Decluttering? Let’s Get Real About Waste
We’ve all been there, hesitating over what to keep and what to toss when it comes to decluttering.
Before you start, ask yourself a few key questions: Will this item be important to you in the future? Do you have a sentimental attachment to it? Could it be put to better use elsewhere?
In this guide, I’ll share 17 items that might make you pause before letting them go. Ready to rethink your decluttering approach? Let’s dive in.
Important Documents
Even if you’re pretty sure you won’t need them, keeping important documents organized and filed can save you a major headache in the future.
Tax returns, legal papers, emergency contacts, and receipts can especially come in handy for future reference.
Keeping important documents doesn’t mean that you can never get rid of paper clutter that enters your home.
Just review each item carefully before tossing it away. Scan what you can, shred the unnecessary, and file away the essentials.
Spare parts and tools
Decluttering goes beyond just getting rid of untidy items, it’s also about holding on to things you’ll actually need later.
Those random screws, bolts, and tools might seem like clutter now, but they’re lifesavers when something needs fixing in the future.
Organize these items in a toolbox, or you can also consider donating excess tools to community repair shops,
Stuff That’s Not Yours
Decluttering someone else’s belongings without permission can cause deep emotional pain. If someone left something with you and forgot to take it back, don’t assume they don’t need it, always ask first.
Those keys or old sweaters might mean more than clutter to them. If it’s not yours, take a step back. Have a conversation, respect their boundaries, and return things safely.
This rule also applies to your family members. Don’t throw away things that belong to your kids without involving them.
Sentimental items
The items that tug at your heartstrings deserve extra care when decluttering. Are you sure you want to throw family heirlooms, your child’s first drawing, or your grandma’s last letter before she died?
The best approach is to keep things that have sentimental value, but even when something needs to go, ensure there are no regrets later down the line.
Clothes with Small Tears
Got a dress or a shirt with a little tear? See if you can repair it with a bit of sewing.
All you need is a needle and some matching thread and you can repair it in no time. A quick fix can save your favorite piece of clothing.
If you don’t know how to sew, use iron-on patches for a quick fix, or add a creative touch by turning the rip into a trendy distressed detail. (or you can learn how to sew small parts, it’s a life skill, after all.)
In case the dress is beyond repair, repurpose it into DIY cleaning cloths or a tote bag.
Old Towels
Think those tattered towels are ready for the bin? Not so fast. Old towels are cleaning superheroes, perfect for scrubbing floors, drying the dog, or as makeshift drop cloths for messy DIY projects.
Cut them into smaller rags and keep a stash in your cleaning kit. Before you toss, think of how that towel can soak up a new purpose.
Glass Jars
Empty pasta sauce or jam jars? Stop throwing them away, they’re storage gold. Clean them out, peel off the labels, and boom: instant organizers for spices, snacks, or DIY candles.
Use them to store screws, buttons, or even as cute flower vases. Need an eco-friendly gift? Fill a jar with homemade goodies and wrap it with twine for a rustic vibe.
Practical, and sustainable these jars are the multitaskers of your decluttering journey.
Leftover Paint Cans
Thinking about throwing that half-empty paint can from last year’s project? Keep it instead, because you never know when you need to use it to freshen up scuffs or scratches around the house.
You can also pour leftover paint into smaller containers for fun craft projects for your kids. Ensure to seal the lid tightly and store it upside down to prevent it from drying out.
Cracked Ceramics
That chipped mug or cracked plate doesn’t have to go to waste. Turn them into charming planters for succulents or small herbs.
Use larger plates as garden stepping stones or bases for pillar candles. If you are creative, try the Japanese art of kintsugi, where you repair ceramics with gold paint to highlight their “flaws.”
These pieces add unique character to your decor while embracing sustainability.
Broken Dishes
This one might not come to mind while decluttering, but if you’re clumsy and often find yourself breaking your beautiful (and expensive) plates, don’t throw them away.
Broken dishes, like chipped plates and bowls, can become mosaic masterpieces in the making.
Break them further (safely) and use the pieces for DIY projects like garden stepping stones, picture frames, or table tops.
Note: Even if you have to throw it, make sure to wrap it up in an old cloth or multiple newspapers before tossing it away.
Old Jeans
Worn-out jeans might scream “trash,” but they’re crafting cloth pieces. You can create trendy tote bags, durable patchwork quilts, or even chic plant pot covers.
Got kids? Repurpose denim into sturdy aprons for messy activities. You might not believe it, but you can use jean patches as a wax strip alternative (yes, they work).
Feeling creative? Transform old jeans into stylish coasters, unique phone cases, or even a fun DIY dog toy.
Old Picture Frames
Do you have outdated or chipped picture frames? If yes, then turn them into wall decor instead of tossing them away. Even without the glass, they’re great for wall art displays.
Paint them with golden accents and hang them on the wall for instant vintage, plus royal feels. Or turn them into a stylish bulletin board with cork backing.
Shoeboxes
Shoeboxes may look basic but don’t underestimate their organizing power. Take a gift-wrapping sheet and transform the boxes into creative storage solutions for office supplies, cables, or socks.
Stack them inside drawers for instant dividers or use them to store seasonal decorations. They’re also perfect for kids’ craft supplies or as mini sensory boxes for playtime.
Before you toss, think: “What small chaos can this box contain?” It’s a zero-cost solution to your clutter woes.
Old Shopping Bags
There are so many ways you can use a shopping bag, so why throw it away?
For cloth bags, keep them in your car for your next grocery trip. Plastic bags can be reused for lining small trash bins, packing shoes when traveling, or even as makeshift waterproof covers for items on rainy days.
Paper bags? They’re perfect for gift wrapping, crafting, or storing produce like potatoes and onions. Moreover, tote bags with sturdy handles can neatly store seasonal shoes under your bed or in your closet.
Old Books
Are books piling up? Resist the urge to dump them. Donate readable ones to libraries, schools, or little free libraries.
For damaged books, turn pages into craft paper for origami, gift wrapping, or framed literary art.
Can’t part with your collection? Stack them for unique decor, like DIY nightstands or display pedestals.
Worn-Out Sheets
Faded or torn bedsheets? Repurpose them. Cut them into cleaning rags, sew them into reusable shopping bags, or use them as drop cloths for painting.
You can also hang them as a bed canopy or make a bed skirt, Got a green thumb? Old sheets make great plant covers during frost.
They’re also lifesavers for kids’ play forts or messy projects. If you’re crafty, try turning them into lightweight curtains or pillowcases.
These tired sheets can still tuck in some serious functionality. For some unique ideas, check out 15 Creative Ways to Repurpose Fabric for Decor.
Furniture
Furniture quality isn’t what it used to be. Today’s “fast furniture” might be trendy, but it often lacks durability.
Do you have those heirloom-quality or solid wood pieces in your home? They’re built to last and tell a story modern replacements simply can’t.
If you still have such furniture, appreciate and keep them, as they are often more durable and meaningful compared to modern alternatives.
In case, it’s in bad condition, give it a quick sanding and a fresh coat of paint to transform its look. Check out Easy Hacks to Upcycle Your Old Furniture for ways to give your items a second chance instead of tossing them away.
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