20 Things You Can Toss Today Without Regret

Decluttering often feels overwhelming because we think every decision will be hard. What if I need it later? What if it has sentimental value? What if I regret letting it go?

Here is the good news. Not everything is complicated. In fact, there are many items in your home that you can toss right now without any guilt at all. After 16 years of helping families organize and downsize, I have learned that starting with the easy stuff builds momentum and creates quick wins.

Here are 20 things you can toss today without regret.

1. Expired Pantry Food

That box of crackers from last year and the can of soup that expired two years ago are not serving anyone. Toss them.

2. Expired Medications and Vitamins

Check your medicine cabinet. Old prescriptions and outdated vitamins are not safe to keep. Dispose of them properly.

3. Dried Up Pens and Markers

Grab a scrap of paper and test them. If they do not work, let them go.

4. Takeout Menus You Never Use

Most restaurants post menus online now. Clear that drawer.

5. Old Makeup or Skincare Products

If it is expired, broken, or you never use it, toss it. Your bathroom will feel lighter.

6. Socks With No Match

If the mate has been missing for months, it is not coming back. Time to say goodbye.

7. Broken Hangers

They take up space and frustrate you every time you use them. Toss and replace with sturdy ones.

8. Worn Out Towels and Washcloths

Frayed, stained, or threadbare towels can be donated to animal shelters where they will be put to good use.

9. Plastic Lids Without Containers

If the match is missing, the lid is useless. Recycle it.

10. Outdated Spices

If your cinnamon is older than your teenager, it is time to let it go. Do the sniff test if it doesn’t have an expiration date. Open the lid, shake the jar a bit and if you can still smell the spice, it is going to still have taste.

11. Extra Coffee Mugs

Most families only use a few favorites. Donate the extras to free up cabinet space. You don’t necessarily need to donate extra items like these. Creating overflow bins can be helpful for items you love but don’t want in your every day active spaces.

12. Phone Chargers for Devices You No Longer Own

Old cords and electronics add clutter fast. Recycle them responsibly.

13. Old Receipts and Paperwork You Do Not Need

Shred anything you do not need for taxes or records.

14. Stretched Out Hair Ties or Accessories

If they do not work anymore, they are just clutter. Toss them.

15. Games or Puzzles With Missing Pieces

If you cannot play it, it is just taking up space. Donate or toss.

16. Clothes That Do Not Fit

This is a hard one because we can fluctuate in size so often. Ask yourself if this item will be out of style when your weight will fluctuate back. Create a too-small and too-big bin, then stop holding on to “someday.” Only keep in your drawers and closets what currently fit and makes you feel good today.

17. Stained Food Storage Containers

If the lids do not fit or the containers are stained and warped, let them go.

18. Outdated Holiday Décor

If you have not used something in years don’t enjoy putting it out, or perhaps it doesn’t fit with your new home, it is time to donate it to someone who will.

19. Free Promotional Items You Never Use

That free water bottle, pen, or tote bag is not worth the clutter. This is actually a great small step to break the habit of collecting clutter. Say no to the free merchandise that you know you won’t use, don’t have a home for or will lose immediately.

20. Extra Bedding You Never Put On the Bed

Keep what you actually use and donate the rest to shelters or resale shops.

Why Starting Small Works

Decluttering does not have to start with the hard decisions. Tossing expired food, broken items, and duplicates gives you fast progress without the emotional weight. These quick wins build confidence to tackle the bigger categories later.

As I often tell my clients, do not make this process complicated. If it takes more than one step, it will not last. Start simple, and let the momentum carry you forward.

Final Thoughts

You do not need to overhaul your whole house to feel lighter today. By letting go of just these 20 common items, you will create space, reduce stress, and prove to yourself that decluttering is possible.

Remember, decluttering is not about perfection. It is about peace.

Need more guidance? At Megan Sears Organization, we specialize in creating simple, lasting systems that help families get organized without the overwhelm. Book your free consultation today and let us help you take the first step.