Decluttering your home is a rejuvenating experience that can bring clarity and joy to your life. Over the next 50 days, challenge yourself to let go of items that no longer serve a purpose, don’t bring you happiness, or simply clutter your space. This journey is about rediscovering the beauty of simplicity and making room for things that truly matter.
1. Expired Medicines
Start your decluttering journey by discarding any expired medicines. They take up valuable space and can also be a health hazard. Check the expiration dates and dispose of any medicines that are past their prime safely.
2. Old Magazines and Newspapers
It’s time to part with those stacks of old magazines and newspapers you’ve been holding onto. They are likely collecting dust and are rarely revisited. Recycle them and enjoy the newfound space.
3. Unused Cooking Utensils
We all have those kitchen gadgets we thought we’d use but never did. Whether it’s a fancy slicer or an avocado pitter, it’s time to let it go if it’s not being used regularly. I got rid of my melon baller—when do you ever really take the time to make cute little balls of melon?
4. Worn-Out Shoes
Shoes that are worn out, uncomfortable, or no longer your style should be the next to go. Donate the ones in good condition and discard the rest. You’ll free up valuable space in your closet for better shoes.
5. Clothes That Don’t Fit
Clothes that no longer fit, whether too big or too small, can make your wardrobe feel cluttered. Donate these items to make room for clothes that make you feel confident and comfortable. You might be tempted to keep them because you might fit into them again one day or miss them if they’re gone. However, it’s probably best to let them go.
6. Outdated Electronics
Old phones, broken cameras, and outdated gadgets often linger in drawers. Recycle or sell them responsibly. You’ll appreciate the extra drawer space. If you have a gadget that still works, consider selling it on eBay or elsewhere.
7. Unused Gift Cards
Gather all those gift cards you’ve accumulated and haven’t used. Make a plan to use them, sell them online, or give them to someone who will. Some gift cards never expire, so you might have some free cash lying around your house.
8. Duplicate Kitchen Items
Do you really need three spatulas or two breadmakers? Keep the best and get rid of the rest. Your kitchen will feel more organized and functional. You’ll be grateful when you don’t have to hastily discard or pack them next time you move.
9. Old Paint Cans
Get rid of old paint cans from previous projects. They take up a lot of space and can be hazardous if not stored properly. Even if you keep them in the garage, there’s a chance they’ll pose a threat to you or your family.
10. Unused Exercise Equipment
That treadmill or exercise bike that’s turned into a clothes hanger? If you’re not using it, sell or donate it. Freeing up this space can be mentally and physically liberating—you won’t feel guilty every time you look at it anymore, and you can use the opportunity to find a fitness routine that fits better into your life.
11. Broken Jewelry
Gather broken chains, mismatched earrings, and damaged bracelets. If they have sentimental value, you might be able to have a jeweler repair or repurpose them. If they’re just sitting around collecting dust, it’s time to let them go.
12. Old Bedding and Linens
Evaluate your linen closet. Keep a set number of sheets and towels you regularly use that are in good condition. Donate the rest or repurpose them as dog towels, dropcloths, or emergency bedding.
13. Outgrown Children’s Toys
If your kids have outgrown certain toys, it’s time to pass them on. Donate them to local shelters or family centers to give these toys a new life. This can also be a good exercise in teaching your kids to let go of unused things.
14. Unused Craft Supplies
You can donate craft supplies you haven’t touched in years to schools or community centers. This decluttering will also reignite your creativity by highlighting the materials you actually use.
15. Excess Mugs and Glassware
Mugs and glassware tend to accumulate over time. Keep a reasonable number and donate the excess, especially those you never use. Why do we collect so many mugs and glasses and randomly struggle to part with them?
16. Expired Cosmetics and Skincare Products
Skincare products and cosmetics have a shelf life. Using them beyond this can harm your skin. This is especially true for items like sunscreen. Discard any expired products to make room for items you actually use.
17. Old Spices
Most people don’t keep track of the spices they have until they run out. Spices lose their flavor over time, so toss any that are past their prime and enjoy the fresher taste of your meals with new, vibrant spices. You could even grow your own.
18. Plastic Containers With Missing Lids
We all have them—containers without their matching lids. Recycle these to reduce kitchen clutter and make finding the right container easier. While you’re at it, toss any old takeout containers you have lying around; it’s good to reuse things, but they’re probably past their prime.
19. DVDs and CDs
Many people have massive stacks of CDs or DVDs they collected when they were younger. In the age of digital streaming, this technology often goes unused. Donate these relics to libraries or sell them online.
20. Old School or Work Papers
Sort through old papers, notes, and work documents. Keep only what’s necessary and shred the rest to protect your privacy. You probably don’t need that history report from middle school, anyway.
21. Unused or Broken Kitchen Appliances
That ice cream maker or waffle iron gathering dust? If you haven’t used it in the past year, it’s time to find it a new home. Even if you received it as a gift, it’s okay to recognize when it’s time to let go.
22. Old Greeting Cards
It’s nice to receive physical mail, but keeping it forever can be cumbersome. While some cards hold sentimental value, others can be let go. Keep a few special ones and recycle the rest. You probably have more lying around than you’d expect.
23. Manual and Instruction Booklets
Most of these are available online. Keep a digital copy if necessary and recycle the physical copies to free up space. If you sort out the “junk” drawer, you’ll probably find old manuals for appliances you didn’t have anymore.
24. Old Receipts and Bills
Old receipts and bills can be discarded unless needed for tax purposes or warranties. Going forward, try to maintain digital records to reduce paper clutter.
25. Excess Shopping Bags
Shopping bags are easy to accumulate and can take up unnecessary space. Keep a few that you regularly use and recycle or donate the rest. Try to prioritize reusable bags and ditch the paper or plastic.
26. Souvenirs From Past Travels
It’s great to keep special items you obtain in your travels, but let’s be honest—you don’t need all those cheesy fridge magnets. Keep souvenirs that have significant sentimental value. For the others that don’t spark joy, it’s time to let them go.
27. Excess Decorations
Seasonal decorations that haven’t been used in years or don’t fit your current style can be donated to make space for decor that aligns with your current tastes. Stop holding space in your life for things that no longer serve you.
28. Old Prescription Glasses
Donate old glasses to organizations that refurbish them for those in need. This is a great way to clear space and help someone else. While you’re at it, make an appointment with the eye doctor to make sure your prescription is up to date.
29. Unnecessary Kitchen Gadgets
That novelty kitchen item you bought online years ago seemed like fun, but now it’s just taking up space. Simplify your cooking by getting rid of gadgets you rarely use. This can make cooking more enjoyable and less cluttered.
30. Worn-Out Bath Mats and Rugs
Replace any bath mats or rugs that are worn out or no longer fit your decor. They make your space look tired and can also be a breeding ground for germs and bacteria after years of being stepped on by wet feet.
31. Unused Diaries and Planners
If you have a collection of old diaries or planners that you never used, it’s time to let them go. Consider donating them to students or organizations that could put them to good use. Dated planners from a specific year can probably be thrown out.
32. Old Prescription Bottles
Gather any empty or outdated prescription bottles. Many pharmacies offer recycling programs for these, helping you declutter while being environmentally responsible.
33. Overdue Library Books
Return any overdue library books. This clears space in your home and makes the books available for others to enjoy. Plus, it’s good to make sure you don’t have any late fees with the library.
34. Excess Office Supplies
It can be a blast to buy office supplies, but if your home office is cluttered with excess pens, paper, and other supplies, pare it down to what you actually use. Donate the surplus to schools or community centers.
35. Old Pillows
Old pillows can lose their shape and support over time, affecting your sleep quality. In addition, they can harbor germs and bacteria. Replace them and consider donating the old ones to animal shelters.
36. Unused Luggage
If you have luggage that’s gathering dust, it’s time to sell or donate it. Keeping only the pieces that you regularly use can free up significant space. Broken zippers or wheels can be a good excuse to throw out old suitcases.
37. Excess Gardening Supplies
Tried your green thumb but didn’t really get anywhere? Evaluate your gardening tools and supplies. Keep the essentials and donate or sell what you don’t use to fellow gardening enthusiasts.
38. Unneeded Chargers and Cables
We often accumulate chargers and cables that no longer serve a purpose. Recycle these e-waste items properly to clear space and reduce hazards. You’ll be glad to be rid of all those old, confusing cords.
39. Outdated Textbooks
Textbooks that are outdated or no longer relevant to your field can be donated to libraries or schools. You can also try selling them online to students. This will depend on your field of study and how old the books are.
40. Old Makeup and Beauty Products
Makeup and beauty products have a limited shelf life, and they’re constantly evolving. You’re doing yourself a favor by ditching any expired products in favor of new ones that are better for your skin.
41. Broken Furniture
If you have furniture that’s broken and beyond repair, it’s time to say goodbye. This can free up space and improve the overall aesthetic of your home. Use it as an excuse to spruce up your home with new furniture and decor.
42. Unused Board Games and Puzzles
Board games and puzzles that no longer interest you or are missing pieces should be next on your decluttering list. Donate them to local community centers or family shelters if they’re in good condition. It’s time to create space for activities that truly engage you and your family.
43. Extra Blankets and Throws
We often accumulate more blankets and throws than we need. Keep a few favorites and donate the rest to homeless shelters or animal rescue centers. This declutters your space and brings warmth to others in need.
44. Old Phone Cases
That collection of old phone cases for models you no longer own? Let them go. Recycle or donate them if possible. I doubt you’re really that attached to a phone case for a phone you don’t have anymore.
45. Unused Vases
If you have a collection of vases that rarely see the light of day, choose a few versatile ones to keep and donate the rest. This will make your floral arrangements more special and your storage less cluttered.
46. Excess Cookbooks
Cookbooks that you no longer use or that contain recipes you never try can be passed on. Donate them to libraries or sell them to fellow food enthusiasts. Besides, many recipes can be found online these days.
47. Outdated Calendars
Old calendars, especially those from previous years, serve no purpose. Recycle them to free up space and keep your workspace current and focused. If you’re feeling sentimental, take a moment to write down or take photos of the major events on the calendar.
48. Excess Pet Supplies
Pet supplies that are no longer needed or are outdated for your pet’s requirements can clutter your space. Donate usable items to local animal shelters to help other pets in need. It might even be a good time to get some new toys for your furry friend!
49. Unworn Hats and Accessories
Hats, scarves, and other accessories that you haven’t worn in years can be donated to charity or thrift stores. Hats are especially good to donate to cancer patients; check your local hospital for a program that will take them.
50. Miscellaneous Knick-Knacks
Finally, tackle those miscellaneous knick-knacks that have accumulated over the years. If they don’t bring you joy or have a specific purpose, let them go. Donate, sell, or gift them to streamline your living space.