10 Categories of Clutter Absent from a Minimalist's Living Space

While you may not identify as a minimalist, certain elements of this lifestyle likely resonate with many. A significant appeal is the absence of clutter and the ease of locating items within your living space. Even for avid shoppers and decor enthusiasts, adopting minimalist practices like routine decluttering can be beneficial. Discover ten clutter types that minimalists consistently eliminate from their homes.

Excess Paperwork

Excess paper manifests in various ways. Emily Preciado-Fonseca, a professional organizer and founder of MommyAssist, highlights examples such as outdated mail, periodicals, discount vouchers, planners, and children's artwork.

Yet, one often overlooked item is product manuals. Angela O'Brien, a professional organizer and founder of Your Space Reclaimed, explains, "While it makes sense to keep the manual for a new appliance like a washing machine—ensuring you have quick access to instructions if you forget how to operate it—this doesn’t mean you’re helpless without them."

If your oven malfunctions or you’re unsure how to adjust your microwave’s clock, you’re not out of luck. Most product manuals and guides are freely accessible online.

Damaged Items

Preciado-Fonseca notes that keeping broken, unusable items takes up valuable space that could be used for things you truly desire or require. "Some cultures even consider broken objects to bring misfortune," she adds. "If you’re attached to a broken item but can’t fix or replace it, consider taking a photo to preserve the memory."

Outdated Items

From bulk purchases like macaroni and cheese on sale to oversized bottles of ibuprofen from warehouse stores, many of us keep items well beyond their expiry date. Preciado-Fonseca advises, "Consider products like sunscreen, lip balm, hand sanitizer, lotions, expired condiment packets, old cosmetics, and nail polish."

Excess Bags

Preciado-Fonseca observes that most households she visits are overflowing with bags, whether they’re plastic, paper, or reusable totes. She suggests, "Assign a specific storage spot for them, and once it’s full, recycle the extras. Keep a few in your car for practical use."

Duplicate Kitchen Utensils

While having multiple frying pans and various knives is practical, many kitchen items don’t require duplicates. Preciado-Fonseca states, "No one needs four can openers or three sets of measuring cups. Storing them all can become overwhelming and take up unnecessary space."

Children’s Toys

While toys are essential for children, one item per category is usually enough. Preciado-Fonseca suggests, "Even if your child adores fire trucks, avoid purchasing multiple versions. An excess of toys can overwhelm kids, hinder creativity, and foster a materialistic mindset rather than encouraging emotional bonds and meaningful experiences."

“Maybe Later” Possessions

Minimalists steer clear of holding onto "maybe later" items. Preciado-Fonseca asks, "Did you host a beer-tasting event years ago and still have a stash of mini plastic mugs you might use someday? Odds are, those mugs—or the bargain shoes you never wore—will remain unused."

She follows the "$20 or less" principle. "If an item is valued at $20 or less and hasn’t been used in a year, it’s time to part with it."

Flower Arrangement Vases

If you have one or two vases you truly adore, keep those and discard the rest. Preciado-Fonseca emphasizes that just because something was free doesn’t mean it’s worth keeping. If you feel guilty about discarding vases, she recommends, "Fill them with inexpensive flowers and deliver them to a senior center to brighten someone’s day."

Surplus Cutlery and Packaging

O’Brien shares, "I always discard the extras from packages I receive, whether by mail or delivery. This includes unused napkins and utensils from DoorDash orders, the styrofoam and plastic air cushions that protect items during shipping (though I appreciate their purpose), and, of course, the boxes they come in."

"Unless I have upcoming mailings that require these specific containers or I’m considering returning an item, I immediately break down and recycle these boxes," she explains.

Surplus Food Storage Containers

While everyone needs a handful of containers, even those who don’t cook frequently, minimalists avoid hoarding disposable plastic ones from takeout or prepared meals. Even durable plastic containers don’t last indefinitely. Cracked, warped, or aged containers are unlikely to preserve food freshness. If your containers are worn out or missing lids, it’s time to discard them.