Each year seems to bring new trends and in 2024, people are trying to lean more towards being sustainable. You might want to think about following everyone else and decluttering anything that isn’t environmentally friendly. Here are 17 things you might want to think about recycling or donating.
Single-Use Plastics
Let’s be honest, single-use plastics are more trouble than they’re worth and by now, there are so many affordable and durable alternatives, like stainless steel water bottles, reusable straws, and reusable grocery totes, that single-use plastics just feel outdated.
While it might take a little effort to make the switch, the long-term benefits for both the environment and your wallet are undeniable.
Old Electronics
If you’ve ever opened a drawer and found a pile of tangled cords, outdated phones, and chargers for devices you don’t even own anymore, you’re not alone. E-waste is one of the fastest-growing types of waste, but it’s also easy to deal with if you make the effort.
Unworn Clothes
We all have clothes in our closets that haven’t seen the light of day in years. In 2024, people are adopting a more intentional approach to their wardrobes by decluttering and keeping only what they love and wear regularly.
You could think about donating or selling these items, which not only frees up room in your closet but also gives them a second life with someone who will appreciate them.
Excessive Kitchen Gadgets
The majority of us have at least one kitchen gadget that seems like a great idea but rarely gets used. People are now simplifying their kitchens and focusing on tools that truly make their lives easier. If something hasn’t been used in the past year, it’s probably time to donate or sell it to someone who’ll get more use out of it.
Old Makeup and Skincare
Most people don’t realize that makeup and skincare products expire, but holding onto them can do more harm than good. Old products can harbor bacteria, lose their effectiveness, or even cause skin irritation. So, if you’ve got half-used foundations or creams that are past their prime, it’s time to check the dates and say goodbye.
DVDs and CDs
Seriously, when was the last time you watched a DVD or listened to a CD? With the rise of streaming services, physical media is quickly becoming a thing of the past.
As you can imagine, holding onto stacks of DVDs or CDs that you haven’t touched in years just adds unnecessary clutter to your home.
Expired Pantry Items
Pantry cleanouts aren’t just satisfying, they’re necessary. Many people hold onto spices, canned goods, and condiments far beyond their expiration dates, often forgetting they’re even there. In 2024, people are prioritizing fresh, organized pantries by tossing anything expired or unused.
Paper Clutter
We all know that stacks of paper clutter can sneak up on you, such as old bills and receipts or manuals and junk mail. Nowadays, there’s little reason to hang onto physical copies of most documents. You might want to think about scanning important papers and saving them digitally to reduce clutter and keep your home organized.
Mismatched Tupperware
Let’s admit it, everyone has a chaotic Tupperware drawer filled with mismatched lids and containers. Over time, these pieces become frustrating to use and take up far more space than necessary.
People are streamlining their food storage by investing in matching, stackable sets that are easy to organize.
Worn-Out Towels and Bedding
Old, threadbare towels and faded sheets might still work in a pinch, but they don’t bring the same comfort they once did. Over time, these items lose their softness, absorbency, and aesthetic appeal. Donate gently used items to animal shelters or textile recycling programs and replace them with fresh, cozy alternatives.
Unused Fitness Equipment
How many of us have an exercise bike or a set of weights collecting dust in a corner? Fitness equipment can be bulky and, when unused, turns into clutter. This year, people are reevaluating what they actually use and letting go of what they don’t.
Outdated Decor
Decor trends come and go, and sometimes old decor items don’t match your style anymore. In 2024, people are embracing a minimalist approach to decorating by focusing on meaningful, timeless pieces. You could donate decor that no longer serves you, as this gives someone else the chance to enjoy it.
Broken Items You’ll “Fix Someday”
If it’s been years and you still haven’t fixed that broken chair, lamp, or gadget, it’s time to let it go. We all hold onto things with the best intentions, but if you haven’t gotten around to repairing them, chances are you never will.
If something is worth repairing, set a deadline to fix it. Otherwise, donate or dispose of it and enjoy the extra space.
Cheap Trinkets and Souvenirs
For sure, souvenirs and small trinkets often feel special when you first buy them, but over time, they lose their meaning. Now, people are focusing on keeping only the most sentimental or meaningful items while letting go of the rest. Donate what you can and toss anything broken or worn.
Old Shoes
Most of us have shoes we never wear or that are too worn out to be comfortable. This year, people are decluttering their footwear and focusing on quality over quantity.
A more organized shoe collection makes getting ready easier and ensures you’re always wearing something that feels great.
Excess Cables and Chargers
If we’re being honest, nobody needs a drawer full of random cables and chargers. If you don’t know what they’re for, they’re probably not worth keeping. In 2024, people are clearing out their cords and keeping only the ones they actually use. Recycle old or unusable cords through e-waste programs to dispose of them responsibly.
Items You’re Keeping ‘Just in Case’
Finally, let’s talk about the ‘just in case’ items we all hold onto. In 2024, people are letting go of the excess and trusting that they’ll manage if the need ever arises. You’ll soon realize that freeing yourself from these ‘what if’ items creates more space for the things you actually use and love, making your home a more enjoyable place to live.