We all love spending time outdoors, whether that’s in a garden, a patio, or even just a small balcony. It’s our little escape, a place where we can enjoy some fresh air and connect with nature. However, it’s very easy for these outdoor spaces to become cluttered with items that we think we need but rarely use.
Over the years, I’ve learned that by cutting down on certain purchases, I could reduce this outdoor clutter significantly. Here are 12 things I stopped buying that led to a more organized and enjoyable outdoor space.
1. Excessive Plant Pots
I used to have a habit of buying plant pots whenever I saw a pretty one, even if I didn’t need it immediately. But I soon realized that they were taking up a lot of space and many of them were sitting empty. I decided to stop buying a new plant pot every time I felt the urge and instead started reusing old ones.
Now, when a plant outgrows its pot, I plant it directly in the ground or in a larger pot that I already own. I also started swapping pots with friends and neighbors, which not only reduces clutter but also adds a touch of variety to my garden. It’s a small change, but it has made a big difference in keeping my outdoor space tidy.
2. Single-Use Grill Accessories
Grilling is one of my favorite outdoor activities, but the number of accessories I had accumulated was astonishing. I had single-use items like corn holders, burger presses, and specific skewers for different types of food. They sounded useful when I bought them, but they were not being used as often as I thought they would be.
I decided to stick to the basics: a good quality grill, tongs, a spatula, and a grill brush. I found that I can still cook a wide variety of delicious meals without all the extra accessories. This has not only reduced clutter but also saved me money and made my grilling experience more efficient.
3. Too Many Outdoor Decor Items
Decorations can add personal touch to an outdoor space, but too many of them can make it look cluttered. I used to buy wind chimes, garden gnomes, and bird baths, thinking they would enhance the look of my garden.
However, I’ve realized that a few well-chosen decor items can create a much more harmonious look. I now stick to a few pieces that I truly love and that match my overall outdoor aesthetic. Fewer items mean less clutter and more space to enjoy the outdoors.
4. Unnecessary Garden Tools
Just like with the grill accessories, I had a collection of garden tools that I rarely used. I had different types of rakes, shovels, and pruners. I bought them thinking they would make my gardening tasks easier, but they were just taking up space in my shed.
Today, I only keep the essential tools: a good pair of gloves, a sturdy rake, a reliable shovel, and a pair of pruners. These tools are versatile and can handle most gardening tasks. By limiting the number of tools I own, I’ve reduced clutter and made it easier to find the tools I need when I need them.
5. Cheap Patio Furniture
It can be tempting to buy cheap patio furniture, especially if you’re on a tight budget. I used to do this, thinking I was saving money. However, I found that cheap furniture tends not to last long, and I was constantly replacing it, which created a lot of waste and clutter.
I now invest in high-quality outdoor furniture that can withstand the elements and last for years. It might cost more upfront, but it saves money in the long run. Plus, it’s less likely to end up as clutter, because I’m not constantly replacing it.
6. Excessive Lighting
Outdoor lighting can create a beautiful ambiance, but too much of it can lead to clutter. I used to have a variety of string lights, lanterns, and solar lights scattered around my outdoor space.
I’ve since learned that a few strategically placed lights can create just as much impact. Now, I stick to a simple lighting plan that highlights the important features of my garden and patio. This has reduced clutter and created a more pleasing and cohesive look.
7. Disposable Tableware
For outdoor gatherings, I used to buy disposable plates, cups, and cutlery for convenience. However, these items quickly accumulate and create a lot of waste.
Now, I use reusable outdoor tableware. It’s more environmentally friendly and reduces clutter. Plus, it looks and feels much nicer than disposable tableware, adding a touch of class to my outdoor gatherings.
8. Inflatable Pool Toys
Inflatable pool toys can be a lot of fun, but they also take up a lot of space. I used to have a collection of inflatables that were rarely used and spent most of the time deflated and taking up space in my storage shed.
I’ve stopped buying inflatable toys and instead invested in a few high-quality, compact pool toys that can be easily stored. This has significantly reduced clutter and made storage much more manageable.
9. Unnecessary Bird Feeders
I love watching birds in my garden, but I had accumulated a variety of bird feeders over the years. They were taking up space and were often ignored by the birds.
I’ve found that one or two well-placed bird feeders are sufficient. I’ve chosen types that attract a variety of birds, reducing the need for multiple feeders and reducing clutter.
10. Excess Outdoor Cushions
Outdoor cushions can add comfort and color to your outdoor space, but too many can create a cluttered look. I used to buy cushions whenever I saw a design I liked, but they ended up stacked in my storage shed most of the time.
Now, I only keep a few cushions that I use regularly and that match my outdoor decor. This has reduced clutter and made my outdoor space more cohesive and inviting.
11. Expensive BBQ Grills
Having a BBQ grill is great for outdoor cooking, but multiple grills can lead to unnecessary clutter. I used to have a gas grill, a charcoal grill, and a smoker.
I’ve since realized that a good quality combo grill can do the job of all three. I’ve reduced clutter, saved money, and still enjoy great tasting BBQ.
12. Excessive Garden Ornaments
Garden ornaments can add character to your outdoor space, but too many can make it look cluttered and disorganized. I used to buy all sorts of garden ornaments, from wind spinners to solar-powered figurines.
Now, I limit myself to a few key pieces that I really love. This has helped to reduce clutter and create a more harmonious outdoor space.
By reducing these purchases, I’ve been able to create a more organized and enjoyable outdoor space. It’s amazing how a little decluttering can make a big difference.