How to Decide What to Keep or Toss When Decluttering

Has It Passed Its Expiration Date?

Expirations dates apply to more than just food—they apply to documents and paperwork, too. If, for example, you've held on to old invoices, bill, or resumes from 10 to 20 years ago, they're only wasting space. Shred and toss them.

An expiration date can also relate to whether an item has outlived its usefulness. For example, you may be holding on to a piece of clothing from years ago for sentimental reasons that you know you'll never wear or fit into again. Instead, take a photo of it or turn it into a piece of art by framing it.

Are the Documents Essential or Nonessential?

Inevitably, there will be documents that you must save without a doubt. Examples of documents you absolutely need to keep in a safe place include wills, warranties, financial papers, tax returns for the past five years (or seven years for complicated returns), various licenses, and insurance papers. Protect the valuable documents in fireproof lockable storage boxes that you can access in case of emergency.

Do You Have Sentimental Attachment to the Items?

The items you love are part of what makes life joyful. You may love looking at certain photos or feel nostalgic towards an item of decor, for example. The trick is to not turn beloved items into sentimental clutter.

Do You Have Duplicates?

Choose wisely if you want two or more of one particular item. For example, do you need more than one coffee maker? Is one of them in need of repair? Duplicates of items take up precious space in your home, especially if they're stored in prime storage spots, such as a hall closet or the kitchen. If you must keep duplicates, store them out of the way to free up crucial living space.

Do You Use It Regularly?

Do you use the item consistently or could you get along without it but still don't want to toss it? Toss items you can get along without or rarely use, which may include:

• Sale items you thought were too good to pass up
• Items purchased you thought you'd use one day
• Things bought while on vacation that you thought you'd never find elsewhere

Was It a Gift You Never Wanted?

If you received a gift you can't use, it's appropriate in many instances to regift or recycle the item. Graciously accept the gift and send a thank you note, but you aren't required to keep or use it.

Could You Put It to Better Use?

You may have an item that your gut tells you to keep. Perhaps you can put it to good use after all. Why keep antique glassware hidden away when you can use the pieces for everyday use? Many vintage items have stood the test of time and are meant to be used on a daily basis.

Maybe you have items you can lend out to friends and family who may actually be able to use them. Items like this may include:

• Quality yard equipment and gardening tools
• Expensive kitchen gadgets and appliances, such as bread makers or stand mixers
• One-of-a-kind formal gowns and special occasion clothes
• Costly camera equipment, sporting equipment, wedding gowns, party tents, kayaks, and skis