Do you ever feel like your home is overflowing with stuff? You’re not alone. In today’s busy world, it’s easy for clutter to creep into every corner of our lives—from crowded kitchen drawers to overstuffed closets. But here’s the good news: decluttering doesn’t have to be overwhelming. In fact, letting go of the things you no longer need can be incredibly freeing, giving you more space to breathe and enjoy the home you love.
As someone who lives in a small house, I know firsthand how important decluttering and staying organized can be. Without regular cleanouts, it doesn’t take long for clutter to take over, making our spaces feel cramped and chaotic. That’s why I’m sharing 20 things to declutter right now to help you create a calmer, more organized space.
Whether you’re a decluttering pro or just starting out, these simple tips will guide you through the process, one step at a time. By the end, you’ll feel lighter, more in control, and ready to embrace a simpler, more intentional way of living. Let’s get started!
Declutter Your Home: 20 Items to Toss, Donate, or Organize Today
Let’s face it—clutter has a way of sneaking into our lives, one unused gadget, old magazine, or sentimental knickknack at a time. But what starts as a few extra items can quickly grow into a source of stress and overwhelm. When our homes are filled with things we don’t need or use, it can feel like our minds are just as crowded. That’s where decluttering comes in. It’s not just about creating more physical space; it’s about making room for what truly matters.
On a practical level, decluttering transforms your home into a more functional and beautiful space. Imagine opening a closet where everything has its place, or cooking in a kitchen free of unused gadgets and expired pantry items. A decluttered home is easier to clean, more enjoyable to live in, and truly reflects your personal style. But the benefits go beyond the physical. Letting go of excess stuff can be incredibly freeing, reducing stress and helping you feel more in control of your surroundings.
Decluttering also allows you to focus on what’s most important—whether that’s spending time with loved ones, pursuing a hobby, or simply enjoying a moment of peace in your cozy home. The best part? You don’t have to tackle it all at once. Small, intentional steps can make a big difference over time. Whether it’s clearing out a single drawer or letting go of a few unused items, every bit of progress brings you closer to a simpler, more intentional way of living.
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The Decluttering Mindset
Decluttering can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re staring at a packed closet or a jam-packed junk drawer. But the key to success is starting with the right mindset. Instead of viewing decluttering as a massive, all-or-nothing project, think of it as a series of small, manageable steps. Here are some quick tips to help you get into the decluttering groove:
1. Start Small
You don’t have to tackle your entire home in one weekend. Begin with a single drawer, shelf, or category (like clothes or books). Small wins will build momentum and give you the confidence to keep going. Remember, progress is progress—no matter how small!
2. Use the “Keep, Donate, Toss” Method
As you go through your items, sort them into three piles:
Keep: Items you use regularly, love, or truly need.
Donate: Things in good condition that someone else could use.
Toss: Broken, expired, or unusable items that no longer serve a purpose.
This method keeps the process simple and helps you make decisions quickly.
3. Focus on Purpose and Joy
When deciding whether to keep something, ask yourself two questions:
Does this item serve a purpose in my life?
Does it bring me joy or add value to my home?
If the answer to both is no, it’s probably time to let it go. This mindset, inspired by Marie Kondo, helps you focus on what truly matters.
marie kondo
4. Be Honest with Yourself
Decluttering requires a bit of self-reflection. It’s easy to hold onto things because of guilt (“I spent money on this”) or nostalgia (“I might need this someday”). But being honest about what you really need and love will help you create a home that feels intentional and clutter-free. Remember, it’s okay to let go of things that no longer serve you.
5. Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection
Decluttering is a journey, not a one-time event. Celebrate every step forward, whether it’s clearing out a single drawer or finally letting go of that old collection you’ve been holding onto for years. Every item you release creates space—both physically and mentally—for the things that truly matter.
By adopting this mindset, you’ll find that decluttering becomes less about getting rid of things and more about creating a home that feels calm, cozy, and uniquely yours. So take a deep breath, start small, and remember: you’ve got this!
Declutter: Room By Room
After the holidays, I began my decluttering journey by tackling my Christmas decorations—and I’ll admit, I have more than the average person! Organizing them sparked a snowball effect, and I’ve been systematically decluttering room by room ever since. I’ve already donated so much this year—it’s incredible how much stuff I’ve let go of!
Kitchen
I’ve spent the last few mornings decluttering my kitchen, and let me tell you—it feels amazing! I tackled all three items on the kitchen list below, and I have to admit, I was a little embarrassed by what I found. A can of tomato paste that expired in 2022? Check. Some very outdated spices? Double check. If your kitchen is anything like mine, it’s time for a refresh!
If you love cooking as much as I do, chances are you’ve accumulated a fair share of gadgets over the years. Take a few minutes to empty out your utensil drawer or tool organizer and go through what you have. Be honest with yourself—get rid of any gadgets you don’t use regularly or single-use tools that just collect dust. (I’m donating not one, but two pineapple corers. Why do I even have two? I have no idea!)
- Expired pantry items (check dates and toss anything stale or unused).
- Unused kitchen gadgets (keep only what you use regularly).
- Extra coffee mugs (keep your favorites and donate the rest).
organize your kitchen
Bathroom
One of the easiest things to declutter in your bathroom is your makeup collection. Start by tossing old cosmetics (check the chart below for expiration guidelines!) and anything you don’t use regularly. Those lipsticks that looked better in the store or eyeshadows that just don’t suit you? Let them go. Holding onto products you’ll never use—just because you spent money on them—only adds clutter. Clearing out what doesn’t work for you creates space for the items you truly love and use every day.
- Expired makeup and toiletries (toss anything old or unused).
- Old towels and linens (keep only what’s in good condition).
Makeup Expiration Guide: When to Toss Your Cosmetics
Product | When to Toss | Tips |
---|---|---|
Mascara | 3-6 months | Toss if it smells odd or becomes dry and clumpy. |
Liquid Eyeliner | 3-6 months | Replace if the formula changes or irritates your eyes. |
Pencil Eyeliner | 1-2 years | Sharpen regularly and toss if it becomes dry or crumbly. |
Foundation | 6 months – 1 year | Discard if it separates, smells off, or causes skin irritation. |
Concealer | 6 months – 1 year | Toss if the texture changes or it no longer blends smoothly. |
Powder (Blush, Bronzer, Eyeshadow) | 1-2 years | Replace if it becomes hard, develops a film, or changes color. |
Lipstick | 1-2 years | Toss if it smells weird, looks dry, or changes texture. |
Lip Gloss | 6 months – 1 year | Discard if it becomes sticky, separates, or smells off. |
Nail Polish | 1-2 years | Toss if it thickens, separates, or won’t apply smoothly. |
Makeup Sponges/Brushes | 3-6 months (sponges) | Replace sponges regularly and clean brushes weekly to avoid bacteria. |
Quick Tips:
- Label Your Products: Write the purchase date on the packaging with a marker to track how long you’ve had it.
- Store Properly: Keep makeup in a cool, dry place to extend its shelf life.
- When in Doubt, Toss It: If a product smells, looks, or feels off, it’s better to be safe than sorry!
Closet
When it comes to decluttering your closet, I’ve found that taking everything out and putting it on the bed (a tip I learned from Marie Kondo’s book and show) is a game-changer. It forces you to see everything you own at once and make intentional decisions.
Start by tackling the clothes you haven’t worn in the past year. If it’s been sitting untouched for that long, chances are you won’t miss it—so donate or sell it to someone who will actually use it!
Next, take a hard look at your shoes. Keep only the pairs that are comfortable, versatile, and truly fit your lifestyle. Those heels that pinch your toes or the sneakers you never reach for? It’s time to let them go…I just boxed up a few pairs of really cute sneakers that I never wore because they weren’t comfy.
By clearing out what you don’t wear, you’ll create a closet filled with pieces you love and actually use every day.
And don’t worry—you don’t need fancy closet organizers to get started. In fact, I don’t even have matching baskets in my closet!
- Clothes you haven’t worn in a year (donate or sell).
- Unworn shoes (keep only comfortable, versatile pairs).
Living Spaces
Our living spaces are where we relax, entertain, and spend time with loved ones, but they can quickly become cluttered with items that no longer serve a purpose. Keeping my living room tidy helps me unwind at the end of the day, since I live in a small home it doesn’t take long for it to feel cluttered!
Here’s how to tackle two common culprits:
- Unused Decor
Over time, our tastes change, and that’s okay! Take a look around your living room, shelves, and walls (or in my case, a basement storage are!). Are there decorative items that no longer fit your style or bring you joy? Maybe it’s a vase you never use, a figurine that feels outdated, or a piece of art that doesn’t resonate with you anymore. Letting go of these items doesn’t mean they weren’t meaningful at one point—it just means they’ve served their purpose. Donate or sell decor that no longer fits your aesthetic, and make room for pieces that truly reflect who you are now. (if you live in the Seacoast NH area you will find lots of my donated home decor in the local thrift stores!) - Old Magazines and Newspapers
Stacks of old magazines and newspapers can take up valuable space and collect dust. If you’ve been holding onto them for “someday” reading, it’s time to be honest with yourself. Recycle any issues you haven’t touched in months (or years!). For articles or recipes you want to save, consider digitizing them. Take a photo or scan the pages, and store them in a digital folder. Not only will this free up physical space, but it’ll also make it easier to find what you need later.
- Unused decor (let go of items that no longer fit your style).
- Old magazines and newspapers (recycle or digitize).
Home Office
A cluttered home office can make it hard to focus and stay productive. Whether you work from home or just need a space to pay bills and organize life’s paperwork, keeping this area tidy is essential. Here’s how to tackle two common sources of office clutter:
- Unnecessary Paperwork
Let’s face it—paperwork has a way of piling up. Start by sorting through old bills, receipts, and documents. Shred anything with sensitive information (like account numbers or personal details) and recycle the rest. A good rule of thumb is to keep tax-related documents for 7 years, but most everyday receipts and bills can be tossed after a year (or sooner if you’ve already paid them). For paperwork you need to keep, create a simple filing system with labeled folders or a filing cabinet. Better yet, consider going digital! Scan important documents and store them in organized folders on your computer or cloud storage. It’s a great way to reduce physical clutter and make important files easier to find. - Old Electronics
From outdated phones to broken chargers, old electronics can take up valuable space and create unnecessary clutter. Go through your desk drawers and storage areas to gather any devices you no longer use. If they’re broken or outdated, recycle them responsibly. Many electronics stores and local recycling centers offer e-waste recycling programs. For items that still work but you no longer need, consider donating or selling them. Clearing out old electronics not only frees up space but also helps reduce environmental waste.
- Unnecessary paperwork (shred or recycle old bills and receipts).
- Old electronics (recycle broken or outdated devices).
my office gear
Kid’s Items
- Outgrown toys and clothes (donate or pass on to someone in need).
- Outgrown baby gear & furniture (check local crisis centers or shelters)
Miscellaneous
Sometimes, the biggest sources of clutter are the random items that don’t fit into a specific category. Here’s how to tackle those miscellaneous odds and ends:
- Junk Drawer Clutter
We all have that one drawer filled with random bits and bobs. Empty it out, sort through the contents, and only keep what you actually use. Use small organizers or dividers to keep it tidy moving forward. - Unused Hobby Supplies
If you’ve moved on from a hobby (or never quite started), it’s time to let go of those supplies. Keep only what you actively use and donate the rest to someone who will enjoy them. - Expired Medications
Check your medicine cabinet for expired prescriptions or over-the-counter medications. Safely dispose of them at a local pharmacy or through a drug take-back program. - Duplicate Items
Do you really need three pairs of scissors or five water bottles? Keep one of each essential item and donate the rest. - Plastic Containers Without Lids
Recycle any mismatched containers or lids. Stick to a set that’s complete and easy to stack. - Old Greeting Cards
Keep only the most meaningful cards (like those from loved ones or special occasions) and recycle the rest. A small keepsake box can help you store them neatly. - Unused Exercise Equipment
If that treadmill has become a clothes rack or those dumbbells are gathering dust, consider selling or donating them. Free up space and let someone else put them to good use. - Sentimental Clutter
Sentimental items can be the hardest to part with, but you don’t need to keep everything. Choose a few meaningful pieces that truly matter and let go of the rest.
- Junk drawer clutter (sort and organize)..
- Unused hobby supplies (keep only what you actively use).
- Expired medications (safely dispose of old prescriptions).
- Duplicate items (keep one and donate the rest).
- Plastic containers without lids (recycle mismatched pieces).
- Old greeting cards (keep only the most meaningful ones).
- Unused exercise equipment (sell or donate).
- Sentimental clutter (keep only what truly matters).
Quick Tips To Remember
- The 20-second rule: If it takes less than 20 seconds to declutter something (like throwing away a piece of junk mail), do it immediately!
- Adopt a “One In, One Out” Rule:
- Every time you bring something new into your home—whether it’s a pair of shoes, a kitchen gadget, or a decorative item—make it a habit to let go of something you no longer need. This rule helps prevent clutter from creeping back in and encourages you to be more mindful about your purchases. For example, if you buy a new sweater, consider donating one you haven’t worn in a while. It’s a simple but effective way to keep your belongings in check.
- Schedule Regular Decluttering Sessions
- Decluttering isn’t a one-and-done task—it’s an ongoing process. Set aside time for regular cleanouts, whether it’s a quick 15-minute session each week or a more thorough seasonal declutter. Spring and fall are great times to reassess your wardrobe, pantry, and home decor. By making decluttering a routine, you’ll stay on top of clutter before it becomes overwhelming.
- Create Designated Spaces for Frequently Used Items
- One of the biggest causes of clutter is not having a clear place for things. Take the time to assign a “home” for items you use regularly, like keys, mail, or cleaning supplies. Use baskets, bins, or drawer organizers to keep everything in its place. When everything has a designated spot, it’s easier to put things away and keep your home tidy.
- Be Intentional About What You Bring Into Your Home
- Before making a purchase, ask yourself:
- Do I really need this?
- Do I have space for it?
- Will it add value to my life or home?
Being intentional about what you bring into your space helps prevent unnecessary clutter and ensures that your home stays filled with items you truly love and use.
- Before making a purchase, ask yourself:
- Tackle Clutter Hotspots Daily
Certain areas of the home tend to attract clutter, like countertops, entryways, and coffee tables. Make it a habit to clear these hotspots daily—even if it’s just for five minutes. Put away mail, return dishes to the kitchen, or stash shoes in the closet. Small, consistent efforts can make a big difference in maintaining a tidy space. - Involve the Whole Family
If you share your home with others, getting everyone on board is key to maintaining a clutter-free space. Encourage family members to follow the “one in, one out” rule, put things back where they belong, and participate in regular decluttering sessions. When everyone works together, it’s easier to keep the home organized. - Celebrate Your Progress
Finally, don’t forget to celebrate your efforts! Maintaining a clutter-free home is an ongoing journey, and every small step counts. Take a moment to appreciate how far you’ve come and how much calmer and more enjoyable your space feels.
By incorporating these tips into your routine, you’ll create a home that stays organized, functional, and full of the things you truly love. Remember, it’s not about perfection—it’s about creating a space that supports the life you want to live.
The List: 20 Things to Declutter Now
- Expired Pantry Items – Spices, canned goods, and stale snacks.
- Unused Kitchen Gadgets – Single-use tools you haven’t touched in years.
- Old Towels and Linens – Faded, frayed, or mismatched towels and sheets.
- Clothes You Haven’t Worn in a Year – Outdated, ill-fitting, or unworn items.
- Expired Makeup and Toiletries – Old mascara, dried-up nail polish, or skincare products.
- Duplicate Items – Extra mugs, utensils, or serving dishes.
- Junk Drawer Clutter – Random cords, broken items, and unused keys.
- Old Magazines and Newspapers – Piles of unread or outdated reading material.
- Unused Hobby Supplies – Craft materials, yarn, or tools for hobbies you no longer pursue.
- Expired Medications – Check your medicine cabinet for outdated prescriptions.
- Kids’ Outgrown Toys and Clothes – Donate or sell items your children no longer use.
- Old Electronics – Broken phones, outdated chargers, and unused cables.
- Unworn Shoes – Uncomfortable or out-of-style pairs.
- Extra Coffee Mugs – Keep only your favorites.
- Unused Decor – Items that no longer fit your style or bring you joy.
- Old Greeting Cards – Keep only the most meaningful ones.
- Unused Exercise Equipment – Dumbbells, yoga mats, or gadgets gathering dust.
- Plastic Containers Without Lids – Recycle mismatched Tupperware.
- Unnecessary Paperwork – Old bills, receipts, and documents (shred what’s not needed).
- Sentimental Clutter – Pare down keepsakes to only the most meaningful items.
Decluttering your home doesn’t have to be overwhelming—it’s all about taking small, intentional steps to create a space that feels calm, functional, and uniquely yours. By tackling these 20 categories, from your kitchen pantry to your sentimental keepsakes, you’ll not only free up physical space but also create room to breathe and focus on what truly matters.
Remember, decluttering is a journey, not a one-time event. Celebrate every step forward, whether it’s clearing out a single drawer or finally letting go of that item you’ve been holding onto for years. Each item you release brings you closer to a simpler, more intentional way of living.
So grab a trash bag, a donation box, and start decluttering today. Your future self will thank you for the lighter, more organized, and joy-filled home you’re creating. Happy decluttering!
xo, Jennifer
I would like the information on some of the products – like your office chair , some of the kitchen items, etc . Thank you !
Marley, under the photo of my office if you click on “my office setup” it will bring you to all the products that I have. Also under that there is a photo carousel with shoppable images (just click and it will bring you to the item). I love this office chair, the only con is that the back is low but I can sit cross-legged which is comfy when you are sitting at your desk for hours some days.
I can see u really have worked hard on your Declutter email…you covered everything possible… very good email. I am naturally an organized person but even I have to declutter my stuff. My motto …messy bed ..messy head. So with that in mind..everything has a home in my home. I have a small house so that makes it a little bit easier because I dont like a cluttered house. I am always putting items away because if I dont I get piles of stuff and it magically accumulates😅 I love to thrift..oh so much fun but hard because I have to think..do I really need it.. how many baskets, picture frames can one person have.lol!! So if I buy something, something has to go.. I really stick to that. It also helps when your hubby is a minimalist and very clean. He just doesnt understsnd ..that yes you have to decorate for each season, every holiday. The only one I really dont decorate for is St. Patty’s Day. I love your creativity and your style… oh I love your daffodill arrangement..I will keep that in mind for Spring..I do have a Pussy Willow brush and daffodills in my garden..cant wait. Yes I have sent u pics of my creations.. I could send u lots of pics of my creations but you are busy person and have lots of readers just like me that love yr blog.
Hi Lorri!!! By January everything seems cluttered here. I think mainly becuase from Aug-Dec I’m working non-stop because Fall&Xmas are the busiest time of the year for bloggers. I love when you send me pictures, don’t stop!
Jennifer,
All of these tips and ideas are spot on. I need someone to make me throw away all the clutter. My workshop looks just as it did when you were here. However, I’ve been sick so that’s my excuse. LOL. I’m sharing tomorrow on DRA.
Thanks Rac!!
Best declutterring post ever. It is doable.
Thanks so much Patti!!! It was inspired by my own decluttering journey since after the holidays, so all those pics are from me acutally organizing this place and not stock images!!
Such a great post! Big Al needs to read all your tips!! 😂
It sounds so simple and “do-able” the way you.ve written this, and for the first time in a long time, I know I can do it, too! I like to think that rather than being a hoarder (not like those tv shows, thank god!), I am merely a collector of unique and wonderful things, get it?!!
Well, the inspiration for this was me actually decluttering around here after the holidays!! The last photo was the back of our Jeep stuffed on one of my donation runs. I was ruthless this time with all of my sweaters, and this New England girl loves her sweaters…but 50 of them was crazy!!
LOVE this post!! Jam packed with such helpful and useful info. I ALWAYS abide by the ‘one in one out rule’ because our house is so small but it truly works to keep clutter down. Great post!!
Thanks!! Inspired by my own decluttering journey since after Xmas! I think my local thrift store is going to be half filled with stuff from my house!!