Declutter your home: 6 categories to tackle first

As a professional organizer, I’ve seen the same patterns emerge in countless homes – and, let's be honest, in my own too! We all tend to accumulate items we think we might need someday, only to have them sit untouched for years, contributing to a sense of overwhelm. The key to breaking free from this cycle is acknowledging the problem. Is it a paper mountain on your kitchen counter, a closet bursting with unworn clothes, or a drawer overflowing with cables? Let's tackle those common clutter culprits head-on.

1. Unused kitchen gadgets: reclaim your cabinet space

Kitchens are notorious clutter magnets. While essential items like your trusty air fryer deserve a prime spot, those gadgets that gathered dust after a bridal shower, the pile of unused reusable water bottles, and the mystery appliance in the utensil drawer? It's time to say goodbye. Ask yourself: when was the last time you used it? If you can’t remember, or if it's hindering access to the tools you do use regularly, donate it if still usable, or recycle small, non-working appliances responsibly. Sentimental pieces can be passed on to family who'd appreciate them.

2. Outdated electronics: responsible disposal is key

That drawer or bin crammed with tangled cords, old phones, and chargers—we’ve all been there! Fear of tossing something you might need and uncertainty about proper disposal often fuel this clutter. Most of those cables are obsolete. Sort your electronics into three piles: donate/recycle, keep, and unsure. Anything you can’t identify quickly likely isn't necessary. Many retailers like Best Buy and local programs offer e-waste recycling, allowing you to dispose of electronics responsibly. Label cords going forward to prevent future confusion.

3. Unworn clothing: a closet detox

Decluttering your closet can be emotionally challenging, as clothing often holds sentimental value. However, a packed closet limits your options and serves as a constant reminder of past purchases or wishful thinking. Be honest with yourself: does it fit now, or will it ever? Does it match your current style? Does it feel comfortable and flattering? Hang clothes with hangers facing backward. After six months, anything still backward goes to donation.

4. Expired products: bathroom purge

Medicine cabinets, makeup bags, and linen closets often harbor expired or unused products. Beauty products do expire, and using them past their prime can cause skin irritation or ineffectiveness. Do a thorough sweep and toss anything past its expiration date, discolored, or with an unusual odor. Many pharmacies offer drug disposal programs, and unopened, unexpired products can often be donated to women’s shelters. Mark the opening date on future products to track their shelf life.

5. Unnecessary paperwork: conquer the paper mountain

Even in the digital age, paper clutter accumulates quickly. Bills, junk mail, receipts, and even kids’ artwork can overwhelm surfaces. Reduce the influx by opting out of junk mail (FTC can help!), choosing digital receipts, and going paperless for statements. Create a simple system: action (scan if needed), file, and toss (shred and recycle). Review papers regularly – at least a few times a week – to prevent overwhelming piles.

6. Too many sentimental items: honoring memories, not hoarding

“If everything is special, nothing is special.” Holding onto excessive sentimental items can prevent proper storage and obscure what you truly own. Greeting cards, ticket stubs, and souvenirs might have brought joy, but if they’re hidden away, they’re not being appreciated. Be selective; consider creating a quilt from old shirts, photographing souvenirs before donating, and discarding cards with generic signatures. Properly store the cherished items you choose to keep in a climate-controlled environment to preserve their value and memories.