Getting rid of things you no longer need can feel tough, but it often brings surprising relief. Holding on to clutter can weigh you down more than you realize, making your space and mind feel crowded.
You’ll feel better and more organized once you finally let go of stuff that’s just taking up space. This article will help you see which things are worth saying goodbye to, so you can enjoy a simpler, clearer life.
Old clothes that don’t fit
You probably hang on to clothes hoping they’ll fit again someday. It’s normal, but holding on just takes up space.
Letting go of clothes that don’t fit can feel hard, but it frees your closet for pieces you actually wear. When you decide to part with them, you’ll feel lighter and your closet will look cleaner. It’s one less thing to think about.
Expired makeup
You should toss expired makeup to avoid skin problems. Old products can grow bacteria or mold, which can cause irritation or infections.
Powders might last longer if you keep them clean, but liquids like foundation or mascara should be tossed once expired. Makeup labels usually have a small symbol showing how many months it’s good for after opening. Don’t risk using stuff past that date.
That one childhood teddy bear you kept too long
You probably have a teddy bear from when you were little. It might feel weird to get rid of it because of the memories.
But holding on to it for too long can clutter your space. Sometimes, it’s okay to let go and keep the memories in your mind instead.
You’ve outgrown it, even if it once felt like your protector. Time to make room for new things.
Worn-out shoes sitting in the closet
You probably have shoes in your closet that you don’t wear anymore. Maybe the soles are falling apart or they just don’t feel comfortable.
Holding on to them takes up space and adds clutter. Tossing worn-out shoes frees up room and helps keep your closet tidy.
If they’re damaged beyond repair, it’s better to throw them away than let them gather dust.
Plastic containers without lids
You know those plastic containers that lost their lids? They take up space and don’t keep your food fresh.
Without a lid, these containers are pretty much useless for storing leftovers or organizing small items.
It’s better to toss them or recycle if you can. Then, you can get containers that actually stack and seal properly.
Broken headphones
You know those headphones that only work if you twist the cord just right? It’s time to let them go. Holding on means dealing with bad sound and constant frustration.
Replacing broken headphones is usually cheap and way less annoying than trying to fix them. Plus, you get better sound and comfort.
Stack of unread magazines
You know that pile of magazines you keep meaning to read but never do? It’s okay to let them go. Holding onto them only takes up space and adds to clutter.
If you’re worried about wasting paper, recycling is a good way to handle it. Clearing them out can make your space feel cleaner and less crowded.
Outdated technology gadgets
You know those old gadgets sitting in your drawer? Like flip phones, pagers, or even those bulky DVD players? They might still work, but they slow you down.
It feels good to toss them. Your smartphone can do everything those did—and more. Letting go means less clutter and more space for things that actually help you today.
Half-finished craft projects
You know those craft projects you started but never finished? They can take up space and cause stress. Holding on to them might make you feel guilty or overwhelmed.
Throwing them away can clear your mind and free up room for new ideas. It’s okay to let go and focus on what truly makes you happy.
Junk drawer clutter
You know that drawer filled with random stuff? It’s probably full of things you don’t really need. Old receipts, broken pens, and expired batteries often hide there.
Try tossing anything expired or broken first. Keep only useful items you actually use. Clearing this drawer can make finding things way easier.
Expired medications
You might think expired meds are still good to use, but they can lose their strength over time. This means they might not work as well when you really need them.
Some expired medications, like antibiotics, can even cause problems if they don’t fight infections properly. It’s safer to toss them and get fresh ones instead.
Old phone chargers
You probably have a bunch of old phone chargers lying around. Instead of tossing them, keep in mind that many still work with newer devices thanks to universal charging standards like USB Power Delivery.
If you do want to get rid of them, recycle them properly. Tossing chargers in the trash can add to electronic waste, which harms the environment.
Dried-out nail polish bottles
You’ve probably opened a nail polish bottle and found it thick or clumpy. It’s hard to use and takes forever to dry.
You can try adding a little nail polish thinner if it’s just a bit thick. But if it’s really dried out, it’s easier to toss it. Holding onto old polish just means clutter and no use.
Worn-out gym shoes
You know those old gym shoes that have seen better days? It’s time to toss them. Worn-out shoes don’t support your feet well and can cause discomfort or even injury.
If the soles are thin or the cushioning is flat, your feet aren’t getting the protection they need. Plus, fresh shoes can make your workouts feel better.
Old concert tickets and memorabilia
You might still have old concert tickets or souvenirs from shows years ago. They can bring back memories, but they also take up space.
If you have boxes or piles of these items, getting rid of them can free up room in your home. You don’t need every ticket stub or flyer to remember a good time.
Keeping just a few special pieces, like your favorite band’s ticket, is enough to hold those memories. The rest can go.
Books you’ll never read again
You probably have books sitting around that you don’t plan to read again. Maybe you finished the story or didn’t enjoy it the first time.
Holding onto those books can take up space and add clutter. Letting them go frees up room for new favorites or things you actually want to keep. You don’t need to feel guilty; it’s normal to move on from old reads.
Torn or stained towels
If your towels are torn or stained, it’s time to let them go. They don’t dry well and can make your space look messy.
Keeping old towels takes up room and can hold onto odors even after washing.
Try rolling new towels to save space and keep things neat. Your bathroom will feel fresher, and you won’t have to deal with worn-out fabric.
Unused kitchen gadgets
You know those gadgets you bought thinking they’d change your cooking game? Most likely, they just sit in a drawer. Maybe a spiralizer or a fancy peeler you used once.
Keeping these unused tools only takes up space and adds clutter. Tossing them frees your kitchen and helps you focus on the tools you actually use. You’ll cook better without the extra mess.