As we move into a new season, there’s no better time than now to clear out the clutter that has accumulated in our homes. Over the years, we tend to accumulate so many things—some of which we rarely use, others that no longer serve a purpose. With the rush of daily life, it’s easy to hold onto items that we no longer need or use. Yet, shedding these things can make us feel lighter, more organised, and even a bit more joyful. Here are 7 things that you could throw away today to help bring some clarity and peace into your home, and ultimately, your mind.
1. Old Makeup
We’ve all been guilty of buying that bold lipstick shade or eyeshadow that we thought would be our next favourite thing, only to realise it doesn’t suit us after all. Yet, we keep it stashed away, thinking we might use it one day. But let’s be honest: will we? Makeup, especially if it’s been sitting in the drawer for months or even years, can harbour bacteria that could be harmful to your skin. Check the expiry dates on all your cosmetics and get rid of anything that’s past its prime. Whether it’s that forgotten foundation or those eye pencils that haven’t been used in ages, clearing out your makeup bag can give you a fresh start—and maybe even an excuse for a little shopping!
2. Frayed or Stained Towels
Towels are one of those household items we tend to hold onto far longer than we should. How many of us have a stack of old, frayed towels shoved at the back of a cupboard, just because we can’t bear to let go of them? I used to be guilty of this too. But one day, while shopping, I came across some gorgeous, fluffy towels, and I couldn’t help but wonder why mine had started to look so sad. The truth? They were just too old! I finally decided to part with those stained, threadbare towels, and investing in new ones has made all the difference. Not only do they look better, but they also work better, making bath time feel like a little luxury. A small change, but one that has brightened my day!
3. Old Glasses or Sunglasses
If you’re like me, you’ve probably accumulated a pile of old glasses and sunglasses over the years. Whether it’s because your prescription changed, or you simply didn’t want to part with a favourite pair, you end up with a drawer full of frames that you can no longer use. I’ve done this myself, especially after my laser eye surgery, when I thought I’d never need glasses again—only for my vision to change and find myself back with a collection of old, useless pairs. Now, I’m making an effort to throw out anything that I don’t wear anymore, keeping just one spare pair in case of emergencies. If you’re holding onto glasses you no longer use, it might be time to declutter and make space for a pair you love.
4. Old Electronics
Ah, electronics—the ultimate clutter culprit. Whether it’s an outdated mobile phone, an old TV remote, or that busted blender sitting in the corner of your kitchen, these things tend to pile up over time. I’ve lost count of the number of old gadgets and wires I’ve stored away, thinking, “What if I need this someday?” But let’s face it—chances are you’re never going to use them again. It’s important to clear out anything that no longer serves you, especially items like old cell phones, chargers, or broken electronics that are simply taking up valuable space. Trust me, you won’t miss them!
5. Old Receipts
Do you have a habit of hoarding receipts, especially from your last trip to the supermarket or coffee shop? I know I do! My bag used to be full of crumpled receipts, most of which had no real purpose. Occasionally, I’d clean out my handbag and find a receipt from a purchase I’d forgotten about. Taking the time to clear out all the receipts that are no longer needed can make a huge difference in how organised you feel. It’s a simple task, but just getting rid of them can make your bag feel lighter and your mind clearer. Plus, it creates space for things you actually want to carry around!
6. Old Bedding
Bedding is one of those items that gets used and reused, even when it’s starting to fall apart. I’ll admit, I’ve had sheets with holes in them for far too long, just because I didn’t want to buy new ones. But when I turned over one night and felt my foot break through a threadbare sheet, I knew it was time to let go. You deserve better than worn-out sheets that no longer serve their purpose. Throw away those old, faded sets that no longer give you that cozy feeling and replace them with fresh, comfortable bedding. It’ll make a world of difference to your sleep and your bedroom’s overall vibe.
7. Lidless Tupperware Containers
Raise your hand if you have a cupboard full of mismatched Tupperware—most of it without a lid! I know I’m guilty of holding onto containers that have lost their lids, hoping that one day, somehow, they’ll turn up again. Well, after years of frustration, I finally took the time to declutter the kitchen cupboards and match up all the lids with their respective containers. If a container didn’t have a lid, it went straight to the recycling bin. Now, I have a much tidier and more functional cupboard, and finding a container when I need one is no longer a chore!
There’s something incredibly freeing about getting rid of the things that no longer serve a purpose in our lives. Whether it’s old makeup, worn-out towels, or electronics that are collecting dust, clearing out the clutter can have an instant positive effect on your mood. When you make space for the things that truly matter, it helps you focus on what’s important and brings a sense of order and calm into your home.
So, grab a trash bag or recycling bin and start letting go of the things that no longer bring you joy or usefulness. You’ll be amazed at how much lighter and more refreshed you feel once it’s done!