16 Things You Should Never Throw Away When Decluttering

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Decluttering feels great, but it’s easy to get overzealous and toss items you’ll later regret not keeping. Some things can be reused, repurposed, hold sentimental value, or even be worth money. Before you clear out that box of odds and ends, here are 17 items you should never discard when decluttering!

Family Heirlooms

Items passed down through generations have sentimental and, in many cases, historical significance. Sure, they may not seem useful, but they are integral to your family history, even if they don’t appear to be.

Important Documents

Important documents—such as tax returns, birth certificates, and warranties—may seem like clutter, but discarding them can cause serious headaches later. Financial experts recommend holding on to tax records for at least six years, while birth certificates and warranties should be kept indefinitely. Store these in a simple filing system to keep them organized and easy to retrieve. When you need to clear out space, securely shred any outdated or unnecessary papers.

Spare Keys

Even if you don’t remember what they unlock, spare keys can save you from expensive locksmith visits. Label them and keep them in a particular spot so you know where they are in an emergency.

Unknown keys may be from storage units or locks you’ll find again. Having them on hand is always better than wishing you hadn’t thrown them.

Tools and Hardware

That drawer of random screws, nails, and wrenches might be junk, but you’ll find it useful at times. For those who are not especially handy, these tools save you a trip to the hardware store.

Organize them in a toolbox or jar. A loose screw or small project could pop up at any time.

Jewelry

Old or damaged jewelry often holds both sentimental and financial value. Precious metals and gemstones can be sold, redesigned, or updated to suit modern tastes. Even costume pieces can be transformed into DIY accessories or given as unique gifts. Before you throw away any jewelry, take a moment to consider its potential.

Childhood Memorabilia

You might look at that old box of trophies, yearbooks, and favorite toys and consider them clutter, but those things are usually filled with pure nostalgia that you can’t replace. Select a few key pieces to keep, and then photograph the rest if storage is a concern.

Electronics and Cables

Old phones, chargers, and other electronics should never go in the trash because of their environmental impact. Instead, recycle, refurbish, or sell them for parts. Keep a labeled box for spare cables—they often come in handy for unexpected tech needs. If you can’t use an item yourself, look for local e-waste recycling programs to dispose of it responsibly.

Books

Instead of tossing old books, consider donating to libraries, schools, or local charities. Before you part with any, check if vintage or rare editions hold value.

Related: 10 Creative Ways to Repurpose Old Books

Vintage Clothing

Old clothes can carry real character—and sometimes cash value, too. Many thrift and consignment shops actively seek out retro and vintage pieces. If a garment no longer fits your style, consider selling or donating it so someone else can give it new life.

Furniture

That worn-out chair or scuffed-up table might seem worthless, but a little effort can bring it back to life. Refinishing wood, re-staining surfaces, or updating upholstery can turn forgotten pieces into beautiful, one-of-a-kind décor. Before you give up on an item, consider whether it’s a hidden gem waiting for a fresh makeover.

15 Best Places to Sell Used Furniture Online

Photographs

Physical photos capture moments you can’t recreate. Before tossing them, consider scanning and saving digital copies. Even imperfect snapshots carry sentimental value, so taking a little time to preserve them is well worth the effort.

Outdated Home Decor

Retro decor is making a comeback, and what’s old is now new again. Perhaps that funky lamp or colorful vase will look great in a modern room. It also features more character than mass-created decor.

Unused Gift Cards

A Bankrate survey found that 43 percent of U.S. adults have at least one unspent gift card or voucher, worth an average of $244 per person. If you don’t think you’ll ever use it, consider regifting, donating it, or selling it online. Luckily, numerous sites allow you to swap unwanted gift cards for cash or other cards. You should not let free money go to waste.

Family Recipes

Grandma’s recipe cards aren’t just about pulling off a good meal but about your family’s past. Even if you don’t cook, these recipes are worth preserving for future generations.

Board Games and Puzzles

Old board games and puzzles often have value. Incomplete puzzles can be used for crafting, and vintage games can be bought for surprising amounts in collector markets.

Spare Parts for Appliances

You might think those random parts and accessories that came with your appliances aren’t useful now, but they can actually save you money later. These items often prevent expensive replacements or repairs.

How to Declutter Your Kitchen: 20 Items You Must Toss

The kitchen holds a special place in our homes, serving as a hub for cooking, meals, and gatherings. However, even though it’s the center of our daily lives, it’s easy for clutter, disarray, and items that have outstayed their welcome to accumulate in this space. Check out the 12 items in your kitchen that should be thrown away immediately.

How to Declutter Your Kitchen: 20 Items You Should Toss

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