You probably have things around you right now that you’re holding onto longer than you should. It’s easy to put off letting go, whether it’s physical clutter, outdated habits, or unresolved feelings. But keeping certain things for too long can hold you back more than you realize.
Knowing what to let go of can clear the way for better choices and a lighter, more focused life. This article is about identifying those things that might seem harmless now but could cause regret if you keep them another year. It’s about helping you make space for what truly matters.
Broken electronics you never fixed
You probably have some gadgets sitting around that stopped working ages ago. It’s easy to hold onto them, hoping to fix them someday, but that day rarely comes.
These broken electronics just gather dust and clutter your space. Instead of waiting, consider selling for parts or recycling—they won’t magically start working on their own.
Old receipts from years ago
You probably have boxes stuffed with old receipts that seem important but aren’t. Most receipts older than a few years don’t hold much value unless you need them for taxes or warranties.
The IRS generally suggests keeping tax-related documents for about seven years. Beyond that, those receipts just add clutter.
Letting go of these can free up space and reduce stress. Just double-check what’s still needed before tossing anything.
Expired cosmetics and skincare
You might think your makeup and skincare products last forever, but that’s not true. Using expired items can cause clogged pores, irritation, or even infections.
Look out for changes in smell, texture, or color—they usually mean it’s time to toss them. Keeping old products can also reduce how well they work on your skin.
To avoid problems, store your cosmetics in a cool, dry place and keep an eye on expiration dates. Regularly decluttering helps keep your routine fresh and safe.
Clothes that don’t fit anymore
If your clothes don’t fit and haven’t for a while, it’s probably time to let them go. Hanging onto them just takes up space and adds clutter to your closet.
You might keep them “just in case,” but if that day hasn’t come by now, it likely won’t. Donate or sell pieces that don’t fit instead of holding onto false hope.
If you think you’ll get back into them, store them out of sight. But keep your main wardrobe filled with clothes that fit and feel good.
Outdated manuals and warranty cards
You’ve probably got a pile of manuals and warranty cards from gadgets and appliances you no longer own or use. Holding onto these just takes up space and adds to clutter.
If the item is long gone, the warranty is expired, and you don’t need the manual for reference, it’s safe to toss them.
For current items, consider scanning and saving digital copies instead. This way, you keep the info without the mess.
Dishes and gadgets you never use
You probably have a drawer or cabinet full of gadgets that rarely see the light of day. Those specialty tools seemed like a good idea at the time, but if you haven’t used them in months, it’s okay to let them go.
The same goes for extra dishes or fancy glassware you save for “special occasions” that never come. Freeing up that space can make your kitchen feel less cluttered and more functional. If you don’t reach for it regularly, it’s likely not worth keeping.
Unfinished craft supplies
Holding onto half-completed projects and craft supplies can feel like unfinished business. But if you haven’t used them in years, they’re likely just taking up space and gathering dust.
Old glue and dried-up paint won’t do much good, and fabric scraps you forgot can pile up fast.
If you’re keeping supplies because you might need them someday, consider setting aside just a small amount for special projects. Otherwise, letting go can free your space and your mind.
Old magazines and newspapers
You probably have stacks of old magazines and newspapers lying around. Most of the time, they just end up taking space and adding to the clutter.
Unless they hold special value—like a memorable event or a favorite article—you’re better off recycling them. If you want to keep some memories, consider saving just a few key issues or taking photos instead. That way, you avoid piles of paper but still hold onto what matters.
Toys your kids outgrew
You probably have boxes of toys your kids no longer play with. Holding onto everything can quickly turn into clutter.
Keep a couple of special items if they have sentimental value, but don’t feel pressured to save it all.
Consider giving away or donating toys that still have life left in them. Your kids will likely appreciate the extra space more than those forgotten toys. Taking photos of favorite items before letting them go can also help preserve memories without the mess.
Sentimental junk with no true value
You probably have a pile of stuff that feels important but doesn’t actually mean much. Old ticket stubs, random souvenirs, or worn-out trinkets can take up space without bringing real joy.
Holding onto these things can make it harder to find the items that truly matter. It’s okay to let go of stuff that only drags down your energy or clutters your space.
Keep what sparks genuine memories, but don’t feel bad about tossing the stuff that’s just filling a box. You’ll feel lighter without it.
As a mom of three busy boys, I know how chaotic life can get — but I’ve learned that it’s possible to create a beautiful, cozy home even with kids running around. That’s why I started Cultivated Comfort — to share practical tips, simple systems, and a little encouragement for parents like me who want to make their home feel warm, inviting, and effortlessly stylish. Whether it’s managing toy chaos, streamlining everyday routines, or finding little moments of calm, I’m here to help you simplify your space and create a sense of comfort.
But home is just part of the story. I’m also passionate about seeing the world and creating beautiful meals to share with the people I love. Through Cultivated Comfort, I share my journey of balancing motherhood with building a home that feels rich and peaceful — and finding joy in exploring new places and flavors along the way.
