The Most Common Items I Find That Need Decluttering
As a professional organizer, I’ve had the privilege of stepping into many homes, each with its own unique story. While no two spaces are exactly alike, there’s a surprising similarity in the types of items that tend to accumulate and cause clutter. These objects often reflect not just physical clutter but emotional attachments or life transitions. Let me share the most common categories I encounter, along with insights into why they pile up and how to decide what stays and what goes.
First up is paper clutter. Bills, receipts, old birthday cards, and forgotten warranties seem to sprout from every drawer and surface. Often, these items are saved out of a sense of responsibility or "just in case" thinking. But much of it can be digitized or recycled without consequence. I always remind my clients that letting go of unnecessary paper doesn’t mean letting go of the memories or obligations tied to them. It means freeing up space for clarity and efficiency.
Another frequent offender? Clothes, especially those that no longer fit or serve a purpose. Closets are often bursting with “someday” items—jeans that don’t zip, a blazer bought for a job interview years ago, or impulse purchases still sporting price tags. I encourage people to think about how each item makes them feel. If it no longer fits their life or body, it’s time to let it go. The space created often feels more liberating than the item itself ever did.
Sentimental items are another big category. This includes things like inherited trinkets, children’s artwork, or souvenirs from past vacations. While these objects can be meaningful, they can also weigh people down, especially when they’re stored haphazardly or take up valuable space. I gently guide clients to keep only what truly sparks joy and to find creative ways to honor those items, such as creating a memory box or a photo archive.
Every pantry has its secrets, and more often than not, they include expired spices, canned goods, or random baking supplies purchased on a whim. Those dusty cans of soup or spices that lost their potency years ago? They’re not doing anyone any good. Clearing these out not only frees up space but also makes meal planning far more efficient.
Forgotten Hobby Supplies
That yoga mat you haven’t unrolled in years or the knitting supplies you bought during a fleeting interest in crafts? These are prime examples of aspirational clutter. By passing them on to someone who’ll actually use them, you create space for hobbies and activities you’re actively pursuing.
Outdated Electronics and Cords
We’ve all got that drawer—or worse, a whole box—full of random cords, outdated devices, and chargers we’re afraid to toss. The truth is, many of these items are obsolete. Recycling them responsibly can clear up storage and eliminate unnecessary stress when looking for something you actually use.
Finally, there are duplicate or forgotten household items. It’s not uncommon to find four bottle openers, five half-used candles, or entire collections of mystery cords. These items pile up because they’re “useful” in theory, but in practice, they’re just taking up space. By consolidating, donating, or responsibly recycling duplicates and unused items, my clients rediscover the joy of simplicity.
Decluttering is about so much more than getting rid of stuff; it’s about making room for what matters. Each item we sort through tells a story, and the process of letting go creates the opportunity to write a new one. If you’ve been holding onto some of these common clutter culprits, I invite you to start small—one drawer, one box—and see how a little decluttering can bring a lot of peace.
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