, your closet will be more organized, and you’ll always have fresh, soft towels ready for guests or a relaxing bath.
11. Old Tupperware
Oh, the infamous Tupperware cabinet! I had containers missing lids and stained beyond recognition. They take up space and create chaos in the kitchen.
Sort through them and keep only those with matching lids and in good condition. Consider switching to glass for a sleeker, more eco-friendly option. With a streamlined collection, you’ll find joy in organized cabinets and always have the right container on hand.
12. Expired Beauty Products
Expired beauty products not only take up precious space but can also be harmful to your skin. Imagine a bathroom shelf cluttered with lotions and creams long past their prime, potentially causing skin irritation. It’s time to audit your collection, ditch those old bottles, and make room for fresh alternatives.
By regularly checking expiration dates, you can ensure that your skincare routine remains effective and safe. Consider setting a schedule to review your beauty stash every few months. Not only will this practice protect your skin, but it will also transform your bathroom into a neat and tidy oasis.
13. Chipped Dishes
Chipped dishes were the norm in my kitchen for too long. They not only look unappealing but can also be unsafe. It’s time to part with them and make room for dishes that elevate meals.
Donate or recycle them responsibly. Invest in a set you love, and enjoy the pleasure of serving meals on beautiful, intact dishes. Your kitchen deserves elegance and functionality, not chipped memories.
14. Unused Craft Supplies
Crafting is wonderful, but unused supplies can pile up quickly. I once had more fabric than I could ever sew! They clutter your creative space and overwhelm inspiration.
Sort through and keep only what you’ll use. Donate the excess to schools or community groups. With a decluttered craft area, you’ll feel inspired and ready to tackle new projects. Creativity thrives in organized spaces.
15. Old Calendars
Old calendars have a nostalgic charm, but they serve little purpose in our homes. I had a collection that only gathered dust and took up space.
Recycle them and embrace the current year with a fresh calendar or planner. Your walls will feel renewed, and you’ll stay organized with dates that matter. It’s refreshing to have current decor that reflects today, not the past.
16. Decorative Pillows
Decorative pillows can transform a room, but too many create clutter. I once had so many that sitting on the couch was a challenge! They should enhance comfort, not hinder it.
Select a few that complement your space and store or donate the rest. You’ll enjoy a more inviting and functional living area, perfect for lounging or entertaining without the pillow battle.
17. Unused Kitchen Gadgets
Gadgets promise convenience, but unused ones waste space. I had gadgets that only saw the light of day once! They clutter countertops and gather dust.
Sell or donate those you rarely use. Keep the essentials that make cooking joyful. With fewer gadgets, you’ll have more space for culinary creativity and a cleaner, more streamlined kitchen.
18. Old Textbooks
Textbooks represent a chapter of our lives, but they often collect dust. I held onto mine for too long, thinking they’d be useful someday. They take up space and rarely get opened.
Consider selling or donating them to students or libraries. Your shelves will feel lighter, and you’ll have more room for books that inspire your current journey. Education evolves, and so should our bookshelves.
19. Excessive Mugs
Mugs are charming gifts, but they multiply quickly. I once had more mugs than friends to invite for coffee! Too many crowd your cabinets and make it hard to find favorites.
Keep a curated collection that you love and use regularly. Donate the rest to shelters or offices. With fewer mugs, you’ll enjoy an organized kitchen and always have a favorite mug ready for your morning brew.
20. Unused Furniture
Unused furniture can dominate spaces and hinder movement. I had pieces that no longer fit my style or needs, just taking up space.
Consider selling or donating them to create a more functional environment. With fewer, meaningful pieces, your home will feel open and aligned with your lifestyle. It’s about quality over quantity, creating a space that truly serves you.
21. Old Linens
Old linens can pile up, taking valuable closet space. I had sheets from college that were more nostalgic than useful! Worn-out linens don’t serve comfort or style.
Donate or recycle them responsibly. Keep a few quality sets that make you feel pampered. With a simplified collection, your closet will be more organized, and you’ll always have fresh, inviting linens for a restful sleep.
22. Outdated Electronics
Old electronics are common clutter culprits. I had a drawer dedicated to outdated gadgets that only collected dust. They take up space and serve no purpose.
Recycle them responsibly and free up space for things that matter. Modernize your technology and simplify your life by keeping only what you use regularly. Your home will thank you for the update.
23. Unloved Books
Books are treasures, but not all deserve a permanent spot. I had novels I’d never read or planned to. They took up space meant for beloved reads.
Donate or sell those you don’t love. Your shelves should reflect your passions and interests. With a curated collection, you’ll find joy in every book you pick up, and your shelves will feel lighter and more inviting.
24. Old Greeting Cards
Greeting cards hold sentimental value, but they can pile up quickly. I once kept every card I’d ever received! They clutter drawers and boxes without being revisited.
Keep a few that have deep meaning and recycle the rest. Your home will feel lighter, and you’ll cherish the ones you keep even more. It’s about preserving meaningful memories, not drowning in paper.
25. Duplicate Tools
Tools are essential, but duplicates create chaos. I once had three hammers without realizing it! They clutter valuable storage space and make finding what you need tough.
Sort through and keep one of each, donating or selling the extras. With fewer tools, your workspace will be more organized, and you’ll always have exactly what you need at hand. Simplicity is key.
26. Unused Board Games
Board games are fun, yet some gather dust. I once had games that hadn’t seen a game night in years! Unused ones crowd shelves and go unplayed.
Donate or sell those that don’t excite you anymore. Your collection should bring joy and laughter. With only cherished games, you’ll have more room for new favorites and ensure every game night is memorable.
27. Old Makeup
Makeup has an expiration date, yet old items linger. I had products I’d never use, taking up space. Expired makeup can harm your skin and clutter your vanity.
Sort through and discard old products safely. Keep a streamlined collection that enhances your beauty routine. With less clutter, you’ll enjoy a fresh, organized vanity and products that make you feel fabulous every day.