Do you ever find yourself making impulse purchases that end up cluttering your home space? While it’s completely natural to want to buy new things, often, these spontaneous buying habits can lead to a disorganized living environment. In the journey to maintain a tidier home and a simpler life, I’ve made some significant changes to my purchasing behavior. Here are 15 impulse purchases that I gave up, not only freeing up my wallet, but also creating more space and order in my home.
1. Decorative Pillows
Decorative pillows might seem like a harmless addition, but they can quickly accumulate and take up a lot of space. Not to mention, they often end up on the floor, contributing to a cluttered look.
When I initially started my journey to a tidier home, I found that I had over 20 decorative pillows scattered across my living space. While they may have been cute and fun to buy at the time, they weren’t practical. Now, I stick to a few good-quality, versatile pillows that match with any decor changes.
2. Excessive Kitchen Gadgets
Believe it or not, the kitchen is a common room where clutter accumulates. The main culprit? Unnecessary kitchen gadgets. I found myself buying items like avocado slicers, egg separators, and other single-use tools that were not only taking up precious drawer space but were rarely used.
Now, I stick to multi-use tools that are versatile and practical. Not only has this decision helped keep my kitchen tidy, but it has also made cooking and cleaning much more efficient.
3. Novelty Items
From funny mugs to quirky wall hangings, novelty items can certainly bring a room to life. However, these items tend to lose their charm over time and eventually end up as clutter.
I used to have a habit of buying these items on a whim, but I’ve since learned to appreciate them in the store without bringing them home. This small change has made a significant difference in maintaining a clutter-free space.
4. Trendy Clothing Items
Trends come and go, and with them, so do the clothes in our closets. I realized that buying trendy items often led to a wardrobe full of clothes that I would only wear once or twice.
Now, I focus on purchasing timeless pieces that can be worn year after year. This not only helps keep my closet tidy but also saves money in the long run.
5. Excess Stationery Supplies
Stationery is another category where it’s easy to go overboard. From colorful pens to decorative sticky notes, these items can quickly accumulate and create clutter.
I found that limiting my stationery purchases to only the essentials has helped keep my desk area clean and organized. Plus, it’s much easier to find what I need when I’m not rummaging through piles of unnecessary supplies.
6. Unread Books
Books are wonderful, but they can quickly take up a lot of space. I used to buy books impulsively, only to have them sit unread on my shelf.
Now, I only buy books that I know I will read immediately. Alternatively, I’ve started using the library more frequently, which not only saves space but also supports a local institution.
7. Scented Candles
Scented candles can create a cozy atmosphere, but they can also contribute to clutter. I used to have dozens of half-used candles scattered around my home.
I’ve since decided to limit myself to one or two candles at a time. This not only reduces clutter but also allows me to fully enjoy the scent without getting overwhelmed.
8. Sale Items
It’s easy to get drawn in by a good sale. However, just because an item is discounted doesn’t mean it’s a good deal.
Now, I try to only buy items that I need, regardless of whether they’re on sale. This helps prevent unnecessary purchases and keeps my home tidy.
9. Fast Furniture
Fast furniture, like fast fashion, is cheaply made and not meant to last. I used to buy these items on a whim, only to have them break or go out of style within a few years.
Now, I invest in high-quality furniture that will last. This not only reduces clutter but also saves money in the long run.
10. Excess Beauty Products
The beauty industry is constantly releasing new products, making it easy to accumulate a large collection. However, these items can quickly clutter up a bathroom vanity.
I’ve since decided to stick to a few tried-and-true products that I know work for me. This not only keeps my vanity tidy but also simplifies my beauty routine.
11. Travel Souvenirs
Travel souvenirs can be a great way to remember a trip, but they can also contribute to clutter. I used to buy souvenirs from every place I visited, only to have them gather dust on a shelf.
Now, I choose to take photos or buy a single, meaningful item. This not only reduces clutter but also makes the souvenirs I do have more special.
12. Impulse Buy Snacks
Impulse buy snacks are not only bad for your wallet, they can also clutter up your kitchen. I used to buy snacks on a whim, only to have them sit untouched in my pantry.
Now, I only buy snacks that I know I will eat. This reduces waste and keeps my kitchen tidy.
13. Excessive Holiday Decor
Holiday decor can bring a festive spirit into your home, but it can also take up a lot of storage space. I used to buy new decorations every year, only to be overwhelmed when it came time to put them away.
Now, I stick to a few classic pieces that can be used year after year. This not only reduces clutter but also makes decorating for the holidays less stressful.
14. Unnecessary Tech Gadgets
Tech gadgets can be fun, but they can also quickly become outdated and contribute to clutter. I used to buy the latest gadgets on a whim, only to have them become obsolete within a few years.
Now, I only buy tech gadgets that I know I will use regularly. This not only reduces clutter but also saves me money.
15. Bargain Bin Movies and Music
Bargain bin movies and music can seem like a good deal, but they often end up collecting dust on a shelf. I used to buy these items on a whim, only to rarely use them.
Now, I focus on streaming services for my entertainment needs. This not only reduces physical clutter but also provides a wider selection of entertainment options.