13 Things Minimalists Say You Should Throw Away ASAP

Clothes

Clothing can quite literally pile up. Instead of keeping something for every occasion, activity, or season, think about what you actually use.

“A closet full of ‘maybe one day’ outfits makes it harder to get dressed each morning,” says Zoë Kim, founder of Raising Simple, a minimalist blog. “Letting go of that single sock you've been hanging on to for a year or those clothes that don’t fit will create a smoother morning routine—and boost your confidence.”

Mugs and Cups

Don’t let mugs and cups take over your kitchen. “If your cabinets are filled with mugs from vacation souvenirs, gift sets, or mismatched cups, then it’s time to pare down,” Kim. “Keeping only the ones you actually use and love will instantly open up space, make your kitchen feel lighter—and make it easier to grab your favorite cup for morning coffee or tea.”

Children's Clothes

Holding onto kid's clothes that your children have outgrown isn't helping anyone. Parting with these pieces will help free up space—and you'll still cherish all the memories your family has made after all those hats, shoes, and shirts are gone.

"Share the love and donate [these pieces] to others who can put them to good use right now," says Denaye Barahona, PhD, LCSW, a therapist, author, and host of the Simple Families Podcast.

Mismatched Storage Containers

There’s nothing worse than putting food in a storage container, and then not being able to find the lid that goes with it. “We all end up with random lids and containers over time; this collection can create more stress than it’s worth,” says Kim. “Simplify to just a few matching sets. When everything has its place, your kitchen works more efficiently.” 

Duplicates

One thing’s for sure—less is more. “Do you really need three spatulas?" says Joshua Becker, founder of Becoming Minimalist. “Probably not. Sort through your home and pull out any duplicate items. We have them all over—towels, blankets, coats, and even shoes. Keep your favorites.”

Extra Toiletries

It’s time to nail down your beauty routine and stick to it. “Over time, our bathroom cabinets tend to fill up with half-used products that we never touch—which makes mornings a chore,” Becker says. “Take a few minutes to toss expired or unwanted toiletries. All of those small hotel bottles you brought home and never used fit in this category, too.” Many shelters accept used and unused toiletries; donating them is a great option.

Unnecessary Paperwork

Stacks of paper, whether it's letters, notes, or memos, can really start to pile up. “Get rid of any outdated or unnecessary paperwork, and scan documents that you need the information for,” says Francine Jay, author and founder of the Miss Minimalist blog. “In this digital age, there’s no reason to have paper clutter. Think long and hard before you print anything in the future.” 

Old Cords and Chargers

Cords and chargers may seem small, but you shouldn’t have drawers full of them, especially when you only use a select few that are already plugged into the wall.

“Discard any cables, chargers, and other accessories that are unidentifiable, or belong to devices you no longer have,” says Jay. “They’re awkward to store, and make finding the cable you actually need that much harder. Be sure to recycle or dispose of them responsibly.”

Electronics

Don’t torture yourself by keeping that old DVD player or an iPod that won’t even turn on. “Technology changes rapidly, and finding ways to recycle old electronics will get them out of your house,” says Barahona. “Sometimes we keep items that hold old files that we worry we'll need one day–I suggest waiting six months, and if you haven't pulled anything from them, you can recycle them.”

Abandoned Hobbies

When was the last time you picked up those watercolor brushes or that beer-making kit? If you can’t remember, then it’s time to re-evaluate. “Craft supplies, exercise equipment, half-finished projects ... if you're not actively using these items, then all they're doing is reminding you of the gap between your current self and your ideal self,” says Erica Layne, founder of The Life on Purpose Movement. "Let them go."

Expensive Items

Just because you spent a lot of money on a frivolous item doesn't mean you have to keep it forever—especially if you're not happy with it. “The money is already spent, and holding on only takes up space and adds stress,” says Layne. “Keeping it won't bring the money back, but releasing it can free you from the constant reminder of a past decision.”

Generic Décor

It's always more rewarding to make a space your own, so ditch any meaningless décor in favor of something more personal. “Instead of mass-produced art, surround yourself with pieces that tell a story, evoke emotion, and reflect who you are,” says Heather Harrington, design blogger and artist. “Thoughtfully chosen pieces can bring inspiration and joy.”

The What Ifs

Remember to live in the moment and toss out all the "what ifs." “These are the items you keep on the off-chance you might one day need them, like the extra plates for that huge dinner party or the sewing kit for the day you start making clothes,” says Abi Dare, minimalist blogger and founder of These Four Walls. "They just occupy space that could be used for the things you really do need on a daily basis."