15 Things to declutter now for a more peaceful home

The hidden clutter culprit: storage spaces

It’s tempting to hide clutter behind closed cabinet doors, creating a superficial sense of order. However, overflowing storage spaces quickly become overwhelming. Isolating random kitchen utensils, unused toys, and almost-empty products in drawers might seem like a quick fix, but “out of sight, out of mind” isn’t the best decluttering strategy. A major contributor to clutter is often having too many of the same items or holding onto things that are no longer usable. Let's tackle this!

1. Mismatched utensils: streamline your cutlery

Is your utensil drawer a chaotic jumble of forks, spoons, and knives? It’s likely time for a reevaluation. Many of us accumulate multiple sets of silverware that don't stack neatly. Generally, 8 to 12 of each utensil is sufficient, adjusting for household size and entertaining habits. Consider how often you wash silverware and how many utensils are actually used daily. Donate any extras you no longer need.

2. Overflowing bookshelves: curate your collection

Even non-avid readers often find their bookshelves overflowing. Take a moment to review your collection and retain only your favorite books and those you genuinely plan to read. Donate the rest to your local public library, a thrift store, or a book buyback retailer. Schools sometimes accept donations too, so be sure to check.

3. Plastic food containers: lid matching is key

The frustration of mismatched reusable food containers is all too familiar. If you struggle to find lids, it’s a sign you have too many. Clear out your entire cabinet, match lids to bottoms, and recycle any loose pieces. Dispose of warped or stained canisters, and donate the ones you rarely use. A streamlined system makes meal prepping a breeze.

4. Glassware overload: keep only the essentials

Vases, pitchers, and mismatched cups can quickly consume space. While having glassware for every occasion seems appealing, many pieces simply gather dust. Keep coordinating sets together and donate random or unused glassware. Stemware and flower vases that haven’t been touched in years are prime candidates for the thrift store. Focus on the glassware you use consistently.

5. Nearly empty products: time for a toss

We’ve all got a collection of almost-empty cosmetics and cleaning supplies lurking in cabinets and baskets. Check expiration dates and discard expired items. Move viable products to the front for use first, and combine multiples when possible. Unopened items you haven't touched in years or have duplicates of can often be donated to local charities or shelters.

6. Old clothes: donate and refresh your wardrobe

Closets are notorious clutter magnets. Old clothes intended for re-wearing, items that no longer fit, or garments never worn contribute to the problem. Duplicates of the same item, like numerous T-shirts, are also common. Sort through your attire and eliminate anything you no longer wear. Donate retired garments in good condition to free up valuable space.

7. Sports equipment: pare down the gear

Garages often become overwhelmed by excess sports equipment. Balls, racquets, and bats can be difficult to store and often accumulate in multiples. Keep items used frequently and donate the rest. Consider how often you actually use each item before deciding to keep it. Organize remaining items by grouping similar things together.

8. Kid’s toys: donate and organize

Children quickly outgrow toys, leaving behind a surplus of stuffed animals, action figures, and other multiples. Donate functional toys that are no longer played with to shelters, thrift stores, or daycares. Set up a clear organizational system in dressers and on shelves to keep remaining toys manageable and clutter-free.

9. Water bottles: streamline hydration

Water bottles can be surprisingly difficult to store, often too tall for cabinets. Depending on your lifestyle, one bottle per family member might be sufficient. Donate any remaining bottles to a thrift store and utilize a magazine holder to stack those you keep.

10. Outdated cords and chargers: cut the tangled mess

That drawer filled with unknown or inoperative chargers is a common source of clutter. As you acquire new devices, chargers tend to accumulate. Dispose of chargers that no longer work and purge cords you can't remember using. Secure remaining cords with rubber bands or ties.

11. Mail and paper items: conquer the paper pile

The ever-growing mail pile is a recurring homeowner frustration. Only put mail you need in your stack. Immediately shred unnecessary items and recycle junk mail. Use a labeled container for important mail and routinely comb through expired coupons and papers.

12. Condiments: reduce the fridge clutter

Too many condiments can quickly clutter your refrigerator. While variety is tempting, many remain untouched for months. When decluttering, dispose of multiples and expired items. Generally, one of each type of condiment is sufficient. Evaluate your condiment selection before grocery shopping to prevent overbuying.

13. Winter gear: donate extra accessories

As cold weather arrives, hats, gloves, and scarves tend to accumulate. Usually, one of each type of accessory, plus a backup for extreme weather, is sufficient per person. Sort through your winter gear and donate the rest to a shelter or thrift store.

14. Small kitchen appliances: assess usage

Waffle makers and slow cookers can take up precious cabinet and counter space. Pull out all your portable cooking devices and list the ones you use frequently. Return those to a designated spot and donate the rest.

15. Clothes hangers: recycle and reuse

Over time, you likely have a collection of various clothes hangers. Sort through your collection and recycle any in disrepair. Check local ordinances and see if dry cleaners will accept wire hangers for reuse.