If you’ve ever opened a cupboard and been greeted by an avalanche of Tupperware lids, or found yourself rifling through a drawer of mystery cables, you’re not alone.
Clutter has a sneaky way of creeping into our homes—and our lives—without us even realising it. And while a little mess is nothing to be ashamed of, research shows that a cluttered environment can actually increase stress, sap your energy, and even impact your mental clarity.
For Australians, many of us are at a stage where we’re looking to simplify, downsize, or just make life a little easier.
Whether you’re preparing for retirement, helping the kids move out, or just want to reclaim your space, a good declutter can be truly liberating.
So, what are the main offenders lurking in our homes? Here are 15 things you can start letting go of today—plus some tips to make the process painless and even a little bit fun.
1. Time to ditch the digital junk
Clutter isn’t just physical. Old emails, duplicate photos, and unused apps can slow down your devices and add to your mental load.
Set aside some time to clear out your inbox, organise your photos, and delete anything you no longer need.
2. Lurking in your beauty drawer
We all have that drawer or basket filled with half-used moisturisers, old lipsticks, and that mascara you swore you’d use again.
But did you know that expired beauty products can harbour bacteria and even cause skin irritation?
If it smells odd, has changed colour, or you can’t remember when you bought it, it’s time to say goodbye. And don’t forget about sunscreen—using it past its expiry date can leave you unprotected.
3. Hobby graveyard: When projects fizzle
Remember when you were going to take up knitting, or learn to paint, or finally finish that scrapbook?
If your craft cupboard is overflowing with untouched supplies, consider donating them to a local school, community centre, or op shop. Someone else might be thrilled to give them a new life.
4. The guilt gifts you’ve hidden away
We all have that well-meaning present from a friend or relative that just isn’t our style. It’s okay to let it go!
Donate it to charity or regift it to someone who will truly appreciate it. Remember, the joy was in the giving, not the keeping.
5. Kitchen drawer chaos: Toss the extras
How many spatulas does one household need? If you have multiples of the same kitchen gadget, or trendy tools you never use (looking at you, avocado slicer), donate or sell the extras.
6. Forgotten food: Pantry edition
It’s easy for spices, baking ingredients, and canned goods to get lost at the back of the pantry. Take a few minutes to check expiry dates and toss anything that’s past its prime. You might be surprised at what you find!
7. Closet regrets: Clothing you’ll never wear
Be honest: are you really going to wear those ‘one day’ jeans or that bridesmaid dress from 2008? If it doesn’t fit, is uncomfortable, or just isn’t your style anymore, it’s time to let it go. Your wardrobe (and your mornings) will thank you.
8. Boxes you’re never going to use
It’s tempting to keep boxes ‘just in case,’ but they can quickly take over your storage space. Keep one or two for returns or gifts, and recycle the rest.
9. The linen closet culprits
If you wouldn’t offer it to a guest, it’s probably time to retire it. Old towels and sheets can be donated to animal shelters or cut up for cleaning rags.
10. The paper mountain you’ve been avoiding
Stacks of old bills, instruction manuals, and warranties for appliances you no longer own can quickly pile up.
Go digital where you can—scan important documents and shred anything with personal information. Not only will you free up space, but you’ll also make it easier to find what you need in the future.
11. Winter wear you didn’t miss
If you didn’t wear that scarf, coat, or pair of boots this winter, chances are you won’t next year either.
The same goes for winter sports equipment gathering dust in the garage. Donate or sell what you don’t use and make room for things you actually love.
12. Tech tangles and outdated gadgets
Raise your hand if you have a box of tangled cords, chargers, and gadgets you haven’t used in years! Not only do these take up valuable space, but they can also be a fire hazard.
Most councils offer e-waste recycling programs, so you can dispose of them responsibly and maybe even find that missing phone charger in the process.
13. Mystery tupperware: the singles club
Take a moment to match up your containers and lids. Anything without a partner can go. Your cupboards will look neater, and you’ll never have to hunt for a lid again.
14. Books that deserve a new home
Books can be hard to part with, but if your shelves are overflowing with novels you’ll never reread, consider passing them on. Little Free Libraries, op shops, and local community groups are always looking for donations.
15. The “fix-it someday” pile
We all have that chair with the wobbly leg or the lamp that’s been waiting for a new bulb for months. If you haven’t fixed it by now, ask yourself if you really need it. Either repair it this week or let it go.
Why decluttering matters—especially as we age
Decluttering isn’t just about having a tidy home. Studies show that a clutter-free environment can reduce stress, improve sleep, and even boost your mood.
For older Australians, it can also make your home safer by reducing tripping hazards and making it easier to find what you need.
How to get started
- Start small: Pick one drawer, shelf, or cupboard at a time.
- Set a timer: Even 15 minutes a day can make a big difference.
- Use the ‘one in, one out’ rule: For every new item you bring in, let one go.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help: Enlist a friend or family member for a decluttering session—it can make the process more fun and less overwhelming.
Decluttering can be a surprisingly emotional process, but remember: you’re not just making space in your home, you’re making space in your life for new experiences, memories, and opportunities.
Have you recently decluttered your home? What was the hardest thing to let go of—and what made it easier? Share your tips and stories in the comments below!
Also read: Ready to declutter your kitchen? Here’s how the ‘capsule kitchen’ method helps
