65 Big and Little Things It’s Finally Time to Get Rid Of

Expired Coupons

Have you actually used that plastic baggy holding all your coupons lately? Most of them are probably expired, and therefore unusable. Comb through your coupon book, or better yet — just throw it out and start over.

Old Calendars

As soon as it turns into a new year, it’s safe to say you won’t need your outdated calendar from last year. If you haven’t thrown out your old calendars or planners, now is a good time to get rid of them.

Glasses With an Outdated Prescription

If the only thing wrong with your glasses is that they’re the wrong prescription, donate them! A person in need could be using them.

Product Manuals

Once you put the furniture together, there’s no need for the manual. You’ll never use them again, so toss any directions or manuals you have lying around.

Old Receipts

Unless it’s a tax-deductible purchase, you don’t need them. So you can definitely throw out those mile-long drugstore receipts.

Cardboard Boxes

When you’re done moving, it’s time to get rid of the cardboard boxes. If you need long term storage, try some nicer storage boxes.

Board Games You Don’t Play

Unmatched Socks

Excess Hair Ties

Your hair deserves better than something that’s been on your floor for who knows how long. Here are some ideas to help you organize your hair accessories.

Open Bottles

Alcohol doesn’t stay good forever … Who knew? Hard liquor has a longer shelf life of about two years before it starts to evaporate and change. Uncorked bottles of wine are a different story. Red wines should be drank within two weeks of opening a bottle. White wine should be used within three days. These rules may require a restocking of the liquor cabinet.

Old Condiment Packets

Your favorite takeout place gives you enough packets for four people when you’re ordering for two, but you really don’t want the unfortunate surprise of opening up a drawer and finding one has sprung a leak. Make these homemade versions if you find yourself in need.

DVDs

This one might sting a little. People carefully curate their movie collection only to find the technology get phased out. You don’t need to abandon all of your favorites, but you could easily clear up some space in your house by dumping the movies that are available to stream.

Dull Knives

Old Workout Gear

There’s no reason to get rid of perfectly good clothing or accessories, but athletic gear gets worn out faster. For example, sports bras worn consistently for several workouts per week should be replaced every six months. Running sneakers are good for about eight months. Things like yoga mats and water bottles can be used for several years before it’s time to upgrade.

Dated Reference Books

Outdated information won’t expand your horizons, so unless you use these for historical reference, pass them on. Many thrift stores say no to old reference books, so look for community groups who use them for crafting and collages.

Old Medication

We tend to hold onto these for fear of making a mistake of throwing out new pills, rather than a temptation to hold onto these for future maladies. For peace of mind, follow the FDA’s advice by first checking to see if your old medication is on the list of those that should be flushed. If not, they recommend tossing medications by mixing it into coffee grounds or old kitty litter (key word: old), and blacking out any info on your prescription bottles.

Unused Craft Supplies

You heard that knitting can be great for de-stressing, so you threw yourself into it, but haven’t touched your supplies in months. Either you knit, or you don’t. If you’re leaning toward “you don’t,” donate these excess supplies to a local senior center.

CD Collections

There are arguments to be made for hanging onto these, but anything that you don’t love can go straight to a thrift store. Anything you do love? Take a day to upload it to your computer.

Old Towels

Reusable Totes

If you frequent eco-friendly marketplaces, yet always manage to forget a tote, you’ve likely developed quite a collection. But these aren’t eco-friendly if you’re not using them more than once. Donate the excess to a charity, or give them to friends the next time you head to a flea market.