Clutter has a sneaky way of taking over our homes, leaving us overwhelmed and stressed.
Decluttering doesn’t have to be complicated—sometimes it starts with simply letting go of things you no longer need.
Whether you’re preparing for a big move, tackling a messy room, or just want to simplify your life, these 20 items are perfect candidates for the toss pile.
Clear your space, lighten your load, and enjoy a more organized home.
1. Expired Food in Your Pantry
We’ve all been there—holding onto expired pasta sauces or spices from years ago. Cleaning out your pantry and fridge isn’t just about staying organized; it’s about creating peace of mind.
Knowing what’s fresh and usable makes life simpler and prevents surprises when you’re cooking.
Just like decluttering your kitchen, having the right life insurance protects you from unexpected surprises in life. While food expires, your family’s financial security shouldn’t.
Pro Tip: Life insurance is a must to protect your family. Here’s a place to get a free, no-obligation quote.
2. Unused or Broken Electronics
That drawer full of old phones, tangled chargers, and broken earbuds? It’s time to let it go. Recycle what you can and toss the rest.
3. Old Magazines and Newspapers
Stacks of old magazines or newspapers can take up valuable space. If you’re not referencing them anymore, it’s time to say goodbye.
Before tossing them out, flip through and save what matters most. If there’s a recipe, article, or inspiring tip you want to keep, snap a quick photo with your phone or scan it using a free app like Google Drive or Evernote. You’ll have easy digital access without the paper pile-up.
For a more organized approach, create a dedicated folder on your phone or computer to store these items for future reference.
4. Stretched-out or Mismatched Socks
We all have a sock graveyard. Gather up those mismatched or stretched-out socks and toss them to free up drawer space.
5. Expired Makeup and Skincare Products
Using expired beauty products is unnecessary and even harmful. Check the labels and safely dispose of anything past its prime.
6. Unused Kitchen Gadgets
Do you really need that avocado slicer or old coffee grinder? If you haven’t used a gadget in over a year, it’s time to let it go. Free up space by sorting through unused tools and appliances—you might even make some money in the process.
Consider selling items in good condition on eBay or Facebook Marketplace. Even small gadgets can earn you extra cash.
Pro tip: Earn as much as possible on your emergency savings. Click here for a list of the top savings accounts in America.
7. Outdated Tech Accessories
From floppy disks to outdated HDMI cables, get rid of those obsolete tech accessories cluttering your space.
8. Duplicate Tools or Utensils
Two can openers? Three vegetable peelers? Keep the best one and donate or toss the duplicates.
9. Books You’ll Never Read Again
While books can be treasured possessions, not all need to be kept forever. Donate or sell books you won’t revisit to free up shelves.
10. Unused Cleaning Products
Cleaning products that didn’t work for you or are nearly empty just take up space. Dispose of them responsibly and stick with your go-to items.
11. Broken or Unused Furniture
If it’s broken beyond repair or doesn’t fit your home’s style, let it go. Freeing up space makes room for furniture you love.
12. Kids’ Toys No Longer Played With
Kids outgrow toys quickly. Donate gently used toys and toss anything that’s broken or unsafe.
13. Old Towels and Linens
Towels with holes or linens you no longer use don’t have to go straight to the trash. Repurpose them as cleaning rags for household chores, or better yet, donate them to pet shelters, which always need soft bedding and towels to care for animals.
Supporting shelters is a great way to give back, but don’t forget about your own furry friends. Your pets need care and protection; unexpected vet bills can add up quickly.
Pro Tip: Vet bills can devour your savings. Protect yourself and your furry friends with Pet Insurance.
14. Takeout Menus and Junk Mail
With everything available online, there’s no need to keep outdated takeout menus or piles of junk mail. Recycle and shred responsibly.
15. Expired Medications
Holding onto old prescriptions or expired over-the-counter meds can be hazardous. Safely dispose of these items at a pharmacy or designated disposal site.
16. Unfinished Craft Projects
If you haven’t touched that knitting project or scrapbook in years, it’s time to let it go. To reclaim your space, donate unused materials to schools, community centers, or craft clubs, or simply discard them.
Clearing old projects can also help you focus on new opportunities to boost your income.
Pro Tip: Earn up to $1000 per month doing simple tasks with FreeCash!
17. Holiday Decorations You Don’t Use
If you haven’t put up those lights or ornaments in years, it’s time to donate or toss them to make room for new favorites.
18. Worn-Out Shoes
Shoes that no longer fit or are falling apart don’t need to take up space in your closet. Donate gently used pairs and toss the rest.
19. Old Receipts and Paperwork
Save only essential financial or legal documents and shred the rest. Going digital can also help reduce future paper clutter.
Pro Tip: Never pay for an unwanted subscription again. Quicken Simplify instantly finds and tracks your subscriptions and cancels unwanted subscriptions.
20. Forgotten Hobby Equipment
That treadmill doubling as a clothes rack or unused sports gear in the garage? Consider selling or donating it if it’s not part of your routine.
Declutter and Reclaim Your Space
Decluttering doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start small by tackling one category or space at a time, and you’ll quickly notice a lighter, more organized home.
Letting go of these 20 items can make a big difference—not just for your physical space but also for your mental clarity.
Embrace the process and enjoy the transformation!
