There will be plenty of items in every household that have been lying unused for months or years and still occupying space. One of the primary reasons is that it is difficult to let go of things. While you may not suffer from a hoarding disorder, you may still be guilty of accumulating sentimental items and collecting old bills and receipts or crafting supplies in the hope that they will be handy one day.
Recognizing these often-visible hoards is the first step towards a more organized, serene environment.
Read on to learn 12 surprising things you’re hoarding (even if you don’t think so).
Unused Kitchen Gadgets
Sometimes appliances don’t necessarily have to break to be lying unused. Sometimes, you decide to upgrade, and you are left with many gadgets that gather dust rather than serve their intended purpose. Items like bread makers, juicers, or novelty slicers often take up valuable space in cabinets or countertops; hoping you will use them if the new one stops working. However, you never go back to using the old one. Clearing out these seldom-used tools can make your cooking space more functional and less cluttered.
Old Clothes
Average American spends $1,800 per year on clothing. That means, there are just too many clothes – unworn with tags still attached, old clothes from when you were a few sizes smaller, torn dresses etc.
Apart from this, you may even keep your torn dress because it was the first gift from your husband or your children’s clothes as they looked like angels in them. These items often take up closet space and can lead to unnecessary clutter. Regularly reviewing your wardrobe and discarding torn clothes while returning, donating, or reselling clothing in good condition can keep your closet functional and fresh.
Gift-Wrap Supplies
Wrapping paper, ribbons, and bows multiply after holidays or special occasions, leading to a stockpile of supplies. While having a small stash for future gifts is practical, an excessive amount can take up unnecessary space. Creating an organized storage system or donating excess materials to schools or community centers can help manage this collection.
Greeting Cards
It’s a little tricky to discard greeting cards for all the sentimental reasons. However, cards from holidays, birthdays, and special days accumulate over the years and fill drawers. Think about it: you have hundreds of cards and will continue to get a hundred more over the years. You don’t want to keep all of them. Keep only those from special occasions and people, and discard the rest.
The same goes for hoarding envelopes. Keep a few in good condition that can be used/reused, and throw the rest away.
Shopping Bags
On most days, you remember to carry your reusable shopping bags. However, there are still times when you forget or are caught short and have to come back home with new ones. These plastic bags are often stacked up in the kitchen drawers until they are overflowing. Access your plastic shopping bag collection, keep the ones that offer the best durability, and recycle the excess.
Manuals, Bills And Paperwork
Instruction manuals, old bills, takeout menus, and outdated documents can quickly pile up in drawers or filing cabinets. While some papers should be retained for reference or legal reasons, many can be digitized or discarded. Establishing a regular review schedule and throwing out unnecessary paperwork can help maintain an organized and clutter-free space.
Restaurant Cutlery
Wooden or plastic chopsticks, forks, and spoons that usually accompany a takeaway find their way into the kitchen drawers, overwhelming them at one point. This cutlery is stored in the hope it will be carried on a picnic or will come in handy on the day when the dishwasher breaks. Periodically check your drawer, keep a couple of every cutlery type, and show the bin to the rest.
Small Size Toiletries
Many people have the habit of taking hotel toiletries when they are traveling. They come in cute packaging and have lovely fragrances. However, over the years, you have cabinets full of tiny bottles of body wash, shampoos, and conditioners. You don’t use them because you have your preferred brands. It is advisable to discard ancient ones and donate the rest.
Old Magazines And Books
Many people accumulate a collection of magazines or books, intending to read them someday. However, new books are bought or gifted, while the old collection often remains untouched and gathers dust. Review the stash of reading material periodically and donate or recycle these materials to keep your reading materials manageable and your living space organized.
Excess Stationery
Pens, diaries, notebooks, and other office supplies can accumulate over time, primarily if you work from home. If you have children, you might be left with crayons, paints, and craft supplies. While having a stock of essentials is good, too much can lead to disorganization. Periodically sorting through and donating excess supplies to local schools or charities can help keep your workspace and children’s study space tidy and efficient.
Old Makeup
Makeup products have a shelf life, and once they are past their expiration dates, they can degrade, host harmful bacteria, and lead to infections. So, even if it’s your favorite lip gloss or nail paint, it must go. Replace your makeup from time to time to keep it effective and clean.
Cardboard Boxes
Cardboard boxes from kitchen appliances and electronics for warranty take up a lot of space. Some people even keep empty cardboard boxes for moving purposes. However, if you are not planning to sell any item or move out anytime soon, recycle these boxes to free up valuable space.