You probably have quite a few things sitting around that you haven’t touched in years. These forgotten items can take up space and add to the clutter in your home without you even realizing it.
Clearing out stuff you don’t use anymore can help make your space feel more organized and peaceful. When you get rid of what you don’t need, it’s easier to find the things that really matter to you.
Expired food in the pantry
You probably have food in your pantry that’s past its best-by date. Spices and dried herbs won’t make you sick, but they lose their flavor over time.
Canned goods and crackers can go stale or spoil too, so check those dates. If you see anything super old, it’s time to toss it out. Baby formula is one of the few foods with a strict expiration date you should never ignore.
Dishes and glasses with chips or cracks
If your dishes or glasses have chips or cracks, it’s usually best to get rid of them. Chips can cause cuts, and cracks might make the glass break while you’re using it.
Sometimes small chips don’t seem like a big deal, but they can get worse over time. Keeping only intact dishes helps you stay safe and avoid messes.
Single coffee cups you never use
You probably have a drawer full of single-use coffee cups sitting around. They seem easy, but most end up tossed after one use.
Switching to a reusable cup can save you space and cut down waste. Plus, some places only serve coffee if you bring your own cup. It’s a small change that helps out a lot.
Unmatched food storage container lids
You probably have a drawer full of lids that don’t match any container. These take up space and make it hard to find what you really need.
If you haven’t used a container or lid in years, it’s time to toss it. Keep only the containers you use often and their matching lids.
You can also get creative and reuse unmatched lids as trays for small plants or organizing small items. This way, nothing goes to waste.
Old utensils you haven’t touched
You probably have old forks, spoons, or knives sitting unused in a drawer. If you haven’t grabbed them in years, it’s okay to let them go.
Keeping only the utensils you actually use saves space and makes cooking easier. Plus, it helps cut down on clutter you don’t need.
Expired medicines and first aid supplies
You probably have some old medicines hiding in your cabinet. Expired pills and creams lose their strength and might not work well anymore.
First aid supplies like bandages and gloves can also break down over time. They might not protect you properly if they are old.
It’s a good idea to check dates and toss anything past its use-by date. Look for local take-back programs to dispose of medicines safely.
Old pots and pans with stains
If your pots and pans have stains or burnt spots, it might be time to think about getting rid of them. You can try cleaning them first with dish soap and baking soda to make a paste and let it sit.
For tough stains, a little scrubbing with a cleaning powder like Bar Keeper’s Friend can help. If the stains don’t come off easily, it’s okay to let those old pieces go.
Random kitchen junk drawer items
You probably have a drawer filled with random kitchen stuff you don’t use anymore. Think old bottle openers, broken gadgets, or extra measuring spoons.
There might also be expired batteries, random screws, or those weird little tools you forgot about.
It’s time to sort through and toss what you don’t need. This makes space for things you actually use.
Old phone chargers for outdated devices
You probably have old phone chargers lying around for devices you no longer use. These chargers can take up space and add to clutter.
If the charger doesn’t match any current device you own, it’s okay to let it go. Just make sure to recycle them properly instead of tossing them in the trash. This helps keep harmful materials out of landfills.
Clothing that hasn’t been worn in years
If you haven’t worn a piece of clothing in years, it’s probably time to let it go. Holding onto clothes that don’t fit or you don’t like just takes up space.
Try setting a date to donate items you haven’t touched in a long time. This keeps your closet fresh and easier to use every day.
Books you kept but never read
You probably have books sitting on your shelves that you never actually opened. Holding onto them just because you bought them can weigh you down.
It’s okay to let go of those unread books. You can donate them or pass them on to someone else who might enjoy them.
Keeping only the books you’ve read or plan to read makes your space feel lighter and less cluttered.
Toys and games that are broken or incomplete
If toys or games are missing pieces, they probably won’t get used. Broken parts or dried-out markers can make playtime frustrating.
You don’t need to keep puzzles with missing pieces or crayons that don’t color anymore. Tossing these frees up space for toys your kids actually enjoy.
Keeping only complete and working toys makes it easier to find fun things to play with. Don’t be afraid to let go of the broken stuff.
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.
