Sometimes, we just can’t help it. We either buy things we don’t really need or we hold onto things that we should’ve gotten rid of a long time ago. Either way, we accumulate things into our homes. And while there are some that do complete the look of our rooms and are certainly a must have, there are others that simply add visual clutter and take up precious storage space. These latter ones distract and detract rather than add beauty to your home. And the thing is, we can’t always count on having future uses for them. Sometimes, our homes simply don’t need them. In fact, our homes and our minds would be better off without them. Here are some common things in your home you should think twice about keeping or buying.
1. Too Many Knicknacks
Every room needs at least one piece of accessory. After all, they’re important for adding personality to the room. But there is such a thing as too much especially in this case. Rather than sprucing up your room for the better, too many of these can make your home feel cluttered and messy even though you’ve scrubbed every inch of it clean.
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When it comes to this, the principle of less is more is actually a good tip to follow. Remember, space can actually do good for your decor. So choose quality pieces that really mean something to you and resist the urge to cover every surface with tiny knicknacks. If you’re a collector, simply rotate your pieces from time to time. There’s no need to keep them out on display all year round. Besides, it’s a good way to keep your collection stand interesting.
2. Toilet Seat Covers and Rugs
If you really think about it, this is probably one of the best things your home can live without. For one, it’s practically useless. No one needs a fuzzy covering for their toilet seat nor a matching rug that’s specifically made to fit the base of your toilet. And do you really want to draw attention to your toilet by dazzling it up? More than that though, your biggest concern would probably be that these things are breeding grounds for germs and bacteria not to mention mold. If you’re looking to warm up cold tile, simply leave your toilet seat naked and opt for an attractive throw rug by the doorstep.
3. Florists’ Vases
Cheap glass vases are a must go in your home. Unless you have a certain purpose for collecting these, your home can live without them starting now. Having three or four pretty, stylish, and quality vases are enough to have to use for fresh flowers. Otherwise, they’ll simply be bulky space thieves in your cupboards.
4. Faux Flower Arrangements
These might’ve looked great at one point but chances are, they’re dated and simply gathering dust. If you want a pop of life or color in your home, consider succulents, easy-to-grow houseplants, fresh flowers, or even some fresh fruits. If faux flowers and plants are still the best options for you, consider different and creative ways of decorating with them rather than simply sticking them in dusty old arrangements. Trust us, there are plenty of simple yet tasteful ways you can do it.
5. Extra Kitchen Utensils or Appliances
Why would you need an extra coffee maker or another set of pans and pots when you have one that is fine and working? The idea of having spares for the just in case occasions might feel great. But when you know you won’t be bringing them out of the cupboard for years on end, why waste the space?
6. Plastic Spoons, Forks and Disposable Everything
At one point, everybody might’ve had that collection of takeout spoons and forks but the truth is, there is little to no reason at all to keep these in your home. No matter how compostable they are, they’re still waste resources your home can live without. Opt for reusables instead.
7. Outdated Curtains and Fabrics
Are your curtains faded by the sun? Are they too short for your window? Does the style or print still match your tastes? If you’ve answered yes to any of these, it may be time to get new curtains. Other than that, you can also try living without curtains entirely for a while. You may be surprised but there are a number of reasons you can do without curtains. If you live in a rural or wooded area, there might be some rooms that can afford being curtainless. And if you’re lucky enough to have beautiful windows, why cover it up? You’ll definitely benefit from all the natural light and the change of scenery.