Devin Jacobs
Feeling overwhelmed by clutter? You’re not alone—over half of Americans feel the same, and nearly 80% don’t know how to tackle it. With impulse buying and overconsumption only worsening, it’s time to simplify. Here are 15 things to ditch to start living a happier, minimalist life where less truly is more.
Expired Medication
Outdated meds aren’t just clutter; they’re potentially dangerous to you and the environment. Tossing those expired bottles and blister packs not only clears your medicine cabinet but also clears your life, and it makes it easier to find what you need right in time.
Old Magazines and Books
Stacks of old magazines and unread books are unnecessary when you can donate them to libraries or pass them to friends. If they were truly important, you’d have used them by now. Going forward, consider borrowing instead of buying—this way, you’ll return items with time and reclaim your space.
Extra Kitchenware
Why should excess kitchenware take over your cabinets? Keeping only what you use regularly will fetch you a decluttered kitchen that is more functional and pleasant to use. It’s time to enjoy cooking in a space where every item is purposeful and within easy reach.
Unwanted Gifts
This may be harsh, but the holidays and festivities often bring gifts you didn’t ask for. Why let them clutter your space out of guilt when you can sell, donate, or repurpose these items? You can use online marketplaces or apps to sell unwanted gifts and buy what you’ll truly use.
Old Makeup
Hanging onto old makeup? They don’t last forever. While powders last up to two years, lipsticks, creams, and blushes only last six months to a year. Worse off, mascara and liquid eyeliners last just three months. Ditching those expired items is necessary to avoid infections and simplify your routine.
Overloaded Pantry
Stocking up can seem like a smart move to achieve variety, but a cluttered pantry can slow you down. Arranging what is left after clearing out duplicates and expired items makes your kitchen more efficient and still allows for variety in meals using a menu list.
Underused Exercise Tools
Are you collecting workout equipment from years past? It might be time to let it go. Give or sell tools you haven’t used in months. Without the guilt, you might actually be inspired and be able to create space for activities that align with your lifestyle.
One-time Use Plastics
Consider replacing throwaway plastics with reusable substitutes. This little adjustment helps your kitchen be clutter-free and reduce waste. Fewer single-use goods contribute to a more environment-friendly space. And when you order takeout, tell the restaurant not to send any cutlery!
Digital Clutter
Your digital space can get as disorganized as your physical one, with old files, forgotten emails, unused apps, and multiple subscriptions. Sit down one day and delete outdated files, unsubscribe from unnecessary emails and subscriptions. Regular clean-ups make your device more manageable and reduce stress.
Damaged Cords and Chargers
Chargers and tangled cables can quickly turn into a frustrating, chaotic mess. You might be surprised at how few you need by taking a little time to sort through them and eliminate those you rarely use. You’ll notice how efficient it is in the long run.
Worn Out Bedding
An old or soiled bedspread can make your bedroom appear drab. Upgrading to better, more comfortable bedding regulates body temperature and minimizes overheating and chills. A relaxed sleeping environment can make your room more appealing, ultimately improving your overall sleep quality.
Old Warranties and Manuals
Old manuals and warranties can occupy unnecessary space. Sort through these outdated items and digitize important documents to declutter your physical environment. A simplified filing system makes your space look neater and reduces stress and ensures quick access to essential information.
Extra Equipment
Do you have additional tools you never need? Simplify by saving what you often use. Having a neat desk where everything is readily available helps you work successfully and efficiently, smoothing out and making your chores less dreadful.
Unused Toys
Why keep toys that have outgrown their usefulness? Give them to organizations or forward them to others who would find them useful. You could also pass them on to other kids in your family. Cleaning away extra toys clears up room for other things that are necessary at the moment.
Old Recreational Tools
Hobbies come and go sometimes. The endless supplies you bought when you were deep into baking or golfing might be sitting idle. Give them away rather than waiting for 2040, wondering about the possibility of picking it up again. Make space for new initiatives and future hobbies.