7 Categories of Clutter Professional Organizers Urge You to Avoid Purchasing

You’re familiar with that sensation just before making a new purchase. Your pulse quickens, your breath becomes shallow, and a smile spreads across your face as you envision the countless ways this newfound item will be utilized and treasured. While some purchases stand the test of time, becoming staples you revisit repeatedly, others lose their allure almost immediately. Before long, you’re left with a pile of unused items. 

“Rushing often results in cluttered spaces,” explains Katrina Teeple, a professional organizer and the founder of Operation Organization. “When we’re constantly on the go, we rarely take the time to organize properly. However, slowing down allows you to become more aware of your surroundings and dedicate the necessary attention to maintaining order.”

If you’ve recently taken a step back or simply observed the chaos spreading across every corner of your home, it’s clear that a decluttering session is on the horizon. While there’s a straightforward approach to tackling this—by sorting items into trash, donate, or keep—these experts aim to help you prevent clutter from returning. Michelle Hobgood from the Tidy Trainer and Annie Schmidt of Schmidt Organization Systems, alongside Teeple, offer advice on seven items you should avoid purchasing to maintain a more organized and serene home. Continue reading to explore their recommendations. 

Toys

Children are always excited about new toys and will inevitably spot something they can’t live without while browsing store aisles. Additionally, thoughtful family members and friends often gift them toys for special occasions or as spontaneous surprises. The downside? Your living space frequently looks like a playroom, and the excitement of a new toy fades quickly.

“Kids outgrow toys rapidly, and their fleeting attention spans often leave behind a pile of neglected items,” Hobgood explains. “To address this, consider setting up a toy rotation system or suggesting that loved ones gift experiences instead.”

Kitchen Appliances 

Many appliances claim to make cooking more efficient, but they often serve only one specific purpose. These gadgets can quickly accumulate, cluttering countertops and overflowing cabinets. Schmidt advises carefully considering whether you truly need them before making a purchase.

“While quirky kitchen tools are tempting, they often end up unused in favor of more versatile items,” she explains. Unless you’re confident the gadget will be used regularly in multiple meals, question whether it’s truly essential. 

Trend Purchases

Trends may fade, but the items they leave behind linger. “Stanley cups and novelty items like teddy bear-shaped ice cube trays often end up forgotten in kitchen cabinets once the initial excitement fades,” Teeple notes.

While joining in on trends can be enjoyable, avoid getting caught up in every passing fad—especially if it doesn’t genuinely interest you. “The trendier the item, the higher the chance it will become clutter,” Teeple adds. 

Makeup and Skincare

While purchasing makeup and skincare that aligns with your preferences is encouraged, clutter arises when you accumulate more than you can realistically use before expiration.

“The temptation to buy the latest miracle night cream is ever-present,” Teeple explains. “Makeup can also overwhelm your storage space, as most items are seldom used. I remind clients that these products typically expire within a year, encouraging them to prioritize practicality in their beauty routines.”

Understand your skin type, or seek advice from a dermatologist or esthetician, and focus on products that deliver results. Overloading with too many options can disrupt your skincare balance.

Fast Fashion

Fast fashion is always within reach, especially when you’re scrolling through social media late at night, perhaps with a glass of wine—we’ve all been there. While those trendy pieces look fantastic online and appear to be a bargain for an upcoming event, they can quickly pile up in your closet.

“Skipping the fitting room increases the risk, as you’re less likely to return the item if it doesn’t work out,” Hobgood explains. “Shop mindfully by assessing what’s already in your wardrobe. Create a list of essentials and focus on finding those, avoiding the hassle of purchasing duplicates.”

Bulk Shopping

Buying in bulk might seem cost-effective, but it’s crucial to be strategic rather than impulsive. “Do you truly need a year’s supply of spices or ramen noodles? Probably not,” Schmidt says. “My team and I frequently discard expired bulk items. What seems like a bargain initially often turns into wasted money.”

Unless you’re certain the bulk purchase will be fully utilized, it’s best to pass. Don’t worry—another deal that better suits your needs will come along. 

Souvenirs 

There are countless ways to remember a special trip, and a shot glass doesn’t have to be your go-to choice.

“I refer to them as tchotchkes: the shot glasses, T-shirts, snow globes, and keychains,” Hobgood explains. “They contribute to clutter because they serve no practical purpose.” Rethink how you approach souvenirs to prevent them from taking up precious space—sometimes, a few great photos are all you need to preserve memories.

“If you feel compelled to buy something, choose compact items like jewelry or even a refrigerator magnet,” Hobgood suggests.