10 Things to Declutter Right Now

Published on February 13, 2025

by Mia Hart

If your home feels a bit heavy lately — visually or emotionally — clutter might be the culprit. Whether you’re on a minimalist journey or just craving clearer space, knowing where to start can feel overwhelming. That’s where quick wins help: focusing on items you can declutter today to make an instant difference.

This list highlights 10 common clutter culprits that almost everyone has. They’re easy to overlook but incredibly satisfying to clear out. Let’s dive in.

Everyday Items You Can Let Go of Now

Here are 10 things you can declutter today — quickly, guilt-free, and with immediate results.

1. Expired Pantry Goods

That can of soup from 2019? It’s not coming back into fashion.

Here’s what to toss or compost:

Expired canned goods or boxed food
Spices older than 2 years
Condiments you haven’t touched in 6 months
Duplicate or excess dry goods you’ll never use

2. Old Magazines and Catalogs

These stack up fast and offer little ongoing value.

Consider clearing:

Outdated decor or fashion catalogs
Magazines you’ve already read
Articles you’ve bookmarked but never returned to
Stacks used as makeshift coasters or table props

3. Mismatched Socks

Let’s be real — that missing mate isn’t coming back.

Here’s what to sort through:

Single socks without a partner
Worn-out pairs with holes
Pairs that never stay up or are uncomfortable
Ones you always skip on laundry day

4. Expired Makeup and Toiletries

Cosmetics and skincare have a shelf life — and bacteria love old products.

Declutter these:

Mascaras older than 3–6 months
Foundations separating or changing color
Duplicate or unused skincare products
Perfumes that smell “off”

5. Instruction Manuals for Items You No Longer Own

You’d be surprised how many you’ve kept by accident.

Look for and recycle:

Paper manuals for gadgets you’ve donated or sold
Electronics you no longer own
Appliance paperwork that’s outdated
Instructions you can now find online

6. Takeout Menus and Flyers

In the digital age, this clutter is totally optional.

Recycle these today:

Old takeout menus (everything’s online)
Flyers and postcards on the fridge
Coupons you’ll never use
Event ads for things long past

7. Clothes That Don’t Fit

Holding onto “maybe someday” clothes can weigh you down.

Consider letting go of:

Items that are too small or too large
Pieces that feel outdated
Things you haven’t worn in over a year
Clothes that feel uncomfortable or unlike “you”

8. Junk Drawer Extras

One junk drawer? Fair. But if it’s overflowing — it’s time.

Clear out:

Dried-out pens or mystery keys
Loose screws or batteries of unknown use
Old receipts and paper clutter
Duplicate tools or gadgets

9. Decor You Don’t Love

Your space should reflect your taste — not guilt or gifts.

Edit your decor by removing:

Gifts you’ve kept out of obligation
Outdated or overly trendy pieces
Items that don’t spark joy or purpose
Cluttery knick-knacks that collect dust

10. Old Electronics and Cords

That Nokia charger from 2003? It can go now.

Declutter this drawer by tossing:

Unmatched power cords
Broken earbuds
Defunct or outdated tech
Chargers for devices you no longer use

Why This Matters

Decluttering isn’t just about looks — it’s about reducing stress, decision fatigue, and distraction. Clutter pulls attention, adds to cleaning, and keeps your space from feeling restful. Small wins like these create momentum and mental clarity, one drawer or shelf at a time.

Tips for Different Lifestyles

Decluttering looks different for everyone. Whether you’re managing a busy family, starting small in a tiny apartment, or simply trying to break through sentimental attachment, tailor your approach to suit your lifestyle. Here are a few ways to adapt:

Busy parents: Make it a 10-minute family challenge — one item per room.
Minimalist beginners: Start with non-emotional areas like pantry or junk drawers.
Students or small-space dwellers: Use vertical space and storage bins to streamline.
Sentimental types: Take photos of items before letting go.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to hit bumps on your decluttering journey — especially if you try to rush or overthink it. Here are common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them:

Trying to declutter everything in one go — it’s overwhelming and discouraging.
Holding onto “just in case” items that haven’t been used in years.
Decluttering without a plan for donation or recycling.
Replacing items immediately after decluttering.

Takeaway

Decluttering doesn’t have to mean a total overhaul. Starting with just a few common items can shift the energy in your space and kick-start a longer-term habit. Let go of what no longer serves you — and make room for calm, clarity, and what truly matters.

What will you declutter first?