When I had to downsize, I was forced to get a real look at my possessions. I started thinking, Am I using this? Does it actually bring something useful to my life? The answers were often surprising. Several things I thought were indispensable were really just clutter. Getting rid of them left me more space but it also meant having a smaller, more purposeful home. Here are 11 surprising things I realized I don’t need after downsizing, and why they are no longer a part of my life.
Featured Image Credit: RDNE Stock project /Pexels.com.
Extra Kitchen Gadgets
I used to collect kitchen tools like artifacts: apple cores, garlic peelers, and avocado slicers. They were handy at the time, but a lot were only ever used once or twice before being tossed into a drawer forever. Downsizing made me look at things differently. I use a few high-end basics now: a good knife, a cutting board, a good skillet.
Bulky Furniture
My big house used to have a sectional sofa and a huge dining table. They made the room feel full. Downsizing required me to buy pieces of furniture with more than one function, such as a small couch that converts into a storage space or a folding dining table. Everything is in its place now, my space is much larger.
Books I’ll Never Read Again
I used to have shelves full of books, some of which I enjoyed, others which I barely looked at. With downsizing I had to admit I wouldn’t ever read most of them again. I kept a few I liked and gave away the rest. Today I turn to e-books for new releases because they are convenient and portable.
Decorative Knick-Knacks
I used to think that it was cushy to surround my home with figurines, candles, and miniature vases. But once I decluttered, most of it turned out to be clutter. These days, I keep a few special items, such as family photos or works of art I cherish. I love how much calmer my room is without all those added props vying for space.
Outdated Electronics
I had a drawer full of ancient phones, tangled cables, and random chargers I kept “just in case.” I donated some of them to recycle and kept only the chargers and devices that I actually use. Now my drawers are empty and I never spend time looking for the right cable.
Towels and Bedding Overload
My closet was filled with old towels and sheets I never used. Downsizing uncovered that I only needed a few quality bedding and towels per bedroom. Easy to track, my closet is now much more tidy.
Fancy Dishes for Special Occasions
My mother left me some “good china” that was rarely used and crystal glasses that were too fragile for life. My downsizing also enabled me to appreciate how my regular dishes were equally functional for special occasions. Losing the other sets saved me so much cabinet space, and I love actually using what I have now instead of saving it for “someday”.”
Unused Craft Supplies
Somewhere along the line, I thought I’d do everything: scrapbooking, knitting, even jewelry. But a bulk of my buys still remain unopened. With downsizing I’d finally got my mind in order to pursue interests I really enjoy — such as painting — and abandon the rest. Now I have a craft room that is neater, and I don’t feel so rushed to start things I never wanted to do.
Workout Equipment
I once had all those weights, yoga mats, resistance bands, and even a treadmill sitting there dusty. When I went downsizing, I realized I didn’t have to do all that to stay in shape. I kept a set of dumbbells and a yoga mat and I now do most of my exercise outdoors.
Seasonal Decorations for Every Occasion
From pumpkins to Easter bunnies, I used to have something for just about every holiday. My downsizing made me realize how much room they took up and how often I ignored them. I narrowed it down to a few all-purpose pieces for year-round, such as string lights and gray wreaths. When there’s less to decorate with, decorating becomes more fun and less like work.
Unused Board Games and Puzzles
I used to collect board games and puzzles, thinking they’d be great for family times or parties. When I downsized, I had to face up to how little they actually got used to. I kept a few favorites that are still fun and gave away the rest to somewhere they’d be appreciated (to a community center). My shelves are no longer cluttered, and I keep only what gets played.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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