As a professional organizer, I’ve faced every imaginable decluttering challenge. I’ve tackled it all, from overflowing closets to chaotic kitchen cabinets with gusto. But here’s a little secret: the key to conquering clutter is often starting small, focusing on items with less sentimental attachment. It’s my go-to strategy for all organizing projects, both personally and with my clients. So today, I’m excited to share my top 10 items to declutter instantly, without a second thought. Trust me, a clutter-free home is just a few tosses away!
Why Decluttering Matters
Decluttering isn’t just about having a tidy home; it’s about creating a space that nurtures your well-being and productivity. By clearing out the excess, you make room for what truly matters and can enjoy a more stress-free environment. Studies even show that a clutter-free space can lead to improved focus, reduced anxiety, and increased creativity. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get decluttering!
Let’s Get Down to Business: 10 Items with Less Sentimental Attachment
1. Junk Mail and Grocery Flyers
Ah, the never-ending stream of paper clutter. Those flyers and junk mail that seem to magically multiply on your kitchen counter—recycle them pronto! Trust me, you won’t miss them cluttering up your space. Plus, most stores have their flyers online now, so you’re not missing out on deals.
2. Office Supplies and Stationary Stash
Do you really need that many pens and notepads? Let’s be honest; you probably only reach for your favourite one anyway. Thin out the stash to a reasonable amount and donate the excess to a local school or nonprofit. Someone else will use them!
I did this recently with my own collection. I had a large bin filled with pens, highlighters, sticky notes, and paper clips from when I used to run organizing workshops. It’s been a few years, and I’m not sure when or if I’ll have another workshop. If I do, I’ll decide what supplies are needed at that time instead of hogging precious space in my garage. So, I donated these items to my local thrift store, and it felt great!
3. Expired Receipts
Need I say more? Those crumpled-up pieces of paper are doing nothing but taking up valuable real estate in your wallet or purse. Toss them out without a second thought and enjoy the extra space.
4. Mystery Items
You know those random spare parts you’ve shoved to the back of your closet or junk drawer for so long that you can’t even remember what they are or what they were used for? It’s time to bid them farewell. Trust me, you didn’t miss them then and won’t miss them now.
5. Dried Paint
Ah, the remnants of that bedroom project from years ago. If the rust on the paint can wasn’t a clear enough sign of its age, the dried-up paint certainly seals the deal. It’s time to bid farewell to those cans of unusable paint hogging precious storage space in your garage or basement.
6. Expired Packages of Fruits and Nuts
Remember that time you bought a huge bag of trail mix with the intention of being healthy, only to forget about it until now? Yeah, those nuts are definitely past their prime. Into the trash they go!
7. Haircomb with Missing Teeth and Flattened Hairbrush
When your haircomb is missing more teeth than a grinning jack-o’-lantern, and your hairbrush resembles a hedgehog, it’s a clear sign it’s time for an upgrade. Invest in new ones to keep your locks looking fabulous and tangle-free!
8. Games or Puzzles with Missing Pieces
Remember that puzzle you started months ago but never finished because half the pieces mysteriously disappeared? Yeah, it’s time to let it go. Those incomplete games are just taking up space at this point. Make room for games you can actually play and enjoy!
9. Collection of Business Cards
Recall the era when exchanging business cards was the norm, before simply connecting on LinkedIn became the go-to? Those days have faded into memory. Digitize the vital ones and bid farewell to the rest. Your wallet will rejoice for the added space!
10. Damaged Items
Essentially anything that’s damaged beyond repair and not worth the cost to fix should be shown the door. Whether it’s a broken lamp, a chipped mug, or a piece of furniture that’s seen better days, let it go and make room for things that actually bring you joy.
Ready for More Decluttering Inspiration?
Feeling motivated? I’ve got a list of another 32 items that are begging to be decluttered. Download the list [here], and let’s make decluttering a breeze together!
Remember, decluttering is a journey, not a sprint. Take it one step at a time, and soon, you’ll be enjoying the benefits of a clutter-free space. Happy organizing!
