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If you find yourself struggling with storage space, you’re not alone. Many of us wish we had more room in our closets and cabinets, but the reality is that we probably have enough space – it’s just being taken up by items we don’t really need. For example, a drawer filled with cookie cutters and random kitchen gadgets that never get used. Why hold onto things that don’t serve a purpose? Clearing out unnecessary items not only frees up storage space but also declutters our minds.
According to professional organizer Bridget Urgo, decluttering can lead to easier organization, clearer thinking, and even saving money by avoiding buying duplicates of items we already own. So, let’s delve into the home items that you can easily part with, as recommended by experts, and get some tips on organizing your space.
**1. Vases from Flower Deliveries**
After receiving flowers, we often end up with vases that we never use. Instead of letting them clutter up your space, consider giving them to florists who can repurpose them. Keep the vase you truly love for arranging your flowers.
**2. Unnecessary Kitchen Gadgets**
Do you really need that apple corer or mango slicer taking up valuable space in your kitchen drawers? Experts suggest sticking to essential tools like knives for cutting fruits and letting go of unused appliances like Instant Pots or Vitamixes.
**3. Old Electronic Devices and Boxes**
That drawer filled with outdated gadgets, cords, and boxes can be cleared out. Before discarding, make sure to wipe clean any personal information from old electronics. Consider recycling or selling these devices back to the manufacturer for a credit towards a new purchase.
**4. Excess Tote Bags**
Organizers emphasize the importance of decluttering excess canvas tote bags and reusable grocery bags, advising to keep only a few essential ones. Consider donating surplus bags to Goodwill or a local food pantry for those in need.
For managing paper clutter like instruction manuals, receipts, and kids’ artwork, take photos and store them digitally to save space. Professional organizer Nikki Boyd suggests keeping only favorite pieces of children’s artwork.
When it comes to gift wrapping supplies, limit your inventory to what fits in a designated storage station like an Elfa Utility Mesh Gift Packaging Over the Door Rack.
With the shift to digital recipes, consider keeping only a few favorite cookbooks on display in your kitchen and donating the rest.
Dispose of items that are past their prime, such as old toys, expired beauty products, and outdated cans of paint. Take photos of paint can labels for future reference.
Topic: Disposing of Household Items in an Eco-Friendly Way
When it comes to getting rid of various household items, there are sustainable and eco-friendly methods available for almost anything. To dispose of old paint responsibly, consider reaching out to a local paint recycling or disposal company for assistance.
Tea Organizing Tips:
When organizing your home, you may come across a surplus of loose tea bags and boxes taking up space in drawers and cabinets. To address this issue, consider using up your existing tea supply before making new purchases and decluttering unnecessary packaging by utilizing a tea organizer.
Dealing with Extra Linens:
Surprisingly, linen closets can contribute to clutter in the home. Avoid storing more linens than necessary, as adults typically only need one set of sheets and children may require a backup set. Consider donating gently used linens to a women’s shelter and exploring textile recycling options for items that have worn out.
Managing Sentimental Items:
For sentimental items like Grandma’s china, experts recommend keeping only the most cherished pieces. Instead of storing prized possessions in neglected spaces, consider turning them into art displays or incorporating them into daily use. Embrace the idea of using and enjoying special items rather than keeping them hidden away.
By following these suggestions, you can declutter your home while also being mindful of sustainability practices.
