12 Things Professional Organizers Always Toss from a Cluttered Home

Some items create more chaos than convenience, and professional organizers always know what to remove first when tackling a cluttered home.

Outdated paperwork, broken household items, and excess duplicates often take up valuable space without serving a real purpose.

Unused kitchen gadgets, expired beauty products, and unnecessary decor can quickly add to the mess.

Simplifying your surroundings by letting go of non-essentials helps create a more functional and peaceful space.

Streamline your home with these 12 things that professional organizers always remove:

12 Common Items Professional Organizers Remove from Cluttered Homes

Certain items take up space without adding value, making homes feel chaotic.

Professional organizers know exactly what to clear out to maximize space and functionality.

These are the top things they always remove from cluttered homes:

Toss Out Expired Pantry Staples

Outdated pantry items can occupy important space that you could use for nutritious foods. It’s essential to examine the expiration dates on your canned goods, spices, and baking ingredients regularly.

Often, these products linger at the back of shelves where they go unnoticed. Clearing them out not only reduces clutter but also prevents using expired or unsafe food items in your meals.

Taking this straightforward step opens up more room while enhancing your cooking experience significantly. Enjoying fresh ingredients makes meal preparation much more pleasant and satisfying.

Get Rid of Old or Unused Electronics

Old gadgets tend to accumulate swiftly, particularly due to the fast pace of technological advancements. Devices like outdated smartphones, chargers, and other electronics frequently gather dust in drawers for extended periods without serving any function.

It’s crucial to dispose of these items responsibly instead of allowing them to linger unused. Numerous communities offer e-waste recycling initiatives that facilitate proper disposal.

By clearing out these devices, you not only create more space but also contribute significantly by preventing harmful materials from entering landfills. Taking this step benefits both your environment and your living area while promoting a cleaner future for everyone involved.

Stop Hoarding Extra Plastic Bags

Plastic bags can quickly accumulate without you noticing. Many households find themselves with a collection stuffed under the sink or hidden away in closets.

Instead of allowing this pile-up, consider repurposing them for waste disposal or recycling purposes. Transitioning to reusable bags not only helps reduce clutter but also benefits the environment.

Numerous grocery stores provide designated bins specifically for plastic bag recycling, making it easy to dispose of them responsibly. By decluttering these bags regularly, organization improves and messiness diminishes in both your kitchen and storage spaces.

Recycle Old Magazines and Newspapers

Magazines and newspapers can pile up quickly, creating an overwhelming mess in your home. If you have a stash of unread issues, reflect on whether you'll actually find the time to read them.

Donating newer magazines to places like waiting rooms is a thoughtful option, or recycling them can also help clear space. By tackling this paper clutter, you free up tables and shelves while promoting a more serene environment at home.

A tidy area not only looks better but feels more inviting as well.

Donate Clothes That No Longer Fit

Outgrown or damaged clothing doesn't have to clutter your wardrobe. If an item hasn't seen the light of day in over a year, consider donating or repurposing it.

Retaining only well-fitting garments that boost your confidence can lead to smoother mornings without the hassle of choice overload. Additionally, decluttering opens up space for fresh pieces that align with your evolving tastes and daily activities.

Embracing this practice not only simplifies getting dressed but also refreshes your closet for new opportunities ahead.

Finding Peace and Simplicity Through Decluttering

Tackling clutter might feel daunting at first, yet breaking it down by category simplifies the process significantly. By removing these 12 frequent sources of disarray, you can open up space and cultivate a calmer atmosphere.

Living in a home devoid of excess belongings contributes to lower stress levels, streamlines your daily tasks, and allows for greater focus on what truly holds value in your life. Begin with small steps; soon enough, you'll experience how much more refreshing and inviting your surroundings become.

Taking control over clutter leads to lasting benefits that enhance both functionality and comfort within any living space.

Donate Shoes and Accessories You Never Wear

Unused shoes and accessories clutter your space after a year of inactivity. If they don't fit well, feel outdated, or no longer match your taste, it’s wise to part with them.

Consider donating items that are still in good condition so others can benefit from them. This not only frees up valuable closet space but also allows you to focus on the pieces that truly resonate with you.

A tidy wardrobe enhances organization and makes choosing outfits easier each day while refreshing your style choices too.

Let Go of Extra Tools and Utensils

It’s common to gather extra items, particularly in the kitchen. How many bottle openers do you actually use?

Having multiple spatulas can create clutter and make it harder to find what you need quickly. Streamlining your collection by retaining just one of each essential tool not only clears up space but also minimizes the hassle of searching through messy drawers.

If any duplicates are still usable, consider donating or selling them. A more organized kitchen or garage allows for easier access to your necessary tools and enhances efficiency during cooking tasks.

Throw Out Expired Beauty Products

Beauty items tend to accumulate over time, particularly when exploring different brands. Outdated lotions, old makeup, and partially used shampoo bottles not only clutter your space but may also contain harmful bacteria.

Regularly review the expiration dates on these products and dispose of anything that has passed its prime. Doing so helps declutter your bathroom while ensuring the items you apply are safe for your skin's health.

Keeping a tidy collection allows you to enjoy using fresh products without worrying about their safety or effectiveness.

Reevaluate Sentimental Clutter

Holding onto sentimental items can be quite challenging, yet if they lack real utility, they only contribute to the mess around you. It's essential to evaluate whether each piece genuinely brings happiness or is just occupying room out of obligation.

Keeping a select few cherished belongings while photographing others allows you to preserve those memories without keeping unnecessary clutter in your space. This method not only helps clear out physical items but also lightens emotional burdens linked with them.

By doing this, you're able to maintain connections with meaningful moments without being overwhelmed by things that no longer serve you well.

Clear Out Unused Toys and Games

Children tend to move on from toys and games at a rapid pace, which can lead to a buildup of unused items.

When you notice that your kids have moved past certain toys or no longer show interest in them, think about donating or sharing these items with others.

Streamlining the toy collection helps children discover and appreciate what they truly enjoy playing with.

A tidy play space not only makes it easier for little ones to find their favorite things but also contributes to a more peaceful and organized home atmosphere.

Ditch Broken or Unused Kitchen Tools

Kitchen tools can be incredibly useful, yet many of us find ourselves with a cluttered drawer filled with gadgets we seldom touch. If that avocado slicer or bread machine has gathered dust for over a year, it may be wise to part ways.

Consider donating any items still in good shape while recycling those that are damaged whenever possible. Simplifying your kitchen collection not only clears space but also enhances the cooking experience by making it more enjoyable and efficient.

A well-organized kitchen allows you to focus on what truly matters: preparing delicious meals effortlessly. So take some time to evaluate which tools genuinely serve you and let go of the rest for a smoother culinary journey ahead.

Pare Down Extra Towels and Bedding

Having an excess of sheets and towels can turn your linen closet into a disorganized space. If you find yourself with more than what is essential, think about giving those surplus items to a local animal shelter or individuals who could benefit from them.

Retain only the essentials for your household along with some extra sets for occasional visitors. By doing this, you will create a more organized environment in your linen closet, allowing you to locate what you're searching for without sifting through cluttered stacks of fabric.

A tidy storage area not only enhances accessibility but also brings peace of mind when it's time to grab linens quickly.

What Are the Most Common Causes of Clutter in a Home?

Clutter can sneak into our homes in surprising ways. Recognizing these common causes can help keep your space tidy and serene:

Entryway Overflow

Piling up shoes and jackets at the door creates a chaotic first impression. Regularly clear this area, keeping only daily essentials. Consider using a shoe cabinet or a bench with storage bins to keep things organized.

Maximalist Decor

While a rich decor style can be beautiful, too many items can overwhelm a room. Focus on displaying pieces that bring joy and serve a purpose, and avoid filling spaces just to fill them.

Cluttered Surfaces

Counters and tables covered with items can make a home feel disorderly. Aim to keep these surfaces clear, perhaps by using trays to group essentials neatly.

Overcrowded Bookshelves

Bookshelves crammed with books and miscellaneous items can appear messy. Regularly sort through them, keeping only what you love and use. Donate or store the rest to maintain a tidy look.

Excess Furniture

Too many chairs, tables, or decor pieces can clutter a room. Select key pieces that fit well and serve a function, allowing for open space and better flow.

Lack of Storage Solutions

Without proper storage, items easily pile up. Incorporate cabinets, shelves, or baskets to give everything a designated spot, reducing visible clutter.

Procrastinating Tidying Habits

Delaying tasks like putting away clothes or handling mail leads to accumulation. Develop routines to address these daily, preventing build-up and maintaining order.

How to Keep Clutter from Building Up Again

Keeping your home free from clutter requires simple habits and thoughtful choices. By making small changes, you can enjoy a tidy and peaceful space:

• Designate a Place for Everything: When each item has its own spot, it's easier to keep things organized. For example, use a bowl near the door for keys or a basket for mail. This way, essentials are always within reach and not scattered around.
• One In, One Out Rule: To prevent overcrowding, consider removing an old item whenever you bring in something new. This practice helps maintain balance and keeps your home from becoming cluttered.
• Regular Decluttering Sessions: Set aside a few minutes each day or week to tidy up. Consistent, short cleaning sessions can effectively prevent clutter from piling up, making your home more organized over time.
• Mindful Shopping Habits: Before making a purchase, ask yourself if the item is truly needed. Thoughtful buying decisions can reduce unnecessary items that contribute to clutter.
• Create a Landing Zone: Having a specific area near the entrance for items like bags, shoes, and coats can keep your home organized. This practice ensures that belongings have a place, reducing mess in living areas.