A cluttered home is a cluttered mind, that’s what our mums would say everytime they stepped into our tornado-stricken room but now, a decade later with more maturity (and money for Ikea wardrobes), we realize that there might be some truth to their nags. A messy home can affect your mood especially after a long day at work when all you want to do is to come home and relax in a clean and calm environment. We humans are natural hoarders, some more than others but really if we were to lose half our stuff involuntarily, life still goes on and we learn to live without them sooner or later. One day we’ll realize that we really didn’t need half the stuff we use to have so take charge today and here are a list of items you should consider purging from your life:
1. RECEIPTS & BILLS
All that talk about going paperless should start today. Keep receipts you need for tax rebates and for everything else throw them away or scan them into a folder which will take up only virtual space.
2. OLD MAGAZINES
Unless you’re planning to open a bank or a clinic, you really don’t need that much reading material lying around because rarely will you pick them up again and neither can your bathroom rack accommodate all your past issues.
Donate them for recycling or doctor’s offices, nail or hair salons and even libraries. If there is a particular article which you need, carefully cut them out and store them in a folder or scan it. The same goes for books. If you’re not going to read them, give them away, sell them at second hand bookstores, donate them to an orphanage or make paper beaded curtains like these.
3. CLOTHES
We all outgrow certain styles (and sizes) as the years go by so the rule is to get rid of any apparel you haven’t worn in two years. Get your friends involved by organizing a charity drive for them to donate their unwanted clothing items or toys. Yes, some of us still have toys. You can also open a pre-loved blogshop or use avenues such as Friendly Fashion to sell of your unwanted clothing for extra cash.
4. FOOD
Make it a habit to go through your kitchen cabinets and refrigerator fortnightly to clear out food items and health supplements you don’t need. We’ve seen kitchens that are home to bags of cereal and milk cartons that are way past their expiration date. The same goes for medicine and vitamins. Make sure to dispose your waste properly to avoid contamination.
5. JEWELRY
Earrings missing one side or necklaces with a broken clasp? Either you get them or resell them at the jewelers or pawnshops. Make sure to ask around to make sure you get a good deal especially when real gold or diamonds are involved.
6. COSMETICS
Even cosmetics have an expiry date. If the item is way past the expiry date then throw them out. Some cosmetic brands such as MAC has a program called Back to MAC which allows you to exchange 6 empty containers for a new eyeshadow, lipgloss or lipstick. Old makeup can have damage your skin and cause allergies so don’t even continue keeping them thinking that they may come in handy someday.
7. NOTEBOOKS & FREEBIES
We’ve all been to one too many events or fairs and bring home tons of notebooks in the process. Most of us have the habit of picking up a new one before finishing the previous book which really isn’t eco-friendly mind you. Recycle those you don’t need and refuse to take items you know you won’t use. Don’t be kiasu.
8. OLD ELECTRONICS
From old television sets to unused phones from yesteryears, you know that there is no way that you will reuse them even if your current gadgets fail so donate them to someone who will find them useful if they’re still in working condition. Otherwise, prepare to say goodbye.
Of course, the list doesn’t just stop at eight items. We recommend you do an extensive spring cleaning every 6 months to throw out the bad and welcome some good energy or as the Chinese like to call it “good chi” into your life. Throwing out stuff also helps you sort out your spending habits and gives you more space for your future purchases. Now get out those garbage bags and start sorting!
