13 Expressions Minimalists Suggest Instantly Discarding Valuable Items
Embracing a minimalist lifestyle can be a game-changer, but let's face it, decluttering can be challenging, especially when time or emotional attachments are obstacles. However, a tidy living space is definitely worth the effort. To give you that extra push, we consulted minimalists and organizers, compiling their top suggestions for what to donate or toss away, from old clothes to excess decor.
- Clothes and Accessories
A crowded closet can hinder your morning routine. Kim, the founder of Raising Simple, suggests letting go of outfits you rarely wear and old clothes that no longer fit. This will not only make your mornings smoother but also boost your confidence.
- Kitchen Gadgets and Utensils
delegate your kitchen cabinets from mugs, cups, and mismatched storage containers. Keep only the ones you truly use and love. Donating or throwing away unused kitchen gadgets can free up precious space and make your kitchen feel lighter.
- Kids' Clothes
Holding onto clothes your kids have outgrown is pointless. Donating these items can create space as well as allow other families to benefit from them. Sharing the love is a wonderful way to make most out of the memories.
- Duplicates
Less is indeed more. Becker, the founder of Becoming Minimalist, urges sorting through your home and getting rid of duplicate items like utensils, blankets, and towels. Keep only your favorites, and let go of the excess.
- Expired or Unused Toiletries
Nail down your beauty routine and stick to it. Becker suggests setting aside a few minutes to toss expired or unwanted toiletries. Many shelters welcome used and unused toiletries for donation, making it a great option for those looking to declutter.
- Unnecessary Paperwork
Stacks of paper can accumulate quickly. Francine Jay, author and founder of Miss Minimalist, recommends scanning important documents and recycling the rest. Embrace the digital age to reduce paper clutter.
- Old Cords and Chargers
Sometimes, the little things can accumulate into a big clutter. Discard any cables, chargers, and other accessories that are unidentifiable or belong to devices you no longer have.
- Electronics
If warranted, technology changes rapidly. Get old electronics out of your home by donating or recycling them. Saving space and eliminating unnecessary reminders of the past can significantly reduce stress.
- Abandoned Hobbies
Everyone has their share of incomplete projects and hobbies. Consider re-evaluating things like unfinished craft supplies or exercise equipment. If you're not actively using them, let them go.
- Expensive Items
Just because you spent money on something doesn't mean you have to keep it forever. Layne, the founder of Life on Purpose Movement, suggests releasing items that bring no joy and only occupy space and add stress.
- Generic Décor
Replacing clutter with personality is key to a happy home. Harrington, a design blogger and artist, recommends surrounding yourself with personal and meaningfully chosen pieces that reflect your unique identity.
- The What-Ifs
Embrace the present and discard items you keep for "what-if" scenarios. Dare, a minimalist blogger, advises letting go of over-stocking on items like party supplies or sewing kits.
By adhering to these suggestions, you can maintain a clutter-free home that aligns with minimalist principles.
- Martha Stewart once emphasized the importance of regular cleaning and organizing in maintaining a clutter-free storage space.
- If you're finding it difficult to start cleaning and organizing, consider doing a little exercise to boost your energy levels and motivation. It might be helpful to do this task sooner rather than later.
- To ensure a smooth transition to a minimalist lifestyle, consider donating excess items to charities or thrift stores to give them new life and reduce the amount of clutter in your own home.
- Sticking to a minimalist lifestyle can be challenging at first, but the benefits to your mental and physical well-being can make the effort worthwhile in the long run.
