If you’re anything like me, the pandemic has given you a new perspective on what truly matters. With more time spent at home than ever before, our living spaces have become our sanctuaries, our offices, our gyms, and our classrooms. In the midst of this shift, I found myself reassessing my relationship with material possessions. I realized that lots of my purchases were contributing more to clutter than to my quality of life. So, I decided to quit buying certain things to streamline my home, save money, and live more sustainably. Here are the 15 purchases I quit for a more streamlined home.
1. Single-use Kitchen Gadgets
Instead of having a drawer filled with gadgets for a single purpose (think avocado slicers, strawberry hullers, etc.), I’ve chosen to stick with multi-purpose kitchen tools. It’s amazing how much you can do with a good chef’s knife, a cutting board, and a sturdy mixing bowl. This reduction not only clears out unnecessary clutter but also saves money and resources in the long run.
2. Fast Fashion
Fast fashion was a tough habit to break. The allure of trendy, cheap clothing is hard to resist, but the environmental impact and the low-quality materials used make it a poor investment. Instead, I choose to buy fewer, higher-quality pieces that last longer and don’t go out of style as quickly.
3. Plastic Water Bottles
Investing in a reusable water bottle was a game-changer. Not only does it reduce waste, but it also saves money in the long run. Plus, there are so many stylish options available that it becomes a fun accessory to carry around!
4. Excessive Decorations
I used to buy decorative items on impulse, but over time, they just added to the clutter. Now, I focus on buying pieces that are meaningful to me, rather than just filling up space. This way, each item in my home tells a story.
5. Single-Use Cleaning Products
Instead of buying cleaning wipes, disposable mop pads, and other single-use products, I’ve switched to reusable microfiber cloths and DIY cleaning solutions. It’s a small change that makes a big difference in reducing waste and saving money.
6. Books
As a book lover, this was a tough one. But with options like libraries, second-hand stores, and e-books, I realized I didn’t need to buy new books all the time. I still buy books occasionally, but only ones that I know I’ll reread or that hold special significance.
7. Unnecessary Technology
I used to be tempted by every new gadget on the market, but I realized that many of them didn’t add any real value to my life. Now, I carefully consider each tech purchase and only buy what I truly need.
8. Disposable Dinnerware
I quit buying disposable plates, cups, and cutlery for parties and picnics. Instead, I use regular dishes or invest in reusable plastic options. It’s a small change that reduces a lot of waste.
9. Prepackaged Snacks
Instead of buying snacks in individual packages, I buy in bulk and portion them out myself. It saves money and reduces packaging waste.
10. Bottled Cleaning Supplies
Rather than buying a different cleaner for every surface in my home, I’ve switched to using a few simple, natural ingredients like vinegar and baking soda. It’s cheaper, healthier, and just as effective.
11. Disposable Razors
I switched to a safety razor to reduce plastic waste. It took a little getting used to, but now I prefer it to disposable razors. Plus, it saves money in the long run.
12. Paper Towels
Instead of paper towels, I use washable, reusable cloths for cleaning. They’re just as effective, and it’s one less thing to constantly buy and throw away.
13. Unnecessary Kitchen Appliances
I got rid of appliances that I rarely used, like my bread maker and ice cream machine. Now, I have more counter space and less clutter.
14. Cheap Furniture
Instead of buying cheap, disposable furniture, I invest in high-quality pieces that will last. It’s more expensive upfront, but it saves money in the long run and reduces waste.
15. Excessive Beauty Products
I used to have a bathroom drawer filled with half-used beauty products. Now, I stick to a few reliable products that I know work for me. It saves money, reduces clutter, and simplifies my beauty routine.
I hope this list inspires you to think about the purchases you could quit for a more streamlined home. It’s not about deprivation, but about making thoughtful choices that add value to your life.