Top 10 Most Common Items People Get Rid Of During a Declutter

Decluttering your home can be freeing, energizing, and even life-changing—but let’s be honest, getting started is the hardest part. If you're staring at your overflowing closet or stuffed garage, you might be wondering: Where do I even begin?

A great way to start is by tackling the things most people end up tossing or donating anyway. Here are the top 10 most common items people get rid of during a declutter—and why you probably should too.

1. Old Clothes That No Longer Fit or Get Worn

Clothing tops the list every time. Whether it’s jeans that don’t fit, shirts with stains, or that impulse-buy sweater still with tags—if you haven’t worn it in a year, it’s probably time to let it go.

Pro tip: Bag up gently used items and donate them to a local shelter or charity.

2. Outdated Electronics and Cables

That drawer full of chargers for phones you haven’t owned in years? You’re not alone. Old TVs, DVD players, remotes, and random tech accessories tend to pile up.

Recycle electronics responsibly through your city’s e-waste program or a local recycling center.

3. Expired Pantry Items and Spices

You’d be surprised how many people declutter and find soup cans from five years ago or spice jars that expired in 2019. Pantry purging is a quick win and makes room for fresh, usable food.

4. Worn-Out Towels, Linens, and Bedding

Over time, we accumulate mismatched pillowcases, threadbare towels, and fitted sheets that don’t fit any bed in the house. Most people toss or donate these during a deep clean.

Tip: Some animal shelters accept clean used towels and blankets.

5. Unused Kitchen Gadgets and Duplicate Tools

If you’ve got two garlic presses or a waffle maker you haven’t used since 2016, you're not alone. Decluttering the kitchen frees up cabinet space and simplifies meal prep.

6. Old Magazines, Books, and Paper Clutter

Stacks of magazines, outdated catalogs, or unread books often take up precious space. Go through your bookshelves and paper piles—keep what inspires you, and recycle or donate the rest.

7. Toys and Games That Kids Have Outgrown

Children grow fast, and so do their interests. Parents often find boxes of forgotten toys, broken games, and stuffed animals that can be donated or tossed.

Bonus: A cleaner play area encourages more creative play.

8. Decor and Holiday Items You No Longer Use

Trendy décor from 10 years ago or half-working Christmas lights often make their way to the curb during a big declutter. If it’s collecting dust and not bringing you joy, it’s okay to let it go.

9. Unused Exercise Equipment

That treadmill-turned-coat-rack? The resistance bands still in their package? Exercise equipment is a top item on junk haulers' lists. If it's not part of your regular routine, consider donating or selling it.

10. Broken Furniture or Items "To Be Fixed" Someday

We all have them—chairs missing a leg, lamps that don’t work, or shelves you meant to repaint. If it's been on your fix-it list for over a year, it might be time to part ways.

Final Thoughts

Decluttering isn’t just about making space—it’s about clearing mental clutter, reducing stress, and creating a more peaceful home. Starting with these common categories can help you build momentum and see quick wins.

Need help hauling away the things you no longer need?
Our junk removal team is here to make your decluttering process easy, fast, and stress-free. From one item to a whole house, we’ll take care of the heavy lifting.