Feeling swamped by the clutter in your home?
You’re not alone.
To help, we’ve curated a straightforward list of 45 items you can start clearing out right now. From unworn clothes to outdated decor, it’s time to declutter your space.
Clothing
1. Unused Shoes
Are those uncomfortable or unfashionable shoes gathering dust? It’s time to donate them. Someone else might find them perfect for their needs.
2. Old T-Shirts
We all have t-shirts from events long past. If they’re not in your regular rotation, consider donating them to clear up space.
3. Worn-Out Jeans
Jeans that don’t fit or are beyond repair should make their exit. Making room in your closet can be surprisingly refreshing.
4. Out-of-Season Clothing
Haven’t worn a certain dress or pair of jeans in over a year? Chances are, you won’t miss it. Donate or sell these items to streamline your wardrobe.
5. Excess Workout Gear
If you’ve got more workout outfits than actual workouts, it’s time to pare down. Keep a week’s worth and donate the rest.
Kitchen
6. Organize Cleaning Supplies
If you have a bunch of cleaning supplies sitting under the kitchen sink, it’s time to get organized. Try throwing away used bottles and boxes or placing items in storage baskets.
7. Declutter Utensils
It’s easy for utensils to multiply in drawers, especially duplicates that we don’t need. Take a moment to sort through your utensils, keeping only what you regularly use.
8. Top of the Fridge
The top of the fridge can become a magnet for clutter, dust, and old pantry items. Try using wire baskets to organize the space as well.
9. Unused Small Appliances
Appliances like bread makers or slow cookers that aren’t being used can find a new home. Selling or donating them can free up valuable counter space.
10. Expired Pantry Items
Old spices and canned goods can be stale or even actually be harmful. Clear them out to make finding what you need easier.
11. Mismatched Storage Containers
If you’ve got more lids than containers (or vice versa), it’s time to get rid of the extras. Keeping only matching sets will make storage much easier.
Bathroom Clutter
12. Old Towels and Washcloths
Frayed or faded towels can be repurposed as cleaning rags. This gives them a second life and clears space for plush new ones.
13. Expired Medications and Vitamins
Keeping old medications around can be unsafe. Check expiration dates and properly dispose of anything out of date.
14. Unused Beauty Products
If there are products you tried and didn’t like, it’s okay to let them go. Donating unopened items can also be a great option.
15. Old Toothbrushes
Toothbrushes should be replaced every 3-4 months. If you have old ones lying around, it’s time to toss them out.
16. Empty Product Bottles
Accumulated bottles in the shower can be annoying. Recycle them to declutter your bathroom instantly.
Living Room
17. Magazines and Newspapers
Keeping old reads can quickly lead to clutter. Recycle what you’ve finished to keep your space tidy and inviting.
18. Worn-Out Throw Pillows
Pillows that no longer match your decor or have seen better days can be updated. New pillows can refresh the whole room.
19. Unused Electronics
Old gadgets and electronics can be recycled or sold. This not only clears space but can also give them a new life elsewhere.
20. Board Games and Toys
Games that are no longer played can be donated. This clears your space and can bring joy to another family.
Office and Paperwork
21. Old Bills and Receipts
Important documents should be kept, but everything else can be shredded. This reduces clutter and helps protect your identity.
22. Unused Stationery
Excess pens, notebooks, and paper taking up space can be donated. Schools and community centers often appreciate these donations.
23. Old Electronics
Recycle old phones, laptops, and other electronics properly. Many places offer recycling programs specifically for these items.
24. Outdated Manuals
Since most manuals are available online, there’s no need to keep hard copies. Recycle them to free up space in your home office.
25. Excess Office Gadgets
Desk organizers and gadgets that aren’t being used can contribute to clutter. Donate or sell items that you don’t need.
Bedroom Items
26. Unused Bed Linens
Extra linens for beds you no longer own can be donated. This frees up closet space for the items you use.
27. Old Curtains
Curtains that don’t fit your current decor can be repurposed or donated. Changing them can also give your room a new look.
28. Excess Pillows
Too many pillows can make your bedroom feel crowded. Keep what you need for comfort and consider donating the rest.
29. Old Clothes in Underbed Storage
Clothes hidden away and not worn in years can be donated. This act can free up space and simplify your wardrobe choices.
30. Worn-Out Shoes and Slippers
If they’re no longer comfortable or in good condition, it’s time for them to go. New footwear can be a simple but meaningful upgrade.
Garage and Outdoor
31. Broken Tools
Tools that are broken or no longer used can be fixed or donated. Clearing them out can make your garage much more functional.
32. Unused Paint Cans
Old paint can be hazardous if not stored properly. Many communities have safe disposal or recycling programs for paint.
33. Outgrown Sports Equipment
Equipment that’s no longer used can take up a lot of space. Donating it can help others while clearing out your garage.
34. Gardening Supplies
Extra pots and tools that you don’t use can clutter your outdoor area. Donating or selling them can declutter your space significantly.
35. Old Car Care Products
Products for vehicles you no longer own aren’t useful. Dispose of them safely to keep your garage or shed organized.
Seasonal Decor
36. Damaged Holiday Decorations
If you’re skipping over the same worn-out or outdated decorations year after year, it might be time to let them go. This can make decorating for holidays quicker and more enjoyable.
37. Unused Wrapping Supplies
Excess wrapping paper, bows, and bags can be donated. Many schools and shelters can use these for projects or gift-giving.
38. Outdated Seasonal Clothing
Seasonal clothes that didn’t get worn last year probably won’t get worn this year. Donating them can free up valuable closet space.
39. Seasonal Sports Gear
Gear for sports you’re no longer active in can be donated. This not only clears space but can also support local community programs.
40. Excess Party Supplies
Leftover supplies from parties can fill cabinets and drawers quickly. Keeping only what you’ll realistically use can help minimize clutter.
Digital
41. Old Emails
An overflowing inbox can be overwhelming. Unsubscribe from newsletters you don’t read and archive old messages to clear up space.
42. Unused Apps
Having a bunch of apps you don’t use can slow down your devices. Deleting or hibernating them can free up space and make your device run fast.
43. Duplicate Photos
We all snap more photos than we need. Deleting duplicates can free up storage space and make finding your favorite memories easier.
44. Old Documents and Files
Digital clutter can be just as stifling as physical clutter. Taking time to organize and delete old files can make a big difference.
45. Social Media Connections
Following too many accounts can make social media overwhelming. Curating your feed to reflect your interests can keep scrolling more fun and educational with less social media drama.