10 Items to Donate for a Quick Home Declutter

By
Daisey Littel
Updated
An organized closet with various clothes on hangers and a donation box filled with clothes, illuminated by natural light.

Old Clothes: Clear Your Closet for Good

One of the easiest ways to start decluttering is by going through your wardrobe. We all have pieces that we no longer wear, whether they’re out of style, don’t fit, or simply don’t spark joy anymore. Donating these items not only frees up space but also helps someone in need.

The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.

Mahatma Gandhi

Try to be honest with yourself—if you haven’t worn something in the past year, it’s likely time to let it go. Consider creating a 'donation box' in your closet to make the process ongoing. You’ll be surprised how quickly it fills up!

Remember, your outdated clothes can bring joy to others. Organizations often appreciate clothing donations, especially during seasonal changes, so your decluttering can have a double impact.

Books You Won't Read Again: Share the Knowledge

Books can pile up quickly, and while they all have a special place in our hearts, we can’t keep them all. If you have books that you’ve read and know you won’t revisit, consider donating them to local libraries or schools. Your old favorites could become someone else's new adventure!

A reading nook featuring a stack of colorful books, a comfy chair, and sunlight streaming through a window.

Think about the genres or titles that you used to enjoy but have since outgrown. Perhaps your taste has evolved, and it’s time for someone else to enjoy those stories. It’s a win-win situation!

Declutter for a Cause

Donating unwanted items like clothes and books not only creates space in your home but also helps those in need.

By donating your books, you not only declutter your space but also contribute to literacy and education in your community. Plus, it’s a great conversation starter when you talk about the books you loved!

Kitchen Gadgets: Let Go of the Duplicates

Take a stroll through your kitchen and you might find gadgets that seemed like a great idea but are now collecting dust. Whether it’s an ice cream maker or a fancy avocado slicer, if it hasn’t been used in a while, it might be time to pass it on.

One man's trash is another man's treasure.

Unknown

Consider the items that you have duplicates of or tools that don’t really serve a purpose in your cooking routine. By donating these, you’ll not only declutter your drawers but also help someone else elevate their culinary game.

Donating kitchen gadgets can also be a great way to support local charities or food banks that may be setting up new kitchens for families in need. Your unused items could become essential tools for others.

Toys and Games: Make Room for New Memories

Kids’ toys can take over a home in no time. If your children have outgrown certain toys or games, consider donating them to shelters or community centers. This not only clears up space but also brings joy to other kids.

As you declutter, involve your children in the process. This teaches them the value of sharing and helps them understand that their old toys can bring happiness to others. It can also make the process more enjoyable for everyone!

Involve Kids in Giving

Encouraging children to donate their toys teaches them the value of sharing and brings joy to other kids.

By donating toys, you’re not just making space; you’re also giving another child the chance to create new memories. It’s a beautiful way to pass on joy and ensure that those items are still loved.

Expired or Unused Beauty Products: Refresh Your Routine

Take a look at your beauty products; you might find items that are expired or simply don’t suit you anymore. This is a great opportunity to declutter your bathroom and make space for fresh products that you’ll actually use.

Many organizations accept unopened beauty products, so don’t hesitate to donate those items that are still in good condition. Your unused moisturizers or makeup can help someone feel fabulous and cared for.

Remember, beauty should be accessible to everyone, and donating your unused products is a simple way to spread a little joy. It’s a conscious effort towards sustainability and helping others feel good in their skin.

Home Decor: Refresh Your Space with Intent

Home decor items can often accumulate over time, leading to a cluttered living space. If you have decor that no longer fits your style or mood, consider donating it to organizations that can give it a new life.

Think about the pieces that made you happy once but now seem out of place. By donating them, you can create a more intentional space that reflects who you are today.

Refresh and Upgrade Responsibly

By responsibly donating unused beauty products and electronics, you declutter your space while supporting sustainability and community needs.

Your old decor can also help someone create a cozy home. Whether it’s a vase, a picture frame, or a decorative throw, these items can find a loving new home with someone who will appreciate them.

Electronics: Upgrade Responsibly

Old electronics can take up significant space and often end up in landfills if not disposed of properly. If you have gadgets that are outdated but still functional, consider donating them to local charities or schools that need them.

Before you donate, ensure that your personal data is wiped clean. Then, check with local organizations to see if they accept electronics. Many places welcome items like old laptops or smartphones.

A kitchen drawer containing various kitchen gadgets, showcasing both used and unused items.

Donating electronics not only declutters your home but also supports education and connectivity in your community. It’s a responsible way to handle your tech while helping those in need.

Miscellaneous Items: Clear Out the Clutter

Sometimes it’s the miscellaneous items that create the most clutter. From random tools to old craft supplies, these items can build up quickly. Spend some time gathering these odds and ends and decide what to keep and what to donate.

Think about whether each item serves a purpose in your life or if it’s just taking up space. If it’s the latter, consider donating it to local charities or community centers that might find it useful.

This final decluttering step might seem small, but it can make a big difference in the overall feel of your home. A tidy space leads to a tidy mind, and donating these items can help you achieve just that.

References

  1. The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering and OrganizingMarie Kondo, Ten Speed Press, 2011