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Introduction
Decluttering your home can be daunting, especially when deciding what stays and what goes. While holding onto some items might seem logical, others could be taking up unnecessary space or even causing harm. This guide will walk you through 14 things you should always throw away and 10 items that deserve a place in your home. Alongside helpful tips, you’ll find advice on how to organize, store, and repurpose to create a more efficient living space.
Ingredients
(While this guide isn’t a recipe, here are the “ingredients” you’ll need to make this decluttering process successful.)
Time: Dedicate a few hours for sorting.
Boxes or Bags: For trash, donations, and recycling.
Cleaning Supplies: For tidying up once the clutter is gone.
Notebook or App: To create a checklist of items to revisit.
Directions
Step 1: Identify the 14 Items You Should Toss
Expired food in the pantry or fridge.
Worn-out or mismatched socks.
Expired medications and cosmetics.
Old magazines or newspapers.
Broken electronics that can’t be repaired.
Stained or damaged clothing you don’t wear.
Old receipts and paperwork you no longer need.
Duplicate kitchen utensils you never use.
Broken furniture or decor.
Expired cleaning products.
Chipped dishes or glassware.
Worn-out towels and bedding.
Unused gift items collecting dust.
Outdated or obsolete tech accessories (like cables).
Step 2: Evaluate the 10 Items Worth Keeping
Sentimental items with emotional value.
High-quality kitchen tools.
Timeless wardrobe staples.
Books you enjoy rereading.
Seasonal clothing and decor.
Emergency supplies (like flashlights and batteries).
Functional electronics.
Rare collectibles or antiques.
Tools for home maintenance.
Items that bring you genuine joy.
Step 3: Organize and Clean
Designate storage areas for the items you’re keeping.
Deep clean spaces after removing clutter.
Step 4: Dispose Responsibly
Recycle or donate usable items instead of trashing them.
Safely discard hazardous materials like electronics or medications.
Serving and Storage Tips
Regular Maintenance: Schedule monthly or quarterly check-ins to ensure clutter doesn’t return.
Storage Solutions: Invest in transparent bins, drawer dividers, and label makers for efficient storage.
Keep Essentials Accessible: Store frequently used items where they’re easy to reach.
Variations
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