12 Things in Your Home You Need to Get Rid of ASAP
Even if we do a great job hiding it, most of us have clutter throughout the house — inside kitchen cabinets, nightstand shelves and the dreaded junk drawer. But, some things are simply not worth holding onto and should be thrown away, recycled or donated immediately. Below, professional organizers share their advice for purging clutter, starting with these unwanted and unloved items.
While things like expired spices, stained linens and junk mail should be tossed, you most likely have clutter — like clothing and books — lying around that someone else could put to good use. "If you truly no longer use something — but know it has value, or can see someone else using or enjoying it — then it's safe to let it go," says Amelia Meena, founder and professional organizer at Appleshine. Just be sure to call your local donation center to make sure they are able to take the donation. If not, you can call your sanitation department to learn how to recycle the item.
Whether you throw it away, recycle or donate, here are the top things professional organizers urge you to get rid of ASAP.
Expired spices and food
If your refrigerator is overflowing with condiments or your cabinets are cluttered with spice jars, it's important to periodically take stock of what's in the kitchen. Ditch all expired ingredients, condiments and spices. Not only will you free up space, but you'll prevent any health risk involved in consuming expired food.
Books you've already read
Rather than letting books collect dust in the closet or sit in a pile on the nightstand, donate them once you're done reading. "Books in good condition can be donated to book sales, libraries and thrift stores," says Julie Stobbe of Mind Over Clutter, who warns that books can get moldy, dusty and develop an odor if left in storage for a long time.
Shopping and tote bags
Stop buying reusable shopping bags every time you visit the grocery store. Keep a few of your favorite tote bags — maybe two or three per person? — and donate the rest.
Unworn and unloved clothing
Your wardrobe should consist of items you currently wear and enjoy. Purge ill-fitting clothing and pieces you no longer love. Throw away clothes with tears or holes, but donate any items in good condition. "Donating it sooner than later means items will be in style and thrift stores or consignment stores will be able to sell them," says Stobbe. "Clothing can get damaged when it is packed away for years, and then it'll likely end up in a landfill."
Expired or unwanted toiletries
Look under the bathroom sink, says Rachel Rosenthal, professional organizer at Rachel and Company. "This area easily becomes cluttered with unused items, making it a good spot to find expired or unnecessary things." Clear out expired cosmetics, skincare products or medications, as well as any bulky packaging that are taking up space.
Old linens, towels and pillows
If your linen closet is overflowing with bedsheets and towels, take a moment to toss any stained or torn linens. Any gently used linens that don't fit your current beds or extra pillows can be donated to most local charities, while old towels, pillows and bedding can be given to most animal shelters.
Incomplete toy sets and games
When you live with kids, toys and games accumulate quickly — whether it's in the living room, playroom or bedroom. Donate any toys your children have outgrown (when's the last time they picked up that baby doll?). Throw away or try to repurpose (one-of-a-kind art, anyone?) any books, puzzles or games with missing or broken pieces. Keep an eye out for broken crayons, dried out markers or any incomplete toy sets.
Miscellaneous wires and cords
There's nothing worse than looking for a charger in a bin full of tangled wires. If you don't know what the cord belongs to, throw it out! "There's no need to keep cords for devices you no longer own," says Rosenthal.
Old shoes
From worn-out sneakers to uncomfortable heels, ditch any shoes that you never wear — donating any pairs in good condition. "Don't hold onto shoes that are too tight or uncomfortable, like those dusty heels you never wear," says Rosenthal.
Takeout containers
There's no need to hold onto cheap plastic containers, especially ones that are stained, cracked or missing lids. Go through your kitchen cabinets and recycle any plastic containers that haven't held up. While you're at it, feel free to toss any chipped dishes and glasses, as well as any damaged kitchen gadgets.
Extra vases
Most of us have received a beautiful bouquet with a glass vase. While you might feel bad tossing the vase, they can quickly take over cabinet space — and how many vases do you actually need? Keep just one or two to show off your favorite blooms. As for the rest? Your local thrift store will happily accept them, or you can try selling them on sites like Facebook Market Place.
Junk mail and takeout menus
As you sort through mail, get in the habit of putting junk mail and takeout menus directly into the recycling bin. If you've already got a stack forming in your junk drawer, now's the time to discard it. Remember to shred any mail that contains your personal information.
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