10 Things to Declutter in 10 Minutes or Less
1. The Junk Drawer
It’s the catch-all for random items you don’t know what to do with—but most of it you probably don’t need.
What to Declutter:
- Old pens, receipts, expired coupons, and random items without a purpose.
Why It Works: Clearing out this small space gives you a quick sense of accomplishment and makes finding essentials easier.
Picture This: A before-and-after shot of a junk drawer—initially chaotic, then neatly organized with a few essentials like pens, scissors, and small containers.
2. Expired Spices and Condiments
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Your pantry and fridge likely have expired items taking up space.
What to Declutter:
- Expired spices, sauces, and condiments you haven’t used in months.
Why It Works: Freeing up pantry and fridge space makes meal prep easier and keeps your kitchen fresh.
Picture This: A spice rack with neatly labeled jars, replacing the clutter of old, mismatched containers.
3. Old Magazines and Newspapers
Stacks of old reading material can quickly pile up.
What to Declutter:
- Outdated magazines, newspapers, or catalogs.
Why It Works: It clears visual clutter and makes your living spaces feel lighter. Bonus: Recycle them!
Picture This: A recycling bin filled with old magazines beside a clear coffee table, free of unnecessary piles.
4. Worn-Out Towels or Linens
Are your towels frayed or your sheets stained?
What to Declutter:
- Old towels, sheets, and pillowcases you no longer use. Donate gently used ones to animal shelters.
Why It Works: Decluttering linen closets creates room for fresh, functional linens.
Picture This: A neatly folded stack of fresh towels and linens in a clean, spacious linen closet.
5. Outdated Electronics and Cables
That drawer of tangled cords and old gadgets isn’t as useful as you think.
What to Declutter:
- Chargers for devices you no longer own, broken headphones, or outdated electronics.
Why It Works: Untangling your cords and gadgets simplifies your tech setup and frees up storage space.
Picture This: A small electronics organizer with neatly wrapped cables and chargers, replacing a chaotic pile of cords.
6. Shoes You Don’t Wear
Go through your shoe rack and pick out pairs that no longer fit or are worn beyond repair.
What to Declutter:
- Shoes that are damaged, uncomfortable, or haven’t been worn in years.
Why It Works: It clears floor space and helps you focus on shoes you actually love and wear.
Picture This: A clean shoe rack with just a few versatile, favorite pairs neatly lined up.
7. Expired Makeup and Skincare Products
Cosmetic drawers are often full of half-used products past their prime.
What to Declutter:
- Expired foundation, mascara, lipsticks, and skincare items.
Why It Works: Keeping only fresh products is better for your skin and makes your beauty routine easier.
Picture This: A clean vanity drawer with neatly arranged makeup and skincare, replacing cluttered, outdated products.
8. Socks Without Matches
Your sock drawer likely has a few strays and worn-out pairs.
What to Declutter:
- Socks with holes, mismatched socks, or ones you never wear.
Why It Works: A tidy sock drawer saves time when getting dressed and feels surprisingly satisfying.
Picture This: A sock drawer with neatly rolled pairs, organized by color or type.
9. Kitchen Utensils You Never Use
That melon baller or extra spatula you haven’t touched in years is just taking up space.
What to Declutter:
- Duplicate utensils, tools you don’t use, or broken items.
Why It Works: Clearing out unnecessary utensils creates a more functional, enjoyable kitchen space.
Picture This: A kitchen drawer with a simple utensil tray, containing only the essentials like a spatula, whisk, and measuring spoons.
10. Unread Books You’ll Never Read
Books are wonderful, but they can pile up faster than you realize.
What to Declutter:
- Books you’ve been meaning to read for years but have no real interest in. Donate them to a local library or charity.
Why It Works: It makes room for books you love while helping others discover your donated ones.
Picture This: A small, curated bookshelf featuring only your favorite reads, with plenty of space for new finds.
How to Make Decluttering a Habit
- Set a Timer: Commit to 10 minutes a day. You’ll be amazed by how much you can accomplish.
- Keep It Small: Start with one drawer or one area at a time to avoid overwhelm.
- Celebrate Progress: Acknowledge the difference your small efforts are making.
Final Thought
Decluttering doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By starting with small, manageable areas, you can create a more organized, peaceful home—10 minutes at a time. Save this post and pick one thing to declutter today. You’ll feel the difference immediately!
