We often find ourselves buying things that we don’t really need, or even worse, things that we don’t end up using. The result? An overwhelming amount of clutter that seems to be taking over our homes. The good news is that you can break free from this vicious cycle by simply quitting the purchase of certain products.
I’ve put together a list of 15 items that I stopped buying to reduce clutter in my home. I hope that these tips will inspire you to take control of your own space and live a more organized and stress-free life.
1. Plastic Containers
Plastic containers seem to multiply in every kitchen. They’re bought to store leftovers, to pack lunch, or to keep food items in the pantry. However, more often than not, we end up with a pile of mismatched lids and containers that consume a lot of space.
I have replaced plastic containers with a few good quality glass containers. They are not only more durable and healthier but also look much better. I’ve also decided to only keep those that stack well together. This has significantly reduced the clutter in my kitchen.
2. Excess Kitchen Gadgets
Many of us are guilty of buying kitchen gadgets that we rarely use. These gadgets not only take up valuable kitchen space, but are also a waste of money.
Now, before buying a new kitchen gadget, I ask myself if I really need it and how often I’m going to use it. If it’s something that I will use only once in a blue moon, then it’s not worth buying. Instead, I invest in good quality, versatile tools that I use regularly.
3. Unread Books
Books are wonderful. They can transport you to different worlds, provide knowledge, and spark creativity. However, if you’re like me and have a habit of buying more books than you can read, they can quickly become clutter.
To solve this problem, I’ve started using the library more frequently and have embraced e-books. If I absolutely love a book and know that I will re-read it, only then do I buy a physical copy. This has not only reduced clutter but also saved me a lot of money.
4. Duplicate Tools
We often end up buying duplicate tools either because we forget that we already have them or because we can’t find them when needed. This leads to excess clutter in our homes.
To avoid this, I have created a designated space for all my tools and make sure to return them to their place once I’m done using them. This way, it’s easier to find them when I need them and I don’t end up buying duplicates.
5. Excess Clothing
Clothes are one of the biggest culprits when it comes to clutter. We often buy clothes impulsively and end up not wearing them. This not only leads to a cluttered wardrobe but also a waste of money.
I have adopted a minimalist approach to my wardrobe. I only buy clothes that I absolutely love and know that I will wear often. I also regularly declutter my wardrobe and donate clothes that I haven’t worn in a while. This has made my wardrobe more organized and manageable.
6. DVDs and CDs
In this digital age, DVDs and CDs have become almost obsolete. Yet, many of us still hold on to these items, causing unnecessary clutter.
I have digitized my music and movie collection and have gotten rid of all physical DVDs and CDs. This has not only freed up a lot of space but also made it easier for me to access my favorite music and movies.
7. Excess Bedding and Towels
Many of us have more bedding and towels than we actually need. These items take up a lot of storage space and often end up cluttering our homes.
I have decided to keep only two sets of bedding per bed and two sets of towels per person. This is more than enough for my needs and has significantly reduced the clutter in my linen closet.
8. Unused Exercise Equipment
Exercise equipment is expensive and takes up a lot of space. Yet, many of us buy these items with the best intentions, only to let them gather dust in a corner.
Before buying any exercise equipment, I now consider if I will actually use it regularly. If the answer is no, then I don’t buy it. Instead, I’ve started using a gym or doing outdoor activities that don’t require any equipment.
9. Excess Decor Items
Decor items can make a home feel cozy and personal. However, too many decor items can lead to a cluttered and chaotic environment.
I have adopted a minimalist approach to decor. I only keep items that I truly love and that add value to my space. This has made my home feel more organized and peaceful.
10. Disposable Items
Disposable items like plastic cutlery, paper plates, and plastic water bottles are not only bad for the environment but also cause a lot of clutter.
I have replaced these items with reusable alternatives. This has not only reduced clutter in my home but has also helped me reduce my environmental footprint.
11. Unnecessary Furniture
Furniture is one of the biggest space consumers in our homes. Yet, many of us buy furniture that we don’t really need or use.
Before buying any piece of furniture, I now carefully consider if I really need it and if it will add value to my space. This has helped me avoid unnecessary clutter and keep my home more spacious and organized.
12. Excess Kids’ Toys
Kids’ toys can quickly overrun a home. Yet, kids often lose interest in their toys after a while.
I have implemented a one-in, one-out rule for my kids’ toys. This means that if they get a new toy, they have to donate an old one. This has helped keep the toy clutter in check and has also taught my kids the value of giving.
13. Junk Mail
Junk mail is not only annoying but also a major source of paper clutter.
I have taken steps to reduce the amount of junk mail I receive. This includes signing up for paperless billing and unsubscribing from unnecessary mailing lists. This has significantly reduced the amount of paper clutter in my home.
14. Excess Cleaning Products
Many of us buy more cleaning products than we actually need. These products not only take up valuable storage space but are also a waste of money.
I have simplified my cleaning routine and now only buy the cleaning products that I actually use. This has not only reduced clutter but also saved me money.
15. Shopping Bags
Many of us have a stash of shopping bags lying around. These bags not only take up space but are also bad for the environment.
I have invested in a few sturdy reusable shopping bags and always carry one with me when I go shopping. This has eliminated the need for plastic shopping bags and has reduced the clutter in my home.