14 things at home that professional organizers recommend not to keep
What not to keep at home for long (photo: Freepik)
It's often hard to part with certain items - what if they might come in handy? And thousands of greeting cards can serve as mementos of a person. However, there are some items that organizers advise against keeping, as they can lead to clutter over time.
Southern Living website tells what items to avoid keeping to prevent your home from becoming cluttered.
Damaged containers
According to Nikki Bell from Just Us Organizing, damaged food containers should not be kept. They can no longer perform their intended function properly. Containers without lids or missing parts should also be discarded.
Unused gifts or souvenirs
It can be difficult to part with items due to emotional attachment. However, as Kenika Williams from Tidied by K points out, if these items are not used or displayed, they simply take up valuable space.
Additionally, displayed souvenirs need to be dusted, adding extra cleaning work.
Greeting cards
Throwing away greeting cards can be surprisingly challenging. Alice Troskler from Emend suggests keeping only those with a personal poem or message.
The best option is to scan these greetings and store them digitally.
Duplicates or nearly empty makeup and hair products
Makeup has a shorter shelf life than most of us realize. If products are cracked, or nearly empty, or if you have multiple versions, it’s best to discard the unnecessary ones, according to Lindsay Melvin from Orchid Organizing.
Plastic grocery bags
Reusing a plastic bag multiple times is economical and environmentally friendly. However, cleaning experts advise against creating a notorious bag of bags - it’s better to limit the number of bags you keep.
For groceries, a fabric bag lasts much longer and can be washed and dried.
Duplicate kitchen items
Having several spatulas or measuring cups in a kitchen can be convenient for preparing multiple dishes simultaneously.
However, having five of the same item is probably excessive. Reducing duplicates in the kitchen frees up space and makes it easier to find the tools you need while cooking.
Shipping boxes
While it's advised to keep packaging for electronic devices during the warranty period, after that time, bulky boxes only take up space.
Instead of tossing them in the trash, it's better to recycle the cardboard.
Old towels
Old towels can be repurposed for cleaning the home. However, there’s no need to keep towels that have become rags, as they won’t perform their function effectively.
Broken electronics
Old mobile phones, broken gadgets, or outdated tech equipment often accumulate in drawers. Recycling or donating these items frees up space and reduces clutter.
Instructions
Most instructions can be found online if needed. However, it’s useful to keep important manuals for items like household appliances, water heaters, and HVAC systems in a designated spot.
Clothes that no longer fit
Outgrown, old, or simply unwanted clothing should not be kept in your closet as it just takes up space. Organizing experts suggest placing a bin in your closet for such items to eventually discard, sell, or donate.
Promotional Items
It’s advised not to take free items from conferences or other events unless you plan to use them. The same goes for paper promotional flyers.
Spoiled food
One of the first things cleaning experts look for in a home is expired food that needs to be thrown away. It’s important to regularly check your pantry, refrigerator, cabinets, and spice shelves for such items.
Expired medications
It’s recommended to review your home medicine cabinet at least twice a year. Check expiration dates and note any frequently used medications that are nearing their expiration to purchase replacements promptly.
By the way, we previously discussed which items in your home require regular replacement.
